Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a highly porous form of carbon processed to have an extremely large surface area relative to its mass. This network of microscopic pores acts like a molecular sponge, allowing it to trap contaminants, toxins, and organic compounds through a surface-binding process called adsorption. It is widely used across industries to clean, deodorize, and purify liquids and gases.
Core Mechanism: Adsorption vs. Absorption
Adsorption: Molecules physically stick and bind only to the external and internal surface walls of the carbon pores via weak Van der Waals forces