Coal-Based Carbon vs Coconut Activated Carbon: Which is Better for Water Filtration?

Coal-Based Carbon vs Coconut Activated Carbon: Which is Better for Water Filtration?

Both coal-based carbon and activated carbon are used in water filtration, but they serve slightly different purposes, and their effectiveness depends on the specific application:

 1.Coal-Based Carbon 

Coal-based carbon is made from bituminous or anthracite coal. It is known for its denser pore structure, which makes it effective for filtering larger particles and certain organic contaminants. It offers good adsorption properties for contaminants with larger molecules and is commonly used in applications requiring the removal of chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

 2.Coconut Activated Carbon 

Activated carbon can be made from a variety of organic materials, including coconut shell and bamboo. The activation process, which increases its surface area and porosity, significantly enhances its ability to absorb contaminants. With a more porous structure than coal-based carbon, activated carbon is highly effective in filtering smaller particles and a broader range of contaminants. It boasts superior adsorption capacity for various organic chemicals, including chlorine, chloramines, and disinfection by-products (DBPs). Activated carbon is widely used in both residential and industrial water filters to remove odors, improve taste, and eliminate contaminants such as pesticides, herbicides, and pharmaceuticals.

 How is Carbon Activated? 

Activated carbon can be made from various raw materials, including wood, coal, and coconut shells. The choice of raw material affects the characteristics of the final activated carbon, such as pore size distribution and adsorption capacity. During carbonization, the raw material is heated in the absence of oxygen at temperatures ranging from 400°C to 800°C (752°F to 1472°F). This process decomposes the material into a char composed mostly of carbon. After activation, the carbon is thoroughly washed (especially in chemical activation) to remove any residual activating agents or ash content.