An Activated Carbon Filter Scrubber System is a type of air or water purification system that uses activated carbon (also known as activated charcoal) to remove contaminants, odors, and impurities.
This is carbon processed to have small, low-volume pores that increase the surface area available for adsorption or chemical reactions.
Adsorption: Pollutants and impurities in the air or water stick to the surface of the activated carbon, effectively removing them from the medium.
Scrubber Function: The system typically passes contaminated air or water through the activated carbon filter to “scrub” out unwanted substances.
Common Uses:
Industrial Applications: Controlling emissions and odors in chemical plants, manufacturing facilities, and waste treatment plants.
Air Purification: Removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, smoke, and harmful gases in industrial or residential settings.
Water Treatment: Removing chlorine, pesticides, herbicides, and organic contaminants from drinking or wastewater.
Types / Variants
Impregnated Carbon Systems: Use specially treated carbon to handle specific pollutants (e.g., H₂S, ammonia).
Fixed-bed Carbon Adsorbers: A static bed of carbon granules in a vessel; air flows through it.
Fluidized-Bed Concentrators: The carbon beads are fluidized (suspended) by the air stream to increase contact and efficiency.
Advantages
Often lower maintenance compared to wet scrubbers because there’s no need for chemicals or large liquid volumes.
High efficiency for many organic gases and odors.
Relatively simple and robust design.
High efficiency in removing organic compounds and odors.
Can be regenerated or replaced depending on application.
Environmentally friendly and safe.
Considerations:
Not effective for all pollutants (e.g., heavy metals, microbes).
Filter capacity depends on the volume of carbon and the concentration of pollutants.
Activated carbon filters require maintenance or replacement after saturation.