Flammability of activated carbon
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I’ve looked up some information, and most of it states that activated carbon is combustible. However, after conducting my own tests, I found that it does not catch fire even when exposed to heat for a long time. I would appreciate it if you could share your opinions on whether activated carbon is combustible or difficult to ignite, preferably with authoritative sources, as these two possibilities lead to different levels of fire risk.
I’ve encountered some problems: the finished activated carbon generates heat when stored in a warehouse, which can burn the woven bags; moreover, the used activated carbon residue that is piled aside turns red. May I ask, why does activated carbon catch fire?
Activated carbon will catch fire, that’s certain; the ignition point varies depending on the type of carbon. Activated carbon produced by the phosphate method has a lower ignition point, around 300–400 degrees. Therefore, care must be taken during processing and transportation. The reason for the fire is actually quite simple: when a certain temperature is reached, the carbon elements in the charcoal react with oxygen in the air, resulting in the formation of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
The danger with activated carbon is that it absorbs oxygen from the air; therefore, extra caution is required when entering enclosed spaces containing activated carbon.
Activated carbon is also carbon, only with its volatile components removed to create a porous structure that increases its specific surface area. It is combustible, but not considered highly flammable. Used ones are different; their properties vary depending on the usage environment and the nature of the substances they absorb. Activated carbon used for desulfurization is highly flammable; be extremely careful! !
Activated carbon, whose main component is still carbon, is a material with a porous structure and a large internal specific surface area. Due to its large specific surface area, microporous structure, high adsorption capacity, and high surface activity, it serves as a unique multi-functional adsorbent. It is also inexpensive and readily available; some of it can be regenerated and reused. Additionally, it can effectively remove most organic compounds as well as certain inorganic substances from wastewater and exhaust gases. Therefore, activated carbon is a combustible material, and its fire hazard cannot be taken lightly!