Activated carbon is a product used in air purifiers. It is a form of carbon that has been treated with oxygen to make it more porous, which increases its surface area and makes it more effective at adsorbing pollutants from the air. When air passes through an activated carbon filter, the pollutants in the air become trapped in the tiny pores of the activated carbon.
This process is called adsorption, which is different from absorption. In absorption, a substance is taken into another substance, whereas in adsorption, a substance is attached to the surface of another substance.
Activated carbon is particularly effective at removing odors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other harmful chemicals from the air. It can also trap some allergens and particulate matter. However, it is not as effective at removing certain types of pollutants such as viruses, bacteria, and mold spores.
Activated carbon filters need to be periodically replaced, as they become saturated with pollutants over time. The lifespan of the filter depends on factors such as the concentration of pollutants in the air, the volume of air being filtered, and the size of the filter.