Activated Carbon

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Contents

Introduction

Used to remove organic compounds and the yellow tint often seen in aquarium water. The tint comes from organic pigments which are products of bacterial decompostion of organic matter within the system [1].

Activated carbon can also be used to remove heavy metals from the water, such as copper and iron, and acts as a second stage for reverse osmosis and deionisation filtration of tap water (to remove chlorine/chloramine).

Usage

Canister filter, chemical media bag in sump, chemical media column, etc.

Only lasts for a couple of weeks at most. By that time, covered in a biofilm, so absorption is greatly reduced. Can remove film by vigorous washing to get another week out of it.

Phosphate

Part of the manufacturing process requires activation by contact with phosphoric acid. Therefore, some lower grade activate carbons can add phosphate.

Regeneration

Not possible for the average hobbyist, requires high pressure, temperature and washing by strong acid.

Can get little more usage by vigorous washing with water, or soaking in an acid. But that typically isn't really worth the effort.

Gallery

Typically appearence and grain size.

Resources

References

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