Aktiivsüsinikku

Aktiivsüsinikku, often referred to as activated charcoal, is a highly porous form of carbon that has been processed to increase its surface area. This processing typically involves heating carbon-rich materials like wood, peat, or coconut shells in the presence of activating agents. The resulting material has an incredibly large internal surface area, making it an excellent adsorbent.

The primary property of aktiivsüsinikku is its ability to attract and hold molecules of other substances onto its surface. This process is known as adsorption. Due to its vast surface area, aktiivsüsinikku can bind a wide range of organic compounds, toxins, and impurities. This makes it useful in various applications.

In medicine, aktiivsüsinikku is famously used to treat certain types of poisoning and drug overdose. When ingested, it can bind to ingested toxins in the stomach and intestines, preventing their absorption into the bloodstream and facilitating their elimination from the body. However, its effectiveness depends on the specific substance ingested and the timing of administration.

Beyond medical uses, aktiivsüsinikku is widely employed in water and air purification systems. It effectively removes chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other contaminants that can affect taste, odor, and safety. It is also found in filtration masks, industrial scrubbers, and as a decolouring agent in food processing and chemical industries. The effectiveness of aktiivsüsinikku is directly related to its surface area and pore structure.