How Activated Carbon Filters Work

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• Activated carbon air filters consist of a vast system of pores of molecular size. These pores are highly adsorbent, forming a strong chemical bond/attraction to odorous, gaseous, and liquid contaminates, especially organic chemicals/compounds.

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Activated Carbon Filter Facts and Studies

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• Activated carbon air filters trap odors and chemicals in highly absorbent granules (or pores), which look like a hard scrub brush.

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• Activated carbon is a charcoal that is treated with oxygen in order to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms, resulting in a highly adsorbent material.

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• Originally used in World War II to protect U.S. soldiers from chemical warfare agents.

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• In a study commissioned by the U.S. Dept. of Energy, activated carbon filters were found to removed 60-70% of airborne ozone compared to filters without activated carbon.

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• Another study commissioned by the U.S. Dept. of Energy found that activated carbon filters removed harmful VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds) by 60-80%, and formaldehyde by 25-30%.

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• According to a report released by the Centers of Disease Control, Dept. of Health and Human Services, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, activated carbon is an excellent adsorber/absorber of most organic chemicals.

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