Activated carbon

A solid adsorbent material that is used to remove organic pollutants from liquid or gas streams. This is the most commonly used adsorption medium. It is found in block, granulated, or powdered form, activated carbon is produced by heating carbonaceous materials, such as coal, wood, or coconut shells, in the absence of air to create a char which is then activated with oxidizing gases to form pores. Used for dechlorination, the reduction of organic chemicals and radon, it is recognized by the US EPA as the best available technology for reduction of organic chemicals from drinking water. It is sometimes called activated charcoal.