activated carbon

noun

, Chemistry.

a form of carbon having very fine pores: used chiefly for adsorbing gases or solutes, as in various filter systems for purification, deodorization, and decolorization.

activated carbon

noun

a porous highly adsorptive form of carbon used to remove colour or impurities from liquids and gases, in the separation and extraction of chemical compounds, and in the recovery of solvents Also calledactivated charcoalactive carbon

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Word History and Origins

Origin of activated carbon¹

First recorded in 1920–25

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Example Sentences

This item has an activated carbon filter and is made of BPA-free plastic.

From Popular-Science

Each pouch typically includes salt, iron powder, activated carbon, and a little water.

From Popular-Science

The “Pure” tier of filter is fine-tuned for removing dust, mold, and dander from your air, while the “Fresh” and “Smoke” models of filter employ varying quantities of activated carbon to remove excess smoke and pet odors from the air.

From Popular-Science

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activated alumina activated charcoal

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