strong>Facts about Activated Carbon
Activated carbon is a popular and beneficial filter media choice for both aquarium hobbyists as well as pond keepers. The most common form is granulated activated carbon (GAC), a coal-based form resembling small pebbles or rocks. GAC comes in two varieties, bituminous and lignite, but it is the higher-quality bituminous version that is primarily used in aquariums. It is referred to as "activated" because it has undergone a process that creates millions of tiny holes in the carbon, making it extremely porous and conducive to growing bacteria for better chemical reactions.
How activated carbon works
Activated carbon relies on three chemical principles to work: adsorption, absorption, and chemisorption. When placed in aquarium or pond water, activated carbon relies on a law of physics called van der Waals forces to draw or absorb the harmful pollutants and organics (adsorbents) into the porous carbon. Two things then occur; bacteria then begin to colonize on the surface of the carbon and consume the adsorbents transferred there, and chemical reactions take place within the carbon to detoxify the trapped pollutants.
A third process, called chemisorption, keeps the pollutants trapped in the carbon until it is ready to be replaced.
Benefits and considerations
Activated carbon removes a variety of pollutants from aquarium or pond water, including copper, chlorine, dissolved proteins, medications, and other organic and inorganic compounds, such as gelbstoff (organic compounds that yellow aquarium or pond water).
To ensure optimal activated carbon performance, pre-filter your aquarium or pond water and replace the carbon every 4-6 weeks or sooner if needed.
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 "Cobalt Aquatics Activated Carbon")
Pre-bagged high-quality activated carbon keeps dusty messes to a minimum. Cobalt Aquatics Activated Carbon makes it easier and cleaner to employ this popular pond chemical filter media. You'll be amazed the difference these pre-rinsed and pre-bagged activated carbon make on routine pond filter maintenance. Enjoy sparkling pond water free of odors, heavy metals and medications.
