Ash analysis at the DESOTEC lab

Total ash is a measure of the mineral oxide content of activated carbon on a weight basis. It is measured by converting the mineral constituents into the respective oxides at 800°C. The ash is mainly composed of silica and aluminium and the amount depends on the base raw material used to produce the product. Typical values are 2-3%W/W for coconut shell based activated carbon, 5%W/W for wood based activated carbon, and 8-15W/W% for coal based activated carbons.

Quality indicator for the spent carbon

Total ash analyses are also a good indicator of the spent carbon quality used in groundwater remediation or drinking water applications. High ash content can be an indication of calcium, aluminium, manganese or iron deposition on the activated carbon or the presence of sand.

Activated carbon: Ash constituents analysis using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)

DESOTEC also measures water soluble ash, acid soluble ash, acid soluble iron and the individual ash constituents for certain applications. Acid soluble ash and acid soluble iron are usually measured for acid washed carbons, like ORGANOSORB® 11 and ORGANOSORB® 11-CO, which are used in low pH applications. The individual ash constituents are measured for products used in certain catalyst applications, or to determine the quality of spent activated carbon that is returned to DESOTEC for recycling through thermal reactivation.

Require more info on DESOTECs spent carbon recycling services? Ask us about it, we’re at your disposal!