How to Regenerate Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is carbon in extremely porous form. It is usually derived from charcoal. It has a large surface area and is used for chemical reactions as a catalyst. It is also used in fish tanks as a filter or to filter distilled alcohol. Activated charcoal is an expensive product. It is cheaper to regenerate the charcoal than buying new activated charcoal.

Things You'll Need

  • 9 to 10 percent hydrogen peroxide solution
  • Distilled, deionized water
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Instructions

  1. Chemical Regeneration

    • 1

      Soak the activated charcoal in a solution of 9 to 10 percent hydrogen peroxide. Handle the solution by wearing gloves as it can cause burns. You can also use distilled deionized water instead of the hydrogen peroxide solution.

    • 2

      Stir the mixture every 15 minutes.

    • 3

      When the solution has been absorbed, add more solution to the container. Repeat this many times.

    • 4

      Bake the charcoal in an oven at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour or two.