The Global Demand for Activated Carbon: Types and Market Trends

The Global Demand for Activated Carbon: Types and Market Trends

date

Mar 18, 2025

Blog Advanced Materials The Global Demand for Activated Carbon: Types and Market Trends

Have you ever wondered how water gets purified or how air pollution is controlled? The secret ingredient behind these processes is activated carbon—a powerful material that plays a crucial role in filtration, purification, and even medical applications. This blog explores the different types of activated carbon and its ever-growing demand in the global market.

What is Activated Carbon?

Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a highly porous material that traps toxins, pollutants, and impurities. It is made from organic materials such as wood, coconut shells, peat, and coal, which are heated at high temperatures to create millions of tiny pores. These pores help in absorbing chemicals and unwanted substances, making it a go-to material for filtration and purification purposes.

According to BCC Research the activated carbon market grows from $6.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $10.2 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.

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Activated Carbon: Types and Global Markets

The global market for activated carbon is expected to grow from $6.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $10.2 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.

Types of Activated Carbon

There are several types of activated carbon, each with unique properties and applications:

  1. Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC)
    • Finely ground carbon particles.
    • Commonly used in water treatment, air purification, and food processing.
  2. Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)
    • Larger particles compared to PAC.
    • Used in household water filters, industrial gas purification, and air treatment systems.
  3. Extruded Activated Carbon (EAC)
    • Shaped into cylindrical or pelletized forms.
    • Preferred for gas-phase applications like air purification and chemical recovery.
  4. Impregnated Activated Carbon
    • Infused with chemicals to enhance its absorption ability.
    • Used for specialized applications like removing mercury from industrial emissions.
  5. Bead Activated Carbon (BAC)
    • Small spherical beads offering high durability and flow efficiency.
    • Commonly used in medical applications and gas purification.

Global Market Trends and Growth

The demand for activated carbon is skyrocketing across various industries, driven by the increasing need for clean water, air purification, and environmental sustainability. Here’s what’s shaping the global market:

  • Rising Water Treatment Needs: Governments and industries worldwide are investing in water purification systems, boosting the demand for activated carbon.
  • Growing Air Pollution Concerns: With stricter environmental regulations, industries are turning to activated carbon for air filtration.
  • Expanding Medical Applications: Activated carbon is widely used in medicine, especially in treating poison ingestion and kidney dialysis.
  • Booming Industrial Sector: The chemical, food & beverage, and pharmaceutical industries rely on activated carbon for purification and production processes.

Future Outlook

The activated carbon market is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, with Asia-Pacific leading the demand due to industrial expansion and increasing environmental concerns. Innovations in activated carbon production, including renewable sources like coconut shells, will further drive market growth.

Conclusion

Activated carbon is a game-changer in multiple industries, ensuring cleaner water, fresher air, and safer medical treatments. As global demand continues to rise, this versatile material is set to play an even bigger role in shaping a cleaner and healthier future.

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    Divya Dhamija

    Written By Divya Dhamija

    Divya Dhamija is a Senior Executive of Marketing Operations at BCC Research, with a master’s degree in business. She specializes in optimizing marketing strategies and content creation and is dedicated to driving organizational growth through strategic marketing initiatives.

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