I. Core Issues Analysis and the Working Principle of
I. Core Issues Analysis and the Working Principle of Activated Carbon
Odor Sources: The odors produced during composting are mainly small-molecule volatile organic compounds and inorganic gases such as ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, thiols, and amines.
Moisture Issues: Water vapor produced during high-temperature fermentation.
Activated Carbon Working Principles:
Physical Adsorption: Activated carbon possesses a large specific surface area and a well-developed microporous structure, which can effectively trap these odor molecules within its pores, much like a sponge.
Chemical Adsorption: Some activated carbon is modified to possess chemical functional groups on its surface, enabling it to react with odor molecules and remove them.
II. Activated Carbon Granule Selection Guide
For the special environment of composting machines (high temperature, high humidity, complex gases), the following recommendations are made:
Raw Material | Coconut Shell Activated Carbon | First Choice. Extremely well-developed microporous structure, highest adsorption efficiency for small-molecule odor gases (such as ammonia, hydrogen sulfide) generated during composting, and low ash content with high purity.
Alternative Raw Material | Wood Activated Carbon | High cost-effectiveness, also has well-developed mesopores, suitable for adsorbing slightly larger odor molecules.
Shape | Granular | Compared to powdered carbon, granular carbon has lower wind resistance and is less easily carried away by airflow, making it suitable for long-term use in the ventilation system of composting machines.
Particle Size | 4x8 mesh (2.36-4.75mm) 4mm | Balances adsorption efficiency and airflow resistance. Too small a particle size results in high wind resistance, while too large a size results in insufficient adsorption area.
Iodine Value | ≥ 1000 mg/g | Core indicator. The higher the iodine value, the stronger the adsorption capacity for small odor molecules.
Moisture Content | ≤ 10% | Ensures effective adsorption capacity.
III. System Design and Usage Scheme
Electric composters typically employ an "activated carbon filter box/layer" design. The following are key design and usage considerations:
1. Installation Location
Optimal Location: At the composter's exhaust vent or the end of the ventilation system. This ensures that all exhaust gases carrying odors and moisture must pass through the activated carbon layer for thorough purification.
2. Design Considerations
Activated Carbon Layer Thickness: Recommended thickness is 5-10 cm or more to ensure sufficient gas contact time.
Airflow Velocity: Design for low airflow through the activated carbon layer, generally recommended to be 0.1-0.3 m/s, to ensure adequate adsorption time.
Moisture Prevention: Although activated carbon needs to contact the gas, direct contact with liquid water should be avoided. A baffle plate or hydrophobic membrane can be installed in front of the activated carbon layer to prevent condensation from directly soaking the activated carbon.
3. Use and Maintenance
Filling Capacity: Determined by the composter's capacity and exhaust volume; household models typically require 1-2 kg of activated carbon.
Replacement Cycle:
Signal: When an unusual odor is detected around the machine, it indicates that the activated carbon is nearing saturation and needs replacement.
Cycle: Typically 1-3 months, depending on the amount and type of compost (food waste, with its high protein and sulfide content, will shorten its lifespan).
Regeneration (Optional): Saturated activated carbon can be removed and exposed to sunlight for several hours to remove some surface moisture and volatile substances, restoring some activity. However, the effect is limited, and direct replacement is recommended to ensure optimal results.
IV. Procurement and Market Reference
Price Range:
Activated carbon meeting the above standards has a market price of approximately 8,000 - 15,000 RMB/ton.
For small composting machine manufacturers or DIY users, purchasing smaller packages (e.g., 25kg/bag) can keep costs under control.
Procurement Channels:
Activated carbon|Gongyi Ruijia Water Purification Material Factory
https://gypurification.en.alibaba.com/?spm=a2700.micro_cgs_home.0.0.1f4d3e5fmVFuG8