Carbon Reuse?

[Hammerhead]

I have new carbon on the way but would like to wash the carbon and reuse it. I think this will work as you may know when water comes into contact with carbon it gets activated. You can here the reaction sounds like carbonated water that fizzing noise and micro bubbles. I have a test in place now to see. So far the results are very good. I dont think it will last as long as new carbon but if we can get another say 6 months of use ea time you wash it is a good thing. WARNING THIS IS A VERY MESSY JOB SO TAKE APPROPRIATE MEASURES IF YOU TRY IT.

 

[Hammerhead]

I have an update for this. It has been a week with the washed Carbon and it has taken all the smell back out again. I would only use this method as a stop gap until the new carbon arrives.

 

[FreezerBoy]

Got a kiln? The best way to reclaim carbon is to fire it around 1,500ºF.

Your way sounds a lot better than stinking while you wait on the mail. How long did you "wash"? A simple soak or did you agitate?

 

[Hammerhead]

I used ro/di water with hand agitation. If you use normal water the carbon will take up those contaminants.

 

[FreezerBoy]

Good point. That stuffs small. What did you strain with?

 

[Hammerhead]

I used the sink. I pit the strainer on the other side it does not fit perfectly but enough so the Carbon wont fall in the disposal. Filled the sink Poured 1 5g jug of ro/di on top of the carbon and agitated for about 5 min. The water will drain out slowly. The hardest part was getting the carbon back into the scrubber.

 

[FreezerBoy]

The hardest part was getting the carbon back into the scrubber.

That's why I asked. Mine should be here in a few days. I know I have to wash it for dust. Then I have to let it dry. Maybe I still have some unstretched silk screen ....

 

[Hammerhead]

You dont need to let it dry the blower or what ever you use will dry it out in just a few min.