Activated Carbon Production from Coconut Shell (Chemical Activation)

Report Abstract

This study approaches an economic analysis of a typical chemical activation process for Powdered Activated Carbon production from coconut shell in the United States. Phosphoric acid is used as chemical activation reagent. Activation is carried out concomitantly with carbonization, in a rotary kiln.

The report provides a comprehensive study of Activated Carbon production and related Activated Carbon production cost, covering three key aspects: a complete description of the Activated Carbon production process examined; an in-depth analysis of the related Activated Carbon plant capital cost (Capex); and an evaluation of the respective Activated Carbon plant operating costs (Opex).

The Activated Carbon production process description includes a block flow diagram (BFD), an overview of the industrial site installations, detailing both the process unit and the necessary infrastructure, process consumption figures and comprehensive process flow diagrams (PFD). The Activated Carbon plant capital cost analysis breaks down the Capex by plant cost (i.e., ISBL, OSBL and Contingency); owner's cost; working capital; and costs incurred during industrial plant commissioning and start-up. The Activated Carbon plant operating costs analysis covers operating expenses, including variable costs like raw materials and utilities, and fixed costs such as maintenance, labor, and depreciation.