Even if you don't notice any odors, using a charcoal air filter can remove harmful VOCs from the air in your home. HEPA and high MERV filters are not able to capture these contaminants, such as odors and gases. Activated charcoal is treated with chemicals and heat, which gives it excellent odor control properties. The cost of a carbon air filter may be higher than a particulate filter without carbon.
If you drive in slow traffic or encounter strong odors while driving, investing in a carbon cabin air filter could be beneficial. Test data showed that activated carbon filters effectively removed VOC gases compared to just a fan. All activated carbon filters remove significantly more contaminants from the air than normal carbon filters, however, there are some distinctions. The service life of a carbon air filter will depend on several factors, including the conditions in an indoor environment, the size of the filter, and the amount of pollutants in the air.
Activated carbon is created when it is treated with potassium permanganate, which creates a mesh of carbon atoms that connect to each other and increases the total surface area of the filter so that contaminants adhere after contact. This means that the filter is capable of capturing fine particles and allergens in the air, such as bacteria, mold, dust mites and pollen. However, it does not remove particles that are a major type of indoor air pollutant. You can consider whether using a carbon air filter will meet your needs by examining its advantages and disadvantages.
If you drive in a busy urban area, you may need to change your cabin air filters more often. The production and use of activated carbon grew dramatically after World War II, leading to the development of modern activated carbon air filters and water filters. These filters last longer because they don't work by adsorption or weight, which gives them more longevity to collect particles. A carbon air filter was not designed for particulate removal and is ineffective when it comes to capturing these smaller particles.
The large surface area provided by carbon air filters allows contaminants and allergens to be absorbed into the material. Many air purifiers have embraced this technology and implemented carbon technology within their air purification systems. Cabin filters also help keep the air conditioner evaporator clean to combat the growth of microbes, which can cause musty odors. An activated carbon air filter may be a good option in the short term, but in the long term, the Molekule could be a better solution for your needs. In World War I, gas masks used carbon air filters to remove some of the deadly gases used against troops, but they were only effective against some of the toxins.
