Coconut Shell Charcoal: Production and Applications
Coconut shell charcoal is produced by carbonizing mature coconut shells with limited air supply to prevent complete burning. This process has grown into an economically significant activity, as shell charcoal is a valuable raw material for activated carbon production. Two main types of shell charcoal exist: standard coconut shell charcoal and granulated shell charcoal.

APCC Quality Standards for Shell Charcoal:
Moisture: < 10%
Ash: ≤ 2%
Volatile Matter: ≤ 15%
Fixed Carbon: ≤ 75%
Foreign Matter: ≤ 0.5%
Colour: Black

Activated Carbon Production
Activated carbon is derived by heating shell charcoal with steam at 900°C–1100°C, creating a porous structure ideal for adsorption. Temperature control is critical, as low temperatures slow the process, and high temperatures reduce efficiency.

Specifications for Activated Carbon
pH: ≥ 6.5–7.5
Adsorption Capacity: ≥ 45%
Moisture: ≥ 5%
Hardness: ≥ 90