Activated charcoal is an effective filtering and purifying agent that can be used for air, water and medical purposes. It can be made from a variety of natural materials, such as coconut shells and wood. It is a great product to keep on hand in a survival situation.
Besides being used as a filter, it also can help treat poisoning and insect bites in the event of a survival situation. It is a very inexpensive product, making it a good investment for a small budget.
The first step to make activated charcoal is to burn the charcoal on a medium-sized fire. This can be done outdoors or inside a fireplace.
After the charcoal has burned, grind it into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. You can also use a rolling pin. Spread the powder on a clean sheet or multiple-fold cheesecloth, and then bake at 250 degrees F for 30 minutes to remove any remaining moisture.
Once the charcoal has dried, mix it with a substance that will activate it, such as calcium chloride. You can also use bleach or lemon juice, although it is less effective.
You can find calcium chloride at hardware stores or home centers. It should be mixed with a ratio of 1:3 (water to chloride). You will need about 100 grams of this mixture for every batch of charcoal you make.
Another ingredient you can use is baking soda. This will help you create a paste with the charcoal and activate it more quickly. Just be sure to use a non-aluminum mixing bowl. You can also add the liquid solution to the charcoal in small batches, stirring continuously as you do so.
After adding the baking soda to the charcoal, stir until you get a paste-like consistency. Then cover the bowl and let it sit for 24 hours.
Afterward, drain the solution through a muslin cloth to remove any excess moisture. You can then store your homemade charcoal in an airtight container.
It is important to note that activated charcoal is very dangerous if you consume it without following the recommended dosage guidelines, especially in large amounts. This is why you should be cautious when consuming it, and you should always consult a doctor before using it for medicinal purposes.
Some people have questioned the safety of eating or drinking this ingredient, but it is safe in limited quantities. While a few ounces of charcoal in ice cream or pizza may not have any negative health effects, it is best to stick to a healthy diet and exercise regularly instead.
There are a few different ways to make activated charcoal, so it is a good idea to do your research before starting this project. While it is a little time-consuming, it will be worth it in the long run. It can be used for a variety of purposes and is less expensive than buying commercially-made activated charcoal.
