During the later stages of the activation process, the complete
burnout of various carbonaceous compounds and non-organised
carbons within the pore volumes and from the wall surfaces between
adjacent pores produces a significant pore widening that result
in the formation of large sized pores. In addition, the spaces
between the aromatic sheets also become clear of the carbonaceous
compounds and non-organised carbon to form a molecular
dimensioned porous structure, which greatly increases the internal
surface area (Martinez et al., 2006). Successful activation will produce
a fine crystalline carbon product with an interleaved system
of pores with a very large internal surface area, which is highly
dependent on the processing conditions used and the original organic
material matrix. However, the exact procedures and process
operations used for the commercial production of activated carbons
is a closely guarded secret by industrial manufacturers.