Absorbing Toxins for a Cleaner Future
Activated carbon is a versatile product widely used for the absorption of toxic gases and vapors. It plays a crucial role in various industries, including manufacturing and sewerage. In Kenya, the demand for activated carbon is significant, making it a promising business opportunity. This blog explores the production of activated carbon, its market potential, the production process, operating costs, and the government facilities and incentives available to support this venture in Kenya.
Market Potential: Meeting the Demand for Clean Air and Water
Activated carbon has excellent marketability, thanks to its effectiveness in absorbing toxins. Various industries, including manufacturing and sewerage, rely on activated carbon for the purification of air and water. In Kenya, where environmental concerns are growing, the demand for activated carbon is on the rise. By establishing an activated carbon production plant, entrepreneurs can tap into this market and contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Production Process: From Coconut Shells to Activated Carbon
The production process of activated carbon involves several stages. It begins with crushing coconut shells to the required size in a hammer mill and then pulverizing them in a ball mill. The resulting shell powder is digested with zinc chloride and activated at elevated temperatures. The activated pellets are then quenched, counter-currently leached with diluted hydrochloric acid, and dried in trays.
Operating Costs: Calculating Production Expenses
To estimate the operating costs, we assume production for 312 days per year, with a daily capacity of 385 kilograms of activated carbon from coconut shells. Depreciation is calculated based on a 4-year asset life, with assets written off at 25% per year. Direct costs include the materials, supplies, and other expenses directly related to production. By carefully considering these factors, entrepreneurs can ensure efficient operations and profitability.
Government Facilities and Incentives: Support for Agricultural Investments
Entrepreneurs investing in the agriculture sector, including the production of activated carbon, can access government facilities and incentives. The European Investment Fund and Agricultural Fund provide avenues for financial assistance, technical support, and guidance to promote growth and development. By leveraging these resources, entrepreneurs can navigate the business landscape effectively and contribute to the agricultural sector’s advancement.
By establishing an activated carbon production plant, entrepreneurs in Kenya can contribute to a cleaner environment by providing a crucial solution for toxin absorption. With a growing market demand and government support, the activated carbon industry presents a promising business opportunity for sustainable growth.
