Absorbent

Activated alumina can have a surface area significantly over 200 m²/g. The compound is used as a desiccant (to keep things dry by absorbing water from the air) and as a filter of fluoride, arsenic and selenium in drinking water, also it can be used as SRU catalyst or catalyst support material. It can adsorb gases and liquids without changing its form. It works as a desiccant through adsorption. As air passes through the alumina, the water in the air sticks it and becomes trapped and air that passes through an activated alumina filter is dried out. Even if immersed in a liquid, activated alumina will not fall apart or soften. You can restore the original adsorption efficiency of activated alumina by heating it to any temperature from 350° to 600°F (177° to 316°C).