
Введение
During antibiotic production, fermentation broths often contain dark pigments that negatively affect clarity, purity, and downstream processing. Activated carbon—especially wood-based powdered activated carbon (PAC)—is the preferred solution for achieving pharmaceutical‑grade decolorization.
As ZhuLin Activated Carbon, we specialize in providing high‑performance wood-based PAC with superior methylene blue values designed specifically for antibiotic purification.
What Is Antibiotic Decolorization?
Antibiotic solutions naturally contain fermentation-derived pigments that must be removed to meet pharmaceutical visual and purity standards. Pigments originate from microbial metabolism, which are aromatic organic compounds with strong coloration. They affect product stability and crystal quality, and must be removed before crystallization or refinement.
Why Wood-Based Powdered Activated Carbon Is Preferred?
Wood-based PAC is the industry standard because its pore structure—rich in mesopores—is ideal for adsorbing medium to large pigment molecules found in antibiotic broths. It also disperses quickly and filters cleanly, making it ideal for batch and continuous pharmaceutical processes.
• High mesopore volume suitable for fermentation pigments
• Fast adsorption kinetics for efficient decolorization
• Easy dispersion in antibiotic extraction systems
• Low ash and neutral pH for pharmaceutical compatibility
• Excellent filtration behavior with minimal carbon residue
• High methylene blue value, ensuring strong color adsorption
Wood Activated Carbon Application
Wood-based powdered activated carbon is engineered specifically for antibiotic decolorization, with a strong emphasis on methylene blue value (MB value)—the most important indicator of color adsorption ability.
• Achieving up to 90–98% decolorization efficiency
• Improving antibiotic crystal whiteness and quality
• Reducing impurities before refining and crystallization
• Enhancing stability and product shelf life
• Compling with pharmaceutical process requirements

Main field
Tetracycline & oxytetracycline
Erythromycin & macrolides
Chloramphenicol
Streptomycin & aminoglycosides
Penicillin derivatives
Cephalosporin intermediates
Wood PAC Parameters:
| Параметр | Типичное значение |
| Methylene Blue Value | 180–260 mg/g |
| Значение йода | 900–1100 mg/g |
| Влажность | < 8% |
| Содержание золы | < 3% |
| рН | 5–7 |
| Размер частиц | 200–325 mesh |
| Насыпная плотность | 350–450 g/L |
| Activation Method | Steam-activated / Acid-washed available |
Заключение
Wood-based powdered activated carbon is the preferred solution for antibiotic decolorization due to its superior pore structure, high mesopore content, and excellent adsorption capability.
As ZhuLin Activated Carbon, we provide high‑purity wood-based PAC with outstanding methylene blue values, ensuring efficient pigment removal and consistent pharmaceutical‑grade performance.
If you require customized grades, specific MB values, or application guidance, ZhuLin is ready to support your antibiotic production processes with professional solutions.