This terminology ensures that terms peculiar to activated carbon are adequately defined so that other standards in which such terms are used can be understood and interpreted properly.

This terminology is useful to those who are not conversant with the terms related to activated carbon. However, it is also a ready reference for those directly associated with activated carbon to resolve differences and ensure commonality of usage, particularly in the preparation of ASTM standards.

Although this terminology is intended to promote uniformity in the usage of terms related to activated carbon, it can never be complete because new terms are constantly arising. The existence of this terminology does not preclude the use or misuse of any term in another context.