Our Classic Pond Filter Pad fibers are not carbon coated. The filter pad is black from a thick coating of latex which gives it strength and durability. Since our filter pads will last much longer than carbon in a pond we recommend using activated carbon in a mesh bag which can be replaced on a regular basis. You can find our activated carbon pond carbon here: https://www.amazon.com/Activated-Filter-container-Outdoor-Gardens/dp/B07254XSBW and our Mesh Media Filter Bags here: https://www.amazon.com/Pack-Pond-Mesh-Media-Filter/dp/B06XKP8RDK