Abstract: Because of its excellent absorption capacity and application value,the activated carbon fiber(ACF) has become a hot topic being studied.However,its production scale is small and practical application is limited in China.For the purpose of further research and promoting its use, its development and application in recent years was reviewed,and the cause that hinders its development was analyzed.It was showed that factors seriously impeding the application of ACF include small production scale,high cost of production and application,and inadequacy in research depth and application promotion.It is suggested that the regenerating technology of ACF be the key for research,applied study be strengthened,and the performance-price ratio enhanced,so as to promote its application.