Activated carbon is an adsorbent that effectively attracts pollutants and traps them within itself. It is able to achieve this due to its pore structure, high surface area and high surface reactivity.

Types of activated carbon

Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) — Granular activated carbon has a larger particle size but a smaller external surface area than other types of activated carbon. GAC particles adsorb vapors and gases well and are often widely used in water treatment because they disperse quickly.

Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) — Powdered activated carbon granules are made using ground or crushed carbon. Typically, powdered activated carbon granules are added directly to other process units such as rapid mixing tanks, raw water inlets and clarifiers. In most cases, these particles are a good choice for carbon block filters.

Extruded Activated Carbon (EAC) — Extruded activated carbon is made by mixing powdered anthracite or charcoal with a suitable binder. It is then extruded under high pressure to form a cylindrical or spherical shape. Due to characteristics such as low pressure drop, low dust content and good mechanical strength, extruded activated carbon is mainly used in gas phase applications. EAC is used in CTO filters to reduce chlorine, taste and odor.

Benefits of activated carbon

remove contaminants

As mentioned earlier, activated carbon attracts and retains pollutants. This adsorptive property enables it to effectively remove a large number of different types and sizes of contaminants from water.

Taste and Odor Control

When the right type of activated charcoal is used, the taste of water can be significantly improved. Odors can also be effectively controlled by using activated carbon.

Taste and Odor Control

Activated charcoal is also used to reduce ingredients that contribute to bad taste and odor.

Disinfectant by-products

Activated carbon has also recently been used to control disinfectant by-products or DBPs in drinking water treatment facilities.