Activated carbon for Drinking Water

Activated carbon is a material commonly used in drinking water treatment. Due to its strong adsorption capacity, it can effectively remove organic matter, odor, residual chlorine, some heavy metals and harmful chemicals in water, and improve the taste and safety of water.

Features
1. Removal of organic pollutants
Activated carbon can adsorb organic compounds in water, such as pesticides, industrial solvents and humus, to reduce potential harm to the human body.
2. Removal of odor and taste
Activated carbon can adsorb odor molecules in water and improve the smell and taste of water.
3. Removal of residual chlorine
Residual chlorine in tap water is used for sterilization and disinfection, but it may produce irritating odors. Activated carbon can efficiently remove residual chlorine while reducing byproducts such as chloroform generated by the reaction of chlorine and organic matter.
4. Adsorption of some heavy metals
Some types of activated carbon also have a certain removal effect on heavy metals (such as lead and mercury) in water.

Application
1. Granular activated carbon (GAC)
Suitable for large-scale water treatment equipment, such as urban water supply systems or household water purifiers.
2. Powdered activated carbon (PAC)
Usually used for short-term treatment, such as temporary response to water quality changes in water plants.
3. Activated carbon filter element
Commonly found in household water purifiers, it can provide long-term and continuous water quality improvement.

Use
1. Saturation problem
The adsorption capacity of activated carbon is limited. When the adsorption reaches saturation, it needs to be replaced or regenerated in time, otherwise the adsorbed pollutants may be released again.
2. Microbial problem
Long-term use may cause bacterial growth. It is recommended to replace the activated carbon filter element regularly or take disinfection measures.
3. Limited removal capacity
Activated carbon has limited removal effect on certain pollutants (such as minerals, nitrates, and certain microorganisms in hard water) and needs to be used in combination with other technologies (such as reverse osmosis and ultraviolet disinfection).

If used for improving household drinking water, it is key to choose high-quality activated carbon products and replace the filter element according to the manufacturer's recommended cycle.