What Does Activated Carbon Adsorb?
Organic Compounds
highly effective at removing organic contaminants:
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Pesticides & herbicides (Atrazine, Glyphosate (Roundup), 2,4-D)
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Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – solvents, fuels, industrial chemicals (Benzene, Toluene, Xylene,
Formaldehyde, Acetone, Petroleum hydrocarbons). Pharmaceutical Residues (Antibiotics, Hormones (estrogen, BPA), Painkillers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)) -
Disinfection byproducts like Trihalomethanes (THMs) and Haloacetic acids (HAAs)
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Chlorine-based compounds (sodium hypochlorite, chloramines)
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Ozone (O₃) – breaks down organic contaminants
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Total Organic Carbon (TOCs) – decaying plant/animal matter
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Removes chlorine taste and odor from water.
While not all heavy metals bind easily, activated carbon can adsorb:
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Mercury
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Lead (Pb) – especially when combined with other media like KDF
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Cadmium (Cd)
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Copper (Cu)
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Nickel (Ni)
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Chromium (Cr) – depends on oxidation state
- Arsenic (As) – limited effectiveness (works better with iron-enhanced carbon)
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Eliminates hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell)
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Filters out fine particles, residual disinfectants, and turbidity, rust and silt
Activated carbon does not kill bacteria/viruses, but it can:
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Remove organic matter that bacteria feed on
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Improve the effectiveness of UV or other disinfection methods
Key Advantages over other activated carbon suppliers and brands:
High Adsorption Capacity – Optimized pore structure and density maximize contaminant removal, targeting:
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Low molecular weight organic compounds
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Rapid Dechlorination – Quickly neutralizes chlorine and free chlorine for cleaner, safer water.
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Low Turbidity Output – Ensures crystal-clear filtered water with minimal particulates.
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Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)
What Activated Carbon Does Not Remove Effectively
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Dissolved salts (e.g., sodium, fluoride, nitrates – requires reverse osmosis)
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Hard water minerals (calcium, magnesium – needs a water softener)
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Most viruses & bacteria (requires UV, boiling, or chemical disinfection)
For best results, combine activated carbon with other filtration methods (KDF, reverse osmosis, or ceramic filters) to target a broader range of contaminants.




