What is the primary role of activated carbon in water treatment processes?

The primary role of activated carbon in water treatment processes is its ability to adsorb organic compounds. Activated carbon is a highly porous material that provides a large surface area for the adsorption of contaminants, including pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and industrial solvents. This adsorption process occurs due to the strong interactions between the carbon surface and the organic molecules, making activated carbon a highly effective medium for removing these pollutants from water.

While activated carbon can also contribute to the removal of some color and odor, and it may have limited effectiveness in terms of filtering large particles, its most significant and well-documented capability lies in the adsorption process. Activated carbon is not designed for the destruction of pathogens; rather, it focuses primarily on removing organic contaminants. This unique property of activated carbon is why it is commonly used in various water treatment applications, ensuring enhanced water quality and safety.