Controlling trihalomethanes with powdered activated carbons

The application of powdered activated carbon for organics control has been limited because of the assumption that large dosages are necessary. A plant‐scale study was conducted to examine the feasibility of trace organic control through the use of powdered carbon. Results indicate that a powdered carbon, especially formulated for a specific removal, can be successful in reducing trihalomethane formation levels up to 56 percent at carbon dosages considerably less than previously reported. The study demonstrates that the right powdered carbon can reduce trihalomethane levels by adsorbing the precursors.