Decolorization and COD Reduction: Powder Activated Carbon in Wastewater Treatment

High colority and chemical oxygen demand (COD) are common environmental challenges in wastewater from dyeing, textile, paper, and chemical industries. Powder activated carbon (PAC), with its large specific surface area and well-developed microporous structure, can rapidly adsorb chromophoric groups and organic pollutant molecules, achieving efficient decolorization and COD reduction.

Powder activated carbon is flexible in wastewater treatment applications. It can be dosed directly into biological tanks to form a biologically activated carbon process, or used in post-treatment polishing units. In biological systems, PAC not only adsorbs toxic substances that inhibit microbial activity but also provides attachment carriers for microorganisms, enhancing system tolerance to shock loads. When used in coagulation-sedimentation or pre-membrane dosing, PAC works synergistically to remove suspended solids and colloidal impurities, significantly reducing pollutant loads on downstream treatment units.

Selecting high-quality powder activated carbon requires attention to three key indicators: iodine value, ash content, and particle size. A high iodine value indicates good microporous development, providing stronger adsorption capacity for small dye molecules and low-molecular-weight organics. Low ash content means richer active sites on the carbon surface, faster adsorption kinetics, and no introduction of additional impurities into the water. Furthermore, proper particle size distribution (typically 95% passing through 200 mesh) ensures good dispersion and settling performance, preventing pipe or media clogging in continuous dosing systems.

Kelin offer high-iodine, low-ash powder activated carbon that delivers higher adsorption efficiency at the same dosage, helping you reduce your cost per ton of water treated. Contact us now for a product quote.