Granular and Biological Activated Carbon for the Management of Biogenic Taste and Odour Compounds 

Granular activated carbon (GAC) is effective at removing biogenic taste and odour (T&O) compounds from drinking water; the development of a biofilm on the surface of the granules turns the system into a biological activated carbon (BAC) and extends its lifetime. The aim of this project is to investigate the mechanisms involved in the removal of T&O compounds during filtration by GAC and BAC contactors. This study also aims to provide the water industry with a set of tangible tools for appropriate management of T&O compounds, including guidelines for carbon selection, operation monitoring and insights into the biofilm, its microbiome, and its effects on biofiltration performance.