Why powdered activated carbon needs a raw-water odor test even at high iodine number

Does PAC mean polyaluminium chloride here?

Here PAC means powdered activated carbon. Iodine number describes adsorption under specified test conditions. Competing substances and the target odor compound in the actual water determine suitability.

Test the target odor compound in the raw water

Compare the current carbon, candidate and blank in the same water with equal contact and separation conditions. Measure changes in the target substance and downstream filtration load. Write “powdered activated carbon” in full on the order.

Does a higher iodine number guarantee better taste and odour removal?

Iodine number is a characterisation value. Compare the target organic residual directly in plant water. Taste and odor control: Using the target odor compound and representative water, compare removal at equal contact time. Organic contaminant adsorption: Record effluent quality, powdered carbon dose and residue after filtration together.

Checking Adsorption performance and Particle size

Adsorption performance (Removal efficiency or residual concentration): Evaluate for the target organic compound at the actual contact time. Particle size (µm or % sieve residue): Specify sieve aperture and equipment compatibility. Ash or moisture (% by mass): State the as-received or dry basis and assess the effect on cost per effective unit.

What to record

• Target compound
• Contact time
• Powdered carbon grade
• Filtration conditions
• Post-treatment reading

Technical references

• NHMRC: adsorption with powdered activated carbon ↗

Products and processes