Which natural organic matter components limit PFAS removal by activated carbon?

Chemical Engineering Journal 2026 Open access

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Authors: Marko Pranić, Beatrice Cantoni, David De Ridder, Manuela Antonelli, Jouke Dykstra, Albert van der Wal
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2026.178076
Cited by: 2
References: 32

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent micropollutants subject to strict drinking water regulations. Although granular activated carbon treatment can effectively remove PFAS from water, early breakthrough, especially for short-chain PFAS, requires frequent regeneration and increases treatment costs. While many studies have related the presence of natural organic matter (NOM) to early breakthrough, the mechanisms affecting PFAS adsorption remain unclear. In this study, we used resin and membrane fractionation to isolate distinct NOM fractions based on chemical characteristics and molecular size. Batch isotherm, kinetic, and column experiments showed that the presence of the

Fields of Study & Subjects

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances research Fluoride Effects and Removal Water Treatment and Disinfection

Publication details

Journal / source
Chemical Engineering Journal
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
545
Pages
178076–178076
Publication date
4 June 2026
Language
EN