Granular activated carbon for MTBE removal

Results of research performed to evaluate granular activated carbon (GAC) effectiveness for Methyl-tert Butyl Ether (MTBE) removal, including computer modeling, cost estimating, and dynamic column testing, are presented. Analyses were performed for influent MTBE concentrations ranging from 20 mug/L to 2,000 mug/L under a variety of background water conditions (i.e., surface water and ground water sources; influent water both with and without BTEX compounds). The results allow for analysis of the primary variables that impact GAC performance and cost including MTBE influent concentration, background water quality (i.e., natural organic matter), and the presence of other organic chemicals. This research indicates that GAC can be used for cost-effective removal of MTBE under a range of conditions.