evalution of the efficiency of the adsorption process in removing humic substances from water

The paper presents the results of laboratory tests on possibilities to utilize active carbons produced in Poland (WD-ekstra, WG-12, WG-15, AG-5 and DTO) for removing humic substances from water. The objective of the tests was to arrive to quantitative formulation of the adsorption process, as well as determine the effect of various factors on process course. Attempt was undertaken to solve the tasks set in the study purpose using model experimental setups. Model solution with humic substances in concentration of 20 mg/dm³. The processes of adsorption conducted in a batch mode, were best described by Freundlich isotherms. The adsorption capacity of tested active carbons was calculated on the basis of the isotherms. The flow conditions were created/realized by columnar filtration method. On the basis of obtained results, the breakthrough curves, so-called iso-planes, were prepared and served in turn to determine the adsorption capacities in flow conditions. The WD-extra (7,71 mg/g) and DTO (7,40 mg/g) carbons exhibited the highest values of adsorption capacities, as determined in both non-flow and flow conditions. The exit curves (iso-planes) were also utilized to determine the mass penetration zone (the adsorption front height), as well as to calculate the rate of mass-exchange zone advance.