Current publication on advanced wastewater treatment using powdered activated carbon and ultrafiltration
September 8, 2025 / Katrin Merkler
A recently published study by Merkler, Leverenz et al. (2025) investigated a hybrid system consisting of powdered activated carbon (PAC) and downstream ultrafiltration (UF). In addition to eliminating trace substances from municipal wastewater, the process can reliably retain pathogens such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria, resistance genes, and viruses. The results from laboratory and pilot tests confirm the technical feasibility and robustness of the process for large-scale use in municipal wastewater treatment. Its relevance is unmistakable in view of increasing water scarcity and the spread of antibiotic resistance.
