What type of carbon should be added as far upstream of coagulation as possible?

Activated carbon should be added as far upstream of coagulation as possible because it effectively adsorbs various organic compounds, including taste and odor-causing substances, as well as certain disinfection by-products. Its high surface area and porosity enable it to capture these contaminants before the coagulation process begins, enhancing the overall water treatment efficiency. By removing these undesirable compounds early in the treatment process, activated carbon helps improve the performance of subsequent treatment steps, such as coagulation and sedimentation, leading to clearer, better-quality water.

Other types of carbon, such as granular carbon or specific source carbons like coconut shell and bituminous carbon, can also play roles in water treatment, but activated carbon is particularly favored for its effectiveness in addressing a wide range of organic contaminants early in the treatment process.