Prediction of breakthrough patterns of organics from laboratory tests.

The investigations have shown that it is possible to predict the breakthrough behavior of complex mixtures in a pilot-plant filter. The aim of future studies will be to predict the breakthrough behavior of waterworks filters in the same way as discussed here. This seems to be fairly simple if the filters are working with adsorption only. If, in addition, biological processes occur in a filter (as is generally observed), these processes have to be taken into account because an additional mechanism exists for removal of organic substances in the activated carbon filter. Investigations in a new research program will also need to consider the influence of ozone on biodegradation. Use of the methods already discussed, can help to optimize existing plants, as well as a proper control of the efficiency of the regeneration processes.