Mechanistic understanding of the removal of organic micropollutants from wastewater in biological activated carbon filters

Research Project, 2026 – 2030

The project aims to investigate the complex interactions between biodegradation and adsorption processes of organic micropollutants (OMPs) in biologically active carbon (BAC) filters. OMPs, such as pharmaceuticals and PFAS, are released to surface waters via wastewater effluents, and pose a risk to aquatic life and human health. Removal at the wastewater treatment plant can therefore act as an effective barrier. Some OMPs are removed by biodegradation by the microbial community present, but not all. Additional treatment is therefore required, such as adsorption on granular activated carbon. Wastewater effluent contains organic matter and nutrients that support the growth of microorganisms, resulting in biofilm formation on the surface of GAC. When biofilm is formed on the GAC, a biologically active carbon (BAC) filter is formed and by combining physicochemical adsorption with biodegradation, efficient removal of OMPs can be achieved. We will use laboratory-scale BAC filters to determine OMP transformation kinetics and adsorption. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) imaging and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) techniques will be used to spatially localize OMPs in the BAC biofilm and activated carbon matrix and to identify transformation products and key biomolecules. Metagenomics will be used for microbial community composition. The project is planned for a PhD student for 4 years.