Catalytic Carbon vs. Standard Activated Carbon
July 28, 2026

When comparing a catalytic carbon vs. an activated carbon water filter, the biggest difference is chloramine removal. Standard activated carbon is somewhat effective in chlorine removal, but catalytic carbon is made specifically to decompose chloramines, particularly in whole-house water filters where chlorinated municipal water is used.

Activated Carbon — Adsorption Process

  • Water flows through highly porous activated carbon with an extensive internal surface area.

  • Chlorine, volatile organic compounds, dissolved gases, and many other chemicals are captured primarily through adsorption, meaning they adhere to the carbon’s surface.

  • Catalytic carbon provides the same adsorption benefits while also promoting chemical reactions that improve the reduction of difficult contaminants such as chloramine and hydrogen sulfide.

  • Iodine rating: Expressed in milligrams per gram (mg/g), the iodine rating indicates the carbon’s relative activation level and capacity to adsorb small molecules within its micropores.