The advantages of powdered activated carbon and granular activated carbon are different from each other.

Powdered activated carbon is usually used in liquid-phase applications. After being added to the liquid, it is mixed, filtered or settled through stirring, and the desired liquid is obtained. The advantages of using powdered activated carbon for treatment are: suitable for batch processes; easy to control the dosage; can utilize existing filtration equipment; and has a lower price.

Granular activated carbon can be used in both liquid and gas phases. Generally, the liquid or gas to be treated is continuously passed through the activated carbon column. The characteristics of using granular activated carbon for treatment are: suitable for continuous processes and automatic control; less consumption of activated carbon, with a high carbon/liquid ratio; easier to clean and operate; due to its higher price, it should be reused when used in large quantities, and it is easier to be reused.