Turn spent carbon into certainty with activated carbon reactivation
GAC reactivation closes the loop with removal of PFAS and other organic compounds and a more sustainable path forward.
Reactivation brings sustainability, savings, and certainty to carbon management. Calgon Carbon operates the largest network of reactivation facilities in North America, including two RCRA-permitted facilities engineered to safely process spent GAC from drinking water, industrial water, and air treatment systems. Additionally, our thermal reactivation reduces PFAS and other organic compounds to non-detect levels, helping reduce landfill waste, limit long-term liability, and control total cost of ownership.
Activated carbon reactivation may be the smartest move you’re not making:
Proven PFAS Destruction
Our furnaces destroy >99.9% of PFAS compounds while delivering true end-of-life treatment.
Significant Cost Savings
Reduce disposal fees, cut the need for virgin carbon, and lower total cost of ownership.
Smaller Carbon Footprint
Use less energy and fewer emissions than producing new GAC in order to support sustainability goals.
Custom or Shared Programs
Choose from closed-loop (CMR/CFR/CIR) or pooled programs specifically engineered to fit your system.
Extend the life of your carbon and your budget.
- Ongoing disposal fees for spent carbon
- Rising material costs with no long-term hedge
- Limited PFAS destruction from landfill or incineration
- Lost opportunity to reduce emissions and waste
Activated carbon reactivation helps you close the loop, and the compliance gap.
With Operation Bedrock, you’re not just buying carbon.
You’re building resilience.
“Reactivation is a forward-thinking solution rooted in Calgon Carbon’s full-cycle philosophy. Today, performance isn’t measured only by what enters your system, but by how you manage what comes out. That’s where we lead.”
Steve Schott
CEO, Calgon Carbon
Frequently Asked Questions:
Calgon Carbon Reactivation
What is carbon reactivation?
Calgon Carbon’s reactivation process uses high heat to restore the adsorption capacity of spent GAC, allowing it to be reused instead of replaced.
Is Calgon Carbon’s reactivated GAC safe for water treatment?
Yes. Our reactivation process meets all EPA safety and performance standards. In short, it is trusted for a wide range of regulated contaminants, including PFAS.
What are the cost benefits of carbon reactivation?
Utilities can save up to 40% compared to new carbon, reducing landfill use and avoiding procurement delays altogether.
Does activated carbon reactivation help avoid tariffs?
Yes. Reactivation uses domestic carbon, all in all helping customers avoid import tariffs, shipping delays, and global market risk.