The American Water Works Association (AWWA) awarded Pittsburgh-based Calgon Carbon Corp., a manufacturer and distributor of innovative coal-, wood- and coconut-based activated carbon products, with the 2026 Innovation Award. The award was presented during AWWA’s Annual Conference & Exposition on June 23
The award recognizes scientific advancements that help drinking water utilities address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) treatment while supporting the reuse of activated carbon, advancing long-term resource management goals. Calgon Carbon was honored in the service provider category for peer-reviewed research.
Calgon Carbon was honored for its research, Destruction of PFAS During Thermal Reactivation of Granular Activated Carbon Used in Potable Water Treatment, demonstrating the destruction of PFAS during thermal reactivation of granular activated carbon. Third-party validated results showed a destruction removal efficiency greater than 99.9 percent of PFAS during the process.
“Utilities are making PFAS treatment decisions they will live with for decades, and they are choosing partners who can prove their science,” Jenalle Brewer, Calgon Carbon senior vice president, drinking water solutions, innovative carbon technologies and global strategy and communications, said. “This award confirms what our customers already see in the data. It’s also the science behind Filtrasorb Rx, the reactivated carbon brand we are launching this week.”