Activated carbon in 3M™ Whole House Water Treatment Media ACC-050P works via a process called adsorption. Adsorption is the process of adhesion of a very thin layer of atoms, ions or molecules from a gas, liquid or dissolved solid to a surface of an adsorbent, in this case activated carbon.Activated carbon is typically derived from wood, coal or coconut shell base material. The process to manufacture activated carbon includes heating the carbon material slowly to 800°C/1,472°F in an inert atmosphere, then exposing the carbon material to phosphoric acid, steam or an air stream. This activation process oxidizes all particles on the carbon material surface, leaving the surface free to attract and hold organics like chlorine. One pound of activated carbon has an approximate surface area equal to 100 acres.A Track Record of Success 3M branded water filtration products have been addressing water quality issues for over 50 years. 3M offers a wide range of solutions designed to address many types of water quality concerns. Many 3M water quality improvement solutions have third-party certifications, such as NSF and WQA. 3M, a household name, is a leader in filtration technology recognized for innovation, trust and quality around the world. Water: Nothing’s Closer to Home Clean and clear drinking water in your home is both a pleasure and a reassurance that you're giving your family the best. With a water filtration system from 3M Purification, you provide filtered drinking water for every member of your family. From whole home water filtration to drinking water systems, look to 3M Purification to help you find the right solution. A History of Innovation For more than a century, 3M has applied innovation and technology to improving our customers’ lives and supporting their business goals. Today the company, from its headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota, serves industrial and commercial customers and consumers in nearly 200 countries. The 3M brand, across thousands of products, represents consistency, superior quality and value. Our success begins with our culture of creative collaboration that inspires a never ending stream of powerful technologies and product solutions that make life better. We have an ability to apply our technologies – often in combination – to an endless array of real-world customer needs. Of course, all of this made possible by the people of 3M, and their singular commitment to make life easier and better for people around the world. 3M is committed to providing innovative, cost-effective products that help protect people, equipment, and our environment. 3M Purification Inc. (formerly CUNO Incorporated), provides filtration and separation solutions for residential, food service, science labs, industrial, marine and other applications.