4. Conclusions
The removal of MTBE by the PAM-zeolite composite was: (1) Higher than its removal by all other adsorbents examined in batch and in column filtration experiments. (2) Hardly influenced by the presence of BTEX, unlike the reduction in MTBE removal by the un- treated zeolite. In addition, the column filter experiments empha- size the higher efficiency and capacity of the PAM-zeolite filter, than that of the zeolite, or GAC one, particularly in the presence of BTEX. We suggest that the enhanced removal by the PAM-zeolite composite is attributed to (a) the displacement of water from the zeolite surface upon PAM adsorption, which promotes MTBE adsorption and (b) hydrogen binding between the polymer and MTBE. An employment of a mixture of a PAM-zeolite with GAC in filtration columns may be a promising step for reducing the cost of MTBE removal from water.