The rivaAlva Life filter cartridge is a sintered activated carbon block filter cartridge for drinking water treatment. It is both plastic-free and food-safe, and is produced in an environmentally friendly manner in Germany using renewable raw materials. Contaminant retention occurs through three principles of activated carbon: The filter fineness of 20 µm retains particles larger than the filter pores. Based on mechanical action, suspended particles, rust particles, and microplastics are retained, for example. Through catalytic action, certain substances like chlorine and chlorine compounds can be transformed, so they no longer exist in their original form. Thanks to the adsorptive effect, additional contaminants can be absorbed by adhering directly to the activated carbon and remaining there. Organic compounds such as pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, heavy metals like lead and copper, pharmaceutical residues, hormones, and taste-altering substances can also be retained.