The CLARISorb HC filter cartridge effectively removes dissolved and dispersed hydrocarbons from water, absorbing three times its own weight before change-out is required. The polishing out of trace hydrocarbons from partially processed water prior to discharge has always proved a difficult and costly exercise. Emulsions and the dissolved fraction can now be economically removed using CLARISorb HC filter cartridges as a polishing phase after existing oil removal technologies.