It permits maximum water flow and contact with its high density of macroporous binding sites. Matrix Carbon has a very low ash content as indicated by its minimal impact on pH. Even when added to distilled water, it does not raise pH above 7.0. The filter medium works because of the combination of microscopic cracks and crevices, known as macropores and micropores which means it can filter metals,smaller ions and larger organic molecules like nitrogenous waste.