Dryden Aqua AFM® NG – Activated filter media for sand filters

Improve your pool’s filtration performance with Dryden Aqua AFM® NG (Activated Filter Media – New Generation), an activated filter medium designed to replace sand in a compatible sand filter.

Made from selected glass and subjected to a three-step activation process, AFM® NG has a specially designed surface to improve particle capture and resist biofouling. It therefore provides a durable solution for owners who want to improve water clarity and optimize their filtration system.

Fine filtration down to 1 micron

ForAFM® ng Grade 1, Dryden Aqua reports a filtration efficiency of 95% of particles larger than 1 micron, without coagulation or flocculation. For comparison, the manufacturer reports 95% filtration above 20 microns for high-quality silica sand under the same test conditions.

This fine filtration helps retain more small particles and organic matter that may affect water clarity.

Biofouling-resistant surface

Unlike conventional filter media, which can promote biofilm buildup over time, AFM®’s activated surface is designed to resist biofouling and not promote bacterial growth.

This property also helps limit media agglomeration and the formation of preferential channels in the filter bed, helping maintain more uniform filtration.

AFM® NG: a surface optimized for organic matter

AFM® NG has a hydrophobic, non-polar surface that promotes the adsorption of organic matter. Dryden Aqua specifically reports improved capture of oils, hydrocarbons, and microplastics compared with conventional media.

By removing more contaminants before they react with the disinfectant, more effective filtration can also help reduce chemical demand and the formation of certain disinfection by-products. Actual savings vary depending on the overall treatment system, pool usage, and water quality.

Sand replacement: approximately 15% less weight

AFM® has a lower bulk density than sand. Dryden Aqua generally recommends using approximately than the amount of sand specified for the filter. 15% less AFM® by weight

The recommended calculation is simple: sand weight × 0.85 = approximate required AFM® weight. For example, a filter designed for 300 lb of sand requires approximately 255 lb of AFM®; for its mini bags, Dryden Aqua indicates 10 bags totaling approximately 250 lb in this example.

It is recommended to confirm the required AFM® grade, the filter configuration, and the required quantity before replacing the existing media.

Key features

• Brand: Dryden Aqua
• Product: AFM® NG – Activated Filter Media New Generation
• Type: Activated filter media
• Application: Pool water filtration
• Use: Sand replacement in a compatible filter
• AFM® ng Grade 1: 95% of particles larger than 1 micron filtered
• Surface: Hydrophobic and resistant to biofouling
• Manufacturing: Glass selected with a three-step activation process
• Required quantity: Approximately 85% of the sand weight specified for the filter

The filtration characteristics and available grades are published by Dryden Aqua and may vary depending on the grade selected and the conditions of use.

Optimize your pool’s filtration

The Dryden Aqua AFM® NG is a sand replacement solution that improves filtration fineness and maintains more stable performance in a compatible filter.

Thanks to its activated surface, which resists biofouling, it helps maintain clearer water while optimizing the filtration system’s operation.

Available at Piscine Hippocampe.

Required quantity (25 lb bags)

• 175 lb filter: 6 bags

• 225 lb filter: 7 bags

• 250 lb filter: 8 bags

• 300 lb filter: 10 bags

• 350 lb filter: 11 bags

• 600 lb filter: 19 bags

Why choose AFM® NG at Piscine Hippocampe

At Piscine Hippocampe, we recommend Dryden Aqua AFM® NG for owners who want to significantly improve their filtration quality. More effective than traditional sand, it delivers clearer, healthier, and more stable water while reducing maintenance and chemical consumption.

A strategic choice to optimize your filtration system and maximize your pool’s performance.