In order to obtain a system as efficient for collecting particles with a size less than 10 mu m (PM10) as removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), prototype fibrous media containing activated carbon fibers (ACF) associated with non-adsorptive fibers such as cellulose (C) and polyester (PET) fibers have been developed. Influence of process operating parameters on toluene adsorption and particle filtration efficiency was investigated. Particularly, effect of type and ratio of non-adsorptive fibers, degree of beating of cellulose fibers and addition of binders was studied and the impact on physical properties of the medium and its performances for adsorption and particle collection was analyzed. (C) 2008 The Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.