The breakthrough of low concentration methyethylketone (MEK) and benzene vapors in beds packed with rayon-based activated carbon fiber (ACF) with different surface areas was investigated. The breakthrough characteristics depend on the properties of the ACF and the vapors, as well as on the adsorption conditions. The results of dynamic adsorption in an ACF bed were consistent with those of equilibrium adsorption by gravimetric methods. The breakthrough adsorption indicates that ACF, with an appropriate surface area, could be utilized in controlling volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V All rights reserved.