Abstract: A filter for removing mercury and other vapors from air passed therethrough includes at least one container having a plurality of cells, each cell having an inlet and an outlet oriented substantially in the direction of the flow of air passed therethrough. The cells are partially filled with disintegration-resistant activated carbon pellets to permit swirling of the pellets within the cells as air passes therethrough. The filter may also include a pre-filter made up of fibrous materials and a post-filter located downstream from the containers. In addition, a filter assembly for removing elemental and molecular contaminants and air-born bacteria from contaminated air includes a casing with a filter means inside, the cells of the filter means being partially filled with disintegration-resistant activated carbon pellets and at least one germicidal light within the casing for air disinfection as air passes through the casing.