Abstract: A process of purifying exhaust air which contains organic pollutants, particularly exhaust air from paint-drying operations, comprises adsorption on particulate activated carbon, which is contained in a fixed bed and from which at least part of the adsorbate can be desorbed. The activated carbon has a particle size in the range of about 2 to 6 mm, a bulk density of 250 to 450 g/l and B.E.T. surface area of 800 to 1800 m.sup.2 /g and the activated carbon is subjected to a desorbing treatment with steam while the bed of activated carbon is maintained at temperatures of 100.degree. to 150.degree. C.