a multistage filtration system filtration apparatus for separating organic contaminants from an aqueous phase in which the contaminant is solubilized or emulsified . two or more filtration stages are connected in series , each stage comprising a canister or other container having an inlet and an outlet for passing said liquid phase therethrough , the aqueous phase thereby passing through the series connected stages . a fluid - pervious media is provided at the interior of the canister or container in the flow path of the liquid phase proceeding between said inlet and outlet , the media being infused with an absorbtion composition comprising a homogeneous thermal reaction product of an oil component selected from the group consisting of glycerides , fatty acids , alkenes , and alkynes , with a methacrylate or acrylate polymer component . the absorption composition is cured in situ at the media . the contaminants in the liquid phase flowing through said canister or container thereby come into intimate contact with and are immobilized at the media .