Related Experiment Videos
Using anion exchange resins to remove THM precursors.
1Boyle Engineering Corp., Bakersfield, CA 93302, USA.
Journal - American Water Works Association
|December 1, 1991
Summary
Controlling trihalomethanes (THMs) involves understanding organic fractions. Ion exchange systems effectively target specific molecular weights to minimize THM formation potential in water treatment.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Trihalomethanes (THMs) are disinfection byproducts of concern in drinking water.
- Understanding the reactivity of different organic matter fractions is crucial for effective water treatment.
- Ion exchange and granular activated carbon (GAC) are common water treatment technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the control of trihalomethanes (THMs) using ion exchange.
- To compare the trihalomethane formation potentials of various organic fractions in influent water.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of different water treatment systems in reducing THM precursors.
Main Methods:
- Comparing THM formation potentials of organic fractions (<0.5K, 0.5K-1K, 1K-5K apparent molecular weight [AMW]).
- Analyzing influent water treated by three column systems: ion exchange, granular activated carbon (GAC), and combined ion exchange-GAC.
- Assessing the reactivity of organic fractions with free available chlorine.
Main Results:
- The smallest organic fraction (<0.5K AMW) exhibited the highest reactivity with free available chlorine.
- Ion exchange systems primarily produced THMs from 1K-5K, 0.5K-1K, and <0.5K AMW fractions.
- Combined ion exchange-GAC and GAC systems showed the <0.5K AMW fraction as the main THM producer.
Conclusions:
- Regeneration of ion exchange resin at sulfate breakthrough is effective.
- Combining ion exchange with GAC significantly reduces THM formation potential.
- Optimized ion exchange and GAC treatment can yield water with very low THM formation potential.