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A methodology for the evaluation of disinfection technologies
1Thames Water Utilities, Research and Technology, Spencer House, Manor Farm Road, Reading, Berkshire, UK. mark.kerwick@thameswater.co.uk
Journal of Water and Health
|February 8, 2006
Summary
Concerns with chlorine disinfection drive the search for alternatives. A new methodology evaluates technologies like UV, electrochemical disinfection, and mixed oxidant generators, identifying the latter two as promising replacements for chlorine in water treatment.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Treatment Technologies
- Public Health
Background:
- Chlorination of potable water faces challenges including pathogen resistance, toxic disinfection by-product (DBP) formation, and negative impacts on aesthetic water quality.
- These limitations necessitate the exploration of alternative water disinfection methods within the water industry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate a comprehensive methodology for evaluating alternative water disinfection technologies.
- To assess the potential of various disinfection methods to replace traditional chlorination.
Main Methods:
- A seven-criterion methodology was devised: inactivation efficiency, DBP formation, toxicity, aesthetic water quality, cost, scalability, and residual maintenance.
- Each criterion was assessed using a protocol of prioritized questions against UK water quality regulations.
- Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection was used as a case study to validate the methodology.
Main Results:
- UV disinfection met most criteria but lacked a residual disinfectant.
- Direct electrochemical disinfection and mixed oxidant generators demonstrated significant potential.
- The methodology effectively evaluated disinfection technologies against established water quality standards.
Conclusions:
- Direct electrochemical disinfection and mixed oxidant generators show the most promise for replacing chlorination.
- The developed methodology provides a robust framework for assessing new water disinfection technologies.
- Addressing DBP formation and ensuring effective disinfection remain key challenges in water treatment.
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