Reactive Halogen Species Boost Fungal Spore Inactivation in Seawater during UV/PMS Treatment
Ye Chen1, Muke Lin1, Zhuoyun Tang1
1School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
Environmental Science & Technology
|August 2, 2025
Summary
Halide ions in seawater significantly boost UV/peroxymonosulfate disinfection of Aspergillus niger spores. This enhanced process inactivates fungal spores and prevents regrowth, offering a promising solution for water safety.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Water treatment technologies
- Public health
Background:
- Seawater activities increase exposure to fungal pathogens.
- UV/peroxymonosulfate (UV/PMS) is a potential disinfection method.
- Fungal spore inactivation in saline environments requires further study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of halide ions on UV/PMS inactivation of Aspergillus niger spores.
- To elucidate the mechanisms behind enhanced inactivation in seawater.
- To assess the impact of reactive halogen species (RHS) on spore integrity and photoreactivation.
Main Methods:
- UV/PMS treatment of Aspergillus niger spores in deionized water and artificial seawater.
- Quenching experiments to identify reactive species.
- Kinetic modeling to understand inactivation pathways.
- Microbial characterization of spore damage.
Main Results:
- Seawater conditions with halide ions markedly enhanced UV/PMS inactivation efficiency.
- Complete inactivation (5.11-log) was achieved in seawater, versus 2.45-log in deionized water.
- Reactive halogen species (RHS) were identified as key contributors to enhanced inactivation.
- RHS disrupted spore cellular integrity and suppressed photoreactivation.
Conclusions:
- Halide ions significantly improve UV/PMS disinfection efficacy in saline water.
- RHS generated in situ play a crucial role in fungal spore inactivation.
- This study provides insights into controlling fungal contamination in marine environments.
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