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AWWA ACE69107
- Treatment Equity: Can Conventional Treatment Make the Grade When Membrane Filtration Joins the Water System?
- Conference Proceeding by American Water Works Association, 11/01/2008
- Publisher: AWWA
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The objective of this study was twofold: to compare thefiltration processes and resultant water quality of a conventional treatment and membranefiltration plant to quantify any potential treatment inequity; and, to employ theLT2ESWTR Microbial Toolbox to capitalize on current treatment performance andidentify process improvement alternatives to provide a comparable degree of treatment atthe conventional filtration facility without the application of advanced treatmentprocesses, such as low pressure membranes or ultraviolet disinfection. For this analysis,Cryptosporidium removal was selected as the most appropriate means of comparing theperformance of each facility because Cryptosporidium control is primarily achieved byphysical exclusion and removal processes (i.e., filtration) rather than inactivation.Furthermore, Cryptosporidium is the smallest protozoa (3-5 µm) that are removed byboth low pressure membranes and conventional treatment. Turbidity removal wasassessed and used as a surrogate for Cryptosporidium removal in accordance with thedesign and operational criteria set forth in the Toolbox. The findings of this studydemonstrate that opportunities frequently exist within the Toolbox options to augment theremoval credit of a conventional treatment plant with nominal improvements oralterations to the current treatment processes and operational strategies. Theestablishment of treatment equity affirms the efficacy and reliability of conventionaltreatment with respect to membrane processes and will likely promote consumerconfidence and satisfaction. Includes tables, figures.