Alternative Electrode Materials and Ceramic Filter Minimize Disinfection Byproducts in Point-of-Use Electrochemical Water Treatment.

ABSTRACT

Effects of various electrodes and prefiltration to minimize disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in electrochemical water disinfection was evaluated. The target microorganism, Escherichia coli O157H7, was effectively inactivated even applying a solar-charged storage battery for the electrolysis process. Extent of microbial inactivation decreased with lower water temperature and higher pH in the free chlorine disinfection system. The RuO2/Ti electrode was most efficient because it produced the lowest concentration of chlorate and the highest generation of free chlorine. Prefiltration using a ceramic filter inhibited formation of halogenated DBPs because it removed precursors of DBPs. For safe point-of-use water treatment, the use of a hybrid prefiltration stage with the electrolysis system is strongly recommended to reduce risks from DBPs. The system is particularly suited to use in developing regions.