UV Disinfection Systems for Wastewater Treatment: Emphasis on Reactivation of Microorganisms

Yenifer González, Gloria Gómez, Gabriela E. Moeller-Chávez and Gladys Vidal ()
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Yenifer González: Environmental Engineering and Biotechnology Group (GIBA-UDEC), Environmental Science Faculty and EULA–CHILE Center, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4030000, Chile
Gloria Gómez: Environmental Engineering and Biotechnology Group (GIBA-UDEC), Environmental Science Faculty and EULA–CHILE Center, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4030000, Chile
Gabriela E. Moeller-Chávez: Department of Environmental Engineering, Universidad Politécnica del Estado de Morelos, Boulevard Cuahnáhuac 566, El Texcal, Jiutepec 62550, Morelos, Mexico
Gladys Vidal: Environmental Engineering and Biotechnology Group (GIBA-UDEC), Environmental Science Faculty and EULA–CHILE Center, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4030000, Chile

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 14, 1-19

Abstract: UV disinfection is cost-effective and easy to maintain for decentralized areas. However, to ensure its effectiveness, some parameters need to be considered. In this study, a general search of Web of Science articles was performed to determine the possible influence of these parameters on the reactivation of microorganisms in UV systems; in addition, different search strings were used focusing exclusively on wastewater treatment, UV systems and Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs). It was found that in order to maintain low transmittance, it is essential to remove suspended solids and reduce water hardness. It is recommended to control the zeta potential in the range of 0–5 mV to avoid the aggregation of particles and bacteria. Determining the appropriate UV dose is essential to mitigate the reactivation of microorganisms. A minimum dose of 40 mJ/cm 2 can contribute to effective disinfection and reduce the likelihood of reactivation. In addition, maintaining a residual chlorine level of at least 0.5 mg/L provides an additional barrier to reactivation. It is also important to optimize the design flow rate of the UV system as recommended for each individual unit. These measures, together with the combination of UV disinfection and chemical or AOP S , can effectively reduce the reactivation.

Keywords: disinfection; microorganisms; solids; reactivation; ultraviolet; wastewater (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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