Optimizing Filtration and Disinfection Systems with a Risk-Based Approach

This research developed risk-based criteria for the design and operation of wastewater filtration and disinfection systems that minimize the health risks posed by pathogens occluded in effluent particles. The criteria are intended for wastewater treatment systems managers and can be implemented using particle concentrations, particle size distribution (PSD), and commonly monitored process control parameters. Development of the operational criteria was based on laboratory experiments to determine particle and disinfection characteristics, analysis of the experimental results using a reactive radial pore diffusion model that simulates the diffusive flux of disinfectants into particles, evaluation of risk assessment data, and bench-scale validation. Published by WERF. 184 pages. Online PDF. (2010)

Originally funded as WERF project 04-HHE-5.