Pentachlorophenol reduction in raw Cauca river water through activated carbon adsorption in water purification

Abstract

Reducing chemical risk in raw water from the River Cauca (caused by the presence of pentachlorophenol and organic matter (real color, UV254 absorbance)) was evaluated at bench scale by using three treatment sequences: adsorption with powdered activated coal (PAC); adsorption – coagulation; and, adsorption – disinfection – coagulation. The results showed that although PAC is appropriate for pentachlorophenol removal, and its use together with the coagulant (aluminium sulphate) significantly improved phenolic compound and organic matter removal (promoting enhanced coagulation), the most efficient treatment sequence was adsorption – disinfection - coagulation, achieving minor pentachlorophenol levels than detection (1.56 μg/l) and WHO limits (9μg/l) due to the effect of chloride on PAC.