Optimization of UV/H2O2 processes for the removal of organic micropollutants from drinking water: Effect of reactor geometry and water pretreatment on EEO values

Abstract

Increasing concentrations of organic micropollutants, like pharmaceuticals, in surface water may require additional treatment for drinking water production. The UV/H2O2 process is very effective for this purpose, but is known for its relatively high energy demand. This energy demand may be decreased by improving the water matrix composition and/or by optimizing UV reactor geometry. Thus, operational costs of the process may be decreased. This can be visualized by calculating the Electrical Energy per Order (EEO). By optimizing the water matrix, e.g. by pretreating the water by filtration over activated carbon or with O3/H2O2, the energy demand decreased up to 70%. This is affected by the concentration and type of the natural organic matter present. By optimizing reactor geometry an additional decrease in energy demand, up to 40%, could be obtained. How efficient the process may become strongly depends on the characteristics of the micropollutants involved.