Disinfectant By-Product Formation Upon Water Treatment Using PUR

Abstract

Nizeyimana Fidele, Orach-Meza Faustino, Musoke Miph, Nkurikiyintwali Jean Marie Vianney, Mutabazi Placide, Niyitegeka Jean Pierre, Mukeshimana Jeanne dArc, Niyonkuru Felix, Butoya Pasteur, Gatsinzi Mupenzi Jackline, Uwihoreye Potien, Ndayisaba Cleophas, Ngulube Dumisani James, Nyangezi Peter Mooni, Girizina Divine, Niyonsenga Theogene, Iradukunda Jean Marie Vianney and Igirukwayo Ildephonse

The study determined the possibility of Disinfectant By-Products (DBP) formation when water sources of Akagera river marshy are treated using PUR.

A randomized control trial design was adopted where a total of 84 water samples were collected from 21 water sources selected purposively from Akagera river marshy in Juru sector. These were randomized into 42 controls and 42 for intervention with analytical treatment. Samples were tested for turbidity and ammonia. To determine the correct dose of PUR to be used, the effectiveness was tested using the dose recommended by the manufacturer and secondly, the dose of 2 sachets per 15 liters of raw water.

The results showed a statistically significant reduction of turbidity in treated water (p<0.02) for both dose 1 sachet and dose 2 sachets. No significant reduction of ammonia was observed (p<0.15 for the dose of 1 sachet and p<0.108 for the dose of 2 sachets).

It was, therefore, found that DBPs are likely to occur in water treatment using PUR based on the level of ammonia, the precursor, in water. To eliminate DBPs precursors, the study suggested two ways recommended by Zasouli Ali Mohammad and Kalankesh (2017) [1] to adopt: retention of raw water and the use of coal-based carbon.

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