Disinfection System
Disinfection Systems in Wastewater Treatment Plants
Disinfection is the final and critical step in the wastewater treatment process. Its purpose is to eliminate or deactivate pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, protozoa) in the treated effluent before it is discharged to the environment or reused. Effective disinfection protects public health, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports sustainable water reuse.
Types of Disinfection Systems in WWTPs
- Chlorination (Chemical Disinfection) : Chlorine is added to the treated water as a gas, liquid (sodium hypochlorite), or solid (calcium hypochlorite) to destroy microbial cells.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection : High-intensity UV light damages the DNA of microorganisms, rendering them inactive and incapable of reproduction.
- Ozonation : Ozone (O₃) is a powerful oxidant that disrupts cell membranes and internal components of microbes.
- Peracetic Acid (PAA) Disinfection : A combination of acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, PAA releases reactive oxygen species that inactivate microorganisms.
Key Benefits of Disinfection in WWTPs:
Removes disease-causing pathogens from treated water.
Prevents contamination of rivers, lakes, and marine ecosystems.
Treated and disinfected effluent can be safely reused for irrigation, industrial cooling, or groundwater recharge.
Effective against a wide range of microbes (bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi).
Meets discharge standards (e.g., fecal coliform, E. coli).
Inactivating bacteria also helps minimize odor-causing compounds.
