Use Zeta Potential to Improve Direct Filtration Operation

Abstract

This article discusses an optimization program that used zeta‐potential analyses to improve plant performance at the 10 ML/d (2.6 mgd) Beach Road Water Treatment Plant in Gravenhurst, Ontario, Canada. The use of zeta‐potential analyses optimized coagulant conditions to increase plant production by 50 percent.

Adapting direct filtration to increasing source water dissolved organic carbon using clarification and granular activated carbon

“…Direct filtration facilities in particular face significant challenges as they have limited capacity to increase coagulant dosage without compromising filter performance (Anderson et al, 2017;Anderson et al, 2023;DeMont et al, 2021). Many direct filtration facilities were built during a time (e.g., 1970s-1980s) when surface waters were clear due to chronic acidification (DeMont et al, 2021), and in regions that are now experiencing increasing NOM concentration (DeMont et al, 2021;Edzwald et al, 1987;Eikebrokk, 1999;Graham et al, 1992;McCormick & King, 1982;Pernitsky et al, 2011). The authors have previously demonstrated how direct filtration can be impacted by changing source water quality-a 1.7-fold increase in NOM concentration caused alum dosing to increase at a similar rate resulting in compromised filter performance (Anderson et al, 2017).…”