IMPROVING DRINKING WATER SAFETY FOR SMALL RURAL COMMUNITY THROUGH TOXIC DISINFECTION BYPRODUCT CONTROL BY ADVANCED CHEMICAL OXIDATION

The overall goal of the proposed project is to develop a cost-effective treatment technology to address public health concerns about disinfection and carcinogenic DBP control for drinking water system, with an integrated approach of laboratory studies and mathematical modeling investigations. The technology developed could help small water system in compliance with EPA DBP regulation and safeguard rural residents from DBP-related health risks. Specific objectives include as following:Synthesize Fe3O4-coated granular activated carbon and identify the reaction conditions for maximum generation of hydroxyl and superoxide radicals by decomposition of H2O2 catalyzed by synthesized Fe3O4-coated granular activated carbon under the conditions of typical drinking water treatments. Evaluate the most effective DBP control and disinfection by the advanced oxidative reactions under the reaction conditions determined above.Explore possible mechanisms of DBP control and removal of reactive DBP precursor by the oxidative reactions.Build up the education and research capacity in water science at LU to train both undergraduate and graduate students, especially underserved, low-income, first generation minority students, for experimental learning, research skills, and leadership skills.