Grantee Research Project Results
Developing surrogate-based crediting frameworks for virus control through water recycling facilities
EPA Grant Number: R840256Title: Developing surrogate-based crediting frameworks for virus control through water recycling facilities
Investigators: Wigginton, Krista , Gerrity, Daniel , Haas, Charles N. , Pecson, Brian , Olivieri, Adam
Current Investigators: Wigginton, Krista , Haas, Charles N. , Gerrity, Daniel , Pecson, Brian , Olivieri, Adam
Institution: University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
EPA Project Officer: Ludwig-Monty, Sarah
Project Period: August 1, 2021 through May 8, 2025
Project Amount: $1,239,980
RFA: Viral Pathogen and Surrogate Approaches for Assessing Treatment Performance in Water Reuse (2021) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Water Treatment
Description:
We hypothesize that (1) common unit processes in water reuse, including secondary biological treatment, coagulation/flocculation/sedimentation, granular activated carbon (GAC), and sub-residual ozonation (no CT) are undercredited for virus removal with current regulatory frameworks and that (2) new surrogate-based frameworks can be developed with easily measurable water quality and operational parameters integrated into multiparameter statistical models.
Objective:
The objectives of this research are to (1) generate robust virus log reduction value (LRV) datasets by systematic manipulation of unit processes in high-throughput bench-scale experiments; (2) develop predictive models for virus LRVs and validate those models in pilot- and full-scale systems; (3) develop surrogate-based LRV crediting frameworks based on conservative interpretation of data and models; and (4) facilitate industry adoption through data communication and regulatory engagement.
Approach:
The experimental approach will involve quantification of a suite of spiked and native viruses in laboratory-scale sequencing batch reactors, jar tests coupled with granular media filter columns, batch isotherms and rapid small-scale column tests for GAC, and sub-residual continuous quench flow ozonation.
Expected Results:
Our expected results include (1) a greatly expanded knowledgebase of high-quality virus LRVs of particular relevance for ozone-biofiltration (i.e., non-RO) treatment trains; (2) elucidation of potential relationships between culture and molecular data for human enteric viruses, surrogate bacteriophages, and fecal indicator viruses; (3) mechanistic insights into the relationships between water quality and operational parameters and virus LRVs; and (4) surrogate-based predictive models and regulatory crediting frameworks. By engaging a Regulatory Advisory Committee in each step of the research, we anticipate that the final frameworks can be readily adopted by states and will therefore have a direct beneficial impact on the water reuse industry.
Publications and Presentations:
Publications have been submitted on this project: View all 4 publications for this projectSupplemental Keywords:
Carbon-based advanced treatment (CBAT), direct potable reuse, indirect potable reuse, disinfection, physical chemical treatment, inactivation.Progress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.