This research program and technology transfer effort was initiated in response to growing national concern about the generation of toxic and carcinogenic compounds in current U.S. drinking water treatment practices. The principal focus of this report is a review of the pertinent international technology of ozonation and chlorine dioxide usage. Questionnaires were mailed to water treatment plants in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, requesting detailed data on use of ozone and/or chlorine dioxide. The Questionnaires were supplemented by a detailed literature survey, a survey of the principal manufacturers of ozone and ClO2 equipment, and telephone contact with many water treatment plants. The project team also conducted on site surveys at 23 treatment plants in Europe, 7 water treatment plants in Canada, and 13 water treatment plants in the U.S. On site data for engineering design of systems, and for procedures and results of water quality analysis were emphasized. The organic oxidation products resulting from chlorine dioxide and ozone application are covered in considerable detail. Significant advances in the technology and engineering of water supply treatment equipment and systems were identified by this study and are discussed in detail herein. The Biological Activated Carbon (BAC) process, recently discovered and tested full scale in Germany, is also discussed in great detail because of its potential impact on the present high cost of activated carbon treatment.

Issued Aug. 1978. Includes bibliographical references. Prepared by Public Technology, Incorporated, under Grant no. Contract Number: R804385-01.