An extensive study of metals and virus removals by advanced wastewater treatment processes was conducted in Dallas, Texas from June 1972 through December 1973. Processes applied to a biologically nitrified effluent included chemical coagulation with alum and/or lime, high-pH lime treatment with and without recarbonation, filtration through multi- and dual-media filters, and carbon adsorption. The high-pH lime treatment with recarbonation provided a most effective treatment for both metals removals and disinfection. Boron surfaced as a material that may require other means of control. Although high-pH lime treatment was indicated to be extremely effective for virus removal (or inactivation), metals removal were not of the same order of magnitude. Thus, efforts to control metals at points of discharge are strongly supported. The removal of some metals by biological processes appeared to be influenced by their concentration. Median values were observed to be more indicative of the plant processes than mean values. Coliphages were observed to provide essentially the same virus removals values as polioviruses. The suggestion is made that all wastes should be subject to biological treatment, and if such treatment is found ineffective, then other means of control are warranted.

"Texas A & M University." "August 1980." "Grant no. S-801026."