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Decontamination of Bacillus Spores from Drinking Water Infrastructure with Physical Removal (Pigging) and Assessment of Pipe Relining Technologies
Citation:
Szabo, J., J. Hall, AND J. Goodrich. Decontamination of Bacillus Spores from Drinking Water Infrastructure with Physical Removal (Pigging) and Assessment of Pipe Relining Technologies. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-19/002, 2019.
Impact/Purpose:
This report summarizes the results of biological decontamination experiments performed at the Water Security Test Bed (WSTB). The experiments focused on removing and remediating Bacillus globigii spores adhered to the inner surface of the 8-inch water pipe. Bacillus globigii spores are a non-pathogenic surrogate for Bacillus anthracis, which is the causative agent of anthrax. Decontamination was undertaken with a technique known as pigging, or physical scouring of the inner pipe surface, followed by disinfection with free chlorine.
Description:
The objectives of this project were to evaluate the effectiveness of: (1) a physical scouring (pigging) technology for removing Bacillus globigii spores following intentional contamination of the Water Security Test Bed (WSTB). First responders and decision makers managing a water contamination event can use data in this report to more effectively make decision about decontamination water infrastructure.