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The Role of Microbial Processes in the Oxidation and Removal of Ammonia from Drinking Water
Citation:
LATHAM, M. AND D. A. LYTLE. The Role of Microbial Processes in the Oxidation and Removal of Ammonia from Drinking Water . U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/F-10/007, 2010.
Impact/Purpose:
To share information
Description:
The purpose of this study was two-fold: (1) to monitor and evaluate nitrification in a full-scale iron removal filtration plant with biologically active granular media filters located in Ohio, and (2) to determine how to most efficiently regain nitrification following filter rebedding with new filter media. Results showed that the biologically- active filters consistently oxidized all of the 1.2 milligrams/L NH3-N to nitrate. Seasonal variations in ammonia oxidation effectiveness were not observed because yearly changes in water temperature and other water quality parameters were minimal. Pilot tests using dual anthracite/sand filters were used to determine the time required to achieve complete nitrification by three different seeding methods of new filters. The results of the pilot tests showed that all three methods took approximately seventy days. Biological oxidation of ammonia is a simple, robust and effective way to convert ammonia to nitrate in full-scale water treatment systems. This project assesses the concentration of nitrogen-containing compounds in water systems with elevated ammonia levels. Water systems used for this project were suggested to the EPA project team by contacts outside the EPA. These sites have been visited by EPA and treatment train descriptions and general water-quality information has been obtained. The systems were asked to provide four to six water sampling locations in their distribution systems. Sites must be available for monthly access and sampling, and are distributed fairly evenly across the distance of the distribution system (close, mid-way, and far from the treatment plant). Plant sampling must be also performed by the operator on the same day as distribution system sampling. Given the nature of the study, EPA investigators have no say on the ultimate sites selected by the system, and must rely on the client's judgment and knowledge of the system to select the most appropriate locations.
URLs/Downloads:
THE ROLE OF MICROBIAL PROCESSES IN THE OXIDATION AND REMOVAL OF AMMONIA FROM DRINKING WATERFact sheet (PDF, NA pp, 164 KB, about PDF)