Recently, we have developed a multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) filter and demonstrated effective bacterial removal by physical straining and multi-log viral removal through depth filtration. However, the MWNT-filter performance was greatly compromised in the presence of natural organic matter (NOM). Thus, it is of paramount importance to investigate whether NOM has a similar effect on the electrochemical MWNT filter under more relevant environmental conditions.  In this study we demonstrate a complete removal and inactivation of viruses in the presence of NOM upon application of 2 V DC voltage.  We also investigate the underlying mechanism of the enhanced viral removal.  The organic fouling propensity of the electrochemical MWNT filter was also evaluated by performing extended filtration experiments with natural organic matter. Our results indicate that the electrochemical MWNT filter has the potential for use as a high performance point-of-use device for pathogen removal and inactivation with minimal power requirements.

Effect of natural organic matter on the performance of electrochemical multiwalled carbon nanotube filter towards viral removal and inactivation

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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