The formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) by traditional chlorination has lead to a growing interest in finding alternative methods of disinfection. Ozone and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, alone and in combination, have been suggested as candidates. Little is known about the affects of such treatments on the dissolved organic matter that is present in all natural waters (NDOM) and organic matter in wastewater effluents (efDOM). NDOM from a pristine lake located in northern Florida and efDOM from a nearby landfill and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) were exposed to ozone, UV radiation, and a combination of the two. The composition, molecular weight distributions and optical properties of these various organic matter mixtures were assessed by time-of-flight and Fourier transform mass spectrometry, size exclusion chromatography, UV-Vis absorbance spectroscopy, and 3-D excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy (EEMS). In spite of striking differences in original composition and optical properties, NDOM and efDOM responded similarly to these advanced oxidation treatments; molecular weight distributions were significantly lowered (Fig. 1) and absorption and fluorescence properties were reduced. The lower molecular weights of treated efDOM also made it more bioavailable to microalgae, adding another treatment option. Ultrahigh resolution FT ICR mass spectrometry of efDOM in landfill leachate revealed the presence significant amounts of organo-sulfur species that were particularly susceptible to removal by the ozone/UV radiation combination. Figure 1. <img src='https://acs-archive-assets2.s3.amazonaws.com/241nm/uploads/65030_eta3figure.jpg' alt='' />

Assessment of the effects of ozone and UV irradiation on natural and wastewater effluent dissolved organic matter

248th National Meeting (2014)

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