Which methods are commonly used for disinfection in wastewater treatment?

Chlorination and ultraviolet radiation are two of the most widely used methods for disinfecting wastewater before it is released into the environment or reused.

Chlorination involves adding chlorine or chlorine compounds to the wastewater, which effectively kills pathogens by disrupting their cellular processes. This method is favored for its ability to provide residual disinfection, meaning that it continues to work in the water even after initial treatment, which is beneficial for preventing recontamination during transport.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, on the other hand, disinfects water by using high-energy UV light to damage the DNA of microorganisms, rendering them unable to reproduce and cause infection. This method is advantageous because it does not add any chemicals to the water, resulting in fewer byproducts and a more environmentally friendly approach.

Both methods are crucial to ensuring that treated wastewater meets safety standards and minimizes health risks to the public and the environment.