The experience of using UV disinfection in the biggest European cities

Summary

The technology of drinking water disinfection by ultraviolet radiation has been widely used abroad. An example of the successful operation of UV-units is water treatment plants in Europe where various process flow schemes of UV disinfection have been implemented: as part of a multi-barrier scheme and as an independent method. The results of the introduction of UV technology at water treatment plants in Budapest (Hungary), Vienna (Austria), Berlin (Germany), Antwerp (Belgium) are presented. When preparing drinking water from surface sources it is recommended to use multi-barrier schemes including disinfection methods that ensure a prolonged effect. The effectiveness of UV disinfection in relation to viruses and protozoan cysts provides for reducing the dosage of chlorine-containing chemicals which inhibits the formation of chlororganic compounds. The decision to abandon chlorination while using UV-disinfection as an independent method should be substantiated considering the actual operating conditions of the water treatment facilities and water distribution networks.

Key words

potable water , ultraviolet , water treatment , UV disinfection