A novel framework for disinfection analisys in drinking water networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new framework for analyzing disinfectant reactions in drinking water networks using a second order kinetic model, aiding water quality management by understanding endogenous reaction mechanisms.

Contribution

It presents a novel, chemically based kinetic framework that distinguishes between bulk and wall reactions, enhancing analysis of disinfectant byproduct formation in water systems.

Findings

Effective analysis of disinfectant consumption in case studies.

Differentiation of bulk and wall reaction mechanisms.

Framework supports improved water quality management.

Abstract

Disinfection in drinking water networks is performed to ensure water safety and potability. However, disinfectants can react with organic compounds present in the water networks. The reaction of disinfectants with such compounds generates byproducts that could be dangerous for human health. The compounds are generally endogenous, i.e., adhered or/and released by the pipe wall, and not introduced from reservoirs because water utilities efficiently monitor and manage their water quality. The present effort, starting from the relevant scientific literature, proposes a novel framework which is based on analysing the disinfectant consumption using a second order kinetic model. The novel framework allows analysing the two endogenous mechanisms of compounds reactions: the first mechanism refers to compounds detached by the momentum of water flow and reacting into the bulk while transported by flow, the second one refers to local reaction at wall. The use of a chemically based second order kinetic model, furthermore, allows for emphasizing the role of stoichiometry and reaction rate constants of reactants and byproducts as relevant parameters to be evaluated at laboratory scale for the specific water system. Thus, the proposed framework can effectively support water quality management using monitoring data together with hydraulic modelling. Two real water distribution systems, located in southern Italy and managed by Acquedotto Pugliese, were used as case studies: the small-sized network of Monteparano and the large-sized one of Bari.