Study on the efficiency of the different units for removing metallic ions in Isfahan water treatment plant

Abstract

In this study, removal efficiency of heavy metals such as iron, manganese, copper and nickel were surveyed in various units of water treatment plant in Isfahan City. Samples were taken from influent, before and after sedimentation and after filtration under standard condition. Concentration of heavy metals in each sample was measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that removal efficiency of iron, manganese, copper and nickel were 71, 60, 79 and 40 percent, respectively. Experimental results currently showed low efficiency for the suitable removal of aluminum. So, the aluminum concentration in all the samples from the influent (2.03 mg l^-1) and effluent (2 mg l^-1) of the water treatment plant exceeded the EPA drinking water standard (50 µg l^-1). It is concluded that using conventional treatment technology can reduce metal concentrations conform to internationally approved guidelines except for aluminum.

Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management Vol. 9(2) 2005: 61-64