Identification and Evaluation of Biocides for ROWPU Systems. Revision
Abstract
Mobile Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Units (ROWPU) have been used by the armed services for over a decade to produce potable water for field applications. While this technology has proven successful, a need exists to protect the membrane elements from microbial decomposition during long-term storage. Biocidal agents must be environmentally safe and effective at inactivating micro-organisms associated with membrane surfaces without compromising membrane performance. Phase I studies successfully demonstrated that appropriate methods and testing protocols for evaluating candidate biocides for their activity and compatibility with membranes were feasible. In addition, gamma radiation and several chemical biocide systems exhibited considerable promise. Phase II of this program would extend this evaluation of chemical biocides and methodologies for element preservation. Potential biocides, identified from database surveys and other sources, would be screened to determine their microbicidal activity against biologically fouled membranes. Microbicidal activity would be determined by comparing transport properties before and after exposure to potential biocides. Candidate biocides would be further evaluated under dynamic flow conditions and in element soak tests to confirm membrane compatibility and long-term stability. Biocides would be ranked according to microbicidal activity, long-term stability, membrane compatibility, cost and environmental safety.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA253749
Entities
People
- C. E. Milstead
- H. F. Ridgway
- K. M. Tagami
- R. L. Riley