In this research, UV-ozone and UV-hydrogen peroxide based advanced oxidation
technologies were evaluated and compared for the elimination of disinfection byproduct
formation potentials in raw drinking water supplies of the Greater Vancouver Regional
District (GVRD). Combined UV-ozone treatment had a significant impact on the total
organic carbon (TOC) concentration as well as the chloroform formation potential.
Approximately 50% of the TOC in the raw water could be mineralized within 60 minutes of
treatment. The chloroform formation potential was reduced by 80%. UV-hydrogen peroxide
treatment had no significant impact on the overall TOC concentration. Some limited
reduction in chloroform formation potential could be achieved with UV-hydrogen peroxide.
However, high UV doses were required. For the source water investigated, UV-ozone
treatment is a more effective advanced oxidation process for reducing the disinfection byproduct
formation potential than UV-hydrogen peroxide treatment. The significantly better
performance of the UV-ozone process is the result of the direct and indirect oxidation of DBP
precursors by molecular ozone and OH radicals. Includes 9 references, table, figures.