Bench-scale studies were
performed to evaluate several strategies to avoid post-filter iron/manganese
precipitation. The relative performance of three alternative oxidants was
evaluated - chlorine, potassium permanganate and chlorine dioxide with respect
to iron and manganese removal. For each oxidant, the kinetics and optimal
oxidant dose necessary to achieve compliance with the Secondary Maximum
Contaminant Level (SMCL) for both iron and manganese were investigated. (The
SMCL for iron is 0.3 milligrams per liter (mg/L), while that for manganese is 0.05
mg/L.) Effect of these oxidants on other water quality parameters such as
turbidity, UV254 and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) reduction and formation of
Trihalomethanes (THMs) were also studied. It is expected that the findings of this
study will be useful to City in resolving iron/manganese issue in their raw waters,
once the deep bed granular activated carbon (GAC) filters have been implemented. Includes tables, figures.