INTEGRATED MEMBRANE TREATMENT IN ALASKA

An integrated membrane treatment process consisting of microfiltration followed by nonofiltration is producing potable water in Barrow, Alas ka. The process was selected to address treatment of surface water tha t is cold, highly colored, of low turbidity, and relatively soft with moderate alkalinity. The water has supersaturated concentrations of di ssolved gases, high concentrations of natural organic material includi ng disinfection by-product precursors, and significant concentrations of Giardia and Cryptosporidium. The dual-membrane process produces fin ished water that exceeds current and anticipated regulatory requiremen ts at minimal operating complexity and cost.