INTERACTIONS BETWEEN OZONE, AOM, AND PARTICLES IN WATER-TREATMENT

Algogenic organic matter (AOM) was extracted from each of two algae (S cenedesmus and Chlorella) and used as a source of organic matter. The goal of this research was to study the effects of ozone on AOM-coated particles with respect to particle stability in model (synthetic) wate rs, to determine prevailing mechanism(s), and to quantify the effects of different variables. Particle stability was assessed through electr ophoretic mobility measurements while particle aggregation was assesse d through use of a collision efficiency factor under fluid shear mixin g conditions. Changes in humic content, molecular weight, acidity, and complexation capacity of AOM with calcium was studied before and afte r ozonation. The results revealed that flocculation benefits from ozon ation can be derived only if calcium binding increases significantly a fter ozonation. The magnitude of the increase in calcium binding is de pendent on the type of AOM being studied and its reactivity to ozonati on. The results also emphasized the significance of the molecular weig ht of the AOM in the flocculation process.