Removal of Specific DBP by GAC in Galatsi (Athens) WTP

The objective of this pilot-study is to evaluate the Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)
performance for the removal of specific disinfection by-products (DBPs), trihalomethanes
(THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), from Athens drinking water. For this purpose, a GAC
pilot filter-adsorber was operated in Galatsi WTP, Athens, for 235 days, until the GAC
removal efficiency for individual THMs, HAAs and DOC was almost eliminated
(breakthrough). From the experimental results, GAC bed life, GAC loading, carbon usage
rate, and operation time to breakthrough for most THMs and HAAs were calculated.
The average influent concentrations of the more chlorinated THMs and HAAs were higher
than those of less chlorinated and more brominated species and their mass adsorbed on the
GAC column was also higher, as expected according to Freundlich isotherm. TCA, TCM and
DCA had the highest influent concentrations and they seemed to be better adsorbed than the
rest. TBM, TBA and DBCA were almost not detected in feed water.
Comparison of the GAC loading at breakthough for pairs of compounds with similar average
influent concentration showed that TCA is better adsorbed than TCM and that BDCA is better
adsorbed than MCA, BDCM and DBCM.
Desorption phenomena of some THMs and HAAs, probably caused by a sudden drop in
influent concentration, were also noticed.
The above findings represent real operation conditions for Athens drinking water.
Further research is recommended on methods to reduce desorption from carbon beds.