A disinfection method that applies ultraviolet (UV) radiation for the destruction of microbiological DNA. Designs involve mercury-filled UV lamps placed next to the water flow, often with a protective sleeve. The treatment efficiently removes bacteria, protozoa and most viruses, but it is not yet widespread in developing countries.
Considerably higher costs than chlorination, but still a relatively inexpensive method. Costs involve material and electric power expenses. Lifespan most lamps: 6,000-10,000 working hours.
Mostly used in central water treatment. Can be managed by unskilled personnel. UV treatment is used in combination with other processes (for removal of turbidity and chemical contaminants). Minimal managing requirements allowing execution jointly with other treatment plant activities.
Environment related issues are estimated to be minimal. Only mercury lamps itself might represent serious health hazard when not properly disposed. The efficiency of UV treatment might be reduced in case of increased water flow (like with heavy rainfall events) because of high turbidity water.
Simple and efficient process. Sufficient UV-C (100-280 nm) radiation required. No chemicals involved. Easy in operation and maintenance. Regular checking required for scaling on protective sleeve. Sufficient pre-treatment is required in order to provide low turbidity for an efficient disinfection.
Effective treatment option leaving no aesthetic marks in water. Insufficient functioning of UV treatment might result in reactivation of microorganisms, posing health risk to users. Exposure to UV radiation carries the potential hazard of skin and eye damage.
No relevant remarks for UV treatment.