Using KDF material to improve the performance of multi-layers filters in the reduction of chemical and biological pollutants in surface water treatment

Abstract

Multi-layers filters are usually used in conventional water treatment plants to purify water, reduce turbidity, and remove plankton and undesired odours. Multi-layers filter consists of basic layers represented in graded sand and supporting gravel layers. This research aims to study the efficiency of such filters after the addition of new layers made of copper and zinc particles by 50% per each with high purity, which are traditionally called KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion). The purpose of adding such layers is to increase the efficiency of filters in the removal of diverse chemical contaminants of heavy elements (Lead, Nickel, iron, etc.), and chlorine to use them in traditional or advanced filter stations, such reverse osmosis plants or ion exchange water filters. A glass tube was filled with KDF, sand and gravel layers and used as a multi-layer's filter, and tests were carried out on a water sample that has been prepared in the lab with concentration of 2 mg/l for heavy elements and 5 mg/l for chlorine. Flow rates of the tested water sample were 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 l/hr. The results show a very high efficiency of such filters to remove of chlorine from the treated water by 90% and more, while the efficiency of the modified filter to remove lead, nickel and iron was 92%, 88%, and 67% respectively; however, there was no significant records in removing the biological contaminants.