Project Summary: This research investigates the benefit and/or unintended consequences of UV treatment on microbial communities in the distribution system, with a focus on opportunistic pathogens such as nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and nitrifying bacteria. UV disinfection primarily damages DNA and RNA, and microorganisms react differently to UV exposure. This project moves beyond typical lab-scale studies focused on specific cultures and investigates whether the implementation of UV changes the microbial community composition under realistic drinking water conditions.

This study will guide the utility in managing microbial communities and optimizing water quality in the distribution system, through UV treatment. In addition, this research will provide guidance on the impact of UV treatment on the microbial community, operation and future design decisions for the AA-WTP and other drinking water treatment plants that are considering implementing UV treatment, particularly those utilizing ozone-biofiltration and chloramination.

Group members: Sarah Potgieter, Soojung Lee

Collaborators: The City of Ann Arbor drinking water treatment plant

Funding Source: Water Research Foundation (WRF #5151)

Relevant publications: