Operational optimization for the removal of Cryptosporidium oocyst surrogates in drinking water direct filtration processes: a multi-scale approach

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Cryptosporidium is a waterborne protozoan pathogen often found in surface waters used as drinking water supplies. It is resistant to chemical disinfectants but succumbs to ozonation and ultraviolet irradiation treatments. Filtration is a major barrier against Cryptosporidium in drinking water utilities. The overall objective of this CRD proposal is to optimize chemical pretreatment and direct filtration treatment for Cryptosporidium removal using nano-, bench- and pilot-scale systems. Reliable Cryptosporidium surrogates will be identified to evaluate oocyst filtration at the pilot scale, because using actual Cryptosporidium oocysts could pose public health risks. The investigation will involve multidisciplinary studies combining expertise in drinking water treatment from the Environmental Engineering group, biomolecular engineering from the Chemical Engineering group (both at the University of Alberta), and pilot and full scale filter design and operation from EPCOR. The findings will lead to improved strategies for water treatment, new methods for evaluating the removal of waterborne pathogens, and a reduced risk to public health.