Characteristic earthy, musty, moldy, and fishy taste and odors (T&O) in drinking water
supplies have been attributed to algal sources. Periphytic algal growth on the surface of drinking
water conveyance structures (e.g., open channel canals) may induce seasonal T&O episodes.
Over the past four years growth of periphytic algae on the walls of a concrete-lined canal
conveying surface water has preceded the release of T&O compounds (MIB and Geosmin at
rates of 2 to 15 ng/L/mile) into the flowing water during the summer months. Copper applications and/or mechanical brushing techniques have been successful in reducing periphytic
biomass and preventing T&O production in the aforementioned canal. However, the use of
fixed-surface biocides to prevent periphytic algal growth before algae start producing T&O
compounds may be more desirable. The main objective of this study was to determine the
effectiveness of three anti-fouling coatings and nine concrete mix formulations to inhibit the
periphytic algal growth on concrete structures. The anti-fouling coating EP2000 was a better
inhibitor of periphytic algae than the protective barrier coating Sun Wave. EP2000 and Sun
Wave reduced periphytic algal growth by 99% and 35% for up to 3 months when compared to
control substrates. Algal growth inhibition was found to be directly proportional to the concrete
samples zinc concentration. On-going research will be focused on the performance of EP2000
and Sun Wave for longer periods of time in two source waters. A more comprehensive
experimental matrix involving 40 mixture designs is currently in progress. Includes 9 references, tables, figures.
| Edition : | Vol. - No. |
| File Size : | 1
file
, 340 KB |
| Note : | This product is unavailable in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus |
| Number of Pages : | 11 |
| Published : | 06/17/2004 |
