Effectiveness of conventional drinking water treatment in the removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Abstract

The presence of recalcitrant organic pollutants, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in aquatic environments poses a threat to the human health. According to recent studies, PAHs, such as benz[a]anthracene and phenanthrene, has been found in untreated drinking water. Hence, the removal of these contaminants through conventional treatment processes should be carefully evaluated. In this work, levels of selected PAHs in drinking water have been monitored during conventional treatment processes. The simulation of a full-scale Potable Water Treatment Plant (PWTP) located in the south of Spain was carried out using jar tests, a widely accepted tool in water treatment. The quantification of PAH concentration in drinking waterwas carried out using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.