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In this topic, ESA has first worked on the utilisation of bacteria in drinking water treatment plants in order to improve water quality. Biological filtration uses to capacity of bacteria fixed onto the solid support of filters to remove undesirable substances. Heterotrophic bacteria can remove the biodegradable fraction of dissolved organic carbon which can be the source of regrowth in distribution system and autotrophic nitrifying bacteria can convert ammonia into nitrates. The studies conducted aimed to understand the major factors controlling the efficiency of the treatment stages.
Since 1989, ESA also works on the problematic of the bacterial regrowth in distribution systems (DS). The general objectives of our works was to understand the factors controlling bacterial regrowth in DS. On the basis of our field data gained in a lot of different DS in various countries, a model of bacterial regrowth in DS was built. We have also developed devices and methods to investigate the biofilm within DS. Research projects and collaboration: Our works on biological filtration were performed in several treatments plants in France, Belgium and Canada for different drinking water suppliers. Drinking water distribution systems of various cities were investigated by our team to study microbiological water quality for different drinking water suppliers. Presently ESA works on biofilm in distribution systems of the Parisian suburbs in the scope of research projects funded by Vivendi Water and the Syndicat des Eaux d'Ile de France. In the field of drinking water microbiology, we developed strong collaboration with the "Drinking Water Chair" at the Polytechnic School of Montreal (Canada) |
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Main publications: Kihn, A., Andersson,
A., Laurent, P., Servais, P. & Prévost, M. 2002. Impact of
filtration material on nitrification in biological filters used in drinking
water production. Journal of Water Supply, Research
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