Evaluación de un sistema de fotocatálisis heterogénea y pasteurización para desinfección de aguas lluvias

Abstract

Heterogeneous photocatalysis and pasteurization for water disinfection, are presented as an alternative to potential implementation and operation, because they seek the use of radiation and temperature making it suitable for use in multiple locations, principally where there are sources of supply that low levels of turbidity. To verify the effectiveness of these techniques, we evaluated a composite unit of a rainwater harvesting system, a slow sand filter and a solar disinfection system composed of heterogeneous photocatalysis, which uses as a catalyst of titanium dioxide (TiO2) in the form of anatase 99% in a fixed bed, and pasteurization with a recirculation process, in a community located in the South zone of Bogota. The characterization of the tributary showed turbidity values equal to 3.29 NTU, pH 6.4, alkalinity (CaCO 3 ) 2.5 mg L -1 hardness of 0.65 mg CaCO 3 L -1 and presence of coliforms identified in petrifilm plates. Elimination of microorganisms became valid on days with indices of radiation above 4UV (wavelengths of 315 - 400 nm), sunny or partially cloudy weather and values of Turbidity 4 NTU to hydraulic loads below 60 m 3 m -2 d -1 . The effluent presented to the 60% effectiveness in the removal of turbidity and coliform 100%. The results obtained allow the use of the treated water in complementary activities excluding the human consumption.