Removal of Cyanotoxins in Surface Waters Using Ozone & Advanced Oxidation Processes

Cyanotoxins, produced by blooms of cyanobacteria, have been a cause of concern, as they have the potential to compromise animal and human health. Because of increased nutrient loading and climate change, occurrence of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms and their toxins are increasing globally. The presence of these compounds in the Great Lakes and other water sources in Canada, the United States and worldwide, presents challenges for municipalities that are treating and distributing drinking water. This project involves detailed scientific investigation focusing on removal of dissolved extracellular cyanotoxins in drinking water samples. Laboratory-scale batch reactors will oxidize water samples using ozone and ozone-based advanced oxidation processes; cyanotoxin removal efficiency will be recorded and maximized through process optimization using experimental design. Morphology and oxidation mechanism for specific cyanotoxin removal will be elucidated. Ultimately this project aims in advancing knowledge in this area to assist municipalities in production of toxin-free high-quality drinking water.

Faculty Supervisor:

Rajesh Seth

Student:

Merih Uslu

Partner:

SJ Environmental Consultants

Discipline:

Engineering - civil

Sector:

Natural resources

University:

Program: