Abstract
Eight polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were subjected to chlorination and the results were evaluated against PAH removal at a water treatment plant. In lab tests, PAH 's and a chlorinating agent were added to three aliquots of distilled water with one aliquot of distilled water as a blank. Various values of temperature, contact time, and reagent concentrations were tested. For comparison, samples from water treatment works were collected in glass vessels and extracted and analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography. The study revealed a 64-88% PAH removal by chlorination as compared to water treatment plant removal of about 60%. This difference is probably due to impurities in the water. Temperature, pH, and the concentrations of PAH and chlorinating agent have varying effects on PAH removal. Efficient filtration in treatment plants removes a substantial amount of PAH and chlorination furthers the process. (Collins-FIRL)