AWWA JAW17269

This article discusses the use of ultraviolet (UV) absorbance as a surrogate parameter for total organic carbon (TOC) and total trihalomethane (THM) formation potential. Two natural waters, both containing naturally occurring organic matter, were used in this study: the Grasse River and the Glenmore Reservoir. Testing was done on raw water samples; pilot plant studies took place at both sites; and existing full-scale plants at Canton, New York, and Oneida, New York were monitored. The study indicated that UV (254 nm) absorbance is a good surrogate parameter for nonpurgeable total organic carbon (NPTOC) and THM precursors (TTHMFP--total trihalomethane formation potential). UV absorbance can be used to estimate the NPTOC and TTHMFP concentrations of raw waters, to monitor pilot-plant performance, and to monitor full-scale water treatment plant performance. It can be measured rapidly, easily, and inexpensively. Includes 38 references, tables, figures.