Development of a passive Disinfection System for On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems

A significant portion of the Canadian population relies on an on-site system for management of residentialwastewater. These systems must be carefully sited, designed and installed to ensure that pathogenicmicroorganisms are not released into receiving surface and groundwater systems. Disinfection of effluentleaving on-site systems designed to provide secondary treatment of wastewater is often necessary, dependingon the vulnerability of the receiving water system. The challenge with developing wastewater managementsystems for on-site residential applications is that homeowners prefer systems will minimal maintenancerequirements. The objective of this proposed research project is to develop a passive flow sand filter that canbe used to disinfect effluent from on-site wastewater treatment systems. Working in partnership withBrookfield Concrete Ltd., the project team will conduct a series of bench and pilot scale experiments todetermine the optimum sand media, loading rate and dosing regime for reliable disinfection of secondarytreated residential wastewater. This project will lead to the development of a passive, low maintenance,disinfection system that could allow Brookfield Concrete to expand operations in the area of manufacturingand installing on-site wastewater technologies. The development of a low cost, robust disinfection system foron-site wastewater applications will help reduce the risk of transmitting pathogens in rural environments. Inaddition, this project will involve training opportunities for three highly qualified personnel.