Inactivation of adenovirus using low-dose UV/H2O2 advanced oxidation

Adenovirus has consistently been observed to be the most resistant known pathogen to disinfection by ultraviolet light. This has had an impact on regulations set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency regarding the use of UV disinfection for virus inactivation in groundwater and surface water. In this study, enhancement of UV inactivation of adenovirus was evaluated when hydrogen peroxide was added to create an advanced oxidation process (AOP). While 4 log reduction of adenovirus was determined to require a UV dose (UV fluence) of about 200 mJ/cm2 from a low pressure (LP) UV source (emitting at 253.7 nm), addition of 10 mg/L H2O2 achieved 4 log inactivation at a dose of 120 mJ/cm2. DNA damage was assessed using a novel nested PCR approach, and similar levels of DNA damage between the two different treatments were noted, suggesting the AOP enhancement in inactivation was not due to additional DNA damage. Hydroxyl radicals produced in the advanced oxidation process are likely able to damage parts of the virus not targeted by LPUV, such as attachment proteins, enhancing the UV-induced inactivation. The AOP-enhanced inactivation potential was modeled in three natural waters. This research sheds light on the inactivation mechanisms of viruses with ultraviolet light and in the presence of hydroxyl radicals and provides a practical means to enhance inactivation of this UV-resistant virus.

► Adenovirus inactivation by low pressure UV light is enhanced by addition of hydrogen peroxide.
► Addition of hydrogen peroxide does not result in increased DNA damage, yet improves disinfection.
► The UV-based advanced oxidation process can provide additional adenovirus inactivation.