Micropollutant removal by advanced oxidation of microfiltered secondary effluent for water reuse

A cost assessment revealed energy consumption to account for 65% of operating expenditure with lamp replacement contributing 25%. A comparison of three unit process sequences, based on MF, RO, AOP and activated carbon (AC), revealed MF-RO-AOP to be the most cost effective provided management of the RO concentrate stream incurred no significant cost. Results demonstrated AOPs to satisfactorily reduce levels of the more challenging recalcitrant MPs to meet stringent water quality standards for wastewater reuse, but that practical limitations exist and the cost penalty is significant.