The Reduction of Microbial and Chemical Contaminants with Selected POU/POE Systems

Centralized drinking water treatment and distribution alone may not always be the most practical or cost-effective option. Also, some consumers seeking a proactive measure to reduce exposure to pathogens and chemicals not currently monitored or regulated might consider employing a POU/POE system. In addition, mobile POE and POU systems may have a proactive or reactive role in providing short-term treatment during natural disasters and protecting high asset facilities. Four POU and two POE technologies employing combinations of RO, carbon adsorption, and other components were tested to evaluate capabilities for reducing microbial and chemical challenges under varying operating conditions. Microbial challenges included the bacteria B. diminuta and H. psuedoflava, and the coliphage viruses fr, MS2, and Phi X 174. A number of organic and inorganic chemical challenges were also conducted. The POU/POE devices evaluated in these studies showed varying capabilities for the removal of contaminants in water. Some devices showed significant contaminant reductions, but even the best performing technologies had some units from different production lots that showed microbial challenge organisms in their effluents. The POU RO components alone are not absolute microbial and chemical barriers. Despite shortcomings, POU/POE systems may be beneficial in a number of applications for individual consumers and as a managed strategy for some water utilities or emergency planners/responders.