Upflow Filter for Potable Water Production

It has been indicated in the literature that upflow filtration with polyelectrolyte feed is a viable alternative to conventional treatment for potable water production. The objective of this study was to monitor and evaluate the operation of an upflow filter in response to simulated upset conditions. The paper describes the upflow filtration unit, its mode of operation, and upset conditions to which it was subjected. Raw Mississippi River water was treated with a cationic polyelectrolyte and pumped through the filter. Influent and effluent water samples were collected throughout each filter cycle for turbidity and coliform analysis. The data developed during the 9-month study were used to determine if upflow filtration is a reliable means of potable water production. The results and conclusions are presented in the paper.