Application of pulsed electric fields and magnetic pulse compressor technology in water disinfection

Abstract

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] Pulsed electric field (PEF) is a promising technology for the non-thermal disinfection of water. Although research has already been conducted on the inactivation of pathogens using PEF, the emphasis of this project was the optimization of the electric parameters for improved disinfection of water. In this regard, magnetic pulse compressors due to their high repetition-rates and long-lifetimes, appear to be a promising alternative to the existing used for sterilization applications. The magnetic pulse compressor was used to drive a treatment cell through which water is flowed. This program investigated the use of the system for inactivation of E.coli and Spores in drinking water. Inactivation data for E.coli and spores under various electrical support the studies that high voltage pulses of short duration with high electric field strengths have a strong lethal effect on bacteria. Higher inactivation efficiency is achieved with lower energy consumption (7 J/cm3).