Modelling formation of disinfection by-products in water distribution: Optimisation using a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm

Mohanasundar Radhakrishnan, Assela Pathirana, Kebreab A. Ghebremichael, Gary L. Amy

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

Concerns have been raised regarding disinfection by-products (DBPs) formed as a result of the reaction of halogen-based disinfectants with DBP precursors. In order to appreciate the chemical and biological tradeoffs, it is imperative to understand the formation trends of DBPs and their spread in the distribution network. However, the water at a point in a complex distribution system is a mixture from various sources, whose proportions are complex to estimate and requires advanced hydraulic analysis. To understand the risks of DBPs and to develop mitigation strategies, it is important to understand the distribution of DBPs in a water network, which requires modelling. The goal of this research was to integrate a steady-state water network model with a particle backtracking algorithm and chlorination as well as DBPs models in order to assess the tradeoffs between biological and chemical risks in the distribution network. A multi-objective optimisation algorithm was used to identify the optimal proportion of water from various sources, dosages of alum, and dosages of chlorine in the treatment plant and in booster locations to control the formation of chlorination DBPs and to achieve a balance between microbial and chemical risks. © IWA Publishing 2012.
Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)176-188
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Water Supply: Research and Technology—AQUA
Volume61
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2012

Bibliographical note

KAUST Repository Item: Exported on 2020-10-01

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Water Science and Technology
  • Civil and Structural Engineering

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