Comparison of Disinfection Techniques for Sewage and Sewage Effluents

This paper reviews operational and experimental disinfection techniques for the removal of pathogens from sewage and secondary effluent prior to marine discharge. Disinfection options considered include chlorine (hypochlorite, chloramines, OSEC), ultraviolet light (UV), ozone, chlorine dioxide, bromine chloride, peracetic acid (PAA) and gamma irradiation. A comparison of alternative systems is made in terms of their inactivation efficiency, safety, environmental impact and cost. Budget costs were obtained from chemical and equipment suppliers for the disinfection of a theoretical case-study, to enable a direct cost-comparison to be made.