Efficiency estimation of water purification with various filtration materials

Iron, manganese, and hardness are main pollutants of groundwater. Water contaminated with these compounds has many negative traits, that is, discoloration and sediments, metallic taste, odor, turbidity, staining of laundry, and sanitary devices. In addition, it promotes the growth of microorganisms that form greasy deposits covering the water pipes. According to the water quality requirements (2000/60/EC, 98/83/EC), Fe and Mn content in water are regulated. Industry-specific requirements are even more stringent. Often, the concentration of both Fe and Mn should be reduced up to 0.0 mg/L. This forces the need for effective methods of water purification. The aim of the present study was to assess the possibility of using the selected filtration deposits for removal of iron and manganese compounds from water. Eight filtration deposits that differed with their composition and properties were chosen for the experiments. In the literature, there is lack of comparison filter masses from point of view of statistics and kinetics. The study showed that tested compounds are difficult to effectively eliminate from the water. The unit processes are insufficient, which requires a multi-stage filtration or preliminary oxidation assistance.