Treatment Technologies Research

Research in Treatment Technology (TT) is focused on several key problems that face the potable water industry today.  These include the formation and removal of disinfection byproducts of both ozonation DBPs and chlorination DBPs, the removal of pathogenic protozoa, such as Cryptosporidia and Giardia, and corrosion control.  Researchers also engage in collaboratorive research with utilities, academic institutions, and consultants.  EPA Scientists provide technical support to EPA Office of Water and Regional Offices, and state governments.

TT projects are supported by a combination of scientific and engineering staff.  The research is conducted in onsite laboratories, pilot plants, and field work as well as through grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements. Research is tied closely to the Disinfection Byproducts Rule and the Information Collection Rule, as well as lead and copper rule compliance. It is important to consider all treatment technologies in terms of total water quality.

Drinking water systems that serve fewer than 10,000 people are considered "small systems" and most are privately owned. Treatment technology research must be sensitive to cost restrictions, which tend to play a greater role in small systems than in large systems that serve more than 10,000 people. For small systems, the challenge is to determine which treatment technology is appropriate in terms of cost, reliability, operation, maintenance, and compliance.