Removal of microcystin-LR from water by ozonation

Abstract

In temperate climates, cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) occur most frequently in summer, when the demand for recreational water is highest. Blue-green algae can produce toxins and are also responsible for the taste and odour of water, which significantly impairs its quality. Cyanotoxins are very dangerous substances which can intoxicate hepatocytes and the nervous system in humans and animals. To prevent such situations, it is very important to remove cyanotoxins from water effectively during the pretreatment process. In the present study, the ozonation of water containing microcystin-LR was tested. We performed this research at the laboratory scale as well as in a pretreatment plant near the Sulejow artificial lake during several seasons.