A Coagulation Process Combined with a Multi-Stage Filtration System for Drinking Water Treatment: An Alternative for Small Communities

As set out in the Sustainable Development Goals, it is necessary to achieve universal and equitable access safe drinking water services for all world’s population. Appropriate treatment alternatives rural areas should be prioritised this goal. In work, a simplified system (SDWTS), which has great potential application small communities areas, was evaluated on pilot scale turbidity apparent colour removal using synthetic raw water. The SDWTS integrates Upflow Gravel Filter Layers (UGFL) Rapid Sand (RSF) with previous coagulation. This evaluation carried 23 factorial experiment, factors: type of water, coagulant flow. design showed that had highest efficiencies (>98.7%) II (20 NTU) PACl coagulant, while flow rate no significant effect removal. Under optimal operating conditions (type 1.0 m3/d), produces treated meets standards required by Colombian regulations World Health Organisation recommendations concerning variables: turbidity, colour, total coliforms, E. coli, pH, electrical conductivity Al. maintained its capacity produce potable when increased (up 3.0 m3/d) 50 NTU). can an efficient innovative alternative treatment, implementation contribute