Characterization of Reverse Osmosis Concentrates from Drinking Water Reclamation Sources in Makurdi Metropolis-Nigeria

Characterization of Reverse Osmosis Concentrates from Drinking Water Reclamation Sources in Makurdi Metropolis-Nigeria

Reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC) is considered to be an obstacle in the production of high quality water from water reclamation and desalination plants using dense membrane systems. The ROC contaminants include many harmful micro-pollutants and nutrients in addition to the organics recalcitrant to biological treatment, the ROC can pose significant risks to environment and human health if discharged to receiving water environments without proper treatment. The increase in the number of drinking water companies that employ reverse osmosis technology in Makurdi metropolis has necessitated the current study. In this study, reverse ROC from two different sources (groundwater and surface water treatment companies) in Makurdi metropolis-Nigeria was monitored continuously for six months which covered both the rainy and dry season. Standard procedures for sampling and laboratory test were followed in analyzing the ROC samples. The average seasonal values of the tested ROC parameters were compared with the USEPA Wastewater Discharge Limits as well as the FAO Irrigation Water Quality Standards. Results of the study revealed that the ROC were highly polluted and unfit for re-use in irrigation or discharge into surface water bodies and as such needs to be further treated onsite by the companies generating the waste.

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