A review of current and developing potable water treatment processes

Abstract

The changes in water treatment technology that have occurred within the United Kingdom over the past 25–30 years, together with the present direction of development, are reviewed. Water treatment for public supply differs from many other process technologies, notably in the large scale of operation, the longevity of the plant, the regulatory environment and the slow rate at which new processes can be introduced. Thus, many developments are initiated as a result of regulatory requirements rather than economic factors. Reliability is paramount, and this leads to mechanical simplicity.