Water Education - Water and Health

WATER DISINFECTION METHODS. Part I - Page 2

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ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT

The use of ultraviolet light is an attempt to imitate nature. As you recall, sunlight destroys some bacteria in the natural purification of water. When harmful microbes are exposed to UV light rays, their nucleic acid absorbs the UV energy which then scrambles the DNA structure of the organism causing it to die. UV light is only capable of killing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, algae, yeast, cryptosporidium, and giardia. UV light generally has no impact on chlorine, heavy metals, and other chemical contaminants. This is why a UV light is usually combined with other various types of filtration.

To assure thorough treatment, the water must be free of turbidity and color. Otherwise, some bacteria will be protected from the germ-killing ultraviolet rays. Since ultraviolet light adds nothing to the water, there is little possibility of its creating taste or odor problems. On the other hand, ultraviolet light treatment has no residual effect. Further, it must be closely checked to assure that sufficient ultraviolet energy is reaching the point of application at all times.

Characteristics of Ultraviolet Light:

Advantages: Automatic, no taste or odor, energy efficient and low contact time. One of the few affordable technologies for the home that effectively kills the majority of bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms.

Disadvantages: Low penetration power, shielding by turbidity, slime layer develops on the tube, no simple test of results, no residual effect, and ultraviolet tube gradually loses power. Also requires pre-filtration to maintain effectiveness.

With the growing number of toxic substances and the increase in sources of contamination, purified water is more important than ever for continued good health. Reverse osmosis technology is the best method of purifying your drinking water. This is the same technology used to desalinate seawater and to filter water for bottled water. Maintaining health is important to enjoying life and having the energy to continuously help others. Let us eat healthy, exercise, drink plenty of purified water and stay happy!

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