Impacts of Substituting Aluminum-Based Coagulants in Drinking Water Treatment

Abstract

Abstract Aluminum-based coagulants in drinking water treatment are widely used across Canada. According to the literature, the presence of aluminum in drinking water poses possible risks to humans. Preliminary studies investigating the use of alternative coagulating agents such as iron-based coagulants, lanthanide salts and organic coagulants have already revealed that their implementation is possible, but require further studies concerning their technical, economical, social and environmental impacts. The identified alternative coagulants need on-site studies, operator formation and/or further research and development for their industrial utilization and the production of safe drinking water.