Determination of hydrophobic and hydrophilic fractions of natural organic matter in raw water of Jalalieh and Tehranspars water treatment plants (Tehran)

The aim of this research was to determine hydrophobic and hydrophilic fractions of Natural Organic Matter (NOMs) in drinking water Sources of Tehran. Water sampling was conducted monthly from Aug 2006 to Jan 2007 in two drinking water treatment plants (Jalalieh and Tehranpars) in Tehran. Quantitative parameters of pH, EC, UV254 and DOC were studied based on standard methods. The XAD-7 resin method was used for fractionation of NOM. Results showed that NOM concentrations in Jalalieh and Tehranpars water treatment plants were 2.47 and 1.63 mg L-1, respectively. The mean of total percent of HPO (hydrophobic) and HPI (hydrophilic) fractions were about 41 and 59, respectively. Since the hydrophobic NOM fraction exhibits higher trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP) than hydrophilic NOM, Tehran water chlorination exhibits higher THMFP than halo acetic acid formation potential (HAAFP). The information obtained from this study may be further employed in the design of the control technique and management strategies for the water treatment plant, especially for DBP, reduction. © 2007 Asian Network for Scientific Information