AWWA WQTC71396

This study addresses concerns related to the potential release of denatonium benzoate (DB) to water supplies, by determining if powdered activated carbon (PAC) treatment, a common method employed to remove taste and odor contaminants from water, is suitable for DB removal. Drinking water treatment facilities relying on DB contaminated water supplies may need to depend on existing treatment processes or invest in new treatment options to provide consumers with suitable drinking water. Results herein indicated that PAC removed low concentrations of DB best at the 24 hour contact time and higher PAC doses. At a higher DB concentration, less DB removal by PAC was achieved. A bituminous-based carbon performed slightly better than a lignite-based carbon under all conditions. Future research will investigate additional activated carbons and natural water spiked with denatonium benzoate to assess the impact of natural organic matter on adsorption. Includes 3 references, table, figures.