AWWA WSC67787

This powerpoint presentation presents research sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) on water quality sensor response to contamination. Two knowledge gaps have been identified, and include: detection of biological suspensions below 104-105 cfu/ml; and, detection of radiological contaminants in water. This research summarizes results for biological testing, in particular rad sensor testing that is ongoing. Experimental design at the Test and Evaluation Facility is provided, along with sensor response results to B. globigii spores and E. coli. Discussion of results includes: all of the sensors produced some response at higher concentrations, better than typical turbidimeters; the multiple angle light scattering technology produced a visual response at 1000 and 600 cfu/ml; baseline for these tests was very stable, whether these are meaningful responses for the field depends partly on baseline noise; responses were difficult to see at 1000 cfu/ml and below, but event detection software may help detect anomalies; the data shows what one might observe with these sensors in place; and, there is a need for more online sensors that can detect at low concentrations in the field. Includes tables.