Particle-Associated Viruses in Water: Impacts on Disinfection Processes

Abstract

Studies have shown that viruses are frequently attached onto or enmeshed within suspended particles in natural water and wastewater and that this viral–particle association can impede disinfection processes in some circumstances. This article summarizes the current state of knowledge of the occurrence of particle-associated viruses in the aquatic environment and the reported subsequent impacts on disinfection processes. The intention is that this article will help guide future research and aid regulators attempting to address the disinfection of particle-laden waters.

KEY WORDS:

• disinfection
• drinking water
• particles
• viruses
• wastewater

Notes

^a Bacteriophage attached by its head.

^b Planar surface of clay mineral.

^c Bacteriophage attached by its tail.

^d Edge of clay mineral.