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Background

Presence of natural organic matter (NOM) causes many problems in drinking water treatment processes. It contributes to the fouling of membranes, serves as precursor for the formation of possible carcinogenic tri-halomethanes (THMs) and increases the exhaustion and usage rate of coagulant and disinfectant dosages. NOM is one of the main sources of environmental pollution to drinking water supplies in Ireland. In 2010, the EPA found that about 12.9% and 25.3% of the water treatment plants in Irish public water supplies and Public Group Water Schemes, respectively, failed to meet the THMs parametric value of 100 μg/l.

 

In addition there is increased awareness and concern surrounding naturally occurring toxins such as ptaquiloside (Pta) released from bracken in Irish drinking waters. With the recent ban on Asulam®, the most effective herbicide used to treat bracken, it is expected that the invasion of bracken in Ireland will be more aggressive. However, there is no national Pta and bracken distribution data available for water managers on which to form decisions surrounding the management of drinking water resources. 

natural organic matter bracken ptaquiloside
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