Using Reverse Osmosis to Remove Agricultural Chemicals from Groundwater

摘要

Suffolk County, N.Y., has examined its groundwater for agricultural and organic contaminants since 1978. Recent discoveries of specific chemicals in private wells increased the concern over contamination and spurred a study to determine a cost-effective system for removing agricultural chemicals from groundwater. Tests of cellulose acetate; spiral-wound, thin-film composite; and hollow fiber membranes showed that reverse osmosis should be considered for pesticide and organics removal. Pilot tests should be conducted on in situ water to assure proper process design.