Contaminants of Emerging Concern: Occurrence in Shallow Groundwater and Removal by Nanofiltration

Chemicals are being discovered in water that previously had not been detected; these are generally referred to as contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) because the risk to human health and the environment, frequency of occurrence and source may not be known. CECs, including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) have been detected at low levels in surface water, treated waste water, and drinking water. This presentation will provide an overview on the current state of regulations regarding CECs with a specific emphasis on PPCPs. Discussion will also include the Town of Jupiter Utilities’ on-going research effort to assess the occurrence of CECs and PPCPs in its source water, shallow groundwater wells located in the vicinity of reuse application. The Utility employes advanced water treatment technologies, including a low pressure nanofiltration (NF) process. Research efforts have focused on the ability of existing membrane treatment to remove CECs.