Optimization of Ozonation in Drinking Water Production at Lake Butoniga

This study focuses on optimizing the ozonation process in drinking water production from Lake Butoniga to ensure safe water quality while minimizing disinfection by-products (DBPs). Laboratory simulations were conducted using the Box-Behnken design to model the effects of ozone dose and treatment duration on bromate formation, trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs) and specific UV absorption (SUVA). Two ozonation strategies were tested: Strategy 1 aimed to minimize all DBPs, while Strategy 2 focused on controlling bromate levels while keeping THMs, HAAs and SUVA below 80% of maximum contaminant levels. Results showed that Strategy 2 reduced ozone consumption while maintaining water quality within regulatory standards, providing a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable treatment approach. Seasonal and depth-dependent variations in water quality had a significant impact on treatment efficiency and required adjustments to operational settings. The study also addressed discrepancies between laboratory and real plant results and suggested recalibration methods that improved the accuracy of model predictions. These results highlight the potential for integrating predictive modelling and dynamic treatment strategies into large-scale water treatment processes.