How does disinfection work?

Question

I know what the definition of disinfection is, but I want to know, whats [specifically] going on during the disinfection process [of water]. Anyone care to explain or give me a website about disinfection of water?

Answer 1

I don't know about web site that talk about this.

My first thought was to tell you to call the local water company but not have laboratory personnel that can explain the process.

Disinfection of water is accomplished several ways.

PH change used in lime softening plants raise the pH to a point were bacteria cannot survive due the the eternal fluids of the cells change to a point that it will not support them.

Chlorine as well as ozone are strong oxidizers. These have the impact on bacteria by "burning" off the organic material.

UV light will penetrate the cell "skin" of bacteria cells and destroy the genetic structures.

Viruses are not affected by the disinfection process. They have protective outer shells. These are removed in the flocculation process and then removed from the water treatment as a blowoff of sludge.

I hope this helps