Influence of Disinfectants on Microbial Water Treatment Processes

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of disinfectants has surged in order to contain the spread of the virus. Many disinfectants will be sent to wastewater treatment plants after use for treatment before discharging back to the environment. Nevertheless, studies have shown that large amounts of disinfectants can inhibit biological reactions during the wastewater treatment process. The activated sludge process, which counts on microorganisms to break down complex organic matters in wastewater, is particularly susceptible to disinfectants. Hence, this study aims to investigate the inhibitory effects of two common active ingredients of disinfectants, namely QACs and sodium hypochlorite, on the activated sludge process. It is hoped that the study will be able to recommend an active ingredient of disinfectant that has the required efficacy and the least impact on the wastewater treatment system..