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Project Code [2013-W-MS-14]
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Project title
Assessment of natural organic matter (NOM) and ptaquiloside in Irish waters
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)
Lead Applicant
Liwen Xiao
Project Abstract
Natural organic matter (NOM) is one of the main sources of environmental pollution to drinking water supplies in Ireland. In addition to aesthetic problems such as colour, taste and odour, NOM serves as precursor for the formation of carcinogen trihalomethanes (THMs). The Irish EPA found that about 12.9 % and 25.3 % of the water treatment plants in public water supplies and Public Group Water Schemes, respectively, failed to meet the THMs parametric value of 100 ?g L-1. In addition to the THMs problems arising from NOM, there is increased recognition and concern about the risk of naturally-accurring organic toxins such as ptaquiloside from braken in raw water. Therefore, in this proposed research: � High risk catchments for public and private water supplies (surface water and groundwater) in relation to NOM and ptaquiloside will be identified across Ireland � Six high risk catchments will be selected for NOM and ptaquiloside monitoring, modelling and risk assessment. � Guidelines to reduce risk of NOM and ptaquiloside in Irish waters will be developed. This project will develop network with the Food and Environmental Research Agency (FERA)� in the UK for ptaquiloside monitoring. In the proposed research, it is expected that: � An Ireland-UK ptaquiloside monitoring network will be established by collaborating with FERA UK. � Final report, 4 masters theses, 4 peer reviewed journal papers and six-monthly newsletters will be prepared/published � Finding will be presented in peer reviewed national and international conferences � Guidelines to reduce the risk of NOM in Irish waters will be prepared � Database about NOM and ptaquiloside will be developed � Two models for the estimation of NOM and ptaquiloside concentrations will be calibrated � Study catchments will be developed as education and research demonstration sites
Grant Approved
�199,216.25
Research Hub
Healthy Environment
Research Theme
Impacts on Aquatic Ecosystems & Human Health (including Drinking Water)
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/09/2016