Algal Toxins

Developing management strategies for increasingly frequent algal blooms in source waters

Reference: 20/DW/07/10
ISBN: 978-1-84057-888-1
Published Date: 15/06/2020

This research aims to understand the potential for prediction, the implications of climate change, and potential for better management, through a process of literature review, data collation and analysis, and the investigation of predictive methods. A literature review provided the background for the development of an approach and tools. Data collected from the steering group were analysed. A predictive tool was developed, using the method of Support Vector Machine/Regression. The support vector regression model appears to be a reasonable method with which to analyse the multi-parameter interactions that are likely to govern algal blooms. There is an offset in predictions at present which limits the immediate usefulness of the model, which would make predictions ‘too late’ to be useful. This may be a reflection of the limited dataset, particularly if there are parameters (features) which we don’t have data for, but that may be significant to algal blooms.

Price: £10  

A Status Report on Algal Toxins & Water Treatment

Reference: 00/DW/07/6
ISBN: 1 84057 209 4
Published Date: 17/04/2002

The objectives of the report are to provide an update of papers published on the removal of algal toxins by water treatment, and to review the significance of toxins to water supplies worldwide through surveys in the UK and overseas. In general, papers published since 1995 serve to support the findings from work funded by FWR and UKWIR. The occurrence of algal toxins in recent years would appear to be regional or localised. Generally, UK companies have appropriate measures in place for monitoring and control, and are keeping pace with relevant developments. Dominant algal species and toxins vary between countries. Some countries appear to have implemented extensive programmes of research, often collaboratively. However, many countries have yet to identify whether algal toxins pose a threat to their water sources, and this may in part be due to lack of funding.

Price: £10  

Pilot Scale GAC Tests to Evaluate Toxin Removal

Reference: 96/DW/07/1
ISBN: 1 84057 059 8
Published Date: 17/04/2002

Blooms of blue- green algae on reservoirs can give rise to the production of toxins that may contaminate freshwaters. There is a potential risk of the toxins entering drinking water supplies and posing a health risk to consumers. There is, therefore, a clear need to identify treatment processes for removing and treating toxin contaminated water. This report describes work which investigated the removal of anatoxin- a by pilot scale GAC (granular activated carbon) adsorbers, and assessed the importance of biodegration. It also investigated microcystin- LR removal, using higher concentrations than in a previous study. The report concludes that GAC filters are highly effective in removal of both toxins, and recommends a suitable contact time for complete removal.

Price: £10