The effects of ultraviolet/H₂O₂ advanced oxidation on the content and characteristics of groundwater natural organic matter

This work investigates the effects of ultraviolet (UV)/H₂O₂ advanced oxidation on the content and characteristics of natural organic matter (NOM) originating from two different groundwaters (3.03–9.69 mg/L total organic carbon (TOC), 2.71–4.31 Lmg⁻¹m⁻¹ specific ultraviolet absorbance (SUVA)). Application of UV irradiation resulted in a minor reduction in the total content of NOM. Using UV/H₂O₂ advanced oxidation led to a significant reduction of the aromatic character of NOM (SUVA was reduced by up to 80%) and an increase in the hydrophilic character of the residual NOM, with the optimal UV/H₂O₂ treatment conditions depending on the water type. In addition, fluctuations in trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP) were observed depending on the UV/H₂O₂ process conditions, with a maximal reduction of about 40% achieved for both waters.