Experimental investigations and numerical modelling of Cryptosporidium parvum transport behaviour in aquifers
Marly, X.; Chevalier, S.; Buès, M.; Schwartzbrod, J.; Estévenon, O.
Water Science and Technology a Journal of the International Association on Water Pollution Research 43(12): 109-116
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0273-1223 PMID: 11464738 Document Number: 532585
The potential for transfer of C. parvum from aquifers to drinking water wells was studied by determining the factors characterizing this transport. A continuously recirculating column assay was developed, which allowed small amounts of C. parvum oocysts to be manipulated providing as much protection as possible from the risks of contamination. A numerical model simulating the transport phenomena of oocysts under the experimental conditions of assays was developed to establish the whole experimental curve of results using a small number of experimental points. The comparisons drawn between analytic solutions, experimental results with tracer (NaCl solution) and numerical simulation were in good agreement. A continuously recirculating column assay was performed using oocysts in suspension (flow rate = 1.43 ml/minute). Treated sand was used, as previous experiments had shown that no adsorption occurs. An almost total filtration (99.85%) was observed. To check this result, an assay with an open column was carried out under the same conditions, and showed a filtration value of 97%.