What is the primary goal of the disinfection process in wastewater treatment?

The primary goal of the disinfection process in wastewater treatment is to destroy or remove all pathogenic bacteria. This is essential to prevent the spread of diseases and ensure that the treated water is safe for discharge into the environment or for potential reuse. Disinfection methods, such as chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, or ozonation, target harmful microorganisms, significantly reducing their numbers to acceptable levels as defined by health and environmental regulations.

While adjusting the pH, reducing the volume of wastewater, and clarifying the water can all be parts of the overall treatment process, they do not specifically address the critical need to eliminate pathogens, which is the focus of disinfection. The effectiveness of the disinfection stage is vital for public health and environmental safety, making it a cornerstone of wastewater treatment protocols.