3. Freshwater production for human consumption

The use of a membrane separation operation, and more specifically ultrafiltration, alone or combined with other unitary pre- or post-treatment operations, is now recognized as enabling the production of consistently high quality water from surface or ground water.

The production of water intended for human consumption requires the elimination from the raw water of any component that could pose a risk to the health or comfort of the consumer. This elimination concerns pathogenic organisms, suspended matter and certain compounds in solution.

In developed countries, the widespread use of vaccinations and advances in hygiene have considerably reduced the risks associated with water-borne infectious diseases, but the systematic destruction of potential pathogens remains a major objective.

The need for drinking water of...