Point-of-use devices for attenuation of trace organic compounds in water

Trace organic compounds (TOrCs) continue to be detected in drinking water, and their recalcitrance makes them difficult to attenuate without installing expensive advanced treatment processes. Because human consumption is a small portion of net household water use, point-of-use (POU) devices may provide additional security against drinking water contaminants. This research evaluated three pitcher and two refrigerator POU devices using two waters. Refrigerator POU devices removed more TOrCs over the manufacturer's expected lifetime in terms of total mass than the pitcher POU devices. Average removal through all filters for nonionic, hydrophobic compounds was higher than for hydrophilic compounds in both waters. Removal of ionic compounds was enhanced by cation/anion exchange resins present in pitcher POU devices. Results indicated that POU devices are capable of removing significant amounts of organic contaminants in water. However, removal of a specific compound depends on its molecular properties, treatment technology implemented, and water quality and lifetime of the cartridge.