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Introduction to Turbidity
Organization indicates 5 NTU as the reference turbidity value of water
for trade. This value has been established based on the aesthetic
characteristics of water. From a hygienic point of view, 1 NTU is the
recommended value. Many drinking water utilities strive to achieve
levels as low as 0.1 NTU.
Turbidity is an indicator and will not give results for a specific
pollutant. It will, however, provide information on the degree of overall
contamination. The flow chart for the water treatment process of
drinking water shows the turbidity reference values for each phase.
Typical sources of turbidity in drinking water
include the following:
• Waste discharge
• Run-off fromwatersheds, especially those
that are disturbed or eroding
• Algae or aquatic weeds and products of their
breakdown in water reservoirs, rivers, or lakes
• Humic acids and other organic compounds resulting
from decay of plants, leaves, etc. in water sources
• High iron concentrations which give water a rust-red
coloration (mainly in ground water and ground water
under the direct influence of surface water)
• Air bubbles and particles from the treatment process
Treatment Process of Drinking Water
12
Turbidity
12.4
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