Development and Performance Evaluation of a UV-C Coupled Recirculation System for Enhancing Cistern Water Microbiological Quality

Abstract In semi-arid regions, the absence of adequate water treatment for human consumption frequently gives rise to intestinal disorders and, in more severe cases, severe microbial infections. Within the context of the semi-arid region, many households depend on cistern water for their potable needs. This project aimed to develop and use a system composed of a UV-C radiation-emitting lamp coupled to a water recirculation pump to ensure the bacteriological safety of cistern water. The recirculation system was operated for 6, 12, and 24 hours, and tests were conducted using environmental samples or with E. coli ATCC 25922. The results demonstrated that the system could achieve 100% inhibition of the growth of total coliforms and thermotolerant coliforms after 6 hours of operation. The low-cost system has the potential to function as a social technology, thereby ensuring water security in semi-arid regions where there is no public water distribution system.