Chemical Reduction Methods for Bromate Ion Removal

Bromate ion (BrO3–) in drinking water is a concern to water utilities because of its toxicity—but also because new regulations have been promulgated to lower residual levels of BrO3– in finished water. This study evaluated sulfite ion (SO32–) and reduced iron (Fe2+) as potential removal agents for BrO3–over a wide pH range. The experimental rate law for BrO3– removal using SO32– shows that the rate of removal decreases with increasing pH. The experimental rate law for BrO3– removal using Fe2+ shows that the rate of removal increases with increasing pH.