Reversing Water Pollution
Air Stripping
This technique uses air to remove
contaminants that evaporate
easily
• The polluted water is pumped into
a tank then it is sprayed over
packing material
• The water slowly drips through
the packing material and a fan
blows over the water to evaporate
the chemicals
• The chemicals are collected at
the top of the tank and are
treated to prevent further
pollution.
Activated Carbon Filtration
• Polluted water is sent
through columns on
activated carbon
• The chemicals stick to
the surface and pores
of the carbon
granules and clean
water flows through
• When filters become
full, they are either
cleaned or replaced
Bioremediation
• Uses naturally occurring
microorganisms to digest
contaminants
• The contaminants are
converted to water and
other gases such as
carbon dioxide
• Often used in wastewater
treatment plants in cities
and can be used for
drinking water too.
Phytoremediation
• Plants and trees are used to
remove pollutants
• The roots of the plant take
up the contaminants at the
same time as water and
nutrients.
• The contaminants are
stored in the roots, stems,
and leaves
Chemical Oxidation
Oxidants are used to
convert chemicals into
less harmful chemicals
• Wells are drilled into
the ground water
source and the
oxidants are pumped in
• The contaminants are
removed above ground
and are treated and
disposed of easily