Physicochemical analysis and toxicity of the Rainha River waters: conceptual design of a treatment plant

Abstract

The current study, conducted over a year, involved a comprehensive analysis of water samples from the Rainha River. This river crosses the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro Campus to assess water quality and potential applications. The samples underwent rigorous physical–chemical tests, including metal concentrations, pH, turbidity and toxicity assessments. The water collected and analysed by the standards proposed by CONAMA was found to be below the limit of regulation, classified at class 1, and requiring only a simplified treatment to remove microorganisms and achieve potability. Toxicity tests using Saccharomyces cerevisiae were performed to examine biological effects, revealing no significant toxicity. The next step was to design a water treatment plant, following the viability, water studies and identification. The process involved designing a block diagram and, later, the process flow diagram (PFD). The processes consist of getting water, passing through microfiltration, decontaminating it with hypochlorite, and using adsorption methods to turn it into a potable and useable on campus, thereby ensuring a safe and sustainable water supply for the university community.