1.

0 INTRODUCTION
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the role of chemical
engineering in the water industry, focusing on water treatment processes,
the impact of chemical engineering in optimizing these processes, challenges
faced by the industry, water quality monitoring, sustainable practices, case
studies, and future trends. As the demand for clean water rises globally,
chemical engineers play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and
sustainable treatment of water resources. The report aims to serve as a
valuable resource for professionals, researchers, and policymakers involved
in the water industry.

1.1 PURPOSE OF THE REPORT

The purpose of chemical engineering in the water industry is to apply
principles and practices of chemical engineering to ensure the safe, efficient,
and sustainable treatment and management of water resources. Chemical
engineering plays a crucial role in addressing the complex challenges
associated with water treatment and supply. Some key purposes include:

1. Water Treatment Processes: Chemical engineers design and optimize

processes for water treatment, encompassing physical and chemical
methods to remove contaminants and impurities from water sources.
2. Optimization of Treatment Processes: Chemical engineers work to
optimize the efficiency of water treatment processes. This involves
determining the appropriate dosage of chemicals, understanding reaction
kinetics, and implementing strategies to improve the overall effectiveness
of treatment methods.

1.2 SCOPE AND OBJECTIVE

Scope of Chemical Engineering in the Water Industry:

1. Water Treatment Processes: Chemical engineering is involved in the
design, optimization, and operation of various water treatment processes.
This includes physical, chemical, and biological processes aimed at
removing impurities, contaminants, and microorganisms from water
sources.
2. Wastewater Treatment: Chemical engineers contribute to the
development and implementation of efficient wastewater treatment
processes. This involves the removal of pollutants from industrial and
municipal wastewater to ensure compliance with environmental
regulations before discharge.

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 2.0 WATER TREATMENT PROCESSES

Overview of Water Treatment in Nigeria

Water treatment in Nigeria is a critical aspect of ensuring access to safe and

clean water for the growing population. With the diverse sources of water
and the prevalence of waterborne diseases, effective water treatment
processes are essential to safeguard public health. This section explores the
key water treatment processes implemented by chemical engineers in the
Nigerian water industry.

2.1 PHYSICAL TREATMENT PROCESS

Physical treatment processes in the water industry, within the realm of

chemical engineering, involve the removal of impurities and particulate
matter from water through primarily physical means. These processes are
crucial for the initial stages of water treatment, preparing the water for
subsequent chemical treatments and ensuring it meets regulatory
standards. Here are key physical treatment processes commonly employed:

1. Screening:

 Purpose: Screening is a preliminary physical treatment that removes large

debris and solid particles from raw water.
 Process: Water passes through screens or mesh barriers, which capture and
remove objects such as leaves, twigs, plastics, and other large particles.
 Equipment: Bar screens, fine screens, and microscreens are commonly
used in water treatment plants.

2. Filtration:

 Purpose: Filtration is used to remove suspended particles, colloids, and

turbidity from water, enhancing its clarity and reducing the load on
downstream treatment processes.
 Process: Water passes through a porous medium, such as sand, gravel, or
membranes, which traps and retains particles.
 Types: Rapid sand filtration, slow sand filtration, multimedia filtration, and
membrane filtration are common filtration methods.

2.2 CHEMICAL TREATMENT PROCESSES

1. Coagulation and Flocculation: Coagulation and flocculation are chemical

processes used to destabilize particles in water, allowing them to
aggregate and form larger, settleable flocs. In Nigeria, chemical engineers
carefully dose coagulants and flocculants to enhance the removal of

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 colloidal and suspended impurities, particularly in surface water
treatment.

2. Disinfection: Disinfection is a critical step to eliminate pathogenic

microorganisms in water. Chemical engineers in Nigeria employ
disinfection methods such as chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation,
and ozonation to ensure the microbiological safety of treated water,
preventing waterborne diseases.

2.3 COAGULATION AND FLOCCULATION IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING IN

THE WATER INDUSTRY:

1. Purpose:

 Coagulation: The primary purpose of coagulation is to destabilize and

neutralize colloidal particles, allowing them to come together and form larger
aggregates.
 Flocculation: Flocculation is the process of bringing together the
destabilized particles to form larger, settleable flocs.

2. Coagulation:

 Chemical Addition: Chemical coagulants, such as aluminum sulfate (alum)

or ferric chloride, are added to the water.
 Charge Neutralization: Coagulants neutralize the negative charges on
colloidal particles, allowing them to come closer together.
 Formation of Microflocs: Microflocs, tiny clusters of particles, are formed
as a result of coagulation.
 Mixing Intensity: The energy applied during flocculation affects the size
and strength of formed flocs.
 Water Temperature: Temperature can impact the kinetics of coagulation
and flocculation reactions.

6. Applications:

 Drinking Water Treatment: Coagulation and flocculation are fundamental

steps in the treatment of drinking water, ensuring the removal of suspended
particles and colloids.
 Wastewater Treatment: These processes are vital in wastewater treatment,
aiding in the separation of solids for subsequent removal.
 Industrial Processes: Coagulation and flocculation find applications in
various industrial processes where water clarification is necessary.

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2.31 DISINFECTION

1. Purpose of Disinfection:

 Microbial Inactivation: The primary purpose of disinfection is to eliminate

or inactivate pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and
parasites, present in water.
 Public Health Protection: Disinfection ensures that treated water is safe for
consumption, preventing waterborne diseases and protecting public health.

2. Common Disinfection Methods:

 Chlorination: Chlorine-based compounds, such as chlorine gas or sodium

hypochlorite, are added to water to kill or deactivate microorganisms.
 Ultraviolet (UV) Irradiation: UV light is used to disrupt the DNA of
microorganisms, preventing their replication and rendering them harmless.
 Ozonation: Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent that is effective in
disinfection by breaking down organic and inorganic contaminants.
 Chlorine Dioxide: Chlorine dioxide is a versatile disinfectant effective
against a wide range of microorganisms.

3.0 CHALLENGES IN THE WATER INDUSTRY

1. Aging Infrastructure:

 Description: Many water treatment and distribution systems in Nigeria

suffer from aging infrastructure, leading to leaks, inefficiencies, and
increased maintenance costs.
 Impact on Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineers face the challenge of
optimizing water treatment processes within the constraints of outdated
infrastructure, requiring innovative solutions to enhance system reliability.

2. Limited Access to Clean Water:

 Description: Despite efforts to improve water accessibility, a significant

portion of the Nigerian population still lacks access to clean and safe
drinking water.
 Impact on Chemical Engineering: Ensuring widespread access to treated
water poses a challenge, necessitating the development of cost-effective and
sustainable water treatment solutions.

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4.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

4.1 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the role of chemical engineering in the water industry is

pivotal for developing and designing effective water treatment processes that
ensure the provision of clean and safe water. The multifaceted challenges of
addressing diverse water sources, contaminants, and regulatory standards
demand a comprehensive and innovative approach.
4.1 RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation Of Chemical Engineering In The Water Industry:
1. Investment in Research and Development:
Encourage and support research initiatives within the field of chemical
engineering to explore and develop innovative technologies and processes for
water treatment. This investment can lead to more efficient and sustainable
solutions.
2. Collaboration with Other Disciplines:
Foster collaboration between chemical engineers, environmental scientists,
hydrologists, and other experts. Interdisciplinary approaches can enhance
the understanding of complex water issues and result in more effective and
comprehensive water treatment solutions.
3. Education and Training Programs:
Develop and support education and training programs for current and
future professionals in the water industry. This includes specialized courses,
workshops, and certifications to ensure that engineers are well-equipped
with the latest knowledge and skills.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns:
Promote public awareness regarding the importance of water treatment
processes. Engage in outreach programs to educate communities about the
significance of clean water, the role of chemical engineering, and the
measures taken to ensure water safety.
5. Government and Industry Collaboration:
Foster collaboration between government agencies, private industry, and
academic institutions. Such partnerships can facilitate the development of
standardized practices, regulations, and incentives that promote effective
water treatment and infrastructure development.

REFERENCES

2023 IChemE Site by Technical Labs

https://www.aiche.org/chenected/2018/07/water-roadmap-chemical-
engineers

2018 Iris Publishers

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