Removal of Manganese and Iron from Groundwater by using Chlorination and Rapid Sand Filtration: A Case Study

The average groundwater extraction from Murunkan well field, Mannar, is around 3.4 MCM/year, and it was triggered by extensive development projects resettlements that took place in the last decade. Manganese Iron variations reported during some periods created various operational aesthetic issues potable water supply. This study focused on treating iron manganese using chlorination Rapid Sand Filtration (RSF) techniques. Pebble layers, height of 205 mm with particle sizes ranging 2-25 mm, were filled at bottom RSF model filter. Filter media, 700 0.45 effective size (D10) a uniformity coefficient (Cu) 1.33, placed above pebble layers. filter operated continuously for 15 days, influent effluent samples collected trials. backwashing performed after every two trials to maintain consistent filtration rate. Raw pH values ranged 6.74 – 7.48. Chlorine solution (1.08-1.26 ppm) added inlet point, 2.88 m column maintained, allowing adequate mixing oxidation time. results revealed removals as 60% 73%, respectively, while maximum 93% 91% observed manganese, respectively.