What is the acceptable range of chlorine residual in treated wastewater?

The acceptable range of chlorine residual in treated wastewater is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of disinfection while minimizing potential toxicity to aquatic life and public health. The range of 0.5 to 4.0 mg/L is typically established based on regulatory standards and best practices within wastewater treatment processes. This concentration is effective in providing sufficient disinfection of pathogens, allowing for compliance with regulatory requirements and ensuring that the water meets safety standards before being released into the environment or reused.

Chlorine levels that are too low may not effectively kill harmful microorganisms, risking public health, while levels that exceed this acceptable range can lead to negative environmental impacts, such as harming aquatic organisms. Therefore, maintaining a chlorine residual within this specified range is vital for striking a balance between adequate disinfection and protecting the ecosystem.