Evaluating Analytical Methods for Detecting Unknown Chemicals in Recycled Water
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PROJECT NO. 4992 Evaluating Analytical Methods for Detecting Unknown Chemicals in Recycled Water Evaluating Analytical Methods for Detecting Unknown Chemicals in Recycled Water Prepared by: Keith A. Maruya Charles S. Wong Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Authority 2020 The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is a nonprofit (501c3) organization which provides a unified source for One Water research and a strong presence in relationships with partner organizations, government and regulatory agencies, and Congress. The foundation conducts research in all areas of drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and water reuse. The Water Research Foundation’s research portfolio is valued at over $700 million. The Foundation plays an important role in the translation and dissemination of applied research, technology demonstration, and education, through creation of research‐based educational tools and technology exchange opportunities. WRF serves as a leader and model for collaboration across the water industry and its materials are used to inform policymakers and the public on the science, economic value, and environmental benefits of using and recovering resources found in water, as well as the feasibility of implementing new technologies. For more information, contact: The Water Research Foundation Alexandria, VA Office Denver, CO Office 1199 North Fairfax Street, Suite 900 6666 West Quincy Avenue Alexandria, VA 22314‐1445 Denver, Colorado 80235‐3098 Tel: 571.384.2100 Tel: 303.347.6100 www.waterrf.org [email protected] ©Copyright 2020 by The Water Research Foundation. All rights reserved. Permission to copy must be obtained from The Water Research Foundation. WRF ISBN: 978‐1‐60573‐503‐0 WRF Project Number: 4992 This report was prepared by the organization(s) named below as an account of work sponsored by The Water Research Foundation. Neither The Water Research Foundation, members of The Water Research Foundation, the organization(s) named below, nor any person acting on their behalf: (a) makes any warranty, express or implied, with respect to the use of any information, apparatus, method, or process disclosed in this report or that such use may not infringe on privately owned rights; or (b) assumes any liabilities with respect to the use of, or for damages resulting from the use of, any information, apparatus, method, or process disclosed in this report. Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Authority Funding has been provided in full or in part through an agreement with the California State Water Resources Control Board. The California Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 (Proposition 1) authorizes $7.545 billion in general obligation bonds to fund ecosystems and watershed protection and restoration, water supply infrastructure projects, including surface and groundwater storage, and drinking water protection. The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the foregoing, nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use. This document was reviewed by a panel of independent experts selected by The Water Research Foundation. Mention of trade names or commercial products or services does not constitute endorsement or recommendations for use. Similarly, omission of products or trade names indicates nothing concerning The Water Research Foundation's positions regarding product effectiveness or applicability. ii The Water Research Foundation Acknowledgments Research Team Principal Investigator: Keith A. Maruya, Ph.D. Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Authority Project Team: Charles S. Wong, Ph.D. Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Authority Expert Reviewers Eunha Hoh, Ph.D. San Diego State University Shane Snyder, Ph.D. NTU Singapore Coordinating Committee Robert Brownwood Division of Drinking Water, State Water Resources Control Board James Crook, Ph.D., P.E. Environmental Consultant Adam Olivieri, Dr.PH, P.E. EOA Claire Waggoner Division of Water Quality, State Water Resources Control Board Water Research Foundation Staff John Albert, MPA Chief Research Officer Justin Mattingly Research Manager Julie Minton Research Program Leader Evaluating Analytical Methods for Detecting Unknown Chemicals in Recycled Water iii Abstract and Benefits Abstract: This report provides a synopsis of the current state‐of‐the‐science for analytical methods to identify and measure unknown trace organic compounds (TOrCs) in recycled water. It proposes is an integrated framework that includes targeted analysis of known contaminants, as well as semi‐ and non‐targeted analysis of unknown contaminants by both instrumental methods and by bioassays, along with the advantages and limitations of each approach. A research plan is also presented to evaluate the utility of using these strategies for identifying unknown TOrCs. Finally, a communications strategy is outlined for regulators, managers, and the general public with regards to monitoring for unknown TOrCs using the methods discussed. Benefits: Demonstrates that recycled water can contain a plethora of known and unknown TOrCs that affect water quality and potential reuse of this resource. Demonstrates that a variety of instrumental methods exist for both targeted and semi‐/ non‐targeted analysis of TOrCs, each with advantages and limitations. Demonstrates that an integrated approach that uses targeted analysis, instrumental semi‐/ non‐targeted analysis, and bioassays as appropriate can address unknown TOrCs well. Demonstrates that the proposed research plan evaluates whether candidate analytical methods can correctly identify model “unknown” compounds. Demonstrates that later phases of the proposed research determine if indicator compounds can be used to signal the presence of TOrCs. Demonstrates that accuracy, transparency, and timeliness are crucial for disseminating results around unknown TOrCs to stakeholders: regulators, customers, and the general public. Keywords: Recycled water, trace organic compounds, targeted analysis, non‐targeted analysis, bioassays, potable reuse. iv The Water Research Foundation Contents Acknowledgments ........................................................................................................................................ iii Abstract and Benefits ................................................................................................................................... iv Tables ........................................................................................................................................................... vii Figures ......................................................................................................................................................... viii Acronyms and Abbreviations ........................................................................................................................ ix Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................... xi Chapter 1: Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Study Goals ......................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Problem Statement ............................................................................................................. 1 1.3 Scope and Organization ...................................................................................................... 1 1.4 Definitions ........................................................................................................................... 2 Chapter 2: Analytical Methods for Low Molecular Weight Unknown Compounds in Waters .................. 5 2.1 Developing Analytical Methods for Water Quality Monitoring .......................................... 5 2.2 Sample Handling and Processing ........................................................................................ 5 2.3 Analytical Methods for Identifying Known and Unknown Contaminants .......................... 7 2.3.1 Targeted Methods ................................................................................................. 7 2.3.2 Semi‐ and Non‐Targeted Methods ........................................................................ 8 2.4 Tiered Monitoring Strategy for Recycled Water ............................................................... 10 2.4.1 Tier 1: Bulk Water Analysis for Surrogates of TOrCs ............................................... 11 2.4.2 Tier 2: Targeted Chemical Analysis for Indicator TOrCs........................................... 11 2.4.3 Tier 3: Instrumental Non‐Targeted Analysis ............................................................ 12 2.4.4 Tier 3: Bioassay Directed Identification of Unknowns ............................................. 15 2.5 Interpretation of Analytical Results for Unknown Contaminants .................................... 15 2.6 Data Support Tools for Non‐Targeted Analysis ................................................................ 17 2.7 Frequency of Monitoring .................................................................................................. 17 Chapter 3: Proposed Research Plan .........................................................................................................