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Removal of dissolved organic matter by anion exchange: Effect of dissolved organic matter properties

January 1, 2008

Ten isolates of aquatic dissolved organic matter (DOM) were evaluated to determine the effect that chemical properties of the DOM, such as charge density, aromaticity, and molecular weight, have on DOM removal by anion exchange. The DOM isolates were characterized as terrestrial, microbial, or intermediate humic substances or transphilic acids. All anion exchange experiments were conducted using a magnetic ion exchange (MIEX) resin. The charge density of the DOM isolates, determined by direct potentiometric titration, was fundamental to quantifying the stoichiometry of the anion exchange mechanism. The results clearly show that all DOM isolates were removed by anion exchange; however, differences among the DOM isolates did influence their removal by MIEX resin. In particular, MIEX resin had the greatest affinity for DOM with high charge density and the least affinity for DOM with low charge density and low aromaticity. This work illustrates that the chemical characteristics of DOM and solution conditions must be considered when evaluating anion exchange treatment for the removal of DOM.

Publication Year 2008
Title Removal of dissolved organic matter by anion exchange: Effect of dissolved organic matter properties
DOI 10.1021/es800714d
Authors T.H. Boyer, P.C. Singer, G. R. Aiken
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Environmental Science & Technology
Index ID 70033669
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Toxic Substances Hydrology Program
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