Improving The Quality of Drinking Water for The Community with Membrane and Ultraviolet Filtration Technology

Department of Agricultural Product Technology, Mulawarman University, Jl. Tanah Grogot Kampus Gunung Kelua, Indonesia, 75119, Indonesia

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Abstract

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical public health priority. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a combined membrane and ultraviolet (UV) filtration system in improving water quality parameters to meet the Indonesian Ministry of Health standards No.2 2023. Raw water samples (A) and treated water samples (B) were analyzed for TDS, turbidity, color, pH, nitrate, and nitrite using standardized methods (SNI). Results showed substantial reductions in TDS from 172 mg/L to 122 mg/L, turbidity from 136 NTU to 11 NTU, and color from 36.4 PtCo to 12.2 PtCo. pH improved from 5.85 to 6.26, approaching the acceptable range of 6.5-8.5. Nitrate and nitrite concentrations remained well below maximum limits, with slight variations after treatment (nitrate: 0.495 to 0.658 mg/L; nitrite: 0.375 to 0.071 mg/L). The membrane filtration effectively removed suspended solids and reduced turbidity, while UV treatment provided microbial disinfection without altering chemical composition. These findings confirm that integrating membrane and UV technologies can significantly enhance the physicochemical quality of drinking water, making it safer for community consumption. The approach offers a practical, scalable solution for rural and peri-urban areas with limited access to centralized water treatment facilities. Future research should support broader implementation.