Coliforms in Distribution Systems:: Integrated Disinfection and Antimicrobial Resistance

The objective of this project is to understand the potential mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance of E. coli and opportunistic pathogens under disinfection conditions. The project involves molecular techniques to understand genetic changes in biofilm and suspended bacteria in response to different disinfectant conditions. It examines the effects of using single chemical disinfectants (free chlorine, chloramines, and chlorine dioxide) compared with UV light pretreatment, as well as the impact of pipe material (polycarbonate or cast iron) and E. coli mutations. Field studies include both surface water and groundwater.