FACULTY OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

TITLE: OPTIONS FOR IRON REMOVAL IN GROUNDWATER

(PROGRESS REPORT)

Name of Student: Morvin Budhan

USI: 1016521
Name of Course: Project
Course Code: CIV4001

Supervisors:
Mr. Maxwell Jackson, MSc (Internal)
Mr. Richard Thomas (External)

Date of Submission: 07-01-2019

 Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction............................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Statement of Problem ........................................................................................... 1
1.3 Research Question ................................................................................................ 1
1.4 Aim of Study ........................................................................................................ 1
1.5 Objectives ............................................................................................................. 2
1.6 Scope of Study ..................................................................................................... 2
2.0 Approach ................................................................................................................ 4
2.1 Research Methodology......................................................................................... 4
2.2 Theoretical Work ................................................................................................. 5
2.12 Practical Work ................................................................................................ 5
2.14 Updated Project Schedule ............................................................................... 5
2.15 Updated Gantt Chart ....................................................................................... 6
3.0 Conclusion .............................................................................................................. 7
 1.0 Introduction
This project is requisite for completing a Bachelor of Science (Civil with
Environmental Engineering) at the University of Guyana (U.O.G.), within the Faculty
of Engineering and Technology, Department of Civil Engineering.

This project proposes a design of an iron removal system for the water supply system
at La Bonne Intention, East Coast of Demerara.

1.2 Statement of Problem

In groundwater sources such as wells and springs, iron is the most common dissolved
metal. Although not considered to cause health problems in humans, its presence in
water creates technological problems, failure of water supply systems and deterioration
of water quality with respect to sensory properties (i.e. smell, taste, colour, feel/texture).

In addition, the presence of dissolved iron enhances the growth of iron bacteria, which
forms dark-coloured slime layers on the inner side of a system's pipes. The slime is then
released into the network through water flow fluctuations, leading to dirt build-up and
damage to the plumbing. Consumers are therefore forced to spend more money to clean
and maintain appliances every year.

1.3 Research Question

Which of the alternative (s) presented will be most suitable for the removal of iron in
the groundwater supply at La Bonne Intention?

1.4 Aim of Study

The aim of this research project is to provide the information and knowledge required
to remove iron found in the groundwater supply at La Bonne Intention by the design of
an iron removal/treatment system.

MORVIN BUDHAN- 1016521 1|Page

1.5 Objectives
1) To establish the iron concentration in the groundwater.
2) To investigate whether the present iron concentration in the groundwater is within
the World Health Organization’s recommended level (0.3 milligrams per litre).
3) To evaluate different methods for the removal of iron in the groundwater supply.
4) To ultimately remove/reduce the amount of iron in the groundwater supply.

1.6 Scope of Study

This project is being proposed for the removal of iron from the groundwater supply at
La Bonne Intention. This will be done by exploring, investigating and analysing the
current water supply situation and iron treatment techniques, at said location.

The study will involve sampling of the groundwater for laboratory analysis both before
and after the current treatment method (s) to ascertain the levels of iron concentration.
Samples will also be taken from a random residential home within district being
supplied by the pump station. The samples will be tested for soluble iron, insoluble
iron, pH and temperature.

The results will then be analysed for the design of an iron removal/treatment system.

This project will not include any economic calculations, meaning that no information
on prices will be included or researched by the author. The main emphasis will be
placed on the engineering aspect.

MORVIN BUDHAN- 1016521 2|Page

The above image illustrating total area within the project scope.

The red rectangle borders the area of interest (La Bonne Intention Pump Station). The
blue rectangle borders GWI’s Main Storage Facility. To the north of the rectangles lie
the Railway Embankment (East Coast of Demerara Public Road) whereas to the east
lie La Bonne Intention Road (LBI Estate Road).

MORVIN BUDHAN- 1016521 3|Page

 2.0 Approach
2.1 Research Methodology
Secondary Data Start Primary Data

Theoretical Work Practical Work

Literature Data Laboratory Field

Review Collection Testing Works

Data
Analysis

Design

Results

Conclusion Recommendations

End

Flowchart outlining the stages in Research Methodology.

MORVIN BUDHAN- 1016521 4|Page

2.2 Theoretical Work
As of December 10, 2018, all data was collected and catalogued. Data came from
periodicals, magazines, textbooks, experienced personnel, and numerous websites. The
methods of data collection included interviews, surveys and questionnaires.

Interviews were conducted with the external supervisor so as to gain knowledge on how
to go about executing this project.

2.12 Practical Work

Practical works have commenced but were delayed due to the final examinations period
and the holiday season. Samples are being retrieved for testing. Tests are to be carried
out at the Institute of Applied Science & Technology under the supervision of their
technician.

Practical works are now expected to be completed on the 29th January 2019.

2.13 Updated Project Schedule

The project has commenced on the 27th August 2018 and is projected to be completed
on the 6th June 2019.

Note that the total duration of the project is now expected to be 174 working days.

MORVIN BUDHAN- 1016521 5|Page

2.14 Updated Gantt Chart

Gantt Chart above illustrating the projected start date and duration.

MORVIN BUDHAN- 1016521 6|Page

 3.0 Conclusion
The overall percentage of work completed for the period 7th January 2019 was
approximated 28.16%. Theoretical works were completed during this period.

Practical works have commenced but were delayed due to the final examinations period
and the holiday season. These delays have made a significant impact on the site
investigation, data analysis and the design stages which in turn affected the project
schedule. However, working on weekends and national holidays will fast track the
delayed works and bring the project back on schedule.

MORVIN BUDHAN- 1016521 7|Page