The effect of sunlight on contaminated water

ABSTRACT

To determine the effect of sunlight on contaminated water a study was conducted in Yangoon between February to May 1990. The natural water samples were collected and faecal coliform count (FCC) was determined after 0,1,2,3,4 and 10 hours of exposure to sunlight. Sunlight has bactericidal effect on the faecal coliforms in contaminated water. FCC was zero after 2nd day of exposure by using these 3 commonly used kitchen containers glass bottles, plastic jars and aluminum pots. Sunlight may be used to decontaminate drinking water if boiling is not possible.