Comparison of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella Removal Efficiency in Aquatic Environments Using Silver and Copper Nanoparticles

Background: The main aspect of water purification to serve the human drinking purpose is the elimination of microbial agents and pathogens using the disinfectants. Although chemicals such as chlorine are the most common water disinfectants, the researchers have always sought  to identify and introduce new disinfectants due to the formation of potentially carcinogenic byproducts. Owing to the high efficiency and lack of hazardous residues, nanoparticles have recently been used in many scientific activities. Objectives: In this study conducted in summer 2018, the copper and silver nanoparticles were used to remove Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Klebsiella from the synthetic and real samples. Methods: This experimental study was performed on Nano particles and by adding nanoparticles to samples (real and synthetic), the efficiency of removal of E. coli and Klebsiella was measured by MPN and pure plate methods. Results:  By optimizing the conditions, in 200 ppm concentration as 2ml with pH=7, it has the highest removal rate of 99.25% for E. coli, and in 250ppm concentration as 1.5 ml with pH = 7, it has the removal rate of 81.25% for Klebsiella. Conclusions:  In this case study, we found that using Nano particles led to high level of efficiency at a short time; moreover, they were  costeffective and environmentally friendly.