Synergistic effects of pulse electric field (pef) and ultraviolet-c filtration for hybrid powered water purification system/ Ericka O. Arce, Adrian B. Guelas, Hyacinth B. Janaban, Carl Cedrick J. Noo, Bien Efren L. Sunga, and Joeco O. Tabuñar.--

Bachelor's thesis

College Of Engineering.--
Bachelor of science in electrical engineering: Technological University of the Philippines,
2025.

Includes bibliographic references and index.

Achieving reliable water availability remains a significant challenge in developing
nations like the Philippines, particularly in rural and informal settlements. Water
treatment is an essential yet economically crucial process that has been the subject of
extensive research. Pulsed Electric Field (PEF), is a non-thermal technology, has been
proven effective in microbial inactivation through irreversible electroporation, making
it a promising method for water disinfection. This study presents a hybrid-powered water
purification system, integrating PEF and Ultraviolet-C technologies. A Marx generator
is used that generates high-voltage pulses by stepping up a low DC input to significantly
higher voltage levels. The generator operates by charging multiple capacitors in parallel
and discharging them in series. The system is hybrid powered, in which it combines solar
and AC power for both electronic and electrical components, respectively. Key
objectives such as enhanced microbial inactivation, optimal energy efficiency, and
compliance with potable water standards were successfully achieved. Numerous tests
were conducted for the PEF only, UV-C only, and combined PEF and UVC samples,
with and without 3-Stage Filtration. Results revealed that neither of the methods can
stand alone in eliminating the bacteria and achieving the potable water standard.
However, combining the PEF and UV-C with 3-stage filtration achieved significant
microbial reductions for pathogens like Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Heterotrophic Plate
Count (HPC). Physical and chemical parameters, including color, turbidity, total
dissolved solids, and pH, were consistently within acceptable limits, ensuring safe water
for consumption. The study’s findings underscore the synergistic effect of integrating
PEF and UV-C technologies into a cost-efficient and scalable water purification solution,
addressing water security issues.