Water quality and microbiology

Optimized management and protection of water resources (both surface and groundwater) requires water quality to be taken into account. Assessment of the quality status of water bodies, particularly with regard to current legislative frameworks, is based on precise chemical and microbiological quality criteria, as well as standards adapted to the types of use envisaged for these resources.

The aim of this course is to : (1) know how to assess the chemical and microbiological quality of surface or ground water according to its intended use, within the context of current legislation, (2) understand the role of micro-organisms in biogeochemical cycles and their involvement in the fate of pollutants in water, (3) acquire the basics of the most commonly used chemistry/microbiology methods and analytical techniques, and finally (4) be able to combine hydrological, hydrogeological, hydrochemical and microbiological information available on a hydrosystem, in order to identify the various problems posed as resources (quality and quantity). The development of a critical scientific mind will be encouraged.

Prerequisites*: basic knowledge of water chemistry and microbiology or UE PAM1ECAD (contamination of the aquatic environment)

Continuous assessment, including a written exam (2 hrs) and an average of the Chemistry and Microbiology lab reports.

1. Chemistry part :

- Types of pollution and health risks

- Quality criteria and pollution indicator parameters

TD: Diagnostic assessment of river quality. Application to the river Lez.

Practical work: Measuring physico-chemical parameters and the main indicators of chemical quality in a watercourse (Lez River)

1. Microbiology section:

• Microbiological water quality and health risks
• Fecal contamination indicators: definition, principle and limits.
• Microbiological water quality control and French legislation
• Practical work: Analysis of the microbiological quality of several types of water (surface, groundwater...)

• Microbial Ecotoxicology :  
• Biogeochemical cycles
• Interactions between micro-organisms and chemical pollutants: 2 case studies:
• Acid mine drainage
• Arsenic in aquifers in Southeast Asia