Characteristics and treatment methods for peat water as clean water sources: A mini review

Peatland is spread over the world providing unique organic-rich surface water. This product is called peat water, which is used as a clean source for drinking in several countries after the treatment, specifically in rural areas of Southeast Asia. Therefore, this research aimed to discuss the sources, characteristics, and available literature on peat water treatment (PWT). The results showed that the water contains hydrophobic high molecular weight natural organic matter (NOM) in form of humic and fulvic acids. These acid contaminants caused brownish color and acidic pH of the water. The performance of treatment processes such as filtration, adsorption, and ozonation also reduced the presence of NOM, while several chemical and physical parameters were discussed. Although reports regarding PWT were available, most of them only focused on the removal of standard physicochemical parameters such as color and pH. This was because there is still limited information on the removal of other parameters such as disinfection by-products (DBPs), organic matter fraction, and other emerging contaminants. Therefore, further investigation is needed on the PWT method as a source of clean water. [Display omitted] •The presence of peatland providing unique organic-rich surface water.•Peat water has brownish color and acidic pH due to the presence of NOM.•Many research performed in peat water treatments to provide clean water.•Studies in specific water parameter in peat water treatments still limited.