Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) removal by reduction-coagulation-filtration (RCF) combined with deacidification in drinking water treatment

Abstract

Excess dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) is frequently encountered in natural groundwaters, originating from both geochemical and biological processes. In the investigated case, contamination of groundwater with toxic hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) occurred due to anthropogenic activities. The co-occurrence of CO2 and Cr(VI) posed a distinct challenge for water treatment, as multiple process steps need to be tailored to remove both substances at the same time. This study investigates an integrated treatment approach specifically developed for groundwater containing elevated levels of both Cr(VI) and CO2. The process combines reduction coagulation filtration (RCF) with ferrous iron (Fe(II)) dosage with limestone filtration for concurrent Cr(VI) removal and water deacidification. A pilot plant with two parallel filters—one filled with dense limestone and the other with porous limestone—was operated under varying Fe(II) dosages (Fe(II), 0.3–1.0 mg/L) and filtration velocities (4.4–15.5 m/h). Results demonstrate that the RCF process achieved efficient Cr(VI) removal at moderate Fe(II) concentrations (<1.0 mg/L), with no breakthrough or reoxidation observed. Limestone filtration efficiently increased pH, calcium concentration, and buffer capacity, thereby decarbonating the water. Porous limestone showed higher reactivity than the dense limestone commonly used. Analysis of backwash sludge confirmed stable chromium retention and low residual metal concentrations in the supernatant. These findings confirm that the integrated RCF–limestone process provides an effective and cost-efficient solution for treating groundwater impacted by anthropogenic Cr(VI) and naturally elevated CO2 concentration. © 2026 The Authors.