Calgon Carbon awarded additional patent for technology to protect drinking water from cryptosporidium

April 2002

U.S. Water News Online

PITTSBURGH -- Calgon Carbon Corporation has been granted a Canadian patent for controlling cryptosporidium in drinking water using ultraviolet (UV) light. The company had been previously granted patents for controlling cryptosporidium in the U.S. and the Netherlands. It has also applied for patents in Asia, Australia, Europe, and South America.

Cryptosporidium, a microscopic parasite present in almost all surface waters, is highly resistant to traditional treatment methods such as chlorination. Prior to Calgon Carbon's breakthrough discovery, it was thought that very high doses of UV light were required to kill cryptosporidium. Calgon Carbon's research discovered that low levels of UV could be used to prevent the parasite from replicating.

Calgon Carbon's research was used to commercialize a reliable barrier against viruses, bacteria, and parasites such as cryptosporidium at a fraction of the cost of other treatment methods. Also, the technology that does not produce disinfection by-products. In addition to marketing, Calgon Carbon is licensing its patented continuous wave UV technology to water producers on a per-gallons-treated basis.

Bob O'Brien, senior vice president of Calgon Carbon, said, "We are very pleased that the Canadian Intellectual Property Office has recognized the significance of Calgon Carbon's groundbreaking research and technology by granting our company a patent for controlling cryptosporidium. Their action strengthens our leadership position in the growing market for disinfection of drinking water using ultraviolet light."


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