Regulated and Emerging Disinfection By-Products in Drinking Water ; Occurrence, Transformation and Removal Strategies

Abstract

Disinfectants used in drinking water treatments can react with natural organic matter (NOM) and halides to form potentially toxic disinfection by-products (DBPs). Brominated and iodinated DBPs are often more toxic than their chlorinated analogues, and these may be formed in disinfected waters in which these halides are present (eg, salinity-impacted waters). One of the most effective approaches to control potentially toxic DBP formation is to reduce DBP precursors prior to disinfection. The main aim of this research was to develop an understanding of the occurrence and minimisation of DBPs after various treatment strategies under conditions that are particularly relevant to Southeast Queensland (SEQ) drinking water quality issues. This project examines the effect of bench scale enhanced coagulation (EC) and EC with secondary MIEX®, powdered activated carbon (PAC), granular activated carbon (GAC) or 0.1% silver impregnated activated carbon (SIAC) treatment on precursor removal and DBP formation using synthetic model waters.