Chlorination Disinfection By-Products and Its Control in Drinking Water

Disinfection for drinking water ought to be safe both in microbiology and in chemistry. This paper addresses by-products with carcinogenicity-mutagenicity-teratogenicity produced during chlorination disinfection. Types and formation of chlorination disinfection by-products (CDBPs) in drinking water are briefly analyzed. Toxicity and health effect of the CDBPs is reviewed. Measures to control CDBPs are proposed. And future direction in safe disinfection of drinking water is outlined thereby. Results showed that types and concentration of precursors and chlorine dosage are decisive factors in CDBPs formation; Water quality characteristics such as pH, temperature, bromide ions and ammonia, can also have an effect on the formation of CDBPs; Trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids(HAAs) and halogenated acetonitrile have carcinogenic potential or carcinogenicity. Protection of water resources is a fundamental measure to control CDBPs. Enhanced coagulation, activated carbon adsorption and membrane treatment can be used as the main technologies to remove CDBPs precursors. Optimizing disinfection process, using an alternative disinfectant or sequential disinfection mode are also important ways to control the CDBPs.