A new open-access scientific review developed within the intoDBP project provides a comprehensive overview of the formation, detection and regulation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) in drinking water treatment.
Published in the Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, the study, titled “Holistic overview on disinfection by-products formation and their analytical characterization,” examines one of the most complex challenges associated with water disinfection: ensuring microbiological safety while limiting the formation of potentially harmful chemical by-products.
DBPs are formed when disinfectants react with naturally occurring or anthropogenic substances present in source water. Because of their high chemical diversity, low concentrations and, in some cases, limited stability, their detection and quantification can be particularly challenging.
The review analyses the main DBP precursor compounds, including natural organic matter and anthropogenic organic chemicals, as well as the mechanisms behind DBP formation during disinfection. It also assesses current analytical methods, regulatory frameworks and emerging scientific and technological challenges.
One of the key findings is that analytical approaches do not always evolve at the same pace as regulatory requirements. Detection limits, complex sample preparation procedures and the instability of certain compounds can make accurate monitoring difficult.
The authors highlight the potential of robust in-line sensing platforms and improved monitoring techniques to support faster and more effective water quality management. The research also underlines the role of cleaner and more innovative treatment technologies in reducing DBP formation while maintaining safe drinking water.
The publication was developed with contributions from Maria Inês Roque, Rui C. Martins, Loïc Charpentier, Davide Pinelli, Elisa Girometti, Ahmed Abdelrady, Manuela Antonelli, Agapios Agapiou, Paolo Roccaro, Jon Wullenweber, Beatrice Cantoni, Irene Jubany, Laura Vinardell, Maolida Nihemaiti, Aleksandra Pieczynska, Paweł Mazierski, Magdalena Miodyńska-Melzer, Onur Cavdar, Sara Azerrad, Kranthi Kumar Maniam, Luisa Durães and other contributing authors.
The study contributes to intoDBP’s broader objective of advancing knowledge, monitoring and treatment approaches for safer drinking water.
Read the full open-access publication here.
