Recent studies have shown that monochloramine can react with certain organic
nitrogen precursors that are ubiquitous in drinking water as well as less characterized
natural organic matter (NOM) to produce N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). The NOM
involved reactions are nevertheless poorly understood. This paper reports on the
correlations between NOM oxidation by monochloramine and NDMA formation. The
influence of pre-oxidation on the formation of NDMA is also studied. Exposure to preoxidants
such as free chlorine, permanganate or hydrogen peroxide reduces the NDMA
formation potential in the subsequent contact with monochloramine. Linear relationship
is also found between NDMA formation potential reduction and NOM spectral
characteristics changes such as SUVA272. This information not only provides insight into
the nature of the NDMA precursors and the reactions involved in NDMA formation, but
also suggests some strategies to minimize NDMA formation in drinking water treatment. Includes 14 references, figures.
| Edition : | Vol. - No. |
| Number of Pages : | 10 |
| Published : | 06/17/2005 |
