desinfektionsbiprodukter

Desinfektionsbiprodukter (DBPs) are chemical compounds formed when disinfection processes used to treat water interact with natural or introduced substances. In drinking-water systems, disinfectants such as chlorine, chloramines, or ozone react with natural organic matter, inorganic substances, and bromide or iodide present in the water, producing a range of byproducts. DBPs can also form in swimming pools, spas, and wastewater treatment where chlorine or other disinfectants meet organic material and nitrogen-containing compounds.

Common examples include trihalomethanes (THMs, such as chloroform and bromodichloromethane), haloacetic acids (HAAs), chlorite, chlorate, and bromate, as well as nitrogen-containing byproducts such as N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and haloacetonitriles. The specific mix of DBPs depends on factors like disinfectant type, water source, bromide/iodide content, pH, temperature, and contact time. Higher levels of natural organic matter typically lead to greater DBP formation.

Health and regulatory aspects vary by jurisdiction. Some DBPs have been associated with increased cancer risk or reproductive effects in study findings, particularly with long-term exposure through drinking water. People may also be exposed via inhalation or dermal absorption during showering, cooking, or swimming. Many countries regulate DBPs in drinking water by setting limits for key groups such as total trihalomethanes (TTHMs), haloacetic acids (HAA5), chlorite, and bromate, and utilities monitor these compounds regularly.

Management approaches aim to reduce DBP formation while maintaining microbial safety. Strategies include protecting source water and removing precursors through coagulation, enhanced filtration, and activated carbon; using alternative disinfection schemes (e.g., chloramination, ozone with UV) with careful control of byproducts; and optimizing pH, contact time, and disinfectant residuals. In pools, reducing DBPs focuses on hygiene, proper ventilation, and water management to limit chlorine reaction with organic matter.