What is the role of organic material in the formation of disinfection by-products?

Organic material plays a significant role in the formation of disinfection by-products because it can react with various disinfectants used in water treatment, such as chlorine, chloramine, or ozone. When organic compounds present in the water come into contact with these disinfectants, they can undergo chemical reactions that result in the production of by-products, some of which can be harmful to human health and the environment.

The formation of these disinfection by-products is a concern because certain compounds, like trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), have been linked to health risks, including increased cancer risk with prolonged exposure. Understanding this reaction is crucial for water treatment professionals, as they need to manage the levels of organic material and disinfectants to minimize these potentially harmful by-products while ensuring that the water is effectively disinfected and safe for consumption.