AWWA ACE91057

The author substitutes the term "oxidation byproducts" for disinfection byproducts in this general overview of the problem, its causes, and some possible solutions. The basis of the paper is a series of tables, charts, and other graphic comparisons of several disinfectants and oxidants, including free chlorine, chloramines, chlorine dioxide, ozone, ozone/peroxide, ultraviolet light, and potassium permanganate. An overall comparison of oxidants and their effectiveness in dealing with common water quality problems (hydrogen sulfide, etc.) are given; similarly, a comparison of disinfectants and their abilities to deal with bacteria, cysts, and viruses are compared. Fifty-four disinfection byproducts are listed, with markers to show which disinfectant/oxidant leads to the creation of which byproduct. Toxicity of oxidant byproducts is summarized. Chlorine, chlorine dioxide, and chloramines are compared for their value as residual disinfectants. A chart rates and compares a number of oxidants with regard to their effectiveness in oxidation, primary disinfection, and residual maintenance. The author concludes that the best strategy is ozone for oxidation and primary disinfection and free or combined chlorine for residual maintenance.