Halogenated Aliphatic DBPs

In the 50 years since the discovery of the trihalomethane (THM), chloroform, as a disinfection by-product (DBP), numerous studies have been carried out on the measurement of THMs. These have determined their occurrence in drinking waters and investigated their precursors and formation mechanisms. THMs have been regulated in many countries around the world and are generally used as a surrogate to minimize DBP formation overall. In more recent years, haloacetic acids (HAAs) have also been regulated in some countries and have gained prominence in the literature. Although not regulated, other aliphatic DBPs that have been studied include haloacetaldehydes and haloketones. This chapter summarizes the up-to-date literature on the properties, precursors, and formation mechanisms as well as occurrence and regulation of aliphatic DBPs with a particular focus on THMs and HAAs.