Formation of disinfection byproducts in electrochemical water disinfection

This review aims to examine the DBP formation during electrochemical disinfection. The effects of electrochemically generated reactive species and water matrices are analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Different DBP formation mechanisms/pathways between electrochemical and conventional chemical disinfection are discussed. The electrode materials play a critical role via the generation of different types of reactive species. The presence of bromide, ammonia, and carbonates can affect both the concentration and composition of DBP by transforming reactive chlorine species into other species such as bromine radicals, chloramines, and carbonate radicals. Potential strategies for DBP control are proposed, including the reduction of DBP formation via pre-treatment process, electrode design and optimizing reactor operation, and post-treatment to remove the formed DBP. • Disinfection byproducts can be formed during electrochemical disinfection. • Electrochemically-generated reactive species affect DBP formation mechanisms. • Electrode material and water matrix affect DBP formation by changing reactive species. • Reactive species control and shorter disinfection time could mitigate DBP formation. • Post-treatment technologies can be applied to remove the formed DBPs.