Membrane-Disinfectant Reactions: Developing Methods for the Detection of Membrane Leachates and Byproducts

Biofouling is a common limitation of reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) membranes used in a potable reuse capacity and is often prevented by chemically disinfecting feed waters. Disinfectants can oxidize organics as well as bromide and iodide in these feed waters and generate disinfection by-products (DBPs) that would compromise water quality. There is also evidence that some membrane components may leach into water during membrane use adding additional water contaminants. This project is developing methods for the identification of RO/NF leachates and DBPs.