Work

Inorganic and organic halamine formation mechanisms and reactivity in water disinfection: recent developments

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Inorganic and organic halamines, characterized by a minimum of one nitrogen-halogen (N–X) bond, have received increased attention in water treatment due to their formation during disinfection, limited understanding of their reactivity, and potential taste and odour impacts on drinking water. Understanding the formation mechanisms of N-halamines and their role in toxic disinfection by-product (DBP) formation is crucial for devising DBP control strategies. This review highlights recent studies (2019-2025) that investigated formation mechanisms and reactivity of inorganic and organic halamines, including inorganic chloramines, N-halamides, N-halamino acids, and N-halaldimines.

Source: Current Opinion in Environmental Science & Health

DOI: 10.1016/j.coesh.2026.100706

Authors: Kumudu H. Rathnayake, Julia E. Stroud, Susana Y. Kimura

Institution: University of Calgary

Language: English

Topic: Water Treatment and Disinfection

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,700