Major Sources of Nitrosamine Precursors from Raw Waters and Distribution Systems

The primary objective of this project was to identify significant sources of nitrosamine precursors in drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). The specific objectives included: (1) assessing nitrosamine precursor contributions in DWTP source waters including natural processes and anthropogenic activities, (2) determining the specific inputs into wastewater that generate significant nitrosamine precursors, (3) examining how biological treatment affects the reactivity of precursors, and (4) conducting studies within distribution systems to determine both the extent and sources of nitrosamine precursors within distribution systems. In contrast to much of the past and current research on nitrosamine formation that focuses primarily on model compounds, this research utilized a 'top-down' approach, evaluating broad categories of environmental samples prior to targeting more specific constituents responsible for nitrosamines in drinking water. Tailored Collaboration partner: Las Vegas Valley Water District. Published in 2017.