Impact of non-aged and UV-aged microplastics on the formation of halogenated disinfection byproducts during chlorination of drinking water and its mechanism

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitously present in source water and undergo ultraviolet (UV) aging in aquatic environments before entering drinking water treatment plants. The presence of MPs in drinking water can impact the formation of halogenated disinfection byproducts (DBPs) during chlorine disinfection, yet the exact effect of MPs on DBP formation remain unclear. In this study, we conducted an investigation into the influence of non-aged and UV-aged MPs on halogenated DBP formation in drinking water and unveiled the underlying mechanisms. In comparison to source water samples devoid of MPs, the total organic halogen concentration was reduced by 19%-43% and 4%-13% in the drinking water samples containing non-aged and aged MPs, respectively. The differing effects on halogenated DBP formation can be attributed to the alternation in physical and chemical characteristics of MPs following UV aging. Aged MPs exhibited larger surface area with signs of wear and tear, heightened hydrophilicity, surface oxidation, increased oxygen-containing functional groups and dechlorination during the UV aging process. Both non-aged and aged MPs possess the capability to adsorb natural organic matter, leading to a reduction in the concentration of DBP precursors in the source water. However, the release of organic compounds from aged MPs outweighed the adsorption of organics. Furthermore, as a result of the surface activation of MPs through the UV aging process, the aged MPs themselves can also serve as DBP precursors. Consequently, the presence of halogenated DBP precursors in source water increased, contributing to a higher level of DBP formation compared to source water containing non-aged MPs. Overall, this study illuminates the intricate relationship among MPs, UV aging, and DBP formation in drinking water. It highlights the potential risks posed by aged MPs in influencing DBP formation and offers valuable insights for optimizing water treatment processes.

Keywords: Chlorination; DBPs; Disinfection byproducts; Microplastics; UV aging.