Comparative analysis of chlorination byproduct formation in galvanized iron and high-density polyethylene pipes using low-cost filtration techniques

Two prominent chlorination disinfection byproducts (DBPs)—trihalomethanes and trihaloacetic acids—are formed in drinking water when chlorine reacts with other constituents. The production of these DBPs has emerged as a significant public health concern. At the same time, disinfection of potable water remains essential as a safety measure to effectively combat waterborne diseases by eliminating pathogenic microorganisms. To regulate the formation of these two major DBPs in the water distribution network, one of the key factors is the nature of the pipe material used, along with the implementation of cost-effective abatement techniques. This study compared two types of potable water supply pipe materials—galvanized iron and high-density polythene pipes—for their role in the production of chlorine DBPs. Both materials showed different weightage ratios of DBP formation when chlorinated water came into contact with the inner surface of distribution pipes. Two filtration setups, i.e., granular activated carbon (GAC) and sand filtration media, were evaluated as abatement techniques for removing DBPs, depending on the water source and pipe material used. The findings contribute to understanding the differences in the generation of major DBP species under known supply media, as well as the removal efficiency of DBP precursors by GAC and sand filtration. Overall, the results reveal that GAC and sand filtration media can serve as low-cost and sustainable alternatives to costly, complex filtration membranes for DBP removal.