An integrated study of dual membrane techniques for the removal of disinfection by-products in drinking water

Abstract

In the context of escalating global water resource pressures and rising populations, ensuring the quality and safety of water supplies has become paramount. Natural Organic Matter (NOM) and Disinfection By-Products (DBPs) are prevalent contaminants in numerous water sources. Their presence compromises waters sensory qualities, but certain DBPs have been substantiated to be associated with diverse health implications, including carcinogenic risks. Hence, developing efficient, cost-effective, and reliable technologies for their removal is of critical significance. Dual-membrane filtration, an emergent water treatment methodology, demonstrates profound potential in addressing NOM and DBPs.This article offers a comprehensive review of the applications of dual-membrane filtration across various water treatment paradigms, underscoring its pivotal role in safeguarding potable water quality and addressing future water quality challenges. This study reveals that the MF-NF membrane achieves a removal rate of disinfection by-products of approximately 70%-80%. The UF-NF membrane presents an overall UV254 removal efficiency of over 90%. The NF-RO membrane demonstrates removal efficiencies exceeding 89% for trichloromethane and halogenated acetic acid formation potential. Future research should focus on optimizing the performance of dual-membrane systems, investigating novel membrane materials, and assessing the removal efficiency for emerging DBPs.