Essentials Webinar: Disinfection by products
16-Apr-2026
About this event
Disinfection by products: A fresh look at an old problem
Safe drinking water depends on effective disinfection, yet disinfectants such as chlorine can react with naturally occurring compounds in water to form disinfection by-products (DBPs), some of which are toxic. This webinar explores a research program being led by Professor Fred Leusch on whether common DBP mitigation strategies may unintentionally increase toxicity. By combining advanced chemical analysis with innovative bioassay testing, the project evaluates both DBP formation and their overall toxic effects. Working with Australian water utilities, the research identifies treatment approaches that minimise DBP toxicity while maintaining effective pathogen control. The outcomes will provide practical guidance to help utilities optimise treatment processes and support the continued delivery of safe drinking water to communities.
