How Safe Are Organic Polymers in Water Treatment?

Abstract

The advantages of organic polymers, or polyelectrolytes, in water treatment are many. But what is the fate of a polymer subjected to typical treatment processes? What by‐products are formed by ozonation and chlorination? Are there manufacturing impurities accompanying the polymers? What are the toxic and mutagenic effects of these impurities and by‐products? An anionic organic polymer commonly used in France was analyzed by several methods. It was found to be generally acceptable for drinking water standards in the United States and France. But the by‐products and impurities that were detected require more research to determine their potential health effects and demonstrate the need for adequate quality controls during manufacture of the polymer.