Electrochemical water treatment technologies offer a promising approach to contaminant degradation without chemical additives. However, concerns about harmful byproduct formation remain underexplored. This study reports the electrochemical formation of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a probable human carcinogen, from waters containing nitrite and nitrate, even at concentrations regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), through reactions with dimethylamine (DMA). Observed NDMA yields (200-300 ng/L) significantly exceed the EPA screening level (0.11 ng/L), presenting a notable risk for electrochemical treatment deployment in nitrate/nitrite-impacted waters, particularly in agricultural regions.

The study contextualizes the electrochemical potentials that facilitate NDMA formation by comparing them against methyl orange degradation, a model anionic azo dye frequently used to assess oxidative electrochemical processes. NDMA formation was examined using a novel, 3D-printed flow cell equipped with high-surface-area carbon nanotube electrodes, allowing for rapid and environmentally relevant observations.

More broadly, this work demonstrates that electrochemical screening can serve as a predictive tool for byproduct formation, offering a faster, more scalable alternative to traditional chemical oxidation tests, such as uniform formation condition methods. These findings highlight the need for careful optimization of electrochemical treatment conditions to mitigate unintended nitrogenous byproduct formation and ensure the safe application of these technologies in water treatment.

I’m excited about this SuperUROP opportunity because it will help me develop the skills needed for independent research. Through this project, I aim to apply my coursework to create an innovative solution for addressing water contamination and improving water treatment sustainability.