Transformation Products (TPs) of Cyanobacterial Metabolites During Treatment

Abstract

Biological and advanced chemical treatment of cyanotoxins and other cyanobacteria-related contaminants such as taste and odor compounds, results in the formation of myriad transformation products (TPs) prior to their mineralization to simpler compounds such as H2O and CO2. This chapter gives an overview of the TPs formed for the major groups of cyanotoxins, with both biological and chemical treatment processes. In addition, it provides detailed explanations on the mechanistic steps followed that lead up to the formation of stable TPs for each oxidant used. It becomes apparent that besides the oxidizing ability of each oxidant, TP formation can be affected by the experimental conditions used, including oxidant and catalyst dose, solution pH, and presence of scavengers. Finally, the toxic potential of TPs is discussed.