Includes bibliographical references (p. 57-62).

1. Introduction -- 2. Materials and methods -- 3. Formation of nitrosamines from secondary amines catalyzed by activated carbons -- 4. Mechanisms of catalyzed nitrosamine formation by activated carbon -- 5. Adsorption of DMA and NDMA to activated carbon -- 6. Impact of pre-oxidation intermediates/products of AC-catalyzed nitrosamine formation -- References. "Nitrosamines are a group of potent carcinogens that have been shown to form as disinfection by-products (DBPs) from water disinfection processes. Activated carbon (AC) is the most common solid phase extraction (SPE) material used for analysis of nitrosamines in water. AC is also widely used for the removal of organics in water treatment and as a catalyst or catalyst support in industrial applications. Results reported in recent research indicate that AC materials may catalyze oxidation of amines under ambient aerobic conditions, and catalyze nitrosation of amines with nitrite, to generate nitrosamines." -- Executive summary.