Aventec and Eurecat develop a tool to estimate trihalomethanes across Vic’s entire water network
The new model makes it possible to estimate trihalomethanes in Vic’s water network at more than 6,600 nodes. Until now, data were only available from 3 sampling points.
Aventec has developed a simulation prototype with the support of the technology centre Eurecat. This tool estimates the concentration of total trihalomethanes (THMs) at any point and time in Vic’s drinking water network. THMs are by-products that form when chlorine reacts with organic matter in the water. For this reason, regulations limit their presence.
How the Vic trihalomethane model works
Until now, knowledge of these compounds was limited to the points where samples were analysed. In contrast, the new tool combines a hydraulic model of the network, built with EPANET, with THM laboratory analyses. In addition, it incorporates real consumption data from users, obtained through smart metering. In this way, the model calculates how long it takes water to reach each point. It also calculates how the trihalomethane concentration evolves along the way.
To calibrate and validate the model, 10 sampling campaigns were carried out between April and June 2026. Specifically, samples were taken at the outlet of the drinking water treatment plant (DWTP), at the Castell d’en Planes tanks and at two points in the network. As a result, the model reproduces the evolution of concentrations with an average error of 15%.
Results and application to water management
The results also provide useful knowledge for management. First, most of the trihalomethanes in Vic’s network are already present at the outlet of the treatment plant. On the other hand, additional formation during transport is relatively low. Therefore, acting at the treatment plant is the strategy with the greatest potential impact, especially by removing organic matter.
Moreover, this is the first time that THM analyses have been integrated into online water quality models in Vic’s network. Thus, it is a further step towards more informed, data-driven management of the urban water cycle. Along these lines, Aventec continues to promote solutions such as AQUA360®.
Project developed with the support of Eurecat within the framework of the DIH4CAT / EDIH programme. Funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU and Spain’s Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.
