Researchers have identified chloronitramide anion, a long-unknown byproduct of chloramine disinfection in tap water, and are urging studies on its potential health effects.
Carolyn Y. Johnson and Joel Achenbach report for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Chloronitramide anion, a previously unidentified chemical byproduct of chloramine disinfection, has been discovered in U.S. drinking water.
- While its toxicity is still unknown, initial modeling suggests potential harm, prompting calls for further investigation.
- The compound was found in all tested water samples, with concentrations exceeding some regulated byproduct limits.
Key quote:
“This work was 40 years in the making in terms of trying to identify the compound, and now that we have identified it, we can delve into how toxic is this thing.”
— Julian Fairey, associate professor at the University of Arkansas
Why this matters:
Chloronitramide anion’s discovery highlights the complexity of balancing water disinfection and chemical byproducts. Understanding its toxicity is critical to ensuring public safety, as any regulatory response could influence water treatment practices nationwide.
Be sure to read: Op-ed: The ghosts in our water
