Findings of more than 140 recent scientific studies collated
Apart from their use in chemical synthesis, active chlorine solutions have a wide range of applications ranging from purification of water for drinking, swimming and cooling to cleaning, bleaching and disinfection. Generally these applications make use of the powerful oxidizing properties of these solutions, and most of the organic matter with which these solutions react during use is oxidized by incorporation of oxygen, dehydrogenation etc.
A small part of the active chlorine, however, can take part in chlorination reactions which createhalogenated organic by-products(also called disinfection by-products or DBPs). The health implications of these by-products have been of particular interest to toxicologists, health professionals and regulators. This was initially because of concerns that they may include, or be similar to, some carcinogenic or asthma causing molecules.
This new Euro Chlor dossier reviews the scientific research exposure profiles and epidemiology of the relevant by-products formed during this current, non-reagent uses of active chlorine solutions. It considers the quantities of halogenated by-products typically produced during the various uses of active chlorine solutions (such as drinking water, swimming pools and cleaning) and assesses their potential impact on human health.
The dossier emphasises that,with correct management and use of these essential biocides, such DBP formation can be effectively minimised. It alsodraws conclusions consistent with the World Health Organisation who continue to emphasise thatstandards of microbial protection of potable water must not be compromised because of concerns about potential risks from disinfection by-products.
The new Science Dossier collates the findings of more than 140 recent scientific studies. It can be downloaded here. The dossier complements one published in 2010 on the environmental impact of such by-products.
Note to editors:
This Science Dossier constitutes the 18th publication in a series of Euro Chlor science publications aiming to improve the understanding of key topics related to the chlorine industry in order to support science-based decision-making. Science Dossiers are dealing with topics related to chlorine chemistry, often in the area of environmental or human health. The Dossiers intend to provide objective scientific information helping to improve the credibility and transparency of the chlorine industry. Many of the Science Dossiers have been the basis for peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals, written by specialists in the field.
Further information:
Marleen Pauwels, Science and Regulatory Affairs Director, tel. +32 2 676 7247, mpa [at] cefic.be
Dirk Clotman, Communications Manager, tel. +32 473 83 79 64, dcn [at] cefic.be
Additional information on the European Chlor-Alkali sector and its scientific publications on www.eurochlor.org/science.
