About Chlorobenzene
What is Chlorobenzene?
Chlorobenzene is a colorless organic compound with an almond-like odor. The substance is flammable and soluble in most organic solvents. The chemical formula for chlorobenzene is C6H5CI. It is commonly used as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals.
What Types of Industrial Uses Does it Have?
The primary use for the substance is as an intermediate for the manufacturing of other chemicals like pesticides, rubber, and dyestuffs. Chlorobenzene is also used as a solvent for different products including drugs, paints, adhesives, and dry cleaning.
How Does Chlorobenzene Get into Your Drinking Water?
The principal cause of drinking water contamination is the discharge of the substance from agricultural and chemical factories near water systems. Runoff due to heavy rainfall also contributes to the contamination of water systems.
What are the Health Risks Associated with Chlorobenzene?
The consumption of chlorobenzene-contaminated drinking water may result in health problems with the liver and kidneys. Exposure to high levels of chlorobenzene may affect the nervous system of an individual.
How Common is Chlorobenzene in Water?
The substance is common in water systems near agricultural and chemical factories that are using the chemical compound in their operation.
What is the EPA’s Contamination Level Standards for Chlorobenzene in Drinking Water?
The EPA’s drinking water regulations for chlorobenzene is at 0.1 mg/L or 100 ppb. Any reading above the MCLG and MCL must be taken seriously to prevent the health risks associated with chlorobenzene-contaminated drinking water.
What is the Best Reduction Media for Removing Chlorobenzene from Drinking Water?
Packed tower aeration is an effective water treatment method for removing chlorobenzene. The use of this water purification methodology in combination with granular activated carbon can remove the pollutant to below 0.1 mg/L or 100 ppb. AquaOx’s multistage water filter systems can safely remove chlorobenzene and other chemicals from your drinking water. Get a water filter today and enjoy the health benefits of safe and clean drinking water!
From The Agency of Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Chlorobenzene is a colorless liquid with an almondlike odor. The compound does not occur widely in nature, but is manufactured for use as a solvent (a substance used to dissolve other substances) and is used in the production of other chemicals. Chlorobenzene persists in soil (several months), in air (3.5 days), and water (less than 1 day).
For more information, contact:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences
1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop F-57
Atlanta, GA 30333
Phone: 1-800-CDC-INFO · 888-232-6348 (TTY)
ATSDR can also tell you the location of occupational and environmental health clinics. These clinics specialize in recognizing, evaluating, and treating illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances.