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Mysterious Chemical Byproduct Found in U.S. Tap Water Raises Health Concerns

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Chloronitramide Anion Structure

A recent study has uncovered a previously unidentified chemical byproduct, known as chloronitramide anion, present in the tap water of approximately one-third of U.S. homes. This substance is a degradation product of chloramine, a disinfectant used to treat water and make it safe for human consumption. Chloramine, a mixture of chlorine and ammonia, has been trusted for about a hundred years to eliminate pathogens from water supplies.

The discovery was made by analyzing 40 samples from 10 U.S. chlorinated drinking water systems across seven states. The researchers found chloronitramide anion in all the samples. While the exact toxicity of this compound is yet to be determined, its molecular structure suggests it could be hazardous due to its similarity to other toxic molecules and its ability to enter biological systems and cells.

Experts like David Reckhow, a research professor at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and Julian Fairey, the study’s lead author from the University of Arkansas, emphasize the need for further research to understand the potential health risks associated with this compound. The investigation into its toxicological relevance is expected to be a long-term process, potentially spanning a decade, once funding is secured.

The finding has also raised questions about the safety of chloramine as a disinfection method compared to chlorine. David Andrews from the Environmental Working Group noted that while chloramine has been considered safer, this new discovery challenges that assumption. The study highlights that any treatment of drinking water involves some level of health risk, despite the crucial role these processes play in preventing waterborne diseases.

Water utilities are advised to take the ongoing research into account and minimize public exposure to the compound until more definitive conclusions can be drawn. Many U.S. water utilities provide information on their websites regarding whether the supplied water is treated with chlorine or chloramine, helping consumers make informed decisions about their water consumption.

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