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Effects of stable chlorine-containing organics on aquatic environments

Abstract

DURING 1962, approximately 60,000 tons of chlorine were added to the effluents of sewage treatment plants in the United States1 and subsequently released to surface waters. By 1970, it was estimated that 100,000 tons of chlorine were added annually, and the quantity will continue to increase as municipalities are required2 to provide at least secondary treatment for sewage by July 1, 1977 (ref. 3). Principal reactions of chlorine in natural waters, besides hydrolysis, are with ammonia and organic amines4,5. Reactive chlorine residuals, for example, hypochlorites, inorganic and organic chloramines, are characterised by reactive chlorine which would decompose or be consumed in various chemical reactions5. Jolley3 has identified seventeen stable chlorine-containing organic compounds at low μg 1−1 concentrations in chlorine-treated sewage effluent. The persistent nature of these compounds, which are characterised by chemically stable or inert C–Cl bonds, suggests potential for their accumulation in receiving surface waters6,7.

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GEHRS, C., EYMAN, L., JOLLEY, R. et al. Effects of stable chlorine-containing organics on aquatic environments. Nature 249, 675–676 (1974). https://doi.org/10.1038/249675b0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/249675b0

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