Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
Important chemical intermediate in the production of certain pesticides, including heptachlor, chlordane, and dieldrin. It is also used to manufacture flame retardants, dyes, pharmaceuticals, and resins. It is readily volatile, thus all routes of exposure (ingestion, inhalation and dermal) are relevant if one is exposed via drinking water.
Health Guideline Level (HGL)
0.412 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Drinking water standards for hexachlorocyclopentadiene have been developed based on potential kidney and stomach (gastrointestinal) toxicity.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Not naturally occurring, so its presence in surface or groundwater sources can be attributed to human activity
- Primarily enters the environment and drinking water sources through industrial effluent and contaminated wastewater at chemical factories that produce or use it, or the use of pesticides that contain it as an impurity
- Additional source may be the release of contaminated waste streams from water treatment plants
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Hexachlorocyclopentadiene:
Health Guideline Level
The HGL represents the maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest scientific research. It's often more protective than federal legal limits.
Contaminant Type
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene is classified as a SVOCs contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the kidneys, gastrointestinal.
Check Your Water
Find out if Hexachlorocyclopentadiene is in your tap water.
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