haloacetonitriles

Haloacetonitriles are a class of organic compounds that contain a nitrile group (-CN) attached to a halogenated acetic acid derivative. They are typically formed through the chlorination or bromination ofnopropionic esters or by the reaction of these esters with hypochlorous acid.

These compounds are known to be potential disinfection byproducts (DBPs) that can form in drinking water during the chlorination or ozonation of organic matter. The formation of haloacetonitriles is often linked to the presence of organic materials such as humic and fulvic acids, which can react with water treatment chemicals to produce these toxic compounds.

The health effects of haloacetonitriles have been the subject of extensive research. While the exact toxicological profile of these compounds is not yet fully understood, studies have suggested that they may cause a range of health problems, including genotoxicity, cardiovasscular damage, and gastrointestinal effects. Some haloacetonitriles, such as dichloroacetonitrile, have been shown to be mutagenic in laboratory tests, raising concerns about their potential to cause cancer.

In 1998, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began to investigate the health risks associated with haloacetonitriles and other DBPs. As a result, many water utilities began to switch from traditional chlorine disinfection to alternative methods such as ozone or ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection. However, the formation of haloacetonitriles can still occur in some circumstances, highlighting the need for ongoing research into the chemistry and health effects of these compounds.