Trihalomethanes

Trihalomethanes are a group of chemical substances that are formed by the reaction of organic compounds with chlorine in the water environment, especially in drinking water and pool water. These substances are known for their potential carcinogenicity and therefore it is important to monitor their presence in drinking water.

Types of trihalomethanes: There are several types of trihalomethanes, the most common being chloroform (CHCl3), bromoform (CHBr3), bromodichloromethane (CHBrCl2), and dibromochloromethane (CHBr2Cl). These substances can form in drinking water that contains organic compounds such as humic acid and is treated with chlorine.

Use: Trihalomethanes have no direct use. Their presence is associated with chemical reactions that take place during water treatment with chlorine. They are primarily found in drinking water, swimming pool waters and water systems.

Pros / Cons: Trihalomethanes are potentially carcinogenic, meaning exposure to them can increase your risk of developing cancer. Therefore, it is important to minimize their presence in drinking water. On the other hand, their formation is a by-product of water treatment with chlorine, which is important to ensure drinking water free of microorganisms and pathogens. Therefore, it is a challenge to achieve a balance between the disinfection of drinking water and the minimization of the formation of trihalomethanes.

Alternative water treatments such as ozonation or ultraviolet radiation, which do not produce the same amount of these substances as chlorination, can be used to reduce trihalomethane levels. Such measures can help ensure clean and safe drinking water.
​