1,2-Dichloroethylene

1,2 Dichloroethylene is a highly flammable liquid, with no color and sharp odor, it’s chemical formula is C2H2Cl2.
It is found in two chemical forms, called geometric isomers.
Cis-1,2-dichloroethene or trans-1,2-dichloroethene
Both have some solubility in water and have industrial uses.

It is usually used as a solvent for waxes and resins;
In the extraction of rubber, as a refrigerant, in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and artificial pearls, in the extraction of oils and fats from fish and meat and also to make other organics compounds.

It can be called 1,2-DCE, Acetylene dichloride.

The cis form of 1,2-1,2-dichloroethene is the most common form of water contaminant, it is found in wastewater and anaerobic groundwater.
The presence of this form can indicate that the water may contain more contaminants, like vinyl chloride.
The cis form is metabolized faster than the trans-form. If the excretion rate of the chemical is similar to the contamination rate the damage won’t be high.
But if the contamination dosage is bigger, than the health effects will escalate too.
The symptoms can be:
Central nervous system depression.
Neurological effects, including nausea, drowsiness, fatigue, and vertigo have been reported following exposure to lower levels
A burning sensation in the eyes, Cough, Sore throat, Dizziness, Nausea, Drowsiness, Weakness, Unconsciousness, Vomiting, Redness, and pain were also reported.

The EPA has found that short term exposure of the cis form can cause central nervous system depression, and a long term exposure of both cis and trans-1,2-DCE can cause circulatory and nervous system damage.
Because of that information, the amount of 1,2- in drinking water has been regulated.
The MCLs have also been set at 0.07 ppm for the cis form, and 0.1 ppm for the trans form.
There are drinking water standards and rules to ensure the population health.