Bromoform

Also known as Methyl tribromide or Tribromomethane, bromoform is a colorless liquid substance with chemical formula CHBr₃. It is a nonflammable liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. Bromoform is a member of the trihalomethanes and rated as an unfounded non-carcinogenic (IARC 3) potentially toxic compound. The organic compound is denser than water and soluble in water.

The colorless liquid is a common ingredient used in making solvents, in the production of pharmaceuticals, and the other chemicals. Despite its use in the laboratory and medical field, industrial production of bromoform in the United States is at its minimum.

Although small amounts of bromoform in drinking water does not lead to health problems, studies on animals show that the contaminant may harm the liver and kidney. Long-term exposure to the contaminant may lead to severe health issues, including liver and kidney cancer.

The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for bromoform in drinking water is 0.080 mg/L or 80 ppb. The Environmental Protection Agency’s MCLG for the contaminant is zero. A higher level of bromoform in drinking water is dangerous to human health.

There are water filter systems that can remove bromoform and other trihalomethanes from your tap water. The effective way to remove bromoform from drinking water is with the use of granular activated carbon and aeration techniques. Since not every water filter system can remove bromoform from your drinking water, it’s essential to find out which water filter unit can help you safeguard your loved ones from the contaminant.