Chloroform

Chloroform is a colorless, organic compound with a sweet and ether-like odor. The volatile liquid with chemical formula CHCI₃ is one of the chloromethanes and a trihalomethane. Chloroform is a non-flammable, organic compound that is slightly soluble and denser than water. It is present in spearmint.

Chloroform is a colorless substance used as a solvent in the pharmaceutical industries as well as an intermediate applied to dissolve other chemicals. The organic compound is also an effective solvent for alkaloids, resins, fats, oils, adhesives, rubber, floor polishes, and lacquer. Chloroform is also used in a pesticide, film production, and the paper and board industries.

Chloroform is extremely dangerous to human health. A person who drinks chloroform-contaminated water may experience fatigue, headache, and dizziness. In levels above the MCL, consuming contaminated drinking water may lead to liver damages, brain, kidney, heart, and bone marrow issues. Prolonged exposure to contaminated water may also cause damages to the central nervous system. An individual may become unconscious if exposed to higher levels of chloroform in tap water. Prolonged exposure to levels above the EPA’s regulated standard is fatal.

The MCLG or Maximum Contaminant Level Goal for chloroform in drinking water is 0.07 mg/L. The EPA regulates water systems in the United States to ensure safe drinking water for the public.

If you have chloroform in your tap water, heating or boiling water can remove at least 69% of the contaminant from the water. Since chloroform is a byproduct of the chlorination process, you can remove it using an air convention tank with a carbon bed system.