PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls - aka Aroclor, Arochlor)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Polychlorinated biphenyls are a group of organic chemicals which can be odorless or mildly aromatic solids or oily liquids. Polychlorinated biphenyls were formerly used in the United States as hydraulic fluids, plasticizers, adhesives, fire retardants, way extenders, de-dusting agents, pesticide extenders, inks, lubricants, cutting oils, in heat transfer systems, carbonless reproducing paper. The major sources of polychlorinated biphenyls in drinking water are runoff from landfills; and discharge of waste chemicals.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing polychlorinated biphenyls well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience changes in their skin, problems with their thymus gland, immune deficiencies, or reproductive or nervous system difficulties, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

Standard value 1: 
0.50
Standard units 1: 
ppb
Input units: 
ug/L
ppb
Contaminant group: 
SVOC
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is recommended 1: 

MCL ADVISORY - ACTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Polychlorinated biphenyls levels were detected in your water sample to exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL).

Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Polychlorinated biphenyls levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.

Typical range in Ohio: 
detection suggest human source
Major sources in drinking water: 
Runoff from landfills; Discharge of waste chemicals
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) or Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) are considered the best available technologies (BAT) for treatment of many organic contaminants including organic pesticides, volatile organic compound (VOCs), and Trihalomethanes (THMs) (by-products of chlorination). Treatment can be at the tap (called point of use or POU) or the entire house.

Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS