Xylenes

GENERAL INFORMATION
A xylene is any of a group of very similar organic compounds. They are clear liquids with a sweet odor. The greatest use of xylenes is as a solvent which is much safer than benzene. Other uses include: in gasoline as part of the BTX component (benzene-toluene-xylene); Xylene mixtures are used to make phthalate plasticizers, polyester fiber, film and fabricated items. The major sources of xylenes in drinking water are discharge from petroleum factories; and discharge from chemical factories.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing xylenes well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience damage to their nervous system.

Standard value 1: 
10.00
Standard units 1: 
ppm
Input units: 
mg/L
ppm
Contaminant group: 
VOC
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is recommended 1: 

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

Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Xylene 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: 
Discharge from petroleum factories; Discharge from chemical factories
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

  • ODH Health Assessment Fact Sheet - BTEX
  • ATSDR ToxFAQs Fact Sheet - Xylene