Chloroacetaldehyde

Similar term(s): chloroaldehyde, chloroethanal, monochloroacetaldehyde, 2-chloro-1-ethanal, 2-chloroacetaldehyde, 2-chloroethanal.

C2H₃ClO. In the organic class of haloaldehydes. A colorless liquid with an acrid, penetrating odor.

Source: GreenFacts

Small amounts can be found in chlorinated drinking water as a water disinfectant byproduct as a consequence of the reaction of chlorine with natural organic matter in the raw water supply (from lake, reservoirs, rivers etc). Chloroacetaldehyde is used for, and during, the manufacture of certain chemicals. It is also used as a pesticide, as a preservative and for removing bark from tree trunks.

Chlorine - Haloaldehydes - Natural organic matter - Water disinfection by-product(s)

Water Disinfectants