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Water NDMA Analysis

N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a B-2 carcinogen and an emerging contaminant. The EPA has published Method 521 for analyzing the amount of NDMA in drinking water and established a laboratory approval process, according to the California Department of Public Health. The method is 99 percent effective in testing water samples, according to EPA's National Exposure Research Laboratory.

  1. Considerations

    • A B-2 carcinogen classification means the chemical is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. The EPA defines an emerging contaminant as a chemical or material that lacks published health standards or may pose a threat to human life or the environment.

    History

    • NDMA was formerly used in the production of rocket fuel, antioxidants and commercially produced copolymers. Subsequently, NDMA is only used for research purposes.

    Effects

    • NDMA is an unintended byproduct of the chlorination of wastewater used in wastewater treatment facilities that effects drinking water. The chemical byproduct is highly mobile in soil and may leach into ground water.

    Warning

    • California requires removal and notification to governing bodies and the consumer if NDMA exceeds the de minimis level and removal if the level is 100 times the de minimis level, according to Cal.gov. the California Department of Public Health.

    Solution

    • The accepted treatment for NDMA water contamination is ultraviolet radiation ranging in wave lengths between 225 nanometers to 250 nanometers.

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