PERCHLORATE: ECOLOGICAL AND HUMAN HEALTH EFFECTS

摘要

Perchlorate is an anion that originates from the solid salts of ammonium, potassium, or sodium perchlorate. It is naturally occurring in nitrate-rich mineral deposits used in fertilizers and a man-made chemical as the primary ingredient of solid rocket propellant, or n salts used as components of airbag inflators and in the manufacture of pyrotechnics and explosives. It is also a laboratory waste by-product of perchloric acid. It can be found in groundwater, surface water, soil, vegetation, and/or crops. Its potential toxicity to ecological receptors is under active research. The purpose of this presentation is to provide a synopsis of ecotoxicity data. The potential toxicity of perchlorate in humans is currently under widespread debate. A short overview of the human health effects issues related to exposure to perchlorate will also be presented. Key points with regard to comparative risk and risk management issues related to both ecological and human health effects will also be discussed.