Characterization of nonvolatile aqueous chlorination products of humic substances

The effects were studied of chlorination parameters, such as reaction time, chlorine/carbon ratio, pH and source of humic material, on the formation of nonvolatile organic chlorine compounds during the chlorination process. The process was followed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The quantitation procedure for haloforms in the chlorine/fulvic acid reaction consists of air-tight sampling vials, purge and trap techniques and gas chromatography with a microwave plasma emission detector. Chlorine-selection fingerprint studies were undertaken to follow the formation of 17 major chlorinated products. Detailed data are presented on the formation of chloroform, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid and chloral hydrate.