Trichloroacetic acid

By spacecadet200 | August 14, 2020

IUPAC Name: 2,2,2-trichloroacetic acid

MCL: 0.02 ppm

Source: Forms as a byproduct of drinking water disinfection processes.

Summary: Trichloroacetic acid (TCAA) is a member of the haloacetic acids, specifically it is a member of the HAA5 disinfection byproducts. It is the conjugate acid of trichloroacetate. It has a solubility in water of 54,000 mg/L at 25 C and has a pKa of 0.51. Upon decomposition it produces toxic fumes of hydrogen chloride and sodium oxide. It is classified as a caustic. Formerly used as a herbicide, trichloroacetic acid has applications in laboratories as a caustic, and also in the medical field for the same purpose. It may also form as a byproduct of drinking water treatment processes.

GHS Hazard Statement: H303, H314, H318, H335, H336