- More than 2 years ago
A disinfectant used by U.S. water utilities dissolves lead in laboratory experiments. The finding bolsters the notion that the disinfectant, called monochloramine, may be responsible for increased lead in some drinking-water supplies.
Utilities have traditionally disinfected drinking water with chlorine. However, the chemical can react with organic compounds in water, generating by-products that include suspected cancer-causing agents.