Volatile chlorinated and non-chlorinated compounds occur in both untreated and treated drinking water. Because volatilization is restricted, ground waters rather than surface waters are more likely to have high concentrations of these compounds. This document reviews properties, occurrence, and experience, particularly laboratory and pilot scale, with the control of the following compounds: tri- and tetrachloroethylene; cis- and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene; 1,1-dichloroethylene; vinyl and methylene chloride; 1,1,1-tri-chloroethane; 1,2-dichloroethane; carbon tetrachloride; benzene; chlorobenzene; 1,2-, 1,3-, and 1,4-dichlorobenzene; and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene. Conventional water treatment will not generally reduce the concentrations of these compounds, but they can be reduced by aeration, adsorption on granular activated carbon or synthetic resins, or combinations of these processes. Boiling can also be effective for home treatment of these contaminants.

"May 1983." Includes bibliographical references." "EPA 600/8-83-019."