Trifluralin

Trifluralin is a commonly used herbicide for the control of broad-leaf weeds in a wide range of areas, including grasses, crops, flowers and shrubs. A 2007 estimate by the EPA ranks it among the top ten pesticides used in homes and gardens. Although it is still used in the United States, it has been banned in the European Union since 2008.

Trufluralin can arrive in drinking water through agricultural runoff.

Health Effects of Trifluralin

There is little known about the human health effects of trifluralin. It has a low acute toxicity, but animal studies have shown that long term exposure can lead to weight loss and changes in the blood and liver. The EPA considers it a possible human carcinogen.

Water Treatment for Trifluralin

According to the EPA, trifluralin can be treated with granular activated carbon (GAC), reverse osmosis, and possibly air stripping.

Source: EPA (1), EPA (2), EPA (3), EPA (4), WHO, Wikipedia, Photo: geograph.org.uk, author: Walter Baxter