Perchlorates are the salts derived from perchloric acid (HClO4). They occur both naturally and through manufacturing. They have been used as a medicine for more than 50 years to treat thyroid gland disorders and are used extensively within the pyrotechnics industry, and ammonium perchlorate is also a component of solid rocket fuel. This book presents current research data from across the globe in the study of perchlorates, their production, uses, and health effects. Some topics discussed, herein, are: trends in the study of the electrochemical stability of perchlorate ions; the structural and vibrational properties of chromyl perchlorate; perchlorate formation in electrochemical water disinfection; metal perchlorates as Lewis acids; alkaline earth metal perchlorates; and removal of perchlorate from water.

Based on a symposium sponsored by the Environmental Division of the American Chemical Society, Perchlorate in the Environment is the first comprehensive book to address perchlorate as a potable water contaminant. The two main topics are: analytical chemistry (focusing on ion chromatography and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry), and treatment or remediation. Also included are topics such as ion exchange, phytoremediation, bacterial reduction of perchlorate, bioreactors, and in situ bioremediation. To provide complete coverage, background chapters on fundamental chemistry, toxicology, and reulatory issues are also included. The authors are environmental consultants, government researchers, industry experts, and university professors from a wide array of disciplines.