Perchlorate
Avoid Perchlorate
A perchlorate is the name for a chemical compound containing the perchlorate ion, ClO. The majority of perchlorates are produced commercially. Perchlorate salts are mainly used for propellants, exploiting properties as powerful oxidizing agents and to control static electricity in food packaging. Perchlorate contamination in food, water and other parts of the environment has been studied in the U.S. because of its harmful effects on human health. Perchlorate reduces thyroid hormone production in the thyroid gland.
The main application is for rocket fuel. The reaction of perchloric acid with bases, such as ammonium hydroxide give salts. The highly valued ammonium perchlorate can be produced electrochemically. Perchlorate is used to control static electricity. It stops statically charged food from clinging to plastic.
Perchlorate has been detected in rain and snow samples from Lubbock, Texas, and Florida. Low levels of perchlorate have been detected in both drinking water and groundwater in 26 states in the U.S., according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). the chemical was found in cow's milk in California.
In large amounts perchlorate interferes with iodine uptake into the thyroid gland. In adults, the thyroid gland helps regulate the metabolism by releasing hormones, while in children, the thyroid helps in proper development. In 2006, a study reported a statistical association between environmental levels of perchlorate and changes in thyroid hormones of women with low iodine. Perchlorate has lung symptoms: inflammatory infiltrates, alveolar collapse, subpleural thickening, and lymphocyte proliferation.
