Perchlorate

Perchlorate occurs naturally in the environment, in nitrate and potassium deposits; it can also be formed in the atmosphere and deposited as precipitation in the soil and groundwater. It is also a pollutant whose presence in the environment is due to the use of nitrate-based fertilisers and the manufacture, use and disposal of ammonium perchlorate, which is used in propellants, explosives, fireworks, rockets, airbags and other industrial processes. Perchlorate can also be formed during the breakdown of sodium hypochlorite, used to disinfect water, and can contaminate tap water. Water, soil and fertilisers are considered potential sources of perchlorate contamination of foodstuffs.