New Catalyst Removes Perchlorate from Groundwater

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Press Release, 11 Sep 2006 Found in solid-rocket fuel, roadside flares and fireworks, perchlorate is a dangerous contaminant that can disrupt thyroid function by interfering with the uptake of iodine. Infants and fetuses are believed to be particularly at risk from the effects of perchlorate exposure. Because perchlorate is readily soluble in water, it can be transported vast distances in groundwater or rivers. Scientists at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed a new chemical catalyst that uses hydrogen gas to efficiently remove and destroy harmful perchlorate in contaminated groundwater. Read more