Determination of the Odor Threshold Concentrations of Chlorobrominated Anisoles in Water

Trihalophenols, which are drinking water disinfection byproducts (DBPs) formed by chlorination or chloramination practices, can be biomethylated into trihalogenated anisoles. These latter compounds have traditionally been suspected of causing odor episodes in drinking water around the world. The odor threshold concentration (OTC) of mixed chlorobrominated anisoles, which were previously synthesized, was determined by flavor profile analysis (FPA) performed by an experienced panel trained to identify odors and tastes in water. The odor threshold amount (OTA) was evaluated by using a gas chromatograph equipped with olfactometry (GC-O) and electron capture detectors (ECD). FPA results for mixed chlorobromoanisoles gave a theoretical OTCs range from 2 to 30 ng/L, the 2,6-diBr-3Cl-anisole being the most odorous compound. Rubber is the general descriptor described by panelists for these compounds, although earthy and musty are the following most cited descriptors.