HILO, Hawaiʻi – Low levels of an industrial solvent, 1-chloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)-benzene (PCBTF), have been detected in the drinking water system at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, officials announced Monday. While the chemical is not currently regulated in drinking water, authorities assure the public that current information does not suggest an acute health risk at the detected concentration, and the park’s water system continues to meet all federal and state safety standards.
The substance, commonly known as PCBTF, was found at a concentration of 2.57 micrograms per liter ($\mu$g/L) in a water sample collected on April 8, 2025, from the Volcano Catchment Chlorinator, which serves Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island. The park’s water system, owned by the U.S. Department of the Interior, formally notified the Hawaiʻi Department of Health of the detection on May 23, 2025.
What is PCBTF?
PCBTF is an industrial solvent used in various applications, including paints, coatings, adhesives, inks, and industrial cleaning formulations. It is often utilized as a low-VOC (volatile organic compound) alternative to other solvents. While widely used, toxicity data for PCBTF specifically related to drinking water exposure is limited, and there is no established federal or state maximum contaminant level (MCL) or state environmental action level (EAL) for the substance.
Assessing the Risk
Despite the detection, the Hawaiʻi Department of Health emphasizes that the current levels do not pose an acute health risk. The park’s water system remains in full compliance with all federal and state drinking water standards.
For park visitors and residents, understanding the detection of unregulated chemicals can be concerning. However, the immediate assessment indicates no pressing danger. Continued monitoring and evaluation of such substances are crucial for public health and environmental safety.
Next Steps and Public Information
The Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park water system is the point of contact for impacted users seeking more information. This public announcement was issued in accordance with Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes §340E-24(b), ensuring transparency regarding water quality in public systems.