Major Findings
In December of 2019 and January of 2020, researchers from Purdue University conducted a study to look for chlorinated volatile organic compounds like PCE in water, air, and exhaled breath in Martinsville. Researchers collected samples from 10 homes and 39 residents.
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The samples were analyzed and PCE was detected in all the water and exhaled breath samples. PCE was also found in 66% of the indoor air samples (6 out of 9 homes) and 100% of the tap water samples (all ten homes, at very low levels). No other volatile organic compounds were detected in the collected samples. Though only one home’s indoor air measured above the EPA’s action limit for PCE concentration, elevated levels in exhaled breath were observed among individuals living both on and off the Superfund site.
If you would like to read the publication about this research, please click here.
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The project team has been testing municipal and private well water samples since 2019. PCE was not detected in any of the water samples collected since 2021 (detailed results to be disseminated soon).
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The project team has also conducted a study to examine the low level of PCE exposure and its effect on academic skills and behavioral performance among children living in the greater Martinsville area. Testing results of neurological and behavioral performances were mailed to the participants’ families in March 2023. The overall results without personal identifiable information will be disseminated in the community soon.