Nitrosaminas: presença, efeitos e métodos de tratamento no ambiente aquático

Abstract

Nitrosamines are a class of chemical compounds that have a nitroso group attached to an amine group. They can be formed both naturally and by human activities, and can be found in various consumer products, such as processed foods, chlorinated drinking water and cosmetics. Their physicochemical properties vary according to their substituents. Nitrosamines pose a significant risk to human health due to their carcinogenic potential, which can cause genetic damage and increase the risk of developing cancer in humans. In addition, environmental imbalances caused by the presence of nitrosamines include contamination of drinking water and water bodies, reduced water quality and disruption of biogeochemical cycles. It is therefore essential to assess and monitor the presence and concentrations of nitrosamines in the environment, as well as to implement effective measures to minimise the environmental imbalances caused by these compounds. Nitrosamines can be determined using techniques such as spectrophotometry, chromatography, chemiluminescence and potentiometry. The research covers the impacts on human and environmental health, highlighting the need to understand the mechanisms for establishing effective strategies, strengthening legislation and more sustainable practices to guarantee a future with environmental balance; in other words, where human activities do not cause significant damage to the environment, minimising negative impacts on ecosystems, wildlife, air and water quality, and protecting natural resources for future generations.