1,4-Dioxane is a synthetic chemical used in manufacturing. It enters water through industrial discharge and is difficult to remove with standard treatment. It's a potential carcinogen.

1,4-Dioxane is primarily used as a solvent stabilizer in industrial processes. It enters water systems through factory discharges and leaching from landfills. This chemical is highly mobile in soil and doesn't readily biodegrade, making it persistent in the environment. Conventional water treatment methods are ineffective at removing it, requiring advanced techniques like advanced oxidation. While classified as a probable human carcinogen, regulatory standards are still evolving. Monitoring and research continue to assess its prevalence and potential risks.