Vinyl chloride is a synthetic chemical used in PVC production. It can leach from plastic pipes or enter water from industrial spills. Exposure increases cancer risk.

Vinyl chloride is a colorless, flammable gas used primarily in PVC manufacturing. It can contaminate water through industrial discharges or by leaching from PVC pipes. As a volatile organic compound, it can evaporate from water into air. The EPA classifies it as a known human carcinogen and regulates its levels in drinking water. Detection typically involves gas chromatography. Treatment methods include air stripping and activated carbon filtration. Industrial use began in the 1920s, with health risks recognized by the 1970s.