Antimony

GENERAL INFORMATION
Antimony is found naturally in the environment. The general public is exposed to low levels of it every day, primarily in food, drinking water, and air. It may be found in in the air near industries that process or release it, such as smelters, coal-fired plants, and refuse incinerators. High levels of antimony can be found in the air, water and soil in polluted areas.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing antimony well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience increases in blood cholesterol and decreases in blood sugar. Ingesting large doses can cause vomiting. Antimony can have beneficial effects when used for medical reasons. It has been used to treat people infected with parasites.

Standard value 1: 
6.00
Standard units 1: 
ppb
Input units: 
ug/L
ppb
Contaminant group: 
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Antimony levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.

Typical range in Ohio: 
< 200
Major sources in drinking water: 
Discharge from petroleum refineries; fire retardants; ceramics; electronics; solder; and natural sources
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS
The following treatment method(s) have proven to be effective for removing antimony to below 0.006 mg/L or 6 ppb:

  • coagulation/filtration
  • reverse osmosis
Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS