Mercury (inorganic)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Mercury is a liquid metal found in natural deposits such as ores containing other elements. The major sources of mercury in drinking water are erosion of natural deposits; discharge from refineries and factories; runoff from landfills; and runoff from croplands.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing mercury well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience kidney damage.

Standard value 1: 
2.00
Standard units 1: 
ppb
Input units: 
ug/L
ppb
Contaminant group: 
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is optional 1: 

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

Major sources in drinking water: 
Erosion of earth materials; Discharge from refineries and factories; Runoff from landfills; Runoff from cropland
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS
The following treatment method(s) have proven to be effective for removing mercury to below 0.002 mg/L or 2 ppb:

  • coagulation/filtration
  • granular activated carbon
  • lime softening
  • reverse osmosis
Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS