Thallium

GENERAL INFORMATION
Thallium is a metal found in natural deposits such as ores containing other elements. The major sources of thallium in drinking water are leaching from ore-processing sites; and discharge from electronics, glass, and drug factories.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing thallium well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience hair loss, changes in their blood, or problems with their kidneys, intestines, or liver problems.

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
Thallium levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.

Major sources in drinking water: 
Leaching from ore-processing sites; Discharge from electronics, glass, and drug factories and erosion of earth materials
Treatment options: 

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

  • activated alumina
  • ion exchange
Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS