Thallium
Highly toxic metal produced as a byproduct of smelting and coal-burning facilities and then used primarily in the manufacture of electronic devices. Thallium is frequently found combined with other substances such as bromine, chlorine, fluorine, and iodine to form salts.
EPA MCLG Level
0.5 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Drinking water standards for thallium are set to protect against hair loss, changes in blood chemistry, and kidney, intestine, and liver problems from long-term exposure. Thallium is highly toxic and can be fatal at relatively low doses.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- While thallium is a naturally occurring metal found in the environment at very low concentrations, thallium levels in drinking water have risen due to human activity including coal burning, smelting operations, cement manufacturing, and iron and steel production
- Thallium compounds mix easily in water, so chemical waste from thallium-emitting industries pose a contamination risk to nearby drinking water
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Thallium:
EPA MCLG Level
The EPA MCLG represents the maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest scientific research. It's often more protective than federal legal limits.
Contaminant Type
Thallium is classified as a Metals contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the kidneys, gastrointestinal, and other systems.
Check Your Water
Find out if Thallium is in your tap water.
Search Your CityTest Your Water for This Contaminant
Public water reports may not test frequently enough or at your specific tap. Professional home testing provides current, location-specific results.
SimpleLab
Standard Home Water Test
$232
Comprehensive water analysis testing over 200 contaminants including bacteria, heavy metals, and chemical compounds.
SimpleLab
Advanced Home Water Test
$369
Most comprehensive home water test including all standard tests plus additional parameters for ultimate peace of mind.
Tap Score
Advanced Microplastics Test
$636
Cutting-edge testing for microplastics particles in drinking water using advanced laboratory techniques.