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.
Health Guideline Level (HGL)
0.0001 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:
Health Guideline Level
The HGL 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.
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