Uranium
Uranium is a weakly radioactive heavy metal found naturally in bedrock and used in nuclear weapons, some ceramics, electron microscopy stains, photography toners, and certain fertilizers. Uranium is weakly radioactive because all of its isotopes (Uranium-234, Uranium-235, and Uranium-238) are unstable. Ninety-nine percent of naturally existing uranium is in the isotope form uranium-238. The EPA has established a maximum contaminant level for uranium in drinking water in response to human and animal studies indicating kidney toxicity and and increased risk of cancer.
EPA MCLG Level
0 ug/L
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Health protective benchmarks for uranium are based on adverse kidney system effects observed in both humans and animals and an increased risk of cancer. Animal studies have also shown female reproductive system and developmental toxicity, as well as genotoxicity, related to uranium exposure.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Uranium is found widely in nature, and most often enters source waters through the leaching of mineral deposits like granite. Higher levels are usually found in groundwater that runs through bedrock as opposed to in surface water. Uranium may also be released into water through human sources including mill tailings, emissions from the nuclear industry, fuel combustion, and the use of certain phosphate fertilizers.
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Uranium:
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
Uranium is classified as a Metals contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the kidneys, carcinogens.
Check Your Water
Find out if Uranium is in your tap water.
Search Your CityTest Your Water for This Contaminant
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