What is perchlorate and what are its primary sources in drinking water?

Perchlorate is a chemical contaminant primarily found in drinking water originating from military sites, rocket fuel manufacturing, and naturally occurring in soil from arid regions. It is known to interfere with thyroid hormone production, posing a health concern. The EPA has established a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 0.056 mg/L (56 ppb) for perchlorate as of 2024.

What is the current EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) for perchlorate in drinking water?

As of 2024, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 0.056 mg/L, or 56 parts per billion (ppb), for perchlorate in public drinking water systems. This regulation aims to protect public health from the adverse effects of perchlorate exposure, particularly its impact on thyroid function.

What are the effective methods for removing perchlorate from water?

Proven technologies for effective perchlorate removal from drinking water include reverse osmosis (RO) and ion exchange systems. AMPAC USA designs and manufactures commercial and industrial-grade RO and ion exchange systems capable of reducing perchlorate levels to meet regulatory standards. Our engineers leverage direct field experience from installations worldwide to implement these solutions.

Has the occurrence of perchlorate in US public water systems changed over time?

Yes, studies indicate that the extent and degree of perchlorate occurrence in large US public water systems have decreased since the initial Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 1) data collection between 2001 and 2005. This finding suggests that the UCMR 1 dataset is no longer fully representative, prompting regulatory bodies to periodically re-evaluate conditions.

Why is perchlorate a concern in drinking water?

Perchlorate is a concern in drinking water because it interferes with the human body's thyroid hormone production, which is vital for metabolism, growth, and development. Exposure, particularly in vulnerable populations, can lead to health issues related to thyroid dysfunction. The EPA's 2024 maximum contaminant level of 0.056 mg/L reflects this recognized health risk.

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May 27, 2019·1 min read

Water Filter Water Treatment

Review of perchlorate occurrence in large public drinking water systems in the United States of America

Sammy FaragAMPAC USA — May 27, 2019

Review of perchlorate occurrence in large public drinking water systems in the United States of America

By Sammy Farag . May 27, 2019

Quick Answer: Perchlorate is a chemical that can get into your drinking water. You’ll find it around military sites, places that make rocket fuel, and even naturally in dry, arid soil. It messes with how your thyroid produces hormones. In 2024, the EPA set a limit of 0.056 mg/L (that’s 56 ppb) for perchlorate. Good news, though, reverse osmosis and ion exchange are proven ways to get rid of it.

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Source: Water Feed