Arsenic is an ever growing concern hopefully this is helpful.
Arsenic has been an ever present contaminant in ground water. In fact it is said that over 20% of groundwater wells in the US have arsenic levels present. To many what is unknown or confusing would be the risks, sources and solutions associated with arsenic contamination. This article is an attempt to bust the myth of Arsenic.
WHAT IS ARSENIC
Arsenic atomic number 33 is a chemical element on the periodic table that has the symbol As is a semi metal. Arsenic enters the groundwater supply through natural deposits in the earth’s crust as a byproduct of agricultural and/or industrial practices. Arsenic is a Group 1 Carcinogen.
SOURCES OF ARSENIC
About ninety percent of industrial arsenic is used in the preservation of wood. However, Arsenic is also used either as an additive or binder in paints, dyes, metals, drugs, soaps, herbicides, pesticides, insecticides, pesticides and growth stimulators. Although manufacturs are working on reducing human exposure it is still very prevalent. In the 1880's to 1910 Arsenic was used as one of the main components in human embalming. This has created pockets of arsenic in and around older cemeteries. Until the late 1990's arsenic was still being used as a growth stimulant for agricultural purposes as well as being used to manufacture glass.As with any contaminant, landfills are always a hot spot.
POISONING AND SYMPTOMS
Arsenic interferes with cellular longevity. Symptoms include headache, confusion, drowsiness, convulsions, fingernail pigmentation, diarrhea, vomiting, blood in urine and stomach pain among others. There are many health factors associated with arsenic poisoning including but not limited too the following; cancer, high blood pressure, multi organ system failure, nervous system dysfunction, coma and death.
DIAGNOSTICS AND TREATMENT
Diagnostic options include measuring arsenic levels within the blood, urine, hair and fingernails. The urine test is the most accurate for recent exposure and can be preformed within 24-48 hours. For treatment options it is best to consult your physician or a specialist.
REMEDIATION/ FILTRATION METHODS OF ARSENIC IN GROUNDWATER
The maximum contamination level of arsenic in groundwater according to the EPA is 0.10 PPM (parts per million). Remediation recommendations are absorption media, ion exchange, coagulation/filtration, oxidation/ filtration and point of use Reverse Osmosis. It is always recommended to consult with a Water filtration specialist when dealing with Arsenic 
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This Artical was written by Ashley Connolly Operations Manager @ Northeast Water Wells Inc
Hudson, NH Jaffrey, NH Marlboro, MA
Serving all of Massachusetts and New Hampshire Since 1966
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