Barium
Barium is a metal found in rocks and soil. It enters water through mining and industrial processes. High levels can cause cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure.
Barium naturally occurs in many minerals but can concentrate in water due to mining, oil drilling, and industrial discharge. The EPA limits barium in drinking water to 2 mg/L, measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy. While essential in small amounts, excessive barium intake may lead to health issues. Water treatment plants can remove barium through ion exchange or reverse osmosis. Home water softeners may also reduce barium levels in well water.
- People affected
- 189.9M
- Utilities with this contaminant
- 24.5K
- States with this contaminant
- 46
Utilities with the highest levels of this contaminant
| Utility | Service Areas | Level | Population Served | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
LA Lake Zurich | Lake Zurich, IL | 1.096 ppm | 20,022 | View |
HI Hialeah, City Of | Hialeah, FL | 0.940 ppm | 238,000 | View |
SY Sycamore | Sycamore, IL | 0.869 ppm | 17,600 | View |
EN Endicott Municipal Water Works | Endicott (V), NY | 0.661 ppm | 45,000 | View |
CE Cecilia Water Corporation | St. Martin Parish County, LA | 0.640 ppm | 11,949 | View |
VE Vermilion Waterworks District 1 | Vermilion Parish County, LA | 0.590 ppm | 23,490 | View |
WH White City Wid | Salt Lake County, UT | 0.562 ppm | 15,800 | View |
LA Lake In The Hills | Lake In The Hills, IL | 0.561 ppm | 29,228 | View |
SL Slippery Rock Muni Auth | Butler County, PA | 0.559 ppm | 15,778 | View |
HO Horsham Water&Sewer Authority | Montgomery County, PA | 0.543 ppm | 25,000 | View |