Concernes About Radioactivity in Drinking Water

March 29, 2011 - PRLog -- Radioactivity Concerns in Drinking Water

Multi-Pure Addresses Radioactivity Concerns in Drinking Water as a Result of Damage to the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan.

Andrew Fenwick, PhD, Vice President of Technical Services, Multi-Pure International suggests these resources for concerned customers:

(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)

- Radionuclides (i.e. sources of radioactivity) in Air and Water: http://www.epa.gov/rpdweb00/air-water-overview.html


- Radionuclides in Water: http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants/basicinformation/radionuclides.cfm

How will radionuclides be removed from my drinking water?
According to the EPA, the following treatment method(s) have proven to be effective in removing radionuclides at levels below their MCLs:

   * Beta particle and Photon Radiation: ion exchange and reverse osmosis;
   * (Gross) Alpha Emitters: reverse osmosis;
   * Radium 226 and Radium 228 (Combined): ion exchange, reverse osmosis, lime softening;
   * Uranium: Ion exchange, reverse osmosis, lime softening, coagulation/filtration.

Dr. Fenwick has also released this statement:

"Radioactivity (its sources, the decay process, transmission, protection, and disposal) is an unquestionably complex topic.  The information provided here is admittedly, and necessarily, very general.  The largest concern in drinking water after a meltdown is likely the presence of Uranium, although there are many additional sources (Plutonium, Radium, Cesium, etc.).  We do not specifically test for the reduction of these materials, nor are there NSF standards/ protocols.  With that said, heavier radionuclides, like those listed above, are likely reduced with our blocks, specifically those blocks that are certified for lead reduction.

"Three important notes:

1. As always, efficacy and lifetime will depend on several factors (compounds’ unique properties, concentration in the influent water, water chemistry, etc.).

2. In addition to those listed above, several other “daughter” nuclides/ radionuclides (products of the decay process) of various chemistries/ classes will have various reduction efficacies.  Commenting on these is not possible.

3. Unlike other non-radioactive contaminants (Lead, Mercury, Arsenic, VOCs, other organics), removal from the water, and thus concentration in the block, may not be sufficient for the radioactive elements/ compounds.  They continue to emit radiation even when removed/ immobilized.  Based on these issues, and the EPA testing and “endorsement,” reverse osmosis is a more bona fide technology in this case.”

Multi-Pure's Model MP750 Plus RO combines Multi-Pure’s renowned carbon block filter technology with the reverse osmosis technology, making it the most technologically advanced System in the world today.

The Multi-Pure MP750 Plus RO is the ONLY device certified under NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, and 58 to reduce: Radium 226/228, Fluoride, Nitrates/Nitrate, Arsenic V, Chloramine, PCBs, Toxaphene, Chlordane, Lead, Mercury, etc. (See Below for Percentages of Reduction)

The Multi-Pure MP750PlusRO Unit is easy to install and simple to operate. It uses no electricity and the impurities removed through the reverse osmosis process are flushed down the drain. The pre-filter component provides 5 micron filtration to remove large particulate matter and extend the life of the reverse osmosis membrane. The reverse osmosis component reduces the level of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), rust, dirt scale, and organic tastes and odors. The processed water is conveniently stored in a 3 gallon pressurized tank which is small enough to fit neatly under your sink. Multi-Pure's MP750PlusRO Unit includes pre-filter, RO membrane, and Multi-Pure’s Model MP750SB as a post-filter, giving you the highest quality water possible.

Reduces the widest range of contaminants including Fluoride, Arsenic V, Cysts, Lead, PCBs, MTBE, Mercury, Asbestos, Chloramine, VOCs, Hexavalent Chromium and an entire spectrum of contaminants that can be found in water. Multi-Pure's RO system substantially remove heavy metals, such as barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, radium 226/228 selenium, cysts, chlorine, salts, turbidity & more.

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Corporate headquarters located in Las Vegas, Nevada, Multi-Pure's management team oversees the manufacture and distribution of solid carbon block filters and water treatment devices. The staff is dedicated to meeting the needs of all its customers.