In this Q&A, AdEdge Water Technologies discusses the hidden dangers of arsenic, the colorless, odorless contaminant that can affect water systems throughout the world. 

Q: What is arsenic?

A: Arsenic is a colorless, odorless and tasteless element that is found in nature and in manmade products. Arsenic is found in the soil, air and water across the globe. Its atomic number is 33, and it is part of the metalloid class of elements, which include properties of metals and nonmetals. Arsenic is a poisonous contaminant that is linked to many serious health effects.

Q: Where is arsenic commonly found in the United States?

A: The United States contains many arsenic hotspots, including California, the Desert Southwest and New England. Texas is another hotspot. High arsenic levels are also commonly found in Midwest states such as Nebraska, Michigan and Minnesota.

Q: Where else in the world can arsenic be found?

A: Arsenic occurs naturally at high levels in groundwater in many countries around the globe. India and Bangladesh have some of the highest recorded levels. In the Americas, arsenic affects groundwater in Mexico, Canada, Argentina, Peru and Chile. Finally, Southeast Asia and Eastern European present with naturally occurring arsenic in the groundwater.

Q: Which health risks are associated with arsenic poisoning?

A: Arsenic is highly toxic. Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water can cause cancer and skin lesions. It has also been reported to cause development and neurological disorders, cardiovascular disease and renal failure. Arsenic is also linked with adverse pregnancy issues including infant death and cognitive disorders. Short-term effects include gastrointestinal problems.

AdEdge’s integrated system approach can create a custom treatment solution for arsenic removal. By using our AdEdge Packaged Unit (APU), modular and/or membrane systems, we integrate pre- and post-treatment processes to provide a turnkey approach.

About AdEdge Water Technologies
Headquartered just north of Atlanta, AdEdge Water Technologies specializes in the design, development, manufacturing and supply of innovative water treatment solutions that remove contaminants from process or aqueous streams. AdEdge offers a full range of conventional and innovative treatment technologies to achieve trough standards including adsorption, coagulation, ion exchange, biofiltration and membrane-based solutions. For more information, call 866/8ADEDGE or visit www.adedgetech.com.