U-238
01 Radionuclide · Primary Contaminant
Uranium
Toxic as a metal, and radioactive
Uranium is a naturally occurring radionuclide present in varying amounts in rocks and soils, entering water both through natural leaching and from uranium processing facilities. It has a demonstrated toxic effect on the kidney, along with the cancer risks associated with all radionuclides. Uranium is unstable, decaying into radium and then radon gas — both of which carry their own health concerns.
02 Decay Chain
One element, three more contaminants
Uranium-238 accounts for 99% of naturally occurring uranium, decaying into Uranium-234, Radium-226, and Radon-222, and releasing alpha particles along with low levels of gamma rays.
U-234
Uranium-234
Ra-226
Radium-226
Rn-222
Radon-222
03 Maximum Contaminant Level
Regulated as a radionuclide
The EPA regulates uranium under the National Primary Drinking Water Standards for radionuclides, with an MCL of 0.03 mg/L, and maintains separate regulations protecting groundwater and the environment from contamination at uranium mill tailing sites.
0.03 mg/L
EPA maximum contaminant level — 30 ppb
1996
Safe Drinking Water Act amendments requiring regulation
December 2000
Radionuclide regulation revised to establish the MCL
Under 1996 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act, the EPA is required to regulate uranium in drinking water; the radionuclide regulation was revised in December 2000 to establish an MCL of 0.03 mg/L (30 ppb). Uranium concentration in drinking water depends on factors including contact between uranium-bearing rock and water, and the presence of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and pH.
04 Public Health
Public Health Concerns
Uranium can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Over 99% of ingested uranium passes through the body, though a small portion is deposited in bone, where it can remain for years. The health concern centers on the alpha particles produced during decay — human skin protects effectively against external uranium decay, but internalized uranium can cause radiation and chemical damage leading to cancer, kidney damage, and other health problems, with risk scaling to concentration level.
Over 99%
Of ingested uranium passes through the body
Alpha particles
The primary concern, produced during decay
Kidney
Demonstrated toxic effect, alongside cancer risk
05 WETS Treatment
Pilot study first
The optimal uranium removal method depends on water properties such as pH, oxygen, and carbon dioxide content, which affect both contamination level and uranium’s chemical form. Because analyzing water test data alone rarely identifies the best process, a pilot study is recommended.
Four approaches, evaluated on your water
WETS brings many years of experience treating radionuclides such as uranium. Our pilot studies typically evaluate ion exchange, reverse osmosis, activated alumina adsorption, and coagulation/filtration approaches — and because we don’t offer an off-the-shelf product, every solution is tailored to the specific plant.
06 Get Started
Solutions to Your Water Treatment Needs
Whether you want a new water treatment system installed, need your current one inspected and repaired, or just want a free quote, contact the WETS LLC. With years of experience in the industry, our skilled team members are trained and knowledgeable with a variety of leading water equipment and products. Our certified water purification experts are here to help.
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