Question 1

What is the EPA limit for strontium-90 in drinking water?

Accepted Answer

The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for strontium-90 is 8 pCi/L. Public water systems must keep strontium-90 below this level.

Question 2

What are the health effects of strontium-90 in drinking water?

Accepted Answer

Strontium-90 is a man-made radioactive isotope with a half-life of 28.8 years, making it one of the most hazardous long-lived fission products. Because strontium is chemically similar to calcium, the body treats it identically: when ingeste

Question 3

Where does strontium-90 in drinking water come from?

Accepted Answer

Strontium-90 is produced exclusively by nuclear fission, either in nuclear reactors or weapons detonations. It does not occur naturally. The primary historical source was atmospheric nuclear weapons testing (1945-1963), which distributed Sr

Question 4

How do I remove strontium-90 from my drinking water?

Accepted Answer

Strontium-90 is effectively removed by: Ion Exchange, Reverse Osmosis, Lime Softening. Look for NSF-certified filters that explicitly list strontium-90 reduction.

Strontium-90 in Drinking Water - EPA MCL, Health Effects &