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Mercury & Compounds
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Note: This information is provided for reference purposes only. Although the information provided here was accurate and current when first created, it is now outdated. |
What is Mercury? Mercury is a toxic metal and a natural element, commonly seen as a shiny,
silver-white, odorless liquid metal. Mercury is a persistent, bioaccumulative,
and toxic (PBT) pollutant. Why Are We Concerned About Mercury? Mercury is a toxic persistent, bioaccumulative pollutant that affects
the nervous system. Methyl mercury is a chemical species that bioaccumulates
in fish. Fish consumption advisories are in effect for mercury in thousands
of lakes and rivers, including much of the Great Lakes ecosystem. What harmful effects can Mercury have on us?
- May cause cancer
- Damages the stomach and large intestine
- Permanently damages the brain and kidneys
- Permanently harms unborn children
- Can cause lung damage, increased blood pressure and heart rate
How are we exposed to Mercury?
- By eating contaminated fish and shellfish
- Accidental mercury spills
- Incinerators and facilities burning Hg-containing fuels (i.e. coal
or other fossil fuels, mercury-containing wastes)
- In some cases, unborn children are exposed through the mother's blood
and infants may be exposed through breast milk
Where can Mercury be found? Current uses:
- Production of some batteries
- Thermostats and cameras
- Cathode tubes
- Calculators and small appliances
- Medical laboratory chemicals
- Catalyst in production of urethane polymers for plastics
- Cathode in electronic production of chlorine and caustic soda
- Mercury vapor lamps
- Thermometers and Barometers
- Switches (electrical)
- Hearing aides
- Common household cleaners
Potential Sources to our Environment:
- Manufacturing activities Mining (especially gold mining) and smelting
- Wastewater entering lakes, rivers, etc.
- Waste from dental cavity-filling material
- Emissions from coal burning
- Combustion of various fuels
- Mixed waste incineration
- Medical waste incineration
- Old paint
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