Monitoring Water for Cadmium With KETOS SHIELD

KETOS SHIELD provides water operators with monitoring in real time. Sample for cadmium and other heavy metals while lowering your up-front costs for testing water parameters with an industry-leading $0-CAPEX subscription model.

KETOS SHIELD is an award-winning water management solution that provides real-time monitoring for cadmium and 30+ other water testing parameters (including other heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, iron, and more). Monitoring happens via an interoperable, modular system that uploads your data to the cloud for easy 24/7 access from anywhere. This helps water operators gain a holistic understanding of their water quality.

Why Monitor Water for Cadmium with KETOS

Cadmium is a heavy metal that often combines with other substances, including oxygen, sulfur, and chlorine. It is often extracted as a by-product during zinc, lead, and copper production. It’s also used in many consumer products (jewelry, batteries, and metal coatings). Cadmium can leach into water via galvanized pipes, and levels of cadmium in water might be higher in water with low pH, as low pH water can be more corrosive to plumbing systems. It can also get into water due to its use in various industrial processes. Even low levels of exposure to cadmium over time can cause multiple types of health issues in humans. For this reason, the US EPA, FDA, and DWI all limit the maximum amount of cadmium in water to 0.005 mg/L.

What are the Issues with Cadmium in Water?

Cadmium contamination in water sources poses significant environmental and health concerns, necessitating comprehensive understanding and proactive measures to address its impacts. Below are key issues associated with cadmium in water:

• Health Risks: Cadmium is a highly toxic heavy metal that can cause serious health problems when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Chronic exposure to cadmium-contaminated water has been linked to kidney damage, lung diseases, cardiovascular issues, and even cancer development.
• Environmental Pollution: Cadmium pollution in water ecosystems poses a threat to aquatic life and overall environmental health. Accumulation of cadmium in sediments and aquatic organisms can disrupt ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss and ecological imbalances.
• Industrial Sources: Industrial activities such as mining, smelting, and manufacturing contribute significantly to cadmium contamination of water bodies. Effluents from these industries can release cadmium into waterways, contaminating both surface water and groundwater.
• Agricultural Runoff: Cadmium can also enter water sources through agricultural practices such as the use of cadmium-containing fertilizers and pesticides. Runoff from agricultural fields can carry cadmium into rivers, lakes, and other water bodies, exacerbating contamination.
• Long-Term Persistence: Cadmium is not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for extended periods, posing ongoing risks to human health and ecosystems. Once released into water, cadmium can remain in sediments or bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms, perpetuating the contamination cycle.
• Regulatory Challenges: Establishing and enforcing regulations to limit cadmium levels in water sources present challenges for governments and regulatory agencies. Balancing industrial interests with public health and environmental protection requires robust monitoring, enforcement, and collaboration among stakeholders.
• Public Awareness and Education: Increasing public awareness about the risks associated with cadmium contamination in water is crucial for fostering informed decision-making and promoting behavior change. Educating communities about the sources, health effects, and prevention measures related to cadmium exposure can empower individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves and the environment.

Causes of Cadmium in Water

Cadmium in water arises from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Naturally, cadmium can leach into water from the weathering of rocks and soil that contain this metal, especially in areas with significant mineral deposits. However, human activities are often the primary contributors to cadmium contamination in water. Industrial processes, such as metal smelting, mining, and battery manufacturing, produce cadmium byproducts that can enter water sources through improper waste disposal or accidental spills. Additionally, cadmium-containing products, like batteries, electronics, and plastic stabilizers, can release cadmium into the environment when not disposed of correctly. Agricultural runoff from cadmium-based fertilizers and sewage sludge can further contribute to cadmium in water. Addressing these causes is vital to prevent the health risks associated with cadmium exposure.

Acceptable Levels of Cadmium in Water by Industry

Cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, poses significant health risks if present in drinking water. Various industries have specific acceptable levels of cadmium in water, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set stringent guidelines to protect public health. Industrial discharges, mining, and manufacturing are primary sources of cadmium contamination. The acceptable levels vary depending on the industry and the intended use of the water. Regular monitoring and stringent adherence to these standards are crucial to mitigate cadmium exposure risks. Adhering to these limits helps prevent adverse health effects such as kidney damage, bone loss, and cancer. By maintaining acceptable cadmium levels in water, industries contribute to a safer environment and public health preservation.

How to Easily Monitor Water for Cadmium

Instead of measuring cadmium with a meter that only measures a handful of conditions; the KETOS SHIELD is capable of mentoring dozens of water related issues — in real-time.

Monitoring for cadmium using KETOS is just the beginning. Does your team need more information on how KETOS can help monitor for cadmium and 30+ other water testing parameters? With KETOS, monitoring for cadmium is merely the start. Explore a vast array of capabilities to track over 30 water testing parameters comprehensively. From cadmium to turbidity and beyond, KETOS equips your team with the insights needed to maintain water purity and environmental health.

Whether you’re assessing groundwater quality for chromium levels, monitoring wastewater conductivity, or ensuring safe drinking water by detecting calcium, KETOS’ automated water monitoring system is the solution you need. Save time and simplify compliance with our advanced technology.