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U.S. Department of Energy
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Mercury pollution perspective

Journal Article · · Water Spectrum; (United States)
OSTI ID:5589898
Technical feature:Mercury poisoning at Minamata, Japan, is discussed. By 1960, the poisoning had been traced to fish that contained concentrated methylmercury. Methylmercury had been discharged as a by-product of the manufacture of acetaldehyde. Methylmercury poisoning was observed in Iraq in 1971 after seed grain treated with a methylmercury fungicide was distributed to peasants. In the early 1960's, it was discovered that elemental mercury can be methylated by microbes in water and thus concentrated in fish. Industrial applications of mercury are described. Mercury contamination of fish in Canada is examined. (2 graphs, 2 maps, 9 photos, 1 table)
Research Organization:
Michigan State Univ
OSTI ID:
5589898
Journal Information:
Water Spectrum; (United States), Journal Name: Water Spectrum; (United States) Vol. 10:4; ISSN WASPB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English