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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

EPA drinking-water proposals: Round two

Journal Article · · Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/es00143a600· OSTI ID:5983657
EPA proposed new drinking-water regulations on Nov. 13, 1985. These rules included the establishment of Recommended Maximum Contaminant Levels (RMCLs) - nonenforceable goals for 43 substances; the proposal of Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) - enforceable standards for eight volatile organic compounds (VOCs); and RMCLs for an additional 51 VOCs. For the eight VOCs, EPA has proposed MCLs and has specified which techniques are considered feasible for reducing contamination below these levels. The two major technologies specified are packed-tower aeration (PTA) and granular activated carbon (GAC) absorption. One of the more notable features of these proposed regulations is the agency's reliance on analytical chemistry and on the practical quantitation limit (PQL) in setting MCLs. The rule also proposes a compliance monitoring method for 50 VOCs in addition to the eight that are regulated. About 45,000 public ground water and 15,000 surface water systems must undertake monitoring over the next four to five years.
Research Organization:
Environmental Research and Technology, Inc., Washington, DC
OSTI ID:
5983657
Journal Information:
Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 20:1; ISSN ESTHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English