Drinking Water Contaminants- Styrene

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　　Styrene in Potable Water

　　What is Styrene and its Utilization? Styrene is a thick organic liquid that emits a sweet, floral aroma. Once primarily linked to the synthetic rubber sector, styrene has become integral to polymer production, playing a role in the creation of plastics, resins, coatings, and paints. The following trade names may signify the inclusion of this chemical in the products you utilize: Vinyl benzene, Phenethylene, Cinnamene, Diarex HF 77, Styrolene, Styrol, Styropol.

　　Regulatory Actions for Styrene: The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 requires the EPA to set safe levels for contaminants in drinking water. The Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) for styrene is fixed at 0.1 ppm, representing a concentration unlikely to cause the health issues outlined below. As such, the EPA has established a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) also at 0.1 ppm, which is the minimum concentration public water systems must reach to eliminate styrene, considering current technology and resources.

　　Health Concerns: Brief exposure to styrene above the MCL may result in nervous system impacts, such as depression, decreased concentration, weakness, fatigue, and nausea. Chronic exposure could lead to liver and nerve damage, and an elevated risk of cancer.

　　Environmental Discharge of Styrene: In 1993, styrene production amounted to 10.7 billion pounds. It enters the environment via emissions and effluents during its production and use in polymer manufacturing. Potential consumer exposure can occur through contact with resins in boat construction, auto body fillers, and polystyrene food containers. From 1987 to 1993, over 2 million pounds of styrene were released into land and water, predominantly by adhesives and sealants industries.

　　Environmental Destiny of Styrene: Once in water, styrene evaporates swiftly and is decomposed by microorganisms. It does not cling to soil effectively and is unlikely to accumulate in aquatic organisms.

　　Detection and Elimination: Since 1992, water suppliers have been obligated to monitor styrene levels. Continuous monitoring is required if levels exceed 0.5 ppb. If levels frequently surpass the MCL, measures to reduce styrene must be implemented, using treatments such as Granular Activated Carbon and Packed Tower Aeration.

　　Public Notification: If styrene levels exceed the MCL of 0.1 ppm, the public must be informed through various media outlets. Preventative actions, such as providing alternative water sources, may be enforced.

　　Drinking Water Standards:

  • MCLG: 0.1 ppm
  • MCL: 0.1 ppm

　　Styrene Releases to Water and Land (1987-1993, in pounds):

  • Water: 275,888
  • Land: 1,796,451

　　Top Ten States for Styrene Releases:

  • Texas: 160,411 (Water), 572,294 (Land)
  • West Virginia: 1,600 (Water), 555,360 (Land)
  • Indiana: 0 (Water), 124,794 (Land)
  • Wisconsin: 0 (Water), 102,973 (Land)
  • Ohio: 0 (Water), 90,358 (Land)
  • Georgia: 0 (Water), 79,000 (Land)
  • Louisiana: 53,430 (Water)
  • Florida: 38,800 (Water)
  • New York: 323 (Water), 33,192 (Land)
  • Kentucky: 0 (Water), 18,000 (Land)

　　Major Industries Contributing to Releases:

  • Adhesives, Sealants: 537,360
  • Concrete Products: 398,424
  • Synthetic Rubber: 152,215 (Land), 149,147 (Water)
  • Miscellaneous Plastic Products: 515,201 (Land), 713 (Water)
  • Plastics and Resins: 25,133 (Water), 71,363 (Land)
  • Boatbuilding, Repair: 220,83,256
  • Car Parts, Accessories: 79,250
  • Miscellaneous Industrial Organics: 34,275 (Land), 43,290 (Water)
  • Travel Trailers, Campers: 45,129
  • Custom Plastic Resins: 720 (Land), 44,320 (Water)

　　Land totals exclude facilities with releases under 1000 lbs. This fact sheet is part of the EPA’s National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

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