Abstract

Mercury, used for centuries in many industrial and consumer applications and products because of the unique physical and chemical properties of the metal, is defined as being a hazardous material. The toxic effects of the metal to workers and to the general population as a result of occupational exposure, consumer exposure, and environmental pollution continue to gain worldwide attention. Much effort has been devoted to limiting the production and use of mercury, and finding alternative technologies that are designed to supplant the need for mercury. Overall demand for mercury has decreased throughout the industrialized world and it is likely to continue to decline. The chemistry, properties, natural occurrence, production, processing, economic aspects, environmental releases, uses, and toxicity of mercury are reviewed. Regulatory restrictions imposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on the production, use, and disposal of the metal are also provided.