Heavy Metals

The electroplating industry has been a somewhat secretive society from its origin. Electroplating is the process of using electrical energy to protect our metals of construction. This industry was greatly scrutinized by EPA in the 1980s, and many complaints were made against them for creating pollution and for possible contamination of the well fields (drinking water supply). Many dangerous and harmful chemicals were used by this industry to plate heavy metals onto common steel and other alloys. Fresh water was used to flush away debris (heavy metal contaminants), and the drainage entered the sewer system. Some companies pumped their drainage to ponds, and others just pumped it wherever they could get rid of it without much expense. Every person should understand pollution prevention methods and conservation of fresh water use; while safer methods exist today, much pollution stills lies beneath us.