Clean water is essential for sustaining life, and ensuring its purity is a priority for environmental agencies worldwide. However, a growing concern has emerged in recent years – the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. PFAS are persistent, human-made chemicals widely used in various industrial and consumer products, posing a significant threat to water sources and public health. Here, we'll explore the strategies and challenges involved in removing PFAS from drinking water, shedding light on the ongoing efforts by environmental agencies to manage and dispose of these persistent chemicals.
Understanding PFAS Contamination
PFAS contamination is a complex issue stemming from the widespread use of these chemicals in industries such as manufacturing, firefighting, and even everyday household products. These substances are known for their heat, water, and oil resistance, making them valuable for various applications. However, their persistence in the environment has raised serious concerns.
PFAS enter water sources through various pathways, including industrial discharges, wastewater treatment plants, and the use of firefighting foams. Once in the water, PFAS can accumulate over time, threatening aquatic ecosystems and, ultimately, human health. Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to adverse health effects, including developmental issues, immune system suppression, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Strategies for Removing PFAS from Drinking Water
Addressing PFAS contamination requires a multifaceted approach, combining advanced water treatment technologies with comprehensive regulatory measures. Several strategies have been employed to remove PFAS from drinking water, each with its challenges.
Activated Carbon Filtration
One widely adopted method for PFAS removal is activated carbon filtration. Activated carbon has a high affinity for PFAS compounds, effectively adsorbing them from the water. However, the efficiency of this method can be influenced by factors such as the type of activated carbon used, the water's chemical composition, and the presence of other contaminants. Additionally, the disposal of used activated carbon loaded with PFAS poses a significant challenge, as it can contribute to environmental contamination if not handled properly.
Ion Exchange Resins
Ion exchange resins are another technology employed to remove PFAS from drinking water. These resins replace PFAS ions with less harmful ions, effectively capturing and removing them from the water. While ion exchange can be highly effective, managing the used resins saturated with PFAS is challenging. Proper disposal methods must be implemented to prevent the release of these persistent chemicals back into the environment.
Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs)
Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) involve using powerful oxidants to break down PFAS compounds into non-toxic byproducts. Techniques such as ozonation, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, and hydrogen peroxide treatment fall under AOPs. While these methods show promise in PFAS degradation, they can be energy-intensive and may produce secondary pollutants. Balancing effectiveness with environmental impact remains a key challenge in implementing AOPs for large-scale water treatment.
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health effects of pfas,
exposure to pfas,
water treatment standards,
PFOS,
water purification systems,
RO process for PFAS removal,
Remove PFAS,
AOPs,
Water Treatment Technologies,
Perfluoroalkyl Substances,
Advanced Oxidation Processes,
Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
Clean and safe water is a fundamental requirement for our well-being, yet the increasing presence of PFAS contaminants in industrial water sources remains a significant cause for alarm.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the pressing issue of PFAS contamination in industrial water supplies and shed light on how Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology is a robust safeguard against this concern. We will not only explore the effectiveness of RO in eliminating PFAS but also the distinct advantages it offers over conventional water treatment methods.
The Growing Concern of PFAS in Industrial Water
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have become a growing concern in industrial water sources. Synthetic chemicals like PFOA and PFOS can stay in the environment and build up, causing significant risks to people and the ecosystem.
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water quality,
water treatment,
advanced treatment solutions,
Safe drinking water,
municipal water systems,
DeLoach Industries, Inc.,
Drinking Water,
DeLoach Industries,
removing PFAS & PFOS,
pfas exposure,
health effects of pfas,
exposure to pfas,
water treatment standards,
PFOS,
water purification systems
I will explore the potential risks of exposure to two members of a family of man-made chemicals called PFAS.
These chemicals are PFOA and PFOS, "poly-fluoroalkyl substances."
I will discuss the sources of PFOA and PFOS. These include leaching from industrial sites, the use of consumer products, and food and water contamination.
I will also discuss the exposure pathways of PFOA and PFOS. I will examine the regulations and guidelines for the use of these chemicals. I will also investigate their impact on the environment and various industries.
I will guide long-term human health effects.
This guide covers the potential risks of pfo's and pfoa's. It explains their sources and exposure pathways. It also looks at regulations and guidelines for their usage and impact on the environment and industries.
Introduction to PFOA and PFOS
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Global,
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DeLoach Industries,
Cosmetics,
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removing PFAS & PFOS,
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If you’ve been following the news, you know a growing problem with PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) exists.
PFAS, a group of synthetic chemicals in a wide range of products, is causing a growing concern. Despite their widespread use, some PFAS compounds have been found to degrade into potentially harmful byproducts like PFAS-methyl tetrahydrofuran. What's more alarming is that these chemicals have infiltrated our drinking water sources, even in areas with high water tables. This is why it's crucial to understand effective methods for removing PFAS from water. What should you do if you suspect that there’s a problem with your water? Check the source of the water, test it, and treat it if necessary.
Follow these steps to remove PFAS from drinking water.
Test Your Water
Although knowing how to remove contaminants is essential, it’s even more important to understand how to test your water for contamination. A water test kit can help you determine whether there are contaminants in your water and whether they are at a dangerous level. You can purchase water test kits at grocery stores, hardware stores, and online retailers. Generally, these kits come with the standard set of tests for a home water filtration system, but they also often include tests for specific contaminants. Use these tests to determine whether your water is safe to drink. If your water contains contaminants, remove them from your water source. This can be done by digging a more bottomless well, installing a water filtration system, or getting a water purification system. If your water does not contain contaminants, you don’t need to do anything except continue drinking your water.
Check the Source
Understanding the source of your water is a crucial step in addressing contamination. Whether you have a well or a water treatment system, knowing where your water comes from can provide valuable insights. By tracing the water's journey from the source, you can determine if contamination occurs upstream. This knowledge is essential for well owners, who might overlook the significance of understanding their water source. If you find contamination at the source, you can address it immediately, such as reducing the distance between the source and your dwelling or seeking alternative, uncontaminated sources.
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water quality,
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water treatment,
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Chemical Odor,
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RO system,
filters,
Filter Media,
residential well water systems,
DeLoach Industries, Inc.,
backwash,
Carbon Filter,
Micron Filter,
Drinking Water,
Clean Water,
Contaminated Water,
Water Source,
Sediment Filter,
PFA's,
Water Test,
Water Test Kit
Water is essential for life, but not all water is safe to drink.
Contaminants like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), collectively known as PFAS, have been a growing concern in our water supply. Fortunately, there's a remarkable solution that often goes unnoticed: carbon absorption filters. Here, we'll explore the technology behind carbon absorption filters, how they effectively trap PFAS and their numerous benefits in water treatment.
Understanding Carbon Absorption Technology
Before delving into how carbon filters combat PFAS, let’s review the fundamentals of carbon absorption technology. Activated carbon, the hero in this story, is an incredibly porous material with a vast surface area, typically derived from sources like coconut shells, wood, or coal. This porous structure is what makes activated carbon ideal for trapping contaminants.
1. Activated Carbon's Structure: Think of activated carbon like a sponge, but not just any ordinary sponge – it's a super sponge! At a microscopic level, it's filled with tiny pores and holes, creating a vast and intricate network. Imagine walking through a maze with endless twists and turns – that's what the structure of activated carbon looks like. And why does this matter? Because all those nooks and crannies provide a massive surface area. It's like having a big, open field instead of a cramped room. This extra space is perfect for grabbing onto molecules, kind of like how Velcro sticks to fabric. This process is called adsorption, where molecules stick to the surface of the carbon rather than getting soaked up inside like a regular sponge.
2. Adsorption vs. Absorption: Let's clear up some confusion between two similar-sounding words. Absorption is like when a sponge soaks up water – it goes inside the sponge. But adsorption is different; it's all about what happens on the surface. Imagine you're playing with magnets. When they attract and stick together, that's like adsorption. Activated carbon is a magnet for contaminants. It doesn't suck them in like a vacuum; instead, it attracts them and sticks them onto its surface, where they stay put. So, while absorption is about taking things in, adsorption is about grabbing onto things on the outside.
3. Adsorbent Specificity: One of the remarkable features of activated carbon is its remarkable versatility and ability to adsorb a wide range of contaminants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful chemicals emitted from products like paints and cleaning supplies, chlorine, commonly found in water disinfection processes, and, most importantly, PFAS, notorious for their widespread presence in water sources and resistance to degradation, making activated carbon an indispensable tool in combating environmental pollution.
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water treatment,
advanced treatment solutions,
Safe drinking water,
municipal water systems,
DeLoach Industries, Inc.,
Drinking Water,
DeLoach Industries,
carbon filters,
removing PFAS & PFOS,
pfas exposure,
health effects of pfas,
exposure to pfas,
water treatment standards,
PFOS,
drinking water standards,
forever chemicals,
water purification systems,
carbon absorption
Requires an application commonly referred to as either “Degasification” or "Decarbonation" and it requires the use of a piece of water treatment equipment called either a “degasifier” or a “decarbonator”.
Both of these are similar in nature and are designed for Carbon Dioxide (CO2) removal from the incoming water. A properly designed decarbonator can remove 99.99% of the free carbon dioxide gas that is present in the water stream. One of the primary reasons for utilizing a decarbonator or degasifier for the removal of carbon dioxide gas is the raise the pH of the water without the need to add caustic. resulting in high-purity water.
The other reason is the remove the CO2 prior to treating the water with Ion Exchange which utilizes Anion or Cation resins to reduce the regeneration cycles for the resin beds. High concentrations of CO2 consume the ion charge within the resins and require more frequent regeneration cycles. The difference between anion and cation resins is that one is positively charged (anion) and the other is negatively charged (cation), cation resins, attract positive ions with their negative charge.
The term decarbonation describes the process of the removal of suspended gas or the conversion of carbonic acids into free Carbon Dioxide. Carbonic Acid (H2CO3) is stable at normal ambient anhydrous conditions. However, Carbonic Acid decomposes when not stable and in the presence of any water molecules to form carbon dioxide (CO2). The Carbonic acid breaks down when present in water and it is converted to a gas based upon certain conditions. It is common to have CO2 present in water requiring a decarbonation process when utilizing certain types of water filtration such as membrane filtration with reverse osmosis or it can be present when the need to adjust pH is required. When removing (CO2) the process is often referred to as “Decarbonation”, when removing (H2S) Hydrogen Sulfide the process is often referred to as “Degasification”.
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Topics:
water treatment issues,
degasification,
pH levels of water,
aeration,
iron oxidation,
water treatment,
water plant,
bicarbonate,
hydrogen sulfide (H2S),
pH levels,
Decarbonation,
ION Exchange Resin,
dissolved gases,
De-Aeration,
wastewater,
carbon dioxide,
oxygen,
decarbonator,
degasifier,
gases,
carbonic acid,
H2S Degasifier
The Basics of Water Decarbonation
and the removal of carbon dioxide (CO2). The need to remove (CO2) is essential in most Aquaculture, Municipal, Industrial, and Food & Beverage Processes To understand you must familiarize yourself with Henry’s Law.
Henry's Law defines the method and proportional relationship between the amount of a gas in a solution in relation to the gas's partial pressure in the atmosphere. Often you will see and hear various terms like degasification, decarbonation, aeration, and even air stripping when discussing the removal of dissolved gases and other convertible elements from water. Understanding the impacts that Carbon Dioxide (CO2) can have on both equipment and aquatic life provides the basic reasons why the need to decarbonate water, exists. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) can exist naturally in the raw water supply or be the result of ph control and balance. In either case, the process called Decarbonation or Degasification provides the most cost-effective and efficient manner to reduce or tally remove (CO2) from the water. In addition to Carbon Dioxide (CO2), water can contain a variety of other contaminants that may impact the removal efficiency of the Carbon Dioxide. A variety of elements as well as dissolved gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide (CO2). A full analytical review of the water chemistry is required to properly design and size the “Water Treatment” process.
Breaking the bonds in water releases a dissolved gas
such as carbon dioxide (CO2) you must change the conditions of the vapor pressure surrounding the gas and allow the gas to be removed. There are many variables to consider when designing or calculating the “means and methods” of the removal of carbon dioxide (CO2). When I refer to the means and methods. I am referring to the design of a decarbonator and its components. The means equals the size and type (Hydraulic load) of the decarbonator and the “method” equals the additional variables such as the cubic foot of airflow (CFM) and “Ratio” of the air to water to accomplish the proportional condition needed to remove the carbon dioxide (CO2).
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Topics:
water treatment issues,
degasification,
pH levels of water,
aeration,
iron oxidation,
water treatment,
water plant,
bicarbonate,
hydrogen sulfide (H2S),
pH levels,
Decarbonation,
ION Exchange Resin,
dissolved gases,
De-Aeration,
wastewater,
carbon dioxide,
oxygen,
degasifier,
gases,
carbonic acid,
H2S Degasifier,
removal of CO2 from water
One of the most pressing issues that we face today is the phenomenon of red tide.
Red tide is algae bloom that can cause serious harm to marine life and humans.
In this article, I will explore what red tide is, what causes it, and its impact on Florida. Most importantly, the role of wastewater treatment in helping to prevent it.
What is Red Tide?
Red tide is a natural phenomenon that occurs when certain species of algae grow out of control. These algae produce toxins that harm marine life and humans. The term "red tide" comes from the reddish-brown color that the water takes on when the algae bloom. The bloom can happen in any part of the world in warm, coastal waters.
What Causes Red Tide?
Various factors cause these harmful algae to bloom.
- Changes in water temperature
- Nutrient pollution
- Ocean currents
The most common cause is nutrient pollution. Nutrient pollution occurs when excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus enter the water. These nutrients can come from agricultural runoff, sewage from residential drain fields, inefficient wastewater treatment plants, septic tanks, and fertilizer.
Red Tide Blooms in Florida - History and Impact.
Florida has a long history of deadly algae blooms. The state experiences red tide almost every year, lasting for months.
It devastates the state's marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. The algae produce toxins that can kill these animals. The dead fish can wash up on shore, causing beachgoers an unpleasant odor and an eyesore.
How Do These Microscopic Algae Affect Marine Life?
It affects marine life in a variety of ways. The algae's toxins can cause respiratory problems and neurological issues.
With most coastal outbreaks, the loss of marine life is significant. It produces toxins and decreases oxygen levels, another contributing factor to marine animal fatalities. Red tide disrupts the entire ecosystem and has been increasing in both frequencies of outbreaks as well as areas impacted.
How Does Red Tide Impact Humans?
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water treatment,
wastewater,
DeLoach Industries,
water process system,
red tide,
wastewater treatment plants,
red tide in florida,
wastewater treatment system,
cause of red tide,
water temperature,
marine life,
wastewater treatment infrastructure,
benefits of wastewater treatment,
water treatment standards
If you’ve been reading the news lately, you know nanoparticles are not so great. In everything from cosmetics to water filters, nanoparticles have been shown to cause various health problems. But what exactly are nanoparticles, and how can you protect yourself from their harmful effects? Let’s answer these questions and more with this quick guide on removing nanoparticles from your drinking water.
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water treatment issues,
water quality,
water treatment,
advanced treatment solutions,
About DeLoach Industries,
water plant,
safety,
Safe drinking water,
Global,
distillation,
RO membrane,
RO system,
particulate matter,
filters,
municipal water systems,
residential well water systems,
DeLoach Industries, Inc.,
Drinking Water,
Clean Water,
Water Test,
Water Test Kit,
DeLoach Industries,
technology,
minerals,
temperature,
nanoparticles,
Cosmetics,
Nano,
make-up,
organ function,
contaminants,
pressure filters,
reverse osmosis,
carbon filters,
UV filters,
activated carbon
3D printing is a technology that has only recently become commercially available.
Progress in the last decade has allowed the equipment to excel tremendously.
3D print technology was started in 1987 by 3D Systems Corporation. The technology gained traction in the early 2010s. 3D printing is a type of additive manufacturing that creates three-dimensional parts. By successively adding material layer by layer until the part is complete.
To create the part, a 3D CAD model is required. The potential of 3D printing has led to a wide variety of technologies on the market. This blog will go into depth on the most prevalent types of 3D printing and their applications.
Figure: Direct side-by-side comparison of the three polymer 3D print technologies discussed in this blog.
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DeLoach Industries, Inc.,
3D CAD,
software,
3D,
DeLoach Industries,
3D parametric,
dimensions,
technology,
2D CAD,
parametric,
nylon,
abrasion,
printer,
sls,
Polymer,
geometries,
printing,
prototyping,
interlocking,
3D technology,
interior,
Polylactic Acid,
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene,
Isotropic