Understanding Degasification and Decarbonation

In industrial and municipal water treatment systems, controlling dissolved gas levels is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, ensuring safety, and ensuring compliance. The term “Degasification” (or “Decarbonation”) refers to the process of removing unwanted gases such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and oxygen (O₂) from water.

While both processes share the same purpose of gas removal, the terminology changes based on the type of gas being targeted:

Decarbonation is typically used when removing carbon dioxide (CO₂).

- Degasification most often refers to the removal of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) or other dissolved gases.

These processes are a critical step in water treatment, especially when preparing water for reverse osmosis (RO), boiler feed systems, or industrial reuse applications.

How Degasification Works

Degasification operates on the principle of transferring gases from water into the air. By forcing air through the water stream inside a degasification or decarbonation tower, the system promotes mass transfer, allowing the unwanted gases to escape.

Key factors influencing degasification efficiency

- Inlet Water Flow Rate: Higher flow rates require larger towers or more efficient packing media.

- Water Temperature: Warmer water releases gases more readily.

- Ambient Air Temperature: Impacts air density and transfer rate.

- Gas Concentration: Measured in ppm, ppb, or mg/L, this determines the tower’s design and airflow volume.

- Desired Effluent Levels: Defines the level of purity required for downstream applications.

Understanding these variables enables engineers to design a customized degasification system that meets stringent quality standards. For example, systems treating well water high in hydrogen sulfide must maintain consistent airflow and contact time to ensure complete removal of the gas.

To learn more about custom-engineered degasification systems, visit DeLoach Industries.

Applications: Reverse Osmosis and Membrane Filtration

Degasification is often integrated after Reverse Osmosis (RO) or membrane filtration to remove residual gases that pass through the membrane, such as H₂S and CO₂.

1. Reducing Chlorine Demand

By eliminating these gases before chlorination, operators can significantly reduce chlorine consumption, improving disinfection efficiency and minimizing chemical costs.

2. Improving Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Levels

Removing dissolved gases also enhances TSS performance, resulting in clearer, higher-quality permeate.

3. Adjusting pH Without Chemicals

When CO₂ is removed, the pH naturally rises, helping stabilize the water without the need for caustic chemicals or lime, making degasification an eco-friendly solution for optimizing water treatment.

For a deeper dive into membrane treatment post-processes, explore DeLoach Industries’ water treatment solutions.

Managing Off-Gas and Odor Control

In some cases, the air discharged from a degasification or decarbonation tower can contain elevated H₂S levels, creating odor nuisances or even health and safety hazards for nearby personnel.

1. Why Off-Gas Treatment Is Essential

Hydrogen sulfide, when combined with moisture, forms sulfuric acid, which corrodes nearby equipment and building materials. This makes off-gas treatment essential in steam processes, boiler feed systems, and industrial wastewater applications.

2. Odor Control and Scrubber Systems

To mitigate emissions, facilities often install air scrubbers or odor control systems directly onto the off-gas line. These scrubbers use chemical or biological media to neutralize odors and capture harmful gases before release.

DeLoach Industries offers custom-engineered odor control and degasification solutions that integrate seamlessly with your existing treatment systems. Learn more about industrial water treatment technologies at www.deloachindustries.com.

The Economic and Environmental Benefits of Degasification

Degasification systems are not only effective, they’re also highly economical compared to chemical treatment methods.

Some key advantages include:

- Reduced chemical usage and maintenance costs

- Extended equipment life by preventing corrosion

- Improved water quality consistency

- Compliance with EPA and OSHA air quality standards

In municipal systems, this can translate into lower operational costs and enhanced environmental performance, especially when paired with other sustainable technologies, such as odor-control scrubbers and biotrickling filters.

Partner with DeLoach Industries for Advanced Water Treatment Solutions

For over 65 years, DeLoach Industries has been a trusted leader in designing and manufacturing custom degasification, decarbonation, and odor control systems for industrial and municipal clients worldwide.

Whether you need to remove hydrogen sulfide, naturally raise pH levels, or enhance the performance of your reverse osmosis system, our team can design a customized solution that meets your exact specifications.

Contact DeLoach Industries today at (941) 371-4995 to request a quote or speak with a water treatment expert.

Since 1959, DeLoach Industries, Inc. has been a trusted leader in manufacturing water, wastewater, and odor control solutions and air emission control systems. Recognized as one of the oldest and most respected manufacturers in the U.S., we specialize in providing reliable solutions that help municipalities and industrial facilities manage odors, meet regulatory standards, and maintain safe working and community environments.

Water treatment is the backbone of industrial processes, ensuring that systems run smoothly and efficiently. One of the essential components in this field is the degasification and decarbonation system. By effectively removing gases from water, these systems enhance water quality and minimize corrosion risks. Here we'll cover the intricacies of hydraulic flow optimization for degasification systems and reveal the best practices for avoiding common pitfalls in system design.

Industrial water treatment is a cornerstone of efficient and sustainable industrial operations. The presence of dissolved gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), can wreak havoc on equipment and processes. Understanding how to effectively manage these gases through degasification is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the mechanics and benefits of forced draft and induced draft degasification towers, empowering you to make informed decisions for your water treatment systems.

The Need for Effective Water Degasification in Pisciculture

Understanding the Challenges of Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) in Water

The Evolution of Water Treatment Technologies

Understanding Hydrogen Sulfide Hazards and Solutions

The Science and Risks of Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a colorless gas notorious for its distinctive "rotten egg" smell, detectable even at very low concentrations. This malodorous compound occurs naturally during the decomposition of organic matter and is also a byproduct of several industrial processes such as petroleum refining, sewage treatment, and paper manufacturing. With its chemical formula comprising two hydrogen atoms bonded to a sulfur atom, H₂S poses significant threats due to its toxic and corrosive characteristics.

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.