How Is Aluminum Used in Water Treatment Plants

Water treatment is a crucial process in maintaining safe and clean drinking water for communities. One of the essential chemicals used in water treatment plants is aluminum.

Coagulation-flocculation process

Coagulation-flocculation is a crucial process in water treatment where suspended particles in water are removed. Aluminum salts are used for coagulation-flocculation, where they act as a coagulant. When added to water, aluminum forms a precipitate that attracts suspended particles, causing them to clump together and settle. The clusters gradually become bigger and are eventually removed through filtration processes.

Adjusting pH levels

The pH level of the water being treated is essential in making sure that the chemicals used in the water treatment process are effective. Aluminum sulfate, one of the most common aluminum salts used in water treatment, can lower the pH levels of water, making it more acidic. This process is necessary as it neutralizes alkaline water, making it easier to treat.

Disinfecting water

In the later stages of water treatment, it is crucial to disinfect the water to remove any remaining bacteria and viruses. Chlorine is the chemical commonly used for water disinfection, and aluminum-based coagulants can enhance the effectivity of this process. By adding aluminum to the water before chlorination, the suspended particles that could harbor bacteria are removed, enabling the chlorination process to be more effective.

Safe usage of aluminum in water treatment

While aluminum is a powerful coagulant and can be useful in water treatment plants, there are concerns about the safety of aluminum in drinking water. When excess aluminum is present in drinking water, it can cause health issues such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and others. Thus, it is essential to use aluminum in water treatment plants with caution and make sure that the levels of aluminum in drinking water are within the safe limits set by local and national health regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, aluminum salts are an indispensable part of water treatment plants. By coagulating particles, adjusting pH levels and disinfecting water, aluminum helps ensure that water is clean and safe for consumption. While the usage of aluminum in water treatment is safe, it is crucial to follow safe usage guidelines to avoid any potential health risks.