Why is Chlorine Used in Water Treatment Plants?

Water treatment plants are responsible for making sure that the water we drink is safe for consumption. In order to ensure this safety, various treatments are used to remove contaminants and kill bacteria. One of the most common treatments used is chlorine. But why is chlorine used in water treatment plants? Read on to find out.

What is Chlorine and How Does it Work?

Chlorine is a chemical element that is commonly used in water treatment plants as a disinfectant. It works by destroying bacteria and other microorganisms that can be harmful to our health. Chlorine does this by disrupting the chemical reactions that these microorganisms rely on to survive. This effectively kills the microorganisms, making the water safe for consumption.

What are the Benefits of Using Chlorine in Water Treatment Plants?

There are many benefits to using chlorine in water treatment plants. Firstly, it is a highly effective disinfectant that can destroy a wide range of harmful microorganisms. Secondly, it is relatively cheap and easy to use, making it a cost-effective treatment option for many water treatment plants. Finally, it is a well-established treatment that has been used for over a hundred years, so it has a proven track record of success.

Are There Any Downsides to Using Chlorine in Water Treatment Plants?

While there are benefits to using chlorine in water treatment plants, there are also some potential downsides. The biggest concern is that chlorine can react with other chemicals in the water to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs), which can be harmful to our health. Some of these DBPs have been linked to cancer and other diseases. However, water treatment plants monitor the levels of these DBPs and ensure that they are kept within safe limits.

What Other Disinfectants are Used in Water Treatment Plants?

While chlorine is the most commonly used disinfectant in water treatment plants, there are other options available. Some plants use chlorine dioxide, which is a more powerful disinfectant that doesn't react with other chemicals to form DBPs. Others use ultraviolet (UV) light or ozone to disinfect the water. These options are more expensive than chlorine, but they may be necessary in some cases where chlorine isn't effective or where DBP formation is a concern.

Conclusion

Overall, chlorine is a highly effective and cost-effective disinfectant that has been used in water treatment plants for over a century. While there are some concerns about DBP formation, water treatment plants monitor levels carefully to ensure that the water is safe for consumption. Other disinfectant options are available, but they may not be necessary in all situations. Ultimately, the choice of disinfectant will depend on the specific needs of the water treatment plant.