If you’ve never heard the term ClO2 or Chlorine dioxide, you may know it as its more common name: bleach. This compound is a disinfectant that can be used by water treatment plants as a replacement for pure chlorine at times. Cooling water with ClO2 is a common method for water treatment. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Use ClO2?
The biggest reason to try cooling water with ClO2, instead of just using a chlorine treatment, is that ClO2 doesn’t form THM (trihalomethanes). THM is what causes water treated with chlorine to have a “swimming pool” taste, and by using a compound that doesn’t form THM, you can treat water without giving it that tell-tale flavor.
Another big reason to use ClO2 is that it can continue to kill bacteria even in pH levels that would cause chlorine to become impotent. It is used for public water supply primarily due to the lack of taste and this factor, but it can also be used in industrial water because it is a great antimicrobial.
ClO2 is particularly used in water supplies that are too heavy in iron, sulfides, and manganese. This compound can oxidize, or kill, those elements and get the water back to a more balanced state.
Why Shouldn’t You Use ClO2?
There is one thing that is important to note about ClO2 that should be considered before using it. When cooling water with ClO2, some carbon dioxide gas will be created and released into the atmosphere. This gas is far more toxic than chlorine gas, which is in and of itself quite toxic. And if the ClO2 is transported in liquid form, and that liquid form dries, it is a highly combustible material that can be very dangerous. Therefore, using ClO2 in a treatment facility requires great care and a lot of attention.
Learn More from the Pros
Cooling water with ClO2 can be a very good option for your water treatment facility. However, if you want to learn more from professionals, who can assess your specific needs and help you determine if this is the best method for you, contact us at Capco Water Solutions today. We offer versatile ClO2 water systems that ensure the safety of all users and employees. We can help you determine the best way to use this system to meet your needs.