What happens during water treatment?
Treating water is not a simple procedure. To come up with the water treatment process which is currently used today, scientists have conducted several trial and error studies and laboratory exams. The following are the most common processes involved in this procedure:
-Preparation phase
During the preparation phase, the water coming from natural sources is pre-chlorinated. Pre-chlorination is the process of introducing chlorine, a chemical which reduces algae development and the growth of other microorganisms in the water. Aeration is also done during preparation phase to eliminate dangerous substances such as manganese and iron.
-Coagulation phase
In the coagulation phase, coagulation agents or poly electrolytes are introduced into the pre-treated water for flocculation. During flocculation, colloids are separated from the solution for purification of the water in the form of flocs.
-Sedimentation phase
It is during sedimentation phase where solid particles are separated from the water. The floc, which is the result of coagulation, undergoes sedimentation to remove the trapped suspended solids.
-Filtration phase
Filtration is another process involving the separation of solid particles. There are several kinds of filtration process used by different water treatment agencies.
-Final phase
The final phase of water treatment involves desalination and disinfection. During desalination, the salt content of the water is eliminated. Disinfection, which is the killing of bacteria in the water, follows thereafter.
In some companies, other processes to improve water filtration and treatment are being introduced. This is to develop water quality and promote safety among end users.
Why use treated water?
Aside from knowing that treated water is safer than untreated ones, there are many other reasons why you should use treated water. Here are some of the benefits:
-Reduced risk of cancer
Although the exact cause of cancer is still unknown, medical experts say that risk factors include exposure to different chemicals. Water treatment effectively removes unhealthy chemicals which can cause cancer from the water you drink.
-Best for children
At all costs, children must drink only healthy water. Since treated water has undergone several processes of purification, you can be sure that the end water product is safe and healthy for consumption.
-Better taste and smell
The end product of treating water has better taste and smell.
As the universal solvent, water plays an important role in the life of every living thing. Indeed, the development of an effective water treatment has been a great innovation for everyone around the world.