There are several chemicals suitable for water treatment: most of them work as 'oxidants'. That is, the chemical has a high enough redox potential that it can cause damage to the DNA of the offending bugs. This makes them 'pesticides', and to be sold in America these need EPA approval (as discussed previously). In general, the products rely on one of several chemicals:
- Iodine
- Chlorine
- Chlorine dioxide
- Silver
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Others
There is a hazard with the use of any chemical treatment. If the water is full of organic matter the chemical may be absorbed into that matter and may not manage to kill all the bugs. For this reason chemical treatment should only be used on clear or filtered water.
ARTICLE OUTLINE
- Introduction
- The Taste - or Smell
- Iodine
- Chlorine
- Chlorine dioxide
- Chlorine dioxide safety
- Silver
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Others
- Summary
# WORDS: 3570
# PHOTOS: 3
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Home › Forums › A Survey of Water Hazards and Water Treatment Methods – Part 4: Chemical Methods