Industrial: Precipitants

Chemical Precipitation removes dissolved toxic metals from process wastewaters by converting ionic metals to an insoluble particle through a chemical reaction between a soluble metal compounds and a precipitating reagent. The particles formed are removed from solution by settling and/or filtration with unit operations including neutralization, precipitation, coagulation/ flocculation, solids/liquid separation and dewatering.

The effectiveness of a chemical precipitation process is dependent on several factors, including the type and concentration of ionic metals present in solution, the precipitant used, the reaction conditions and the presence of other constituents that may inhibit the precipitation reaction. The most widely used chemical precipitation process is hydroxide precipitation but this is often ineffective with process wastewaters containing mixed metals or when low discharge limits are in place.

We have formulated precipitants, with compounds including sulfides, carbonates, and/or carbamates that achieve metal solubilities dramatically lower than those of corresponding metal hydroxides over a wide pH range. Precipitants are uniquely able to achieve low residual metals in treated wastewater even in the presence of chelators such as EDTA, cleaning agents, and organics which complex or encapsulate metallic ions and inhibit their precipitation. In addition, the compounds formed by these precipitants are "non-water-loving" resulting is less sludge and easier dewatering compared to metal hydroxides which are "water-loving".

Relying upon our extensive experience and expertise with both wastewater treatment chemistries and equipment, Water Innovations, Inc. is uniquely able to provide you a chemistry solution while simultaneously ensuring your treatment system is cost-effective and efficient.