Experts define ion exchange water treatment as a “method where one or more undesirable contaminants are removed from water by exchange with another non-objectionable, or less objectionable substance”. Yet both must be dissolved and have the same electrical charge. This is the system that water softeners use, but it is also put to work in water purification and municipal wastewater facilities. There, resin materials are used in the processes, and there is an incredibly lucrative resins market. In fact, one report noted that “The global market for ion exchange resins, which was estimated at $1.54 billion in 2014, is projected to be $2.46 billion by 2022.” Yet, these resins are problematic.
A Better Solution
Rather than deal with spent regenerates that have to be chemically reduced and monitored for their high levels of dissolved solids and ionic compounds, many are looking at replacing ion exchange water treatment options with more sustainable approaches. One approach showing lots of potentials is that from Dioxide Materials. Noted for their remarkable Co2 electrolyzers, Sustaining membranes and water electrolysis technologies, they have been able to design systems capable of record-breaking levels of performance.
Energy and More
Their systems have already proven capable of lowering the costs and wastes associated with renewable energy. From capturing and using hundreds of MW of electricity that might normally be curtailed from entering the grid, to converting Co2 streams into formic acid, sustainable chemicals and auto fuels, they are viewed as one of the more cutting-edge firms. They are helping to build a flourishing hydrogen economy, too through the use of their precious metal-free electrolyzers and their innovative membranes. Little wonder then that many are looking at their options for replacing ion exchange water treatment with less polluting alternatives and solutions.
Water Rethought
Many studies have indicated that modern electrochemical processes have improved dramatically and that wastewater containing organic pollutants may be capable of treatment through more advanced systems. With the Dioxide Materials systems, the rate and pace of processing has been radically improved. Consider too that the use of Co2 as a regenerate is applicable to “chemical synthesis, desalination, demineralization, metals removal and hardness removal,” meaning that ion exchange processes may soon be outweighed by the benefits of Co2 processes already existent in Dioxide Materials systems. If you would like to learn more about the potentials available, just contact this innovative firm for details.