Water Oxidation – Key Information

Oxidizability of water is a key parameter that is crucial for water quality and its applications in various areas, from industry to households. In this article, we will explore the definition of oxidizability, methods of measuring it, and its impact on the corrosion of devices and human health.

What is the oxidation potential of water?

The oxidation potential of water defines the liquid's ability to oxidize chemical substances. In practice, this means that water acts as an oxidizing agent, capable of transferring partial oxygen (O2) or other oxidizing substances toother substances. The main unit of measurement for oxidizability is milligrams of oxygen per liter of water (mg/L).

It is important to remember: An increase in the oxidizability of water can lead to serious ecological and health problems.

Causes of increased water oxidizability

Presence of oxides

The most common cause of increased water oxidizability is the presence of oxides,especially partial oxygen. Natural processes, such as photosynthesis of aquatic plants or gas exchange with the atmosphere, introduce oxygen into the water, increasing its oxidizing capacity.

Chemical pollutants

Chemical substances present in water, such as organic compounds or metals, can act as oxidizing agents, affecting its oxidizability. Industrial pollutants can further increase the amount of substancesoxidizing.

Methods for measuring the oxidizability of water

Potentiometric methods

Potentiometric methods are based on measuring the redox potential of water, that is, its ability to oxidize an oxidant or the reducing properties of a reductant in redox reactions – in other words, its ability to donate or accept electrons through ions or molecules. These methods utilize redox electrodes,registering changes in potential, which allows for determining the level of oxidizability.

For accurate measurement of REDOX potential, ORP testers available in our store can be used. This equipment allows for examining the ORP (oxidation reduction potential) measure, which can determine the potential of water in terms of regenerating-oxidizing.

It is worth remembering: Choosing the appropriate method for measuring oxidizability iskey to obtaining reliable results.

Redox electrodes

Redox electrodes are precise sensors that measure the REDOX potential of water. Its changes are continuously recorded, allowing for accurate determination of oxidizing capacity. These electrodes are often used in real-time water quality monitoring.

The impact of oxidizing capacity on water quality

Changeschemical

Increased oxidizability can lead to a series of chemical changes in water. Chemical compounds may undergo oxidation, which affects the taste, smell, and other organoleptic properties of water. Corrosion of water supply infrastructure components.

High oxidizability can accelerate the corrosion processes of water supply infrastructure components, especially metal pipes and installation elements. This, in turn, can lead to water contamination andwater system damage.

Health safety

Water with high oxidizability can affect health safety, especially if oxidizers are present in concentrations exceeding standards. Oxidizing substances can have toxic effects, impacting the health of humans and animals.

It's worth remembering: Regular monitoring of water oxidizability isessential for public health protection.

Water with high oxidizability – summary

The oxidizability of water is a complex parameter that requires systematic monitoring and the application of effective reduction methods. Understanding the causes of increased oxidizability, choosing the measurement method, and its impact on liquid quality allow for effective management of this aspect, protecting both water infrastructure and health. By ensuring control andmonitoring of oxidizability, we can ensure access to clean and safe drinking water every day.