Industrial wastewater that is rich in sulphides can be a serious problem, not only for the health of staff and visitors but also for the condition of the wastewater treatment plant and storage equipment. However, industrial water treatment chemicals offer a simple, safe and cost-effective way of neutralising the problem compounds in the effluent stream.
Where does it come from and what are the issues
Hydrogen sulphide is a colourless gas that has a characteristic sulphurous or ‘rotten-egg’ odour. It is toxic to people and animals, and exposure can cause nausea, headaches and irritation of the eyes and respiratory system.
Hydrogen sulphide is produced by microbes breaking down organic matter under anoxic (oxygen-free) conditions and is found in sewers, swamps, wells and untreated industrial wastewater that has been allowed to stagnate. It is also a by-product of some industrial processes and therefore is a common issue for oil, gas and petroleum refineries, paper mills and tanneries.
Wastewater that is rich in hydrogen sulphide can also be corrosive as, when combined with water, it forms sulphuric acid. If left for an extended period of time, the concentration of acid increases and can corrode steelwork and damage key components of the water treatment system.
How can it be addressed?
Many facilities, especially those in populated areas, will use aerosol spray systems to mask the foul odour, however, this does not treat the underlying cause and does not address the potential toxic effects or acid formation.
At Veolia Water Technologies UK (VWT UK), we have a solution specifically designed for hydrogen sulphide treatment. Our Hydrex 6935 water treatment chemical is a liquid that is added directly to the effluent stream using a suitable dosing pump.
The active component in Hydrex 6935 breaks down the hydrogen sulphide to eliminate the odour and converts the harmful compounds into more inert substances that can remain in the wastewater. Hydrex 6935 also stabilises the water to prevent further formation of Hydrogen sulphide. Even where industrial wastewater has become supersaturated with hydrogen sulphide gas, Hydrex 6935 is capable of reducing the concentrations to a level that is technically undetectable.
Benefits of Hydrex 6935 water treatment chemicals
- Neutralises hydrogen sulphide to remove odours and dangerous compounds
- Low set-up cost – no specialist equipment or expensive plant required.
- Hydrex 6935 is supplied and ready to use with no dilution or mixing required.
- Added directly into the water stream using a suitable chemical dosing pump.
- Easily retrofitted onto an existing water treatment system.
- We can supply Hydrex 6935 in a variety of container sizes depending on the application. A 1,000-litre Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) is the most common.
Why Veolia Water Technologies UK?
We have already worked with businesses in a range of industries to solve the potentially costly issue of hydrogen sulphide build-up. Our team of specialists can carry out an initial site survey to evaluate the potential issues and propose a solution. The recommended first chemical dose is then calculated using an on-site laboratory jar test. We then assist with the pump's set-up and calibration of the dosing to ensure optimal chemical performance.
Hydrex 6935 is just one of the Veolia water treatment chemicals that make up our Hydrex range, which includes both organic and inorganic chemicals formulated for the industrial and municipal sectors. Hydrex chemicals can be used for the treatment of boiler and cooling tower water, legionella control, process water production and wastewater treatment.
For more information on Hydrex, click here.
Author | Brian Jones
Brian has over 30 years experience in the chemical and water purification industry. The first 18 years were spent working for Hays Chemical Distribution in senior roles, working in quality, safety and process management. His problem solving approach and chemical background made going into wastewater treatment a good fit. He has spent the last 14 years working in sales in this industry having bought a wealth of knowledge to the role, proving to be a valuable asset.
