The problem of water purification from chemical reagents used in cooling systems

Abstract

Relevance: The rapid development of technology intensifies the impact of industrial enterprises on the environment, turning the pollution of water bodies with chemical reagents and toxic wastes into a serious problem. In particular, the chemical substances used in cooling systems (inhibitors, biocides, anti-scale additives) pose a significant threat to the environment through wastewater discharge. Therefore, the application of efficient and economically viable water treatment technologies is highly relevant to ensure environmental safety and increase the sustainability of industrial enterprises.

Aim. To effectively remove chemical reagents used in cooling systems from wastewater and to identify optimal technologies that contribute to improving the environmental safety of industrial facilities.

Methods: The article analyzes modern water treatment methods, including electrocoagulation (EC), electrodialysis (ED), and membrane/thermo-membrane distillation (MD) technologies. The principles of operation, efficiency, advantages, and limitations of each method are compared. In addition, their impact on reducing the main problems of cooling systems-corrosion, scale formation, contamination, and microbiological activity—was evaluated.

Results: According to the research findings, electrocoagulation effectively removes organic and colloidal pollutants; electrodialysis significantly reduces the concentration of ionic salts and enables the reuse of water; while membrane distillation provides deep purification from almost all chemical reagents and heavy metals. However, each technology has its own limitations, such as energy consumption, membrane costs, and the formation of additional sludge. A comprehensive approach to applying these technologies will allow industrial enterprises to use water resources more efficiently, ensure environmental safety, and improve the reliability of cooling systems.