Ion Exchange Resins for Groundwater Contaminant Removal

purolite resins effectively remove perchlorate contamination from drinking water and groundwater remediation sites

Purolite has been at the forefront of perchlorate ion exchange resin development since it was first discovered in groundwater. We produced some of the first resins used in the industry and have continued to improve our offerings in accordance with our commitment to helping provide clean safe drinking water. Perchlorate-selective ion exchange resin is the best available technology for impacted groundwater remediation. We work closely with communities and municipalities throughout the world to help deliver perchlorate-free drinking water and remediation solutions.

Perchlorates enter the environment through industrial activities. The most common sources are solid propellant for rockets, missiles, and fireworks —but perchlorate can also be naturally occurring. Perchlorate in drinking water supplies is a growing health concern as it can damage the thyroid gland that controls human growth, development and metabolism. It is particularly detrimental to developing fetuses and young children as it can affect brain development and cause hearing loss, speech delays or impairment, as well as have other effects on motor skills.

Regulations

  • California’s State Water Resource Control Board set a perchlorate maximum contaminant level (MCL) at 6 ppb with a detection level for purposes of reporting of 1 ppb.  The state is going to evaluate an adjustment to the MCL in the near future. 
  • Massachusetts also has an MCL of 2 ppb. 
  • Perchlorate is not current regulated by an MCL at the Federal level, although is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act in the USA.
  • The World Health Organization also provides perchlorate recommendations in WHO Guidelines for drinking-water quality.
Resources 
  • Purolite participated in a WaterOnline Webcast that discusses the use of ion exchange resin technologies for removing contaminants from potable and groundwater—including perchlorate.
  • The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed a technical fact sheet for perchlorate that provides an overview of what it is, where it comes from, environmental impacts, and effects on human health.
  • For guidance on design, operations and troubleshooting, ask Purolite. 

Treatment
Today, the most common ion exchange treatment option for perchlorate is Purolite® A532E, a single-use perchlorate selective which is certified by the WQA to NSF/ANSI-61 standard for drinking water. Purolite also offers A532EBF in the buffered form

Your local technical sales expert will be happy to assist you with the best treatment solution for perchlorate contamination.