|  | Public Health Safety | Public Health

Water Treatment Systems for Removing Iron

Iron is prevalent in all geologic formations. When rainwater filters through soil and rocks, iron drains into the groundwater--a naturally occurring process. Most potable water contains some iron which is considered by the EPA to be a contaminant of secondary concern because it only results in cosmetic (tooth discoloration) or aesthetic (taste, color, odor) effects. For this reason, EPA provides nonenforceable guidelines on the acceptable iron standard for public water systems which is .3 mg/L.

  1. Interactions of Iron

    • Iron reacts to oxygen and other contaminants sometimes found in water systems. Water with periodic interaction with oxygen tends to have less iron. Water at greater depths below ground surface does not readily interact with oxygen, so adding oxygen is a great treatment option. But, sulfur, also a secondary contaminant, is a gas that results from the breakdown of organic matter in an oxygenated environment and makes water smell funny.

      Treatment options for iron need to consider the chemical balance that will decrease iron levels but will not increase sulfur levels.

    Treatment Options

    • Water-treatment systems for removing iron take into consideration the level of oxygen and other contaminants that may or not be present in water sources. The introduction of oxygen into water will convert iron into a form that settles to the bottom of a well and can then be removed. Filtration uses special screens to remove iron particles. The addition of water softeners or other chemical agents can remove soluble iron by ion exchange. Any combination of treatment options may be employed to remedy cosmetic and aesthetic concerns.

    Iron and Health Concerns

    • Iron is necessary for good health; it transports oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency is called anemia and is treated with iron supplements. However, iron toxicity can occur at levels higher than 40 mg/day because iron is not readily secreted by the body and can build up and clog tissues and organs.

      Naturally occurring iron in water most likely will not result in ingesting over 40 mg/day. But it is problematic. It can discolor toilets, bath tubs and beauty features. To alleviate these concerns, treatment options should be implemented.

Public Health - Related Articles