What does it mean when the redox potential of water drops?
The drop in redox potential (ORP indicator) is not merely an abstract chemical concept. It has specific and practical applications in many industrial fields, such as an indicator of water quality. Understanding what a drop in redox value means can help in better management of industrial processes and ensuring higher quality products.
Food Industry: In the food industry, monitoring redox potential is crucial in fermentation processes. A drop in ORP indicates active fermentation, during which microorganisms consume oxygen and produce alcohol and carbon dioxide. For example, in the production of wine, beer, or yogurt, controlling ORP allows monitoring the progress of fermentation and ensuring optimal conditions for microorganisms.
Water Treatment Industry: In sewage treatment plants and water treatment stations, redox potential is used to monitor purification processes. A drop in ORP may indicate the presence of reducing compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide, which can be harmful to human health and the environment.
Chemical Industry: In chemical production, controlling ORP is essential in many redox reactions. A drop in ORP may indicate the need to add more oxidizing agents or the completion of the reaction.
Metallurgical Industry: In metal extraction processes, redox potential is crucial. A drop in ORP may indicate effective separation of the metal from other components of the solution.
Paper Industry: In paper production, controlling ORP is used to monitor bleaching processes. A drop in ORP may indicate the need to add more oxidizing agents to achieve the desired shade of white.
Example – monitoring the redox indicator of pool water
The water in a swimming pool must not pose any health risk to those swimming in it. For this reason, it must undergo special treatment. The pH value and redox tension play an important role here. The pH value is important for flocculation, filtration, and disinfection of water, and it also has a significant impact on the redox potential value. For example, a too high pH value reduces the disinfecting action of hypochlorite. Redox tension is an indicator of water quality and can be used to determine the bactericidal action of pool water. Ideally, the redox tension should be around 700mV. If the actual value drops below or significantly exceeds this value, appropriate actions should be taken in terms of chlorine dosing. In pools, water with a high redox potential is desired, as it is a good environment for effectively destroying bacteria.