Potassium and Sodium Permanganate Water Treatment

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Permanganate Water Treatment

Sodium and Potassium permanganate (NaMnO4, KMnO₄) are widely used in water treatment for its strong oxidizing properties, helping to remove contaminants and improve water quality. Sodium permanganate is a 40% liquid solution, potassium permanganate is a 98% solid.

1. Oxidation of Contaminants

  • Iron (Fe²⁺) & Manganese (Mn²⁺) Removal:
    • Oxidizes soluble iron and manganese into insoluble particles, which can then be filtered out.
  • Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Removal:
    • Reacts with hydrogen sulfide to eliminate its characteristic “rotten egg” smell.
  • Organic Matter & Color Reduction:
    • Breaks down organic compounds, reducing color and improving taste.
  • Algae & Biofilm Control:
    • Helps control algae growth in reservoirs and water systems.
  • Disinfection Aid:
    • Can help reduce bacterial growth, but it is not a standalone disinfectant like chlorine.

2. Application Methods

  • Pre-Treatment in Water Plants:
    • Added before filtration to oxidize iron, manganese, and sulfides.
  • Well Water Treatment:
    • Used in conjunction with filtration to remove natural contaminants.
  • Wastewater Treatment:
    • Helps control odors and break down pollutants before discharge.

3. Considerations & Safety

  • Proper Dosing is Essential: Overdosing can lead to pink or purple water due to residual permanganate.
  • Residuals Must Be Removed: Requires filtration to remove oxidized particles.
  • Handling Precautions: A strong oxidizer that can stain and be harmful in high concentrations.

4. Advantages & Limitations

✅ Advantages

Effective over a wide range of contaminates  VOSs, Organic Compounds, Metals.
Non-toxic & environmentally friendly, no residual or breakdown products
Effective for in-situ remediation of groundwater without costly excavation.

❌ Limitations

Must contact contaminate contaminant must contact permanganate.
Possible formation of breakdown products  some compounds are not fully oxidized .
Not effective against all pollutants (PFAS, salts, minerals, or dissolved inorganic compounds).

Contact Pat or Bob at Hepure for specification sheets.

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Contact

West Sales & Technical Support

Pat Randall 866.727.4776 x1 pat.randall@hepure.com

East Sales & Technical Support

Bob Kelley, Ph.D. 866.727.4776 x2 bob.kelley@hepure.com