There is frequent discussion about biodegradability and toxicity, but what do these terms actually mean when applied to a product used for drinking water treatment and for wastewater treatment that will be discharged back into nature?
Biodegradation is defined as the ability of a substance to naturally decompose through the action of microorganisms, transforming into CO₂ and water. Therefore, biodegradability analysis is measured by the amount of CO₂ formed over a specific period of time and at a defined temperature by the material being evaluated. This analysis also indicates whether a product is persistent and bioaccumulative, meaning whether it remains in the environment for long periods and may cause harm.
Toxicity, on the other hand, refers to the likelihood of a substance causing damage to organisms, whether human, animal, or environmental. It can be assessed in several ways, including microbiological analyses using predefined bacterial strains. Toxicity testing of chemical products includes evaluations of cytotoxicity and mutagenicity.
Acquapol is periodically subjected to analyses to assess its biodegradability and toxicity. Acquapol achieved 100% biodegradation within 12 days, well before the 28 days required by the OECD 301 B (1997) test method. This confirms that it is a readily biodegradable product, non-persistent and non-bioaccumulative in the environment.
In addition, according to the OECD 471 (2020) test method, Acquapol showed no toxicity: it did not induce mutations, did not present cytotoxicity, and is therefore not considered toxic.
Acquapol is a natural coagulant from a renewable and sustainable source, used in drinking water treatment and in wastewater treatment processes whose effluents may be discharged back into the environment. It is a safe product, both for the environment and for people.
For your water and wastewater treatment, choose safe solutions.
Choose Acquapol. Want to learn more? Get in touch with us.
