Ion Exchange Resins are widely used in different separation, purification, and decontamination processes. The most common examples are water softening and water purification. In many cases ion-exchange resins were introduced in such processes as a more flexible alternative to the use of natural or artificial zeolites. Also, ion exchange resins are highly effective in the biodiesel filtration process.
Ion Exchange Resins are particularly well suited for the removal of ionic impurities for several reasons:
- The resins have high capacities for ions that are found in low concentrations.
- The resins are stable and readily regenerated, temperature effects are for the most part negligible.
Aquacheme Co., Ltd. offers a variety of ion exchange resins to suit just about any water treatment application including:
- Ultra Pure Water production
- Water softening (residential, commercial and industrial)
- Dealkalization
- Condensate Polishing
- Demineralization
- Metals Removal
Resin Analysis
Aquacheme Co.,Ltd. offers independent resin analysis to help determine if and when to replace the resin. Our in-house engineering staff can assist in reevaluation of your resin choice in the event the conditions of operation have changed. Res-Kem Corp has the knowledge to determine what type of resin will work best to maximize the output of your equipment
Resin Equivalency
Occasionally still referred to as Zeolite or Zeolite mineral, ion exchange resin is functionalized polymer/plastic beads that chemically react with ions in water. It was developed as an alternative to zeolite and functions similarly.
Regardless of brand, the core principles of ion exhange resin remain the same. There are 4 main types of resin, each with their own function:
- Strong acid cation (SAC)
- Weak acid cation (WAC)
- Strong base anion (SBA)
- Weak base anion (WBA)
Loose Ion Exchange Resins
Mixed Bed resins, sometimes referred to as mix bed resin, are a combination of cation and anion resins. Usually the ratio for mixed bed resin is 1:1 or 1:2 depending on the application. There are also specialty resins for the removal of:
- Nitrates
- Organics
- Arsenic
- Perchlorate
- TOC
Expected Life of Ion Exchange Resins
Each application requires a different water quality. In general cation resin for water softening and demineralization may last 5 to 10 years. Anion resins used in demineralization last anywhere from 3 to 5 years and are dependent on operational conditions. Like every other resin, the life of mixed bed resin is dependent on the application in which it is being used. Resin life is difficult to predict; in critical applications it’s best to start analyzing and benchmarking the resin at least once per year.
To find out more about how Aquacheme can help you with your special water quality needs, contact Aquacheme for further assistance with all your Ion Exchange Resins supply needs. We will be happy to assist you.