What Is Fluoride And How Is It Removed From Water?

Fluoride is a mineral component added to water to prevent cavities and maintain oral health. Almost all sources of water contain fluoride in low levels to prevent tooth decay and oral infections. However, in many sources of water, the level of fluoride might be high, which can cause adverse health effects.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the permitted level of fluoride in the water is 4.0 mg/L. However, the contamination can sometimes be higher, which might lead to health risks. Under such circumstances, businesses use fluoride removal plants to purify the water.

Most fluoride removal plant manufacturers make treatment plants that involve steps like reverse osmosis, distillation, activated alumina filters, and bone char carbon filters to remove fluoride from the water.

What are the risks of fluoride in water?

In certain parts of the world, like Asia and Africa, the geological deposits of fluoride are high, which can lead to contamination of the water supplies. Again, water bodies located near chemical industries can also get contaminated with high levels of fluoride from industrial chemicals. Excessive and continuous intake of the mineral can lead to high health risks.

Risks of high fluoride content

Dental fluorosis

It is a cosmetic condition that occurs when teeth are exposed to high quantities of fluoride. It is characterised by stains and discolouration. High fluoride exposure, especially in children, can lead to this problem.

Hypothyroidism

This is a situation where an underactive thyroid might cause tiredness and fatigue among individuals. It will also cause increased sensitivity to cold, weight gain, and dry skin in the affected person.

Skeletal fluorosis

When high levels of fluoride accumulate in the bones, it can result in muscle impairment, muscle stiffness, and joint pain.

How to get rid of fluoride from water?

The reverse osmosis process is the only effective way to remove fluoride from water. During this process, pressure is used to push the unfiltered water through a semipermeable membrane. The fluoride particles get stuck in the membrane, and the water passes through the tiny pores. This way, fluoride is retained, and the water is purified instantly.

This ensures clean and filtered water production on the other side of the treatment plant. Thus, most businesses in the beverage industry prefer using reverse osmosis for fluoride filtration.