ALMA AQUA

We offer you cost-effective process additives for water and wastewater treatment, cooling and boiler water treatment and membrane technology.
Laboratory tests for wastewater treatment

Your specialist for process additives in water-bearing plants and systems

Frank Kuntze

Sales Manager Water and Process Additives

frank.kuntze@almawatech.com
+49 151 5102 8728

Table of contents

By product group:

Corrosion inhibitors

The selection of the right corrosion inhibitor depends on various factors: Water quality (hardness, conductivity, pH value, oxygen content), material combination (steel, copper, aluminium, galvanized components), temperature range, system type (open/closed), as well as regulatory requirements (e.g. VDI 2035, DGRL, 42nd BImSchV).

Our experts analyze these parameters in combination with your operating mode (circulation time, make-up quantity, pressure ratios) and recommend the appropriate ALMA AQUA formulation. Alternatively, a laboratory analysis can also be commissioned using our in-house analytics. Tried and tested combination products are available for standard applications, while we develop individual additive concepts for complex cases - with monitoring and dosing control on request.

Yes, our corrosion inhibitors are formulated to be compatible with all common materials in water-bearing systems - including stainless steel, copper, aluminium, galvanized steel, brass and common plastics. The choice of inhibitor is particularly critical for sensitive materials such as aluminum or zinc alloys, as these metals can be attacked even under slightly acidic or strongly alkaline conditions.

We offer special pH-neutral or pH-supported formulations that are compatible with mixed installations. For systems with mixed materials (e.g. copper-steel combinations), formulations containing azoles are also used to prevent galvanic effects. In special cases, we test the material compatibility directly in the laboratory or recommend suitable protective measures.

Our corrosion inhibitors are designed for long-term use under real operating conditions. The duration of action depends on various factors: e.g. water turnover, oxygen input, make-up quantity, temperature, carry-over and bioactivity in the system.

In closed systems, the protective effect can be maintained for several months to years, provided the concentration is regularly monitored and dosed. In open circuits with constant evaporation and fresh water input, we recommend continuous dosing - supplemented by online measurement or regular laboratory analysis.

Our ALMA AQUA systems can be coupled with monitoring software and automated dosing technology to keep the protective effect constant. The service life therefore depends not only on the product, but also on the process control.

Yes - our corrosion protection additives meet the requirements for technical compliance, which are defined, for example, in VDI 2035 sheets 1 & 2 for heating and water circuits, in the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) or the 42nd BImSchV.

In heating systems, we pay attention to low conductivity, a balanced pH value and high material compatibility - especially in closed systems with aluminium or galvanized steel. In district heating systems, we use tested additives with documented long-term effectiveness and stability. For systems in contact with drinking water (e.g. storage tank charging systems, plate heat exchangers), we supply DVGW-compliant variants or advise on alternative protection strategies.

On request, we can provide you with all product safety data, standard references and certificates. Our technical advice will also support you in designing the water quality in accordance with regulations.

Yes - we offer a wide range of phosphate-free, low-phosphonate and biodegradable inhibitor formulations that can be used particularly in environmentally sensitive areas or where there are disposal restrictions (e.g. direct discharge).

Phosphonate-free products are also suitable for systems with strict waste water limits or for industries with high environmental awareness (e.g. food or pharmaceutical industry). As an alternative, we use molybdates, silicates or organic dispersants, for example - with a very good protective effect, even under fluctuating operating conditions.

We will be happy to advise you on which environmentally friendly solution makes technical sense and is permissible from a regulatory perspective - including all verification documents for authorities or internal QA processes.

Yes - many of our products are so-called multifunctional formulations that combine corrosion protection with other functions: e.g. hardness stabilization, biofilm control, dispersion or pH buffering.

Such products are particularly efficient in systems in which several loads occur simultaneously - e.g. oxygen input, limescale deposits and microbial load. However, it is important that compatibility and active ingredient stability are guaranteed - especially in the case of additives with a biocidal effect or cleaning additives.

Our consultants will clarify for you which additives can be combined and, if necessary, we will supply customized complete formulations tailored to your system. Compatibility is tested analytically as standard.

Yes - our technical service team supports you nationwide and internationally in all tasks relating to corrosion protection and water management. We offer:

  • On-site visits & consultation appointments

  • Laboratory and field analysis (e.g. iron measurement, coupons, microscopy)

  • Commissioning of dosing and monitoring technology

  • Online monitoring & digital trend analysis

  • Remote support & online training

You receive comprehensive support from us - from product selection to stable system operation. We also react quickly and in a solution-oriented manner in the event of malfunctions or deviations. Your benefit: All services from a single source - including additive supply, technology and digital documentation.

Our ALMA AQUA corrosion inhibitors are based on a carefully coordinated selection of active ingredient systems that are individually combined depending on the application, water quality and material combination. The following groups are used:

  • Phosphates / phosphonates: These additives form protective passive layers on metal surfaces and are particularly effective on steel and iron alloys. Phosphonates also act as hardness stabilizers and are therefore ideal for high total hardness values. The disadvantage is that they can lead to scale formation in certain applications (especially at high temperatures).

  • Molybdates and silicates: They form stable corrosion protection films, even with fluctuating pH values. Their low toxicity is particularly advantageous - an advantage for industries with strict environmental regulations or in closed systems. Molybdates are well suited for sensitive applications such as district heating or data centers.

  • Azoles (e.g. benzotriazole, tolytriazole): These active ingredients specifically protect copper and copper alloys - either as individual components or integrated into multi-component inhibitors. They are indispensable in mixed systems with brass, bronze or gunmetal.

  • Polymers & dispersants: They serve to stabilize dirt and prevent deposits caused by rust particles or suspended matter. In combination with corrosion inhibitors, they improve coating formation and system stability.

  • Amine or nitrite-based systems: These are particularly suitable for high-temperature applications such as industrial steam boilers or district heating networks. However, due to their reactivity and lack of suitability for drinking water, they can only be used to a limited extent for sensitive applications (e.g. food, pharmaceuticals).

Our product selection always takes into account the material, system type, temperature range, pH value, standard specifications and environmental requirements. We will be happy to advise you individually on the optimum active ingredient strategy for your system.

Open and closed circuits place very different demands on corrosion protection:

  • Open cooling circuits (e.g. recooling plants, wet cooling towers) are particularly susceptible to oxygen corrosion, hardness precipitation and biofouling due to constant contact with oxygen and evaporation losses. Multifunctional inhibitors are usually used here - often combined with phosphonates, dispersants and biocide components. The protective films must form quickly and remain stable even when fresh water is added.

  • In contrast, closed systems (e.g. heating, cold water, district heating) are low in oxygen and stable in volume, but sensitive to diffusion corrosion, pH fluctuations and micro-attacks by CO₂ or aggressive media. Here we use O₂ binders (e.g. sulphite), pH-stabilizing inhibitors, silicates or molybdates. Azoles also play a role, especially in systems with copper content.

In addition, inhibitors for closed systems often have to remain stable over very long service lives without impairing the heat exchanger performance. In district heating or mixed installations (steel, copper, plastic), material compatibility is also a decisive factor.

Our ALMA AQUA solutions are formulated for specific applications and can be combined with online monitoring and automatic post-dosing on request - for maximum operational reliability and predictability.

Our corrosion protection additives cover a wide range of applications in industrial and technical water systems. The selection is always based on system type, material combination, temperature range and regulation.

We supply suitable corrosion inhibitors for:

  • Process and cooling water systems in industry (e.g. chemicals, food, metal processing, energy supply)

  • Open, semi-open and closed water systems, e.g. recooling plants, cooling circuits, heating and air conditioning systems

  • Hot water and heating systems, including district heating networks with increased temperature levels

  • Circuits with glycol or antifreeze mixtures, as are frequently used in refrigeration or building technology

  • Drinking water systems (only with approved active ingredients, e.g. phosphate-free, DVGW-compliant formulations)

  • Sprinkler systems that place special demands on stability and material compatibility

  • Wet scrubber and wet separator systems where chemical stability and low foaming are important

  • And many other technical systems such as heat exchanger circuits, gas engine cooling, test stands, hydraulic cooling, etc.

Thanks to the wide range of variants, we can offer individual solutions - both for new systems and for optimizing existing systems, OEM systems or special applications. Please do not hesitate to contact us!

Oxygen binders & reducing agents

Sauerstoffbinder (Reduktionsmittel) dienen der gezielten Entfernung von gelöstem Sauerstoff (O₂) aus Wasser, um Korrosion an metallischen Werkstoffen zu verhindern. Bereits geringe Konzentrationen von <0,1 mg/l O₂ reichen aus, um Lochfraß, Magnetitbildung und Materialzersetzung zu verursachen – vor allem in Heißwasser- und Dampfanlagen, wo Temperatur und Druck die Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit erhöhen.

Oxygen binders work chemically by converting O₂ into harmless reaction products (e.g. sulphate). The result: corrosion protection, lower maintenance costs and standard-compliant operation - especially in boiler systems, district heating systems or feed water treatment systems.

Depending on the application, temperature, material and regulatory requirements, we use the following active ingredients, among others:

  • Sodium sulphite / sodium hydrogen sulphite - proven, fast-acting at temperatures >60 °C

  • DEHA (diethylhydroxylamine) - volatile, ideal for steam circuits, also protects condensate lines

  • Hydrazine - very reactive, but toxic - only in exceptional cases, e.g. in high-pressure boilers

  • Carbohydrazide - non-toxic hydrazine alternative with a similar effect

  • Erythorbic acid / ascorbic acid - biodegradable, particularly suitable for food & pharmaceuticals

We provide individual advice on the selection of the right active ingredient, taking into account environmental regulations, material compatibility and standards such as VDI 2035 or PED.

The reaction speed depends on the active ingredient, the temperature, the pH value and the mixing intensity. Sulphite-based products typically act very quickly from approx. 60 °C, while DEHA and carbohydrazide are also active in low temperature ranges, but require a longer contact time.

Volatile components such as DEHA have an additional effect in the steam area, where they also protect the condensate network from corrosion via condensation. Good mixing and precise dosing are crucial for rapid action - ideally monitored via online oxygen measurement.

Our oxygen binders are used in many industrial and commercial applications, e.g:

  • Boiler systems (steam and hot water boilers)

  • District heating networks & local heating systems

  • Hot water storage tank and large water heater

  • Feed water and condensate treatment

  • Pure and process water systems with O₂-sensitive chemistry

  • Cold water systems with O₂ diffusion via plastic pipes

Oxygen is particularly critical in closed systems with steel, cast iron or copper components - here oxygen binding effectively protects against micro- and contact corrosion.

The dosage depends on:

  • O₂ content in the raw or feed water

  • System size and operating volume

  • Temperature and flow conditions

  • Consumption through chemical reactions (e.g. with iron)

Typische Zielwerte für Kesselanlagen: <0,02 mg/l gelöster Sauerstoff. Die Dosierung erfolgt meist kontinuierlich, z. B. über Dosierpumpen in den Speisewassertank oder Vorlauf. Bei flüchtigen Produkten wie DEHA wird zusätzlich die Dampfverteilung berücksichtigt.

Our specialist consultants will prepare an exact dosing calculation and supply an automated dosing and monitoring unit on request.

Yes - our oxygen binders are fully compatible with:

  • pH stabilizers & alkalizing agents

  • Corrosion inhibitors (e.g. molybdates, phosphates, amines)

  • Antiscalants & hardness stabilizers

  • Dispersants & cleaning chemicals

For steam systems, we pay particular attention to compatibility with volatile components in order to ensure steam quality, condensate flow and material protection. In sensitive systems, we test the interactions in the laboratory or directly in trial operation.

The use of oxygen binders is subject to various technical regulations and legal requirements:

  • VDI 2035 Blatt 1 & 2: Definiert zulässige O₂-Konzentrationen in Heiz- und Kesselwasser. Zielwert: <0,02 mg/l

  • PED (Pressure Equipment Directive): Relevance for material selection & mode of operation for boiler systems

  • Drinking water ordinance / BfR: Only tested active substances may be used for systems that come into contact with drinking water (e.g. storage tank charging systems)

  • TA Luft / WHG: Specifications for the disposal of conditioned water - especially for products containing sulphite

Our products meet these requirements. We support you with:
Safety data sheets
Regulatory references & test certificates
Protocols for standard-compliant application

Yes, we offer alternative oxygen binders that:

  • Biodegradable (e.g. erythorbic acid)

  • hydrazine-free / heavy metal-free

  • DVGW or FDA/BfR compliant

  • AOX-free and non-toxic for aquatic systems are

These products are ideal for food processing plants, pharmaceutical applications, sensitive district heating systems or systems with high environmental and occupational safety standards. They offer good oxygen binding with minimal residual contamination in waste water.

There is always a need for oxygen binders when free, dissolved oxygen (O₂) is present in the water - particularly critical in:

  • Boiler systems & steam systems

  • District heating and hot water circuits

  • Feed water treatment & condensate return

  • Pure water/VE systems with O₂ input through aeration or diffusion

Typical signs of insufficient oxygen protection are

  • Corrosion damage to steel or copper pipes (pitting, magnetite, rust)

  • Noticeable iron concentrations in the water (>0.3 mg/l)

  • Oxygen input via plastic pipes or open storage tanks

  • Incomplete or fluctuating pressure maintenance conditions

  • Visible deposits in boilers, heat exchangers or containers

The most reliable method of detection is to measure oxygen in the water - either in the laboratory or online using optoelectronic sensors (e.g. with luminescence technology).

If the O₂ content is >0.02 mg/l (boiler water) or >0.1 mg/l (heating or district heating systems), the use of a suitable oxygen binder is strongly recommended - in accordance with VDI 2035, PED and manufacturer specifications.

We offer:

  • Water analysis & SI/O₂ measurement

  • System check for diffusion sources and return issues

  • Recommendation and integration of suitable oxygen binders + technology

Antiscalants & hardness stabilizers

Antiscalants (also known as scaling inhibitors) are special additives that prevent the formation of poorly soluble salts - so-called scalings - in water-bearing systems. These include, for example, calcium carbonate (lime), calcium sulphate (gypsum), barium and strontium sulphate, iron hydroxide or silicates.

Antiscalants work through the threshold effect: even at very low concentrations (ppm range), they prevent the crystallization of dissolved ions. They block nucleation, disrupt crystal growth and keep the salts in solution or disperse incipient precipitation.

These mechanisms of action enable increased tolerance to hardness formers without the need for complex softening or decarbonization - economical, energy-saving and reliable.

The threshold effect describes the ability of certain substances to suppress the crystallization of dissolved ions even at extremely low doses - well below the stoichiometrically required amount.

Example: With just 5-10 ppm of a suitable antiscalant, the precipitation of several hundred ppm of calcium carbonate or calcium sulphate can be prevented. This effect can only be achieved with specially formulated additives with high surface activity and complexing ability.

The threshold effect is particularly important in membrane systems, cooling circuits, hot water systems or wherever high ion concentrations meet small surfaces, high temperatures or pH fluctuations.

Our products are used in almost all industrial water systems - especially where:

  • concentration processes (evaporation, reverse osmosis) take place

  • High temperatures can lead to precipitation

  • High raw water hardness cannot be removed economically

  • Deposits jeopardize operational safety and efficiency

Typical areas of application are

  • Reverse osmosis (RO) systems - Prevention of membrane blockage

  • Cooling circuits - prevention of lime precipitation and gypsum formation

  • Boiler and steam systems - reduction of scale and overheating

  • Circuits with strongly varying water quality (e.g. river water or mixed water)

  • Process water in the food, chemical, plastics or metal industries

Our products cover a wide range of typical inorganic deposits:

  • Calcium carbonate (lime) - very common in cooling and hot water circuits

  • Calcium sulphate (gypsum) - in evaporation-intensive systems (power plants, dryers)

  • Barium sulphate / strontium sulphate - in well, process or recycling water

  • Iron & manganese compounds - oxidized iron forms during aeration or pH increase

  • Silicon dioxide / silicates - particularly critical for RO systems and increased conductivity

  • Magnesium compounds - especially with high pH values in circuits

Special combinations of phosphonates, polymer systems, dispersants and complexing agents reliably stabilize even poorly soluble or aggressive scalings.

The dosage depends on the ion composition of the water, the concentration factor (e.g. in RO systems) and the operating mode of the system.

Typical dosing ranges:

  • Reverse osmosis: 2-8 ppm (depending on Ca, Mg, Si, Ba, Sr, Fe)

  • Cooling water: 10-30 ppm (depending on KH, pH, temperature)

  • Steam/boiler systems: needs-based conditioning depending on the feed water

We supply suitable dosing calculations based on your water analysis and provide dosing stations with monitoring and alarm functions on request. In membrane systems, the product is ideally added upstream (e.g. with mixed water or permeate) before the high-pressure pump.

Yes - our antiscalants are fully compatible with:

  • Corrosion inhibitors (e.g. phosphonates, molybdates)

  • Biocides (oxidative and non-oxidative, depending on the formulation)

  • Dispersants & cleaning additives

  • pH regulating agents and alkalizing agents

  • O₂ binders in boiler applications

Our combination products sometimes combine several mechanisms of action in one solution (e.g. antiscalant + corrosion protection + biofilm control). In RO systems in particular, we test the chemical compatibility with membrane materials (e.g. polyamide, cellulose acetate) in advance.

Phosphonates are classic Threshold active ingredients with an excellent effect against lime and gypsum. They also act as corrosion inhibitors and are very efficient when dosed correctly.

Polymers such as polyacrylates or maleic acid copolymers increase dirt dispersion, improve layer formation and prevent the agglomeration of crystals that have already formed. They are more temperature and pH stable than many classic formulations.

The optimum combination of both systems enables:

  • Higher tolerance to limit water qualities

  • Less cleaning & maintenance

  • Better performance even under changing operating conditions

Yes - we offer environmentally friendly antiscalants that:

  • phosphate-free / low phosphonate

  • Biodegradable according to OECD 301/302

  • Free from heavy metals & AOX-relevant substances

  • Non-toxic for aquatic organisms

These products are ideal for direct dischargers, food processing plants, condensing boilers or applications with special disposal requirements. We also provide suitable formulations for OEM partners or export markets with specific environmental requirements.

Typical indications of deposition problems:

  • Pressure increase in the system (e.g. upstream of membranes or heat exchangers)

  • Decreasing heat transfer / increasing outlet temperature

  • Visible deposits on fittings or pipes

  • Irregular flows / blockages

  • Shortened cleaning cycles or frequent system malfunctions

We offer as a service:

  • Coating analysis in the laboratory

  • Online monitoring of scaling indicators (e.g. conductivity, differential pressure)

  • Dosing optimization based on SI index, LSI, STAS or proprietary prediction models

The use of antiscalants and hardness stabilizers is subject to various technical regulations and legal requirements. These are particularly relevant:

  • VDI 2035 (sheets 1 & 2): Regulates water quality in heating systems, including limit values for hardness and conductivity.

  • PED (Pressure Equipment Directive): Specifications on material compatibility and system operation, relevant in boiler and steam systems.

  • TA Luft & Water Resources Act (WHG): Especially for direct discharge, waste water treatment or products containing phosphate.

  • Membrane manufacturer specifications (e.g. for RO systems): Permissible application concentrations, pH ranges and compatibility with membrane materials (polyamide, CTA etc.).

  • Food and pharmaceutical industry: Use only safe, FDA/BfR-listed or HACCP-compatible additives.

Our products meet these requirements and we can provide all relevant evidence (safety data sheets, standard references, manufacturer approvals) on request. In addition, we advise on the compliant design of water parameters and document the additive application - also digitally, if required.

Biocides & biofilm control

Oxidative biocides (e.g. hypochlorite, peracetic acid, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide) act quickly and strongly - they destroy cell walls through oxidation and are therefore particularly suitable for open cooling circuits with a high biological load.

Non-oxidative biocides (e.g. isothiazolinones, glutaraldehyde, THPS) attack the metabolic processes and enzymes of microorganisms. They act more slowly, but are often more pH-stable, less sensitive to temperature and more long-lasting - ideal for closed systems or as a basic treatment. Both types of biocide can be combined to prevent the development of resistance and optimize protection.

Biofilms are complex layers of microorganisms, mucilage and organic material. They prefer to adhere to heat-transferring surfaces, plastic pipes or dead zones in the system.

Typical signs:

  • Decreasing heat transfer (increasing flow temperature)

  • Pressure losses

  • Odor formation

  • Visible layers of slime or algae deposits

  • Elevated iron or bacterial counts in the water analysis

For targeted detection, we use biofilm detectors, ATP rapid tests, bacterial probes or coupon measurement - also as a mobile service on site.

The dosing strategy depends on the type of system, the bacterial growth, the water parameters and the control system. Possible strategies:

  • Continuous dosing for constant background treatment

  • Interval / alternating dosing to avoid biocide resistance

  • Shock dosing (e.g. weekly or when limit values are exceeded)

  • Event-controlled dosing in the event of load changes or critical temperatures

We create individual dosing plans - tailored to your system, the legal requirements (e.g. 42nd BImSchV) and your profitability targets.

For hygienically sensitive areas, we offer low-toxic, low-residue biocides based on active ingredients such as THPS, hydrogen peroxide or special polyguanide compounds. These are suitable for indirect contact in cooling or CIP circuits and meet the requirements of HACCP, IFS, FDA-compliant manufacturing processes or internal audit systems.

We supply complete safety and residue documentation for every product. On request, we provide support with validations or the preparation of protocols as part of hygiene monitoring.

We use modern methods such as

  • Determination of bacterial count (TVC/CFU test) on culture media

  • ATP measurement (detects all living organisms)

  • Biofilm measurement using coupons, probes or tube models

  • Redox measurement for the control of oxidative biocides

  • Microscopy / CFU determination for special requirements

These methods help to monitor the biocide effect, refine dosing strategies and detect limit value violations in good time - documented in our digital service logs.

A biocide log is a legally required documentation tool for tracking the use of biocides - especially in systems that fall under the 42nd BImSchV (evaporative cooling systems, wet separators).

It must contain:

  • Biocide name and active substance

  • Concentration and dosing time

  • Contact time and rinsing procedure

  • Proof of effectiveness (e.g. germ count reduction)

  • Date, time, person responsible

We offer a digital biocide protocol solution with automated documentation, an interface to online monitoring systems and an audit export function - ideal for plant managers and QA officers.

Biofilm measurements enable a targeted assessment of the microbiological condition of pipes, heat exchangers and other surfaces in contact with water.

Methods are:

  • Biofilm coupons: Removable material samples from the cycle

  • Sensors: Inline probes for biofilm thickness measurement

  • ATP rapid tests: measurement of biological activity on surfaces

  • Staining methods / microscopy: e.g. to differentiate between types of bacteria

These analyses help to optimize the biocide strategy and plan disinfection measures or system cleaning.

Shock disinfection is a targeted high dosage of a biocide, usually with an oxidative effect, to remove acute microbial contamination or biofilms in the system. It is particularly effective:

  • After system shutdowns or when refilling

  • If microbial limit values are exceeded

  • As a hygiene measure following legionella findings

  • For the initial treatment of new systems

The shock treatment is planned precisely: Selection of the active ingredient, dosage, contact time, rinsing quantity, disposal. We support you with a complete shock disinfection protocol including safety measures and official documentation.

Important legal framework conditions are

  • Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) No. 528/2012 (BPR): Use only approved active substances

  • 42nd BImSchV: For evaporative cooling systems and wet separators - regular germ monitoring and logging

  • VDI 2047 sheets 2 & 3: Technical rules for circuits and hygiene

  • TA Luft / WHG / DVGW guidelines: In case of direct or indirect entry into the environment, waste water or drinking water systems

We supply all biocides in compliance with regulations and advise on documentation, verification and audit preparation.

Our biocides are versatile and can be used in:

  • Open cooling circuits & recooling towers

  • Closed heating and cooling circuits

  • Wet separators & gas scrubbers

  • Sprinkler systems & reserve water storage tanks

  • CIP circuits & fermentation plants

  • Refrigeration and air conditioning systems with glycol content

  • Hygiene zones in the food & beverage industry

  • Pharmaceutical production, laboratories and clean rooms

Each application requires specifically coordinated active ingredients, dosing strategies and legal documentation - we provide support with selection, monitoring and operation.

Yes - all the products we use comply with the EU Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR). We work exclusively with approved or notified active substances, check the product classification (product type PA2, PA11 etc.) and supply each product:

  • Safety data sheet (SDS)

  • BPR status verification

  • Application protocol

  • Certificate of conformity for internal or external audits

This means that our biocides are legally compliant and auditable - even for sensitive sectors such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals and food.

We supply our biocides in packaging units suitable for industrial use - adapted to your consumption, your dosing technology and your safety requirements:

  • 25 liter PE canister

  • 200 liter drum with UN approval

  • 1,000-liter IBC with optional fill level measurement

  • Disposable cartridges for automatic dosing devices

  • OEM special bottling in your branding (private label)

With accessories on request: non-return valves, hoses, RFID, labeling according to GHS/CLP. Our logistics offers delivery on demand, scheduled intervals or automated replenishment control.

Legionella are bacteria of the genus Legionella pneumophila, which prefer to multiply in warm, stagnant water with biofilm formation. In technical systems - e.g. in evaporative cooling systems, recooling towers, wet separators or hot water systems - they can be released and inhaled via aerosols (e.g. through cooling tower operation).

This can lead to severe pneumonia (Legionnaires' disease), particularly in the vicinity of common areas. Strict regulations therefore apply in Germany to protect public health:

42nd BImSchV (Ordinance on Evaporative Cooling Systems, Cooling Towers and Wet Separators):
Obligates operators to, among other things:

  • regular microbiological monitoring (especially Legionella spec.)

  • Documentation & measures if limit values are exceeded (e.g. 1,000 CFU/100 ml)

  • Creation and maintenance of a biocide log

  • Compliance with inspection intervals, maintenance and inspection obligations

🔹 VDI 2047 sheets 2 & 3:
Technical rules for the planning, commissioning and hygienic operation of evaporative cooling systems. Sets requirements for:

  • Water quality management

  • Biocide strategy (e.g. continuous or interval dosing)

  • Risk assessment & maintenance

  • Obligation to train the operating personnel

Infection Protection Act (IfSG):
The IfSG applies in the event of a Legionella finding with a notifiable disease and can result in officially ordered shutdowns or immediate measures.

Our solution:
ALMA AQUA offers highly effective, BPR-compliant biocides with documented legionella efficacy, as well as a complete hygiene service in accordance with the 42nd BImSchV:

  • Selection of suitable biocides (oxidative, non-oxidative, depot effect)

  • Determination of an effective dosing strategy with shock treatment & continuous dosing

  • Creation of biocide protocol & hygiene plan

  • Carrying out microbiological germ tests incl. Legionella detection

  • Online monitoring & digital alarms when limit values are exceeded

  • Training & instruction of personnel in accordance with VDI 2047

This means that you not only meet all legal requirements, but also ensure hygienic and legally compliant system operation in the long term.

Defoamer

Foam formation in cooling, boiler and waste water systems always has a physical-chemical basis: gas bubbles (usually air) are stabilized by surface-active substances in the liquid so that they do not burst.

Common causes by process:

  • Cooling water systems: surfactants from biocide programs, organic degradation products from biofilms, leakages from heat exchangers (e.g. oil ingress)

  • Boiler systems/evaporators: High solids content (TDS), organic contamination, oil or grease, insufficient desalination

  • Biological wastewater treatment plants: overdosing of nutrients, input of surfactants from production wastewater, high protein or carbohydrate concentrations

  • Paper industry: resins, glues and lignin from fiber processing

  • Chemical industry: reaction by-products, surfactants or polymers from processes

Practical example:
In an industrial grease processing plant, a minimal amount of oil in the cooling water resulted in a stable, highly viscous foam that only disappeared after the use of a special silicone-containing defoamer.

The effect of defoamers is based on several mechanisms:

  1. Local surface tension reduction: The defoamer destabilizes the boundary layer of the foam lamella in a targeted manner, allowing the liquid to drain out of the bubble more quickly.

  2. Incorporation of hydrophobic particles: Dispersed particles (e.g. silicon dioxide) disrupt the stability of the foaming agents and act as "predetermined breaking points" in the bubble wall.

  3. Exchange of liquid in the lamella: Oil droplets displace water from the bubble wall and cause it to collapse.

  4. Long-term effect due to anti-foaming agents: Certain additives form a protective film on the surface of the liquid to prevent it from foaming again.

Difference depending on the formulation:

  • Silicone-containing defoamers: extremely fast action, very low dosage

  • Silicone-free defoamers: slightly slower but more stable long-term effect

  • Polyether or wax-based: temperature-stable and suitable for hot water applications

  • Silicone-containing defoamers:

    • Area of application: cooling circuits, waste water treatment, chemical processes

    • Advantages: Very fast effect, high efficiency with low dosage

    • Disadvantage: Can lead to irreversible blockages in membrane systems (RO, UF)

  • Silicone-free defoamers (polyethers, waxes, mineral oils):

    • Area of application: Food industry, membrane systems, applications with silicone restrictions

    • Advantages: Membrane compatible, no silicone residue

    • Disadvantage: Usually higher dosage required

  • Biodegradable defoamer:

    • Area of application: Biological clarification stages so as not to inhibit microbial activity

    • Advantages: Environmentally friendly, quickly degradable

    • Disadvantage: Usually not as long-lasting effective as silicone-based products

  • High-temperature defoamer:

    • Area of application: Boiler systems, evaporators, processes >100 °C

    • Advantages: Temperature and pressure stable, no loss of effectiveness at high temperatures

Practical example:
In a paper mill with highly resinous process water, only a silicone-containing defoamer could break the foam within seconds - a silicone-free test led to a delayed effect and higher consumption.

Our defoamers are used in many industries, e.g:

  • Cooling water systems: Foam due to biocide programs or organic contamination

  • Boiler systems/evaporators: Foam formation due to dissolved solids or oils

  • Biological wastewater treatment: Foam formation with high protein or surfactant loads

  • Paper industry: Foam in stock preparation and paper machines

  • Chemical industry: Foam in reactors and during synthesis processes

  • Food industry: foam in fermenters, CIP processes or raw material reception

The optimum dosage depends on the water chemistry, foam load, temperature and system type.
Procedure for ALMA AQUA:

  1. Analysis of the foam situation on site (sampling, foam formation test)

  2. Laboratory test with various defoamer types to determine effectiveness

  3. Pilot dosing in the system with different quantities

  4. Monitoring: foam height, foam duration, possible interactions with other additives

  5. Fine adjustment: Automatic dosing via sensors or manually at intervals

Tip: Continuous preventive dosing is often more efficient than purely reactive shock dosing.

Yes - the wrong choice or dosage can cause considerable problems:

  • Biological wastewater treatment plants:

    • Some defoamers can inhibit the transfer of oxygen into the liquid, which slows down the breakdown of COD.

    • Silicone particles can accumulate in the sludge and impair the settling properties.

    • Solution: use biodegradable defoamers that have no negative impact on the biomass.

  • Membrane systems:

    • Products containing silicone often lead to irreversible membrane fouling.

    • Even the smallest amounts can hydrophobize the membrane pores and greatly reduce the flow.

    • Solution: use silicone-free, RO-compatible formulations that meet the manufacturer's specifications.

Practical example:
In a reverse osmosis system, the uncontrolled use of a silicone-containing defoamer led to a 40 % loss of permeate flow - only membrane cleaning with special dispersants was able to limit the damage.

Different guidelines must be observed depending on the area of application:

  • Food industry: defoamers must be FDA or EU compliant for food contact (e.g. Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011).

  • Waste water area: Compliance with the Waste Water Ordinance (AbwV), observe biodegradability.

  • Cooling towers / evaporative cooling systems: Use must be compatible with biocide and corrosion protection programs (VDI 2047 / 42nd BImSchV).

  • Membrane systems: Observe the manufacturer's approvals in order not to invalidate the warranty.

Yes - and in many processes it is even more economical.
Preventive use reduces the risk of sudden foam outbreaks that lead to production downtime or loss of efficiency.
Example: In a paper machine, continuous low dosing resulted in constant freedom from foam and prevented expensive production interruptions.

In most cases within seconds to a few minutes.
The speed of action depends on the load, temperature and flow.
Products containing silicone act particularly quickly, silicone-free products often act somewhat more slowly, but are more stable in the long term.

Yes - and the consequences range from production downtimes to system damage:

  • Lack of effect: If the defoamer does not match the foaming agent, there will be no effect (e.g. silicone-free against very stable silicate foam).

  • Incompatibility with other additives: Can lead to flocculation, oil film or reaction products that interfere with measuring devices.

  • Material damage: Certain solvents in defoamers can attack seals or coatings.

  • Process disturbances: In biological clarification stages or membrane systems, an incorrect defoamer can massively impair performance.

Therefore:
ALMA AQUA always recommends an on-site or laboratory test before using a defoamer permanently. This ensures that the effect, compatibility and long-term compatibility are right.

An effective foam cause analysis begins with the systematic recording of all relevant operating data and water parameters.
ALMA AQUA proceeds in several steps:

  1. On-site operational monitoring

    • Visual analysis of the foam properties (dry, moist, viscous)

    • Recording of process conditions (temperature, flow rate, pH, air supply)

  2. Sampling & laboratory analysis

    • Foam liquid: analysis for surfactants, fats, proteins, polymers

    • Plant water: analysis for COD, TSS, oils, surface tension

    • Microbiological tests: Detection of biofilm products (EPS, bacterial species)

  3. Check process history

    • Latest changes to the water chemistry or dosing strategy

    • Use of new additives or raw materials

    • Production changes or cleaning intervals

  4. Simulation on a laboratory scale

    • Adjusting the foam formation with system water to test suitable defoamers in a targeted manner

Practical tip:
Many foam formations are multifactorial - e.g. combination of surfactants + biofilm + solids load. In such cases, a combination strategy of eliminating the cause of foaming and using a defoamer is most effective.

Short-term defoaming is usually easy - the challenge lies in long-term foam control.
ALMA AQUA recommends process optimization in 4 steps:

  1. Source control

    • Reduction of surfactant or grease contamination at the source

    • Optimization of cleaning processes to minimize residual chemicals in the cycle

  2. Optimize process parameters

    • Reduction of the flow velocity in critical areas

    • Avoidance of excessive air or gas ingress into pumps and pipes

  3. Long-term dosing variants

    • Use of defoamers as a continuous low dosage for prevention

    • Combination with dispersants to remove foam stabilizers (e.g. particles)

  4. Regular monitoring

    • Online measuring systems for foam height or surface tension

    • Documentation of the foam tendency, dosing quantities and system conditions

Practical example:
In a paper mill, continuous dosing of a temperature-stable defoamer and simultaneous adjustment of the air content in the process water line reduced foam formation by 95% - without any negative effects on the production process.

Alkalizing agent & pH control

The pH value has a significant influence on the rate of corrosion, the formation of deposits and the chemical effect in water systems.

  • Zu niedriger pH (<7): fördert Säurekorrosion, insbesondere an Stahl, Kupfer und Aluminium

  • Too high pH (>10-11): can promote limescale precipitation, attack aluminum and inactivate biocides

  • Optimum ranges: vary depending on the application, e.g. 8.5-9.2 for boiler water, 9.5-10.5 for district heating and 7-8.5 for cooling water

The targeted pH adjustment with alkalizing agents not only protects the system, but also complies with standards such as VDI 2035, VDI 2047 and PED.

ALMA AQUA offers three main groups:

  1. Volatile alkalizing agents - e.g. morpholine, cyclohexylamine, DEAE

    • Acting in the steam and condensate area

    • Suitable for steam systems, boiler systems

  2. Semi-volatile amines - e.g. methoxypropylamine

    • Longer dwell time, effective in mixed systems

  3. Non-volatile alkalizing agents - e.g. sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide

    • Only effective in the water area, ideal for cooling and district heating networks

The choice depends on the system type, temperature, pressure, material and O₂ management.

Signs of pH problems are

  • Traces of corrosion on pipes, heat exchangers or valves

  • Copper deposits in the system (indication of copper corrosion)

  • Fluctuating measured values despite constant water treatment

  • Poor efficacy of inhibitors or biocides

  • Elevated iron or copper values in water analyses

An on-site pH measurement or laboratory analysis provides the exact status - deviations from the normal range are a clear signal to use alkalizing agents.

Volatile alkalizing agents (e.g. morpholine, DEAE) evaporate with the steam flow and condense in the condensate, which also protects return lines from acid corrosion.
Advantages:

  • Protection of the entire steam/condensate system

  • Uniform pH distribution in all lines

  • Reduced return flow corrosion in condensate systems

An incorrect pH setting can cause gradual but massive damage to water systems. The effects depend heavily on the type of system and the material mix:

  • Zu niedriger pH (<7,5 im Kesselwasser, <8,5 im Fernwärmenetz):

    • Acid corrosion on steel, cast iron and copper (pitting, uniform surface erosion, hydrogen embrittlement in steel)

    • Increased copper dissolution, which in turn attacks steel through copper plating

    • Accelerated dezincification for brass

    • Chemical attacks on cement and concrete linings

  • Too high pH (>10.5-11, depending on application):

    • Precipitation of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) → Heat exchanger losses due to lime

    • Formation of calcium and magnesium silicates → poorly soluble deposits

    • Attack on aluminum and its alloys

    • Restriction of the effectiveness of many biocides (e.g. isothiazolinones)

In addition to direct damage, there may also be economic consequences:

  • Increasing energy consumption due to coatings (1 mm lime = up to 10 % more energy requirement)

  • Increased chemical consumption, as additives are less effective at the wrong pH

  • Shorter system downtimes and more frequent repairs

  • Standard violations (VDI 2035, VDI 2047, PED) that can lead to complaints during audits

The dosage of an alkalizing agent must be precisely matched to the system situation. Important factors are

  1. Water analysis:

    • Determination of raw water pH, acid capacity (KS₄,₃), CO₂ content, total hardness and conductivity

    • Measurement of the current buffer capacity to calculate the required amount of active ingredient

  2. System parameters:

    • System volume and turnaround time

    • Operating temperature and pressure (influence evaporation behavior with volatile amines)

    • Material mix (steel, copper, aluminum, stainless steel)

  3. Target pH:

    • Depending on the type of system and the standard specifications (e.g. VDI 2035 for boiler water)

  4. Dosing strategy:

    • Continuous dosing with pH feedback control for constant values

    • Impulse dosing with occasional pH correction (rarely useful for large systems)

Our specialist engineers often use online pH measuring systems with trend recording and alarm function.
This allows the dosing quantity to be automatically adjusted to load changes, which enables chemical and cost-efficient operation.

Yes - our products are tailored to:

  • Corrosion inhibitors (phosphates, molybdates, silicates, azoles)

  • Antiscalants & hardness stabilizers

  • Oxygen binder

  • Biocides & dispersants

Compatibility is checked at the product selection stage in order to avoid interactions.

The use of alkalizing agents in industrial water systems must comply with several regulations and laws:

  • VDI 2035 (sheets 1 & 2) - Specifies target pH values for heating water and boiler systems to prevent corrosion and scale formation.

  • VDI 2047 - For evaporative cooling systems: pH control is crucial for biocide effectiveness and material protection.

  • PED (Pressure Equipment Directive) - Refers to the choice of materials, mode of operation and chemical treatment of pressure equipment such as boilers and heat exchangers.

  • Drinking water ordinance / BfR recommendations - If systems come into contact with drinking water (e.g. storage tank charging systems), only tested and approved active substances must be used.

  • TA Luft & WHG - regulates the handling and discharge of wastewater; high pH values are subject to approval and often require neutralization.

  • Food hygiene regulations (HACCP, FDA) - Additional requirements for product purity and documentation apply to applications in the food or pharmaceutical industry.

We supply complete safety data sheets (SDS), technical data sheets (TDS) and references to regulations - and also provide declarations of conformity for audits if required.

Our alkalizing agents are used in a wide range of applications - always adapted to the type of system, material and water chemistry:

  1. Boiler feed water & steam generator

    • pH increase in feed and boiler water

    • Use of volatile amines to protect the entire steam/condensate system

    • Prevention of acid corrosion in condensate returns

  2. District heating & hot water systems

    • Stabilization of high pH values (9.5-10.5) for optimum steel and copper protection

    • Use of non-volatile alkalizing agents (e.g. NaOH, KOH)

    • Support of the corrosion inhibitor system

  3. Cooling water circuits

    • pH optimization for maximum effectiveness of corrosion inhibitors and antiscalants

    • Adjustment for CO₂ entry or acidic make-up water

  4. Process water applications

    • Paper industry: pH stabilization for process consistency

    • Chemical industry: adaptation for reactive production processes

    • Food industry: Use of BfR/FDA-compliant alkalizing agents

  5. RO membrane systems

    • pH adjustment to prevent deposits (e.g. silicate precipitation)

    • Preparation of cleaning cycles through pH shifting

Whether in closed heating systems, open cooling circuits or highly sensitive process applications - pH control is always a key parameter for trouble-free, energy-efficient and standard-compliant operation.

Cleaning agents (acidic / alkaline / oxidative)

Acidic cleaners are the first choice when mineral or oxidic deposits are present in water systems due to precipitation from the circulating water or corrosion reactions.

Typical deposits:

  • Calcium carbonate (lime) from hard feed water or CO₂ degassing

  • Calcium sulphate (gypsum), often in industrial cooling circuits with a high sulphate load

  • Iron oxides (rust, magnetite) due to oxygen corrosion or start-up processes

  • Silicates from silicic acid in raw water

  • Mixed coatings of lime, iron and organic materials

Principle of action:
Acids such as phosphoric acid, citric acid, sulphamic acid or special mixtures dissolve these deposits by reacting with the minerals and converting them into water-soluble salts.

Practical example:
In an evaporative cooling tower with a high lime content, acid cleaning can improve heat transfer by up to 20 % and at the same time prevent biofilm formation, as the mineral base of the biofilm is removed.

Alkaline cleaners are used when organic or greasy soiling dominates in the system - often in the food, beverage or paper industry, but also in membrane systems.

Typical organic coatings:

  • Biofilms (bacteria, algae, fungi) with organic matrix

  • Greases, oils and lubricants from production processes

  • Protein or starch deposits from food processing

  • Polymer residues from flocculants or production auxiliaries

Principle of action:
Alkaline cleaners often contain sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide combined with surfactants and complexing agents to break up organic structures, saponify grease and disperse particles.

Practical example:
In a paper mill, the use of a special alkaline CIP cleaner reduced the pressure loss in heat exchangers by 30 % and extended the service life of the system by several weeks.

Oxidative cleaners are the most effective choice when microbiological contamination or highly cross-linked organic deposits that are resistant to purely acidic or alkaline agents need to be removed.

Typical applications:

  • Elimination of legionella biofilms in cooling water systems

  • Disinfection of RO/membrane systems after microbial contamination

  • Cleaning wet separators in exhaust air systems

  • Hygienization of district heating networks after a long standstill

Principle of action:
Oxidizing agents such as sodium hypochlorite, peracetic acid or hydrogen peroxide attack the organic matrix, destroy cell walls and disinfect at the same time.

Practical example:
The permeate performance of an RO system in the beverage industry was increased by 25 % and microbiological contamination was completely eliminated by means of combined oxidative pre-treatment and acidic post-cleaning.

A typical cleaning process includes:

  1. Analysis: Water sample and, if necessary, coating sample to determine the type of coating

  2. Choice of cleaning agent: Acidic, alkaline or oxidative variant depending on the coating and material

  3. Dosing & circulation: In a closed circuit (CIP) or offline with external pump

  4. Contact time: Between 30 minutes and several hours, depending on the thickness of the coating

  5. Rinsing: With demineralized water or dechlorinated water until residual chemicals are removed

  6. Neutralization: If necessary, before discharge into waste water

  7. Post-treatment: e.g. with corrosion inhibitors or biocides

The cleaning intervals depend heavily on the type of system, water quality, load and standard specifications.
Proactive cleaning is more cost-efficient than reacting to total failures.

Recommended intervals:

  • Cooling circuits: at least 1-2 × per year or if ΔT loss >2 K or pressure increase by >0.5 bar

  • Boiler systems: for scale formation >0.5 mm or sludge containing magnetite >200 mg/l

  • RO/membrane systems: with SDI >5 or ΔP increase of >15 %

  • District heating systems: with iron values >1 mg/l or visible sludge load

  • Food/pharmaceutical plants: according to HACCP/GMP plan, often weekly to monthly

Tip: The cleaning frequency can be optimized by online monitoring of differential pressure, temperature difference and bacterial count.

Chemical cleaning in water systems must comply with legal, technical and industry-specific regulations:

  • VDI 2047 / 42nd BImSchV: Hygiene in evaporative cooling systems - biofilm and legionella must be checked

  • VDI 2035: Boiler and hot-water systems - freedom from deposits is essential for energy efficiency

  • PED (Pressure Equipment Directive): Chemical treatment must not damage pressure equipment

  • WHG / TA Luft: Discharge of rinse water only after neutralization and approval

  • Food and pharmaceutical industry: HACCP, GMP, use FDA-compliant cleaners

  • Membrane systems: Observe manufacturer's approvals to obtain warranty

The protection of system materials is a key issue in dry cleaning. ALMA AQUA therefore takes this into account:

  1. Material analysis - Which metals, plastics or coatings are used?

  2. Temperaturverträglichkeit – Viele Werkstoffe haben Temperaturgrenzen, z. B. Aluminium <60 °C bei Säurereinigung.

  3. pH range tolerance - materials such as copper or brass react sensitively to strongly acidic or alkaline environments.

  4. Inhibitor addition - Our cleaners contain metal protection inhibitors that form a temporary passive layer during cleaning.

  5. Neutralization step - After cleaning, the system is adjusted to a neutral pH to prevent post-corrosion.

Practical example:
When cleaning a plate heat exchanger with titanium plates, a special inhibitor-stabilized citric acid cleaner was used to remove both limescale and biofilm - without damaging titanium or gaskets.

Yes - this often makes sense.
Example: An alkaline cleaner with surfactants dissolves the biofilm, which is then treated with an oxidative biocide to kill any remaining germs.
For membrane systems, we also offer 2-in-1 products that enable cleaning and disinfection in one step.

Coating analysis is often the decisive factor between the success and failure of a cleaning.
Without analysis, a cleaning agent that is not optimal is often selected, which can lead to incomplete removal or material damage.

Benefits of pavement analysis:

  • Identification of the type of covering: mineral, organic, biological or mixed covering

  • Chemical optimization: selection of active ingredients, pH range and temperature

  • Avoidance of faulty chemistry: e.g. use of acid on biofilm → no effect

  • System optimization: Conclusions on water chemistry, dosing points and operating mode

Analytical methods:

  • Microscopy (light and scanning electron microscopy)

  • X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) for element determination

  • Thermogravimetry (TGA) for organic/mineral separation

Practical example:
In a cooling circuit of a plastic extrusion, a coating analysis revealed a mixed calcium-phosphate coating. Instead of a standard acid cleaning, a targeted chelate cleaning was carried out - with 100% deposit removal and no material damage.

CIP cleaning (Cleaning in Place) is the standard process for restoring the performance of membrane systems such as reverse osmosis (RO), nanofiltration (NF), ultrafiltration (UF) or microfiltration (MF).

Target:

  • Removal of fouling (organic, biological, mineral)

  • Restoration of the permeate flow

  • Reduction of the differential pressure (ΔP)

  • Extension of the diaphragm service life

Optimal procedure:

  1. Analysis of performance data (permeate flow, ΔP, salt retention) → Selection of the appropriate cleaning agent

  2. Chemical selection according to coating type:

    • Acidic cleaners for limescale, metal oxides, silicates

    • Alkaline cleaners for organic fouling, biofilm, grease

    • Oxidation-free cleaners (for polyamide membranes, as chlorine causes damage)

  3. Preparation: rinsing with permeate or deionized water, temperature control (usually 25-35 °C)

  4. Circulation phase: 30-60 minutes per circuit, change flow direction to mechanically loosen deposits

  5. Reaction phase: Leave solution at standstill for 30-60 minutes

  6. Rinsing: With permeate or demineralized water until the conductivity in the rinse water is stable

  7. Documentation: chemical consumption, measured values, cleaning effect

Tip:
Regular CIP cleaning before critical limit values are reached (e.g. ΔP increase >15%, flux loss >10%) significantly increases the service life of membranes and reduces biofouling in the long term.

Legionella are water-borne bacteria that colonize biofilms and can cause legionellosis when aerosols form (e.g. in cooling towers or wet separators).
Disinfection alone is often not sufficient, as biofilms act as a protective layer.

Sustainable approach:

  1. Root cause analysis: water samples, bacterial count, biofilm measurement, flow analysis (identify dead zones)

  2. Mechanical & chemical biofilm removal:

    • Alkaline cleaners with surfactants to break up the biofilm matrix

    • Subsequent oxidative disinfection (e.g. peracetic acid, chlorine, chlorine dioxide)

  3. Shock disinfection planning:

    • Dosing in increased concentration for a limited time

    • Circulation and complete flow through all parts of the system

    • Compliance with the contact time in accordance with VDI 2047 / 42nd BImSchV

  4. Follow-up check: bacterial count, Legionella-specific PCR analysis

  5. Long-term prevention:

    • Continuous biocide dosing in low concentrations

    • Surface modifications, avoid dead zones

    • Regular plaque and biofilm analyses

Practical example:
In a cooling tower with recurring legionella infestation, a two-stage cleaning process (alkaline + oxidative) and subsequent continuous biocide program kept the bacterial load permanently below the limit values - documented in accordance with the specifications of VDI 2047 Sheet 2.

Nutrients & trace elements

In biological wastewater treatment, microorganisms - bacteria, fungi, protozoa - perform the main work of breaking down organic and inorganic pollutants.
Three key requirements must be met for these organisms to work optimally:

  1. Energy source (organic substances, e.g. carbohydrates, fats, proteins)

  2. Macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) for building cell structures

  3. Trace elements (e.g. iron, copper, zinc, cobalt, molybdenum) for enzymatic metabolic reactions

If just one of these components is missing, the metabolic chain of the microbes can be interrupted - comparable to a production line in which a missing component stops the entire production process.
The results are:

  • Lower COD and BOD₅ degradation

  • Unstable process values (pH, dissolved oxygen, redox potential)

  • Visible operating problems such as foaming, flake decay or filament growth

Practical example:
In a dairy wastewater treatment plant, a lack of phosphorus led to unstable nitrification and increased ammonium in the effluent despite a high COD load. Nitrification was only restored within 48 hours after the targeted addition of an ALMA AQUA nutrient mix.

A defect can be detected both directly through laboratory analyses and indirectly through process observations.

Typical indicators in operation:

  • Chemical-analytical:

    • Elevated discharge values for COD, BOD₅, ammonium or nitrate

    • Unfavorable N/P ratio in the inlet

    • Very low concentrations of certain metals (Fe, Cu, Co, Mo) in the sludge phase

  • Process biology:

    • Reduced oxygen uptake rate (OUR)

    • Extended start-up times after peak loads

    • Lower gas production in anaerobic plants

  • Visual cues:

    • Foaming or unstable sludge flakes

    • Filamentous sludge (filamentous bacteria)

    • Dark or very light sludge coloration (false colonization)

Practical tip:
A microscopic examination in combination with a nutrient balance is the safest way to detect a deficiency at an early stage - before limit values are exceeded.

This is determined by means of a nutrient balance:

  1. Analysis of the inflow values (COD, BOD₅, total N, total P, trace element content)

  2. Calculation of the N/P ratio - for aerobically operated systems, the ideal value is usually approx. 100:5:1 (COD:N:P)

  3. Process monitoring - reaction times, degree of degradation, sludge properties

  4. Laboratory tests with targeted addition of nutrients for efficacy testing

Tip: ALMA AQUA offers a complete nutrient analysis including dosing recommendations for every system size.

Key elements for stable biological water and wastewater treatment:

  • Iron (Fe):

    • Involved in electron transport in the respiratory chain

    • Important for the formation of stable flake structures

    • If iron is missing, flocs disintegrate and the settling properties deteriorate

  • Copper (Cu):

    • Activates oxidation and reduction enzymes

    • Important for denitrifying bacteria

    • However, overdosing can have a toxic effect

  • Cobalt (Co):

    • Essential for vitamin B₁₂ synthesis in methanogens

    • Particularly critical in anaerobic processes, e.g. biogas plants

  • Zinc (Zn):

    • Co-factor of numerous enzymes

    • Supports cell wall and membrane stability

  • Molybdenum (Mo):

    • Necessary for nitrification and nitrate reduction

    • Deficiency leads to nitrogen degradation problems

Practical example:
In an industrial wastewater treatment plant in the chemical industry, a lack of cobalt and nickel led to a drastic drop in biogas production. After adding an ALMA AQUA trace element mix, the methane yield was increased by 30 %.

An overdose can be just as problematic as a deficiency - only less obvious.

Possible risks:

  • Increased operating costs due to unnecessary chemical consumption

  • Precipitation of nutrients in the effluent → Exceeding the limit values for total N or total P

  • Toxic effects on sensitive microorganisms with trace elements such as copper, nickel or zinc

  • Secondary effects:

    • Formation of interfering solids (e.g. iron phosphate sludge)

    • Inhibition of certain metabolic pathways (e.g. nitrification)

Prevention:

  • Automated dosing systems with flow or load-dependent control

  • Regular monitoring of the concentrations in the reactor and outlet

  • Combination with process monitoring (OUR measurement, microscopy, nutrient balance)

  • ontinuous dosing: via a dosing pump directly into the inlet or aeration tank

  • Impulse dosing: For acute deficiency states or process disorders

  • Multi-point dosing: For large systems or several reactor lines

We offer complete dosing systems with storage tanks, controls and remote monitoring.

Yes - ALMA AQUA nutrients and trace elements are formulated to be widely applicable and process compatible:

  • Aerobic processes:

    • Activated sludge (conventional)

    • Membrane bioreactors (MBR)

    • Trickling filter systems

  • Anaerobic processes:

    • Digestion (municipal & industrial)

    • UASB/EGSB reactors

    • Co-fermentation in biogas plants

  • Combined procedures:

    • Nitrification / denitrification

    • Sequencing Batch Reactors (SBR)

Important:
The exact composition (macronutrients, trace elements, chelates) is adapted to the process type, the wastewater characteristics and the load.
This ensures that the microorganisms are optimally supplied without burdening the process by overdosing.

The N/P ratio (ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus) is a key indicator of the nutrient supply in biological purification processes.

  • Standard values for aerobic processes: approx. 100:5:1 (COD:N:P)

  • Standard values for anaerobic processes: vary depending on the substrate, often lower P requirement

optimization strategy:

  1. Analyze inlet characteristics - measurement of COD, total N, total P

  2. Take daily and weekly fluctuations into account

  3. Fine-tuning the dosing based on discharge values and microscopy results

  4. Load-dependent control with automatic adjustment of nutrient addition

Practical example:
In a dairy wastewater treatment plant, precise adjustment of the N/P ratio from 100:3:0.8 to 100:5:1 increased the nitrification performance by 20 % and kept the ammonium values in the effluent permanently below 2 mg/l.

Anaerobic processes - especially methane formation stages - react very sensitively to trace element deficiencies. These are particularly important:

  • Cobalt (Co): essential for vitamin B₁₂, indispensable for methanogens

  • Nickel (Ni): Co-factor for enzymes in methanogenesis

  • Selenium (Se): for enzymes in acetate degradation

  • Iron (Fe): Electron transport, hydrogen sulphide binding

Typical problems with deficiency:

  • Decrease in methane production

  • Increase in volatile fatty acids (VFA) → pH drop

  • Unstable gas quality (CO₂ increase)

Solution:
Targeted addition of ALMA AQUA trace element mixtures with chelated stabilization to prevent precipitation in the event of excess sulphide or carbonate.

Early detection is crucial in order to avoid process faults and limit value violations.

Recommended methods:

  1. Regular laboratory analyses of biomass and water (total and dissolved trace elements)

  2. Microscopic control: decline in species diversity, occurrence of filamentous bacteria or lack of protozoa

  3. Online process monitoring: changes in gas production (anaerobic), OUR/respiration rate (aerobic)

  4. Bioassays: Laboratory scale tests with targeted nutrient addition → Measure reaction speed

Practical tip:
Trace element deficiencies often occur first in sub-processes, e.g. inhibition of nitrification or reduced biogas yield. Continuous process data evaluation in combination with a proactive nutrient strategy prevents critical faults from occurring in the first place.

Dispersants

Dispersants are special process additives that prevent solids, sludge flocs, mineral particles or biofilm components from causing deposits in industrial water systems.
They work according to the principle of particle stabilization:

  • Surface modification: Dispersants attach themselves to particle surfaces and change their charge (zeta potential) so that particles repel each other.

  • Steric stabilization: Longer polymer chains act as spacers and prevent particles from coming into contact.

  • Crystal growth inhibition: Some formulations bind to growing crystals, interrupting the growth process and keeping them at microscopic size.

Practical benefits:

  • Deposits on heat exchangers are avoided

  • Biocides can work more effectively because biofilm does not become so compact

  • Membrane processes remain stable for longer as fouling is reduced

Dispersants can be used universally, but are primarily used in the following applications:

  • Open cooling water systems: Prevent deposits of suspended matter, dust, rust particles and biofilm residues

  • Closed heating and cooling systems: Stabilize corrosion products and prevent sludge deposits in heat exchangers

  • Reverse osmosis and nanofiltration systems: Reduce particle fouling and extend the time intervals between membrane cleanings

  • Waste water treatment: Stabilize solids in clear water, prevent precipitation before filters

  • Paper, pulp and recycling industry: Prevents deposits from fillers, fibers and mineral components

  • Chemical and pharmaceutical industry: Control particle and crystal formation in complex process waters

Antiscalants and dispersants have different focuses, even if their mechanisms of action partly overlap:

  • Antiscalants:

    • Primarily inhibit the precipitation and crystallization of dissolved salts

    • Often work at very low concentrations due to the threshold effect

    • Typical target deposits: Calcium carbonate, calcium sulphate, barium and strontium sulphate

  • Dispersants:

    • Stabilize existing solid particles in suspension

    • Prevent these particles from combining or settling into larger agglomerates

    • Suitable for mineral solids, corrosion products, biofilm residues

Combination in practice:
In cooling water systems or membrane processes in particular, both additive types are combined to control both crystalline and particulate deposits at the same time.

The threshold effect describes the ability of certain additives to prevent precipitation even at extremely low dosages - well below the stoichiometrically required amount.
The effect is less pronounced with dispersants than with antiscalants, as they are primarily designed to stabilize particles and not to directly inhibit crystal growth.
Nevertheless, phosphonate- or polymer-based dispersants can combine both effects in hybrid formulations.

  • Special formulations depending on the application: cooling water, membrane, waste water, high-temperature circuits

  • High temperature and pH resistance, even in highly alkaline or acidic processes

  • Long-term stability - the dispersing effect is maintained even at high solids concentrations

  • Optimized molecular structure for maximum adsorption on particles and effective stabilization

  • Synergies with other additives such as corrosion inhibitors or biocides

  • Individual dosing concepts after laboratory analysis and on-site testing

  • OEM and private label options with customized container sizes and labels

The dosing point is decisive for efficiency:

  • Open cooling circuits: In the main flow, if possible upstream of a strong turbulence zone or mixing section

  • Membrane systems: Before the safety filter (cartridge filter), so that all solids are stabilized before they reach the membrane

  • Wastewater treatment: Before fine filtration or before a downstream membrane module

  • Closed systems: In front of circulation pumps or at points with high flow velocity

Practical tip:
Dosing too late can cause particles to precipitate or settle before they are added - which significantly reduces their effectiveness.

The use of dispersants affects chemicals legislation, water protection, occupational safety and industry-specific regulations. An overview of the most important points - plus a practical checklist:

Chemicals law & occupational safety

  • REACH: Only use substances/formulations that are registered under REACH; observe exposure scenarios (especially for professional/industrial use).

  • CLP: Keep the current version of the classification/labeling (hazard pictograms, H-/P-phrases) and safety data sheet (SDS) available.

  • Hazardous Substances Ordinance / TRGS 510: Storage according to hazard classes (e.g. separate storage, ventilation), operating instructions and instructions for employees.

  • WGK / AwSV: Check water hazard class (WGK); if necessary, operate storage containers in retention basins (collecting chambers), regular leakage checks.

Water protection & discharge

  • Wastewater Ordinance (AbwV): Only discharge wastewater from flushing/blowdown if the limit values (e.g. COD, AOX, metals) are complied with; if necessary, provide for neutralization/pre-treatment.

  • Permit requirement: In the case of indirect discharge (sewer), coordinate with the disposal company/municipal authority; in the case of direct discharge (water), strictly comply with official notices.

  • Sludge & waste: If necessary, dispose of sludge/solids from filtration in accordance with waste legislation (declaration, verification).

Plant & industry rules

  • VDI 2047 Sheet 2 / 42nd BImSchV (evaporative cooling systems, wet separators): Use of chemicals (incl. dispersants) must match the hygiene management; keep biocide/operation logs, document germ monitoring.

  • VDI 6044 / VDI 2035 (closed circuits/heating and boiler water): Disperser must conform to material and standards (conductivity, pH, corrosion/coating risks).

  • Membrane systems: Observe manufacturer's approvals (material compatibility of RO/NF/UF membranes, pH window, maximum permissible concentrations) - otherwise there is a risk of loss of warranty.

  • Food/pharmaceuticals: Only use suitable, approved formulations in indirect contact zones (e.g. cooling/heating media without product contact); comply with hygiene and audit specifications (HACCP, GMP).

  • Power plants & energy: Observe specifications from PED (pressure equipment), operator regulations and, if applicable, TA Luft/WHG (e.g. for evaporators/desalination systems).

Documentation & monitoring

  • Maintain product specifications/SDS/TDB; document proof of compatibility (with inhibitors, biocides, antiscalants).

  • Operating log: Record dosing quantities, concentrations, measured values (turbidity, ΔT, differential pressure), events (cleaning/flushing).

  • Effect/influence control: Regular laboratory & online measurements (turbidity/particles, conductivity, pH, AOX/CSB if necessary), evaluate corrosion coupons/heat exchanger performance data.

Practical checklist before use

  1. Check approvals: REACH/CLP, SDS, WGK, membrane/plant manufacturer.

  2. Process test: laboratory jar test & on-site pilot (compatibility with biocide/inhibitor).

  3. Clarify discharge: AbwV limits, internal/regulatory requirements, separator/neutralization.

  4. Storage & emergency plan: AwSV-compliant storage, containment volume, leakage/spill kit, instruction.

  5. Define monitoring & reporting: Key figures, intervals, responsibilities.

This approach ensures that the use of the disperser is legally compliant, audit-proof and reliable - and that process performance increases measurably at the same time.

Yes - ALMA AQUA dispersants are developed to be formulation compatible with:

  • Corrosion inhibitors: Prevent underlayment corrosion under solid layers

  • Biocides: Dispersants loosen up biofilm structures and increase the biocidal effect

  • Hardness stabilizers / antiscalants: Simultaneous protection against crystalline and particulate deposits

  • Precipitants: In some cases, dispersants can be specifically dosed so that solids remain stable up to the desired precipitation point

Attention: Certain strongly cationic and anionic polymers can precipitate each other - therefore always carry out compatibility tests.

The dosing quantity depends on several factors:

  • Solids load: The higher the particle concentration, the more dispersant is required

  • Chemical water composition: hardness, pH, ionic strength influence adsorption on the particle

  • Process temperature: High temperatures can affect molecular stability

  • Target application: Cooling water, membrane systems or waste water treatment require different dosing ranges

Best practice at ALMA AQUA:

  1. Laboratory testing: particle size analysis, zeta potential measurement

  2. Jar test: simulation of the water chemistry and optimization of the dosing quantity

  3. On-site test with monitoring of turbidity, deposition rate and heat transfer performance

Hybrid dispersants combine classic dispersants with antiscalants or corrosion inhibitors in a single formulation.
They offer the advantage that particulate deposits (e.g. sludge, rust particles, biofilm residues) and crystalline precipitates (e.g. calcium carbonate, calcium sulphate) can be controlled simultaneously.

  • Areas of application: Cooling circuits with high suspended solids load and hardness problems, membrane pre-treatment with mixed fouling types.

  • Technical benefits: Reduced variety of chemicals, less dosing technology, simplified storage.

  • Caution: Not every system tolerates mixed formulations - always carry out laboratory and on-site tests beforehand to rule out interactions.

Biofilms are often multi-layered structures consisting of microorganisms, EPS (extracellular polymeric substances) and embedded particles.
dispersants:

  • Loosen up the EPS matrix by destabilizing particle bonds

  • Mechanically weaken biofilm structures so that biocides penetrate deeper

  • Remove particulate protective layers that otherwise block biocides

Practical recommendation:

  • Dosing dispersants before or parallel to the addition of biocides

  • Use specifically for shock disinfection to maximize the biocidal effect

  • Perform monitoring via biofilm measurement (ATP, pressure loss, heat exchanger ΔT)

This interaction can reduce biocide dosing and significantly increase system efficiency.

In many industrial systems, the solids concentration fluctuates greatly - e.g. in cooling water systems in summer/winter, during production peaks or with changing raw water quality.

Optimization strategies:

  1. Online turbidity measurement (NTU) or particle counter for real-time monitoring of the solids load

  2. Load-dependent dosing with flow or turbidity control

  3. Temporary surge dosing for recognizable load peaks

  4. Combination with blow-off/rinse management for active solids removal

  5. Regular laboratory analyses (particle size distribution, mineral analysis) to adjust the basic dosage

This prevents over- or underdosing, optimizes chemical consumption and at the same time maintains a consistently high level of deposit protection.

Precipitants & coagulants

Precipitants and coagulants are key process additives in industrial water and wastewater treatment, as they trigger both chemical reactions and physical processes to effectively remove pollutants.

  • Precipitants react directly with dissolved substances such as heavy metals, phosphates or carbonates and convert them into poorly soluble solids (e.g. metal hydroxides, calcium carbonates).

  • Coagulants neutralize the surface charge of colloidal particles and finely dispersed substances, causing them to combine to form larger, sedimentable flocs.
    The combined use ensures

  • Effective metal precipitation in electroplating, metal processing and surface treatment

  • Phosphate precipitation in the food industry and municipal wastewater treatment plants

  • Pre-treatment in river water treatment to protect membranes and heat exchangers

  • AOX elimination in the chemical industry
    The end result: Stable, clear water that meets the limit values and provides optimum protection for the plant technology.

Precipitants and coagulants offer a solution for a variety of process and wastewater problems that often cannot be adequately treated mechanically or biologically:

  • Exceeding limit values for metals: E.g. nickel, zinc, copper, chromium, lead - particularly relevant for the metalworking industry, electroplating, automotive suppliers

  • High turbidity and suspended solids content: Separation of fine particles in river water treatment or cooling water pre-treatment

  • Color and COD loads: Removal of lignin-based dyes in the paper industry or dye residues in textile processing

  • Phosphate pollution: Compliance with P limits to avoid eutrophication

  • AOX elimination: Binding of organically bound halogens in the chemical industry and recycling processes

  • Fat and protein load: Pre-treatment of dairy wastewater before biological stage

Dosing is usually carried out continuously or as a shock addition, depending on the water quality and the process:

  • Continuous: Uniform dosing via a dosing pump, controlled according to flow rate, pH or turbidity

  • Impulse dosing: Short-term, targeted addition during peak loads or for special treatments

An optimum dosing point is usually located in front of a mixing tank or in a mixing section to ensure a fast and complete reaction.

In Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF ), precipitants are often the key to stable and rapid particle separation.

  • They are used in dairies to bind fats, proteins and fine solids and combine them into stable flakes that can be transported to the surface with air bubbles.

  • In the food industry, they enable a significant reduction in COD and grease, which reduces wastewater charges and relieves the biological stage.

  • In metal processing, they help to efficiently remove finely dispersed metal particles and hydroxides from wastewater.

An optimized insert ensures higher separation efficiency, lower chemical consumption and stable clear water quality, even with fluctuating inlet loads.

Precipitants are unbeatable in heavy metal precipitation, as they convert metals into poorly soluble, filterable solids:

  • Chemical mechanism: Metals such as nickel, zinc, copper or chromium react with the precipitant to form metal hydroxides, carbonates or sulphides, which have extremely low residual solubilities.

  • Practical application: In electroplating, they are often used in multi-stage precipitation processes to get from mg/l to the µg/l range.

  • Process integration: The floc size is optimized through targeted pH control and the use of suitable coagulants, which facilitates separation in sedimentation tanks or filters.

  • Advantage: Compliance with the strictest discharge limits with simultaneous sludge optimization for cost-effective disposal.

Precipitants are used in the treatment of raw water from rivers:

  • Remove suspended solids and reduce turbidity

  • Decarbonization through precipitation of calcium and magnesium salts

  • Protection of downstream membrane systems or boiler systems against deposits

This is particularly important in the energy and industrial supply sectors in order to extend system running times and reduce maintenance costs.

The use of dispersants affects chemicals legislation, water protection, occupational safety and industry-specific regulations. An overview of the most important points - plus a practical checklist:

Chemicals law & occupational safety

  • REACH: Only use substances/formulations that are registered under REACH; observe exposure scenarios (especially for professional/industrial use).

  • CLP: Keep the current version of the classification/labeling (hazard pictograms, H-/P-phrases) and safety data sheet (SDS) available.

  • Hazardous Substances Ordinance / TRGS 510: Storage according to hazard classes (e.g. separate storage, ventilation), operating instructions and instructions for employees.

  • WGK / AwSV: Check water hazard class (WGK); if necessary, operate storage containers in retention basins (collecting chambers), regular leakage checks.

Water protection & discharge

  • Wastewater Ordinance (AbwV): Only discharge wastewater from flushing/blowdown if the limit values (e.g. COD, AOX, metals) are complied with; if necessary, provide for neutralization/pre-treatment.

  • Permit requirement: In the case of indirect discharge (sewer), coordinate with the disposal company/municipal authority; in the case of direct discharge (water), strictly comply with official notices.

  • Sludge & waste: If necessary, dispose of sludge/solids from filtration in accordance with waste legislation (declaration, verification).

Plant & industry rules

  • VDI 2047 Sheet 2 / 42nd BImSchV (evaporative cooling systems, wet separators): Use of chemicals (incl. dispersants) must match the hygiene management; keep biocide/operation logs, document germ monitoring.

  • VDI 6044 / VDI 2035 (closed circuits/heating and boiler water): Disperser must conform to material and standards (conductivity, pH, corrosion/coating risks).

  • Membrane systems: Observe manufacturer's approvals (material compatibility of RO/NF/UF membranes, pH window, maximum permissible concentrations) - otherwise there is a risk of loss of warranty.

  • Food/pharmaceuticals: Only use suitable, approved formulations in indirect contact zones (e.g. cooling/heating media without product contact); comply with hygiene and audit specifications (HACCP, GMP).

  • Power plants & energy: Observe specifications from PED (pressure equipment), operator regulations and, if applicable, TA Luft/WHG (e.g. for evaporators/desalination systems).

Documentation & monitoring

  • Maintain product specifications/SDS/TDB; document proof of compatibility (with inhibitors, biocides, antiscalants).

  • Operating log: Record dosing quantities, concentrations, measured values (turbidity, ΔT, differential pressure), events (cleaning/flushing).

  • Effect/influence control: Regular laboratory & online measurements (turbidity/particles, conductivity, pH, AOX/CSB if necessary), evaluate corrosion coupons/heat exchanger performance data.

Practical checklist before use

  1. Check approvals: REACH/CLP, SDS, WGK, membrane/plant manufacturer.

  2. Process test: laboratory jar test & on-site pilot (compatibility with biocide/inhibitor).

  3. Clarify discharge: AbwV limits, internal/regulatory requirements, separator/neutralization.

  4. Storage & emergency plan: AwSV-compliant storage, containment volume, leakage/spill kit, instruction.

  5. Define monitoring & reporting: Key figures, intervals, responsibilities.

This approach ensures that the use of the disperser is legally compliant, audit-proof and reliable - and that process performance increases measurably at the same time.

Yes - precipitants can reliably reduce AOX (adsorbable organically bound halogens) in many industrial wastewaters.

  • Operating principle: Special precipitants bind AOX-containing molecular compounds to their floc structure so that they are discharged with the sludge.

  • Typical areas of application: Chemical industry, paper and pulp production, surface treatment

  • Benefit: Ensuring compliance with AOX limit values in accordance with the Wastewater Ordinance and industry-specific regulations (e.g. AbwV, EU directives).

  • Process advantage: AOX elimination can often be integrated into existing precipitation/flocculation stages without having to invest in separate systems.

The selection of the correct precipitant or coagulant is process-specific and should always be based on a sound analysis. We recommend the following procedure:

  1. Water analysis - determination of raw water or wastewater parameters (metal content, phosphates, AOX, turbidity, pH, conductivity, complexing agents, salt content).

  2. Process-related framework conditions - clarification of whether the water is treated in flotation, sedimentation, filtration, membrane processes or a combination of these.

  3. Target values and regulation - definition of the limit values to be complied with (wastewater ordinance, industry-specific standards, internal quality specifications, zero liquid discharge requirements if applicable).

  4. Test phase - Carry out jar tests in the laboratory or pilot tests under real conditions to determine the optimum dosing quantity, pH range and possible coagulant combinations.

  5. Long-term optimization - Continuous monitoring of efficiency, chemical consumption and sludge volume for further process improvement.

Our service advantage: You can send us water samples at any time. In our technical center, we determine the optimum precipitant and coagulant combinations for you free of charge - precisely tailored to your process conditions and your target values. You will then receive a clear product recommendation with dosing instructions and possible optimization suggestions.

Complexing agents such as EDTA, ammonia or cyanides bind metals so strongly that standard precipitants are often not sufficient to achieve the limit values. In such cases, selective special precipitants are required that react specifically with metal ions without unnecessarily affecting the rest of the water chemistry.
Successful optimization includes

  • Pre-treatment steps (e.g. pH adjustment, oxidation, reduction) to break down complexes

  • Selection of the right precipitant with a high affinity to the target metals

  • Dosing optimization based on jar tests under realistic process conditions

  • Combination with high-performance coagulants to efficiently separate even fine particles
    In the metalworking and electroplating industries in particular, such customized solutions are often the key to reliably complying with µg/l limit values.

In Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) systems, the success of particle and grease separation depends heavily on the chemical pre-treatment. Precipitants and coagulants should be used in such a way that:

  • Flakes with optimum density and strength are produced, which adhere well to air bubbles

  • The contact time between the addition of chemicals and the air saturation stage is precisely coordinated

  • Avoid overdosing, as this leads to unstable flakes or high chemical consumption

In dairies and the food industry in particular, a finely tuned precipitant strategy can drastically reduce the fat and COD values in the clear water - and thus reduce wastewater charges and operating costs.

In applications such as river water treatment or with seasonally varying raw water sources, turbidity, hardness and metal content often fluctuate greatly. A dynamic dosing strategy can be decisive here:

  • Use of online sensors for turbidity, pH, conductivity or metal ions

  • Control algorithms in the dosing control system that automatically adjust the chemical quantities

  • Multi-stage precipitation/flocculation sections to absorb peak loads

  • Integration with digital monitoring and evaluation systems for precise process control

This approach is particularly important in energy supply, power plant water treatment and large-scale plants in order to ensure both operational safety and compliance.

Polymers & flocculants

Flocculants - often in the form of synthetic polymers - are high-molecular, water-soluble agents that bind fine particles, colloidal substances and difficult-to-settle solids in water to form larger flocs.
They work by forming bridges between particles ("bridging") or by changing the surface forces of the particles through their electrical charge ("charge neutralization"). As a result, the particles become heavier, sediment faster and are easier to filter or flotate.

Typical areas of application:

  • Industrial wastewater treatment: improvement of solids separation after chemical precipitation (e.g. iron, aluminum, lime salts)

  • Process water treatment: Removal of solid impurities in cooling and boiler water circuits

  • Sludge conditioning: improvement of the dewatering properties in chamber filter presses, belt filter systems or centrifuges

  • Membrane systems: Prevention of solids ingress that could lead to fouling or blockages

  • Flotation systems: Optimization of the air bubble-particle interaction for the separation of light particles or oils

Advantage in industry: Without suitable flocculants, solids are difficult to separate, the effluent remains cloudy and legal limits (e.g. COD, TSS) can be exceeded.

  • Anionic polymers: Negatively charged, ideal for solids with a positive surface charge, e.g. after metal or lime precipitation.

  • Cationic polymers: Positively charged, ideally suited for sludge conditioning and dewatering of organic sludges.

  • Non-ionic polymers: Neutrally charged, universally applicable, e.g. with strongly fluctuating pH values or in salty media.

The choice depends on particle characteristics, water chemistry and system technology.

Polymer selection is a critical parameter for the operational safety and economic efficiency of a water or wastewater treatment system.
The wrong product or an unsuitable setting can lead to massive operational disruptions - often only visible when it is already too late:

Typical risks of incorrect selection:

  • Increased turbidity and exceeding of limit values → Plant operators risk fines and regulatory requirements

  • Unstable floc formation → fine particles enter downstream stages, e.g. membranes, heat exchangers or biological stages

  • Overdosing → unnecessary operating costs and increased sludge production

  • Sludge problems → poor drainage, higher disposal fees, clogged drainage machines

  • System performance decreases → reduced throughput, increased cleaning intervals, unplanned downtimes

  • Downstream processes suffer → e.g. faster biofouling in membrane systems or reduced heat exchanger performance

Optimization potential that can be exploited with the right choice of polymer:

  • Higher throughput without system expansion

  • Constant compliance with legal limits

  • Longer service life of system components

  • Reduced disposal costs due to improved dry matter content in the sludge

  • More stable process control with fluctuating raw water quality

The optimal product selection is not based on gut feeling, but on a structured, technical process:

  1. Laboratory analysis of the raw or waste water

    • Determination of pH value, conductivity, salt content, particle size, particle surface charge (zeta potential)

  2. On-site tests (jar tests)

    • Simulation of flocculation under real operating conditions with different polymer types and dosages

  3. Process analysis

    • Consideration of flow paths, residence times, stirring conditions, dosing points and temperature profiles

  4. Compatibility check

    • Coordination with precipitants, biocides or other process additives used

  5. Pilot operation

    • Test phase with continuous measurement of discharge values, sludge parameters and chemical consumption

In this way, we ensure that the polymer is used in a technically perfect and economically optimal way.

The advantages of our products lie not only in their high chemical effectiveness, but above all in the fact that they are specifically tailored to your system, your water and your operating conditions. This allows us to eliminate typical operating problems that regularly occur in many systems:

Frequent problems in practice:

  • High effluent turbidity due to incomplete solids separation

  • Unstable floc formation, which leads to sludge losses and filtration problems

  • Excessive chemical consumption due to incorrect product selection or dosing

  • Poorer sludge dewatering → Higher disposal and transportation costs

  • Loading of downstream stages (membranes, heat exchangers, biological stages) by fine particles

How we solve these problems:

  • Individual advice from experienced process engineers who analyze your system and your process on site

  • Laboratory tests (jar tests) for the targeted selection of charge density, molecular weight and product type

  • Practical tests directly in your system to determine the optimum dosing quantity, activation time and dosing point

  • Coordination with precipitants and other additives to utilize synergies and avoid precipitation problems

  • Continuous process monitoring with measurements, evaluations and optimization recommendations

Your measurable advantages:

  • Permanently stable discharge values and compliance with legal limits

  • Reduced chemical consumption and lower operating costs

  • Higher dry matter content in the sludge and reduced disposal costs

  • Longer service life of filters and membranes

  • Maximum operational reliability even with fluctuating supply quality

We supply polymers & flocculants in three main forms - each with specific benefits:

  • Powder polymers

    • High storage stability (up to 2 years)

    • Very concentrated → low transport volume

    • Requires dissolution in a polymer preparation station

    • Ideal for systems with high consumption

  • Emulsion polymers

    • Quickly soluble, short activation time

    • Easy to use with dosing pump

    • Require less installation effort than powder polymers

    • Suitable for medium to high consumption

  • Ready-to-use solutions

    • Can be dosed directly without preparation

    • Particularly suitable for small to medium-sized systems or test phases

    • Minimizes operating effort and potential errors

All variants are available in flexible container sizes - from 25 kg canisters to IBC containers or truck tankers.

Yes - ALMA AQUA offers OEM and private label solutions for resellers, plant manufacturers and service companies. We produce and fill exactly to your specifications, discreetly and with a strong brand.

At ALMA AQUA, technical support is an integral part of our value proposition.
Our services include:

  • On-site dosing optimization

    • Adjustment of dosing points, stirring conditions and dosing quantities

  • Laboratory and operational tests

    • Comparison of different products under real operating conditions

  • Training for operating personnel

    • Correct storage, handling, dosing and safety

  • Integration in automation technology

    • Integration into existing or new dosing and monitoring systems

  • Digital reporting

    • Ongoing documentation of process values, chemical consumption and optimization potential

  • Fast response times

    • Technicians are on site at short notice in the event of acute problems

The result: maximum system efficiency, less downtime, lower operating costs.

The efficiency of a polymer depends heavily on the process parameters.

  • pH value: Influences the surface charge of the solids and therefore the binding efficiency. Some cationic polymers lose effectiveness at very high pH values, while anionic polymers can be less effective in acidic environments.

  • Temperature: Elevated temperatures accelerate the reaction kinetics, but can lead to a reduction in the polymer chain length at very high values (>60 °C).

  • Salt content: High ionic strength (e.g. in seawater or industrial wastewater containing salt) influences the charge distribution and floc size. Specially modified polymers are often used here.

We therefore always select and test products under the real operating conditions of your process in order to rule out any loss of performance.

The charge density determines how strongly a polymer can interact with particles or flakes.

  • Charge density too low → weak particle binding, small, unstable flakes

  • Charge density too high → Particle overload, flocs disintegrate again ("restabilization")
    The optimum charge density depends on the type of solids, their surface charge, the precipitant used and the system parameters.
    We use zeta potential measurements in the laboratory and practical tests to determine the exact value at which floc formation is at a maximum.

Sludge conditioning

Sludge conditioning is the targeted chemical treatment of sludge before it is dewatered in mechanical dewatering systems such as chamber filter presses, belt filter presses, centrifuges or sieve drums. The aim is to change the physical properties of the sludge so that it releases water more easily and can be processed mechanically more efficiently.

Polymers or other additives are used to combine the fine particles into larger, stable flocs. This reduces the residual water content (increases the dry residue, TS) and ensures uniform filter cake formation.

Without effective sludge conditioning, typical problems arise:

  • High water content in the sludge → High disposal and transportation costs

  • Unstable dewatering results → fluctuating TS values

  • Mechanical problems in the drainage → Blockage, filter breakthroughs

  • Increased energy consumption due to longer dewatering cycles

In short: sludge conditioning determines the costs, operational safety and environmental compliance of a plant.

Unsuitable conditioning - whether due to incorrect product selection, an unsuitable dosing strategy or a lack of adaptation to the sludge - leads to a chain reaction of operating problems:

  • High residual water content: Every percentage point less dry matter can result in thousands of euros in additional costs for disposal and transportation per year.

  • Unstable filter cake structure: flocs disintegrate, filtrate becomes cloudy, filter cloths clog more quickly.

  • Excessive polymer consumption: Incorrect charge density or molecular weights lead to overdosing without any increase in performance.

  • Clogged filter media: Fine particles or biofilms block filter pores, which increases cleaning effort and downtimes.

  • Fluctuating results with changing feed composition, e.g. seasonal changes or production changes.

  • Consequential damage: Higher loads in downstream processes, e.g. due to insufficiently separated solids in the filtrate.

These problems quickly add up to considerable additional costs and reduced system availability.

At ALMA AQUA, selection is systematic and data-based - not random or based on standard lists. Our approach:

  1. Analysis of the sludge characteristics

    • DM content, particle size distribution, organic/inorganic content

    • Surface charge (zeta potential) to determine the optimum polymer charge

    • Influencing factors such as pH value, temperature, salt content

  2. Laboratory tests (Jar Tests)

    • Simulation of conditioning with different polymer types (anionic, cationic, non-ionic) and molecular weights

    • Observation of floc formation, filterability, dewatering speed

  3. On-site tests in real operation

    • Optimization of dosing quantity, activation time, mixing intensity

    • Testing of different dosing points (before/middle/after precipitation)

  4. Long-term evaluation

    • Documentation of TS values, polymer consumption, dewatering performance

    • Adjustment of the parameters in the event of changed inlet conditions

The result: a customized conditioning concept that reduces costs, increases dewatering performance and ensures process stability.

Our products and processes offer more than just "better flocs" - they are an overall concept for optimizing sludge treatment.

Direct operational benefits:

  • Higher dry residue (TS) → less water, lower disposal costs

  • Stable filter cake structure → consistent quality, less downtime

  • Reduced chemical consumption through targeted dosing and suitable product selection

  • Better filtrate quality → Lower load on downstream stages

  • Longer service life of filter cloths, belts and centrifuge components

Technical advantages through our approach:

  • Tailor-made product selection based on laboratory and practical tests

  • Perfect coordination with existing precipitants and process additives

  • Adaptability with fluctuating sludge composition

  • Integration into automated dosing and monitoring systems

Additional benefits:

  • Reduced energy costs due to shorter dewatering cycles

  • Compliance with legal requirements through stable process management

  • Personal support from experienced ALMA AQUA process engineers

ALMA AQUA offers conditioning agents in three main forms - each with specific advantages, tailored to consumption quantity, storage logistics and dosing technology:

  • Powder products

    • Highly concentrated (up to 100 % active ingredient content) → Very economical to transport and store

    • Long storage stability (up to 2 years) when stored in a dry place

    • Ideal for large drainage systems with continuous operation

    • Requires a polymer preparation station for dissolution and activation before dosing

  • Emulsion products

    • Already contain partially dissolved polymer in oil phase → fast solubility in water

    • Less activation time than powder

    • Simple integration into existing dosing pump systems

    • Well suited for medium to high consumption and systems with frequent start-ups and shutdowns

  • Ready-to-use solutions

    • Can be dosed directly, without further preparation

    • Minimizes operating errors and is particularly suitable for small systems or pilot tests

    • Ideal for customers who do not want to install their own attachment technology

All product forms are available in flexible container sizes (canisters, drums, IBCs, big bags) and can be adapted to the requirements of your logistics and dosing technology.

Yes - and not just as a one-off consultation, but as a complete optimization process.
Our technical support includes:

  1. Laboratory analyses & jar tests to select the optimum polymer and dosing parameters

  2. On-site optimization of your dewatering system - adjustment of dosing points, mixing intensity, activation time

  3. Real-time data acquisition of dry matter content, polymer consumption and filtrate quality

  4. Integration into automation systems - from simple dosing pumps to fully automatic dosing stations with online monitoring

  5. Training of operating personnel to avoid operating errors and ensure long-term efficiency

  6. Long-term monitoring with regular evaluations, suggestions for optimization and adaptation to changing sludge compositions

Goal: Maximum drainage performance at minimum cost - permanently.

The condition of the sludge is one of the decisive factors for the selection and effectiveness of a conditioning agent:

  • Biological sludge (e.g. from activated sludge processes)

    • Contain many organic substances and bacterial extracellular substances that bind water

    • Often require cationic polymers with higher charge density to break this bond

  • Chemically precipitated sludge (e.g. from precipitation/flocculation plants)

    • Mostly mineral, often denser and heavier

    • React well to anionic or non-ionic polymers

  • Mixed sludge

    • Combination of organic and inorganic components

    • Often require special combination formulations or graduated dosing strategies

The pH value, salt content, temperature and particle size also influence the effectiveness. We therefore always carry out laboratory and practical tests before making a recommendation.

Optimum conditioning protects the mechanics and filter media of your dewatering system:

  • Stable flocs → fewer fine particles in the filtrate, resulting in less abrasion on filter cloths, sieves or centrifuge components

  • Uniform filter cake formation → fewer punctual loads, no "hotspots" with premature wear

  • Fewer cleaning cycles → less stress due to high-pressure cleaning, extended service life of the filter media

  • Constant operation → fewer unplanned shutdowns due to blockages or overflows

In practice, this allows us to extend the service life of filter cloths by up to 50 % and reduce cleaning intervals at the same time.

The activation time is the time a polymer needs to fully unfold in the water and develop its full flocculation effect.

  • Activation time too short → Polymer chains are not yet completely dissolved, floc formation remains incomplete, more residual water in the sludge

  • Activation time too long → Polymer chains can be mechanically damaged or partially degraded, effectiveness decreases

  • Optimal activation time → depending on product type, concentration, water temperature and stirring intensity

We determine this value in the laboratory and in practice and then adjust the polymer preparation station and the dosing system so that the product enters the process in exactly the right state.
This saves up to 20 % polymer consumption and ensures maximum dewatering efficiency.

By industry:

Food industry & dairies

Our ALMA AQUA process additives for the food and dairy industry are specially tailored to hygiene-critical plant areas. They meet all relevant legal requirements - including EU regulations on food safety, drinking water regulations, VDI 2047 Sheet 2 - and are formulated in such a way that they have no negative impact on product quality or production hygiene.

These include, among others:

  • Corrosion inhibitors, hardness stabilizers, dispersants and biocides for evaporative cooling systems & cooling water circuits

  • Oxygen binders, alkalizing agents, hardness stabilizers and defoamers for boiler and steam boiler systems

  • Antiscalant, special cleaner and cleaning booster for membrane systems, e.g. in milk and whey concentration

  • Precipitants, flocculants, trace substances and sludge conditioning agents for wastewater treatment

All products are developed to ensure operational safety, energy efficiency and hygiene standards in the long term - even in systems with high cleaning cycle requirements (CIP) and with seasonal production fluctuations.

Hygiene is paramount in the food industry - even minimal deposits or biofilms can cause product failures, contamination or recalls. Our additives have a preventive and process-stabilizing effect here:

  • Biocides and bioinhibitors prevent biofilm formation in cooling and hot water systems, minimizing the risk of legionella

  • Hardness stabilizers and antiscalants prevent limescale and milkstone deposits in heat exchangers, evaporators and membranes

  • Oxygen binders and corrosion inhibitors protect metallic surfaces from corrosion and material loss

  • Precipitants and flocculants ensure stable discharge values in wastewater treatment and avoid load peaks

In combination with our dosing and control technology and online monitoring systems, we can ensure in real time that the systems are operated within the optimum hygiene window.

We rely on a systematic, data-based approach:

  1. Analysis: We take water and process samples on site and analyze them in our laboratory for hardness constituents, corrosion potential, microbiological contamination and organic residues.

  2. Simulation: We use jar tests and laboratory tests to simulate the effect of various additives under realistic process conditions - e.g. typical contamination from milk fats, proteins or cleaning agent residues.

  3. Optimization: Based on the results, we configure a tailor-made additive combination to suit your cooling, boiler, membrane and waste water systems.

  4. Integration: We ensure smooth integration into your dosing and monitoring technology and support the start of live operation.

  5. Continuous support: We ensure permanently stable and hygienic system conditions through regular checks, laboratory analyses and data monitoring.

Legionella control in the food industry is particularly challenging, as biocides and bioinhibitors must be highly effective, but at the same time must not leave any negative residues in areas close to the product.
Our strategy is based on three pillars:

  • Chemical prevention: Use of fast-acting, food-safe biocides in combination with bioinhibitors that prevent the formation of new biofilm. The formulations are adjusted so that they remain stable even with frequent CIP cycles and changing operating temperatures.

  • Hydraulic optimization: Ensuring an even flow through all parts of the system to avoid "dead zones" in which legionella could multiply.

  • Monitoring & documentation: Continuous online monitoring of conductance, pH and residual biocide values as well as microbiological laboratory analyses. Results are documented in the digital reporting system to demonstrate VDI 2047-2-compliant operational management.

In this way, we ensure that the systems run permanently in the hygienic operating range without disrupting production processes.

Specific organic and inorganic contamination occurs in dairies, which classic antiscalants often do not fully address. Milk stone (calcium phosphate), protein residues and milk fats lead to a twofold load on the membrane surface: a mineral and an organic component.

Our solution:

  • Special antiscalants that disperse both mineral hardeners and organic matrix components.

  • Cleaner combinations of alkaline grease solvents and acidic milk scale removers, used sequentially to remove stubborn deposits without leaving any residue.

  • Cleaning boosters that improve surface tension and penetration, which shortens cleaning times.

Laboratory and operating results show that this combination keeps the permeate performance at a high level for up to 15-20 % longer before cleaning is necessary.

Many dairies and food companies run peak loads in certain seasons - e.g. in the peak milk phase in spring/summer - and reduce production in other months.
The problem: a rigid dosing strategy leads to over- or underdosing in these phases.

Our approach:

  • Use of load forecasts (based on production data) in conjunction with automated dosing systems.

  • Adjustment of additive dosing in real time via flow measurements, conductivity and temperature data.

  • Implementation of "pulse dosing" for short-term production peaks to ensure immediate protection in the event of increased load input.

The result: Constant system protection with simultaneous optimization of chemical consumption, even with fluctuating production volumes.

Wastewater from food processing varies greatly in composition - especially during batch production and CIP discharges. Without a targeted additive strategy, this can lead to fluctuations in COD, fat content and solids concentrations.

Our approach:

  • Precipitants and flocculants are dosed depending on the load in order to bind fine particles as well as fat and protein flocs.

  • Polymers with a specific charge density ensure a sludge that is easy to dewater, which increases press and centrifuge performance.

  • Trace substance additions support biological wastewater treatment by ensuring a balanced nutrient ratio (C:N:P).

The result: Stable discharge values even with strongly fluctuating loads - and at the same time an optimization of sludge treatment costs.

Chemical and pharmaceutical industry

Our additives are specially formulated for regulated industries. Each batch is supplied with full documentation and certificates of analysis so that operators can prove auditability according to GMP or FDA at any time. Additionally we offer:

  • Traceability via batch numbers and laboratory certificates

  • Digital reporting system for seamless documentation of dosing, monitoring and system parameters

  • Validated dosing strategies that comply with strict production specifications
    This means that chemical and pharmaceutical companies can not only safeguard their processes, but also have access to complete data in the event of an audit.

Cooling water systems in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries are often hygiene-critical and must be operated continuously and reliably. With our additives, operators achieve:

  • Legionella-free and hygienically safe systems thanks to highly effective biocides and bioinhibitors

  • Clean heat exchanger surfaces thanks to hardness stabilizers and dispersants → Lower energy consumption

  • Long-term corrosion protection for metallic system parts → Less downtime due to leaks

  • Stable processes even at high temperatures, changing loads or aggressive raw water qualities

The result: predictable operational reliability, reduced energy costs and a longer service life for the systems.

Membrane systems (e.g. reverse osmosis) are often critical systems in the pharmaceutical industry, as they are used to produce process or ultrapure water. Even the smallest deposits can jeopardize product quality.
Our additives offer clear added value here:

  • Antiscalants prevent deposits caused by hardeners, sulphates and silicates

  • Special cleaning agents dissolve protein, biofilm and organic residues that occur in pharmaceutical processes

  • Cleaning boosters shorten CIP cycles and minimize downtimes
    Practical example: By combining antiscalants and cleaning boosters, a pharmaceutical company was able to extend cleaning intervals from 4 to 7 weeks, resulting in considerable savings in operating costs.

In pharmaceutical plants, any unplanned downtime jeopardizes production safety, batch validation and delivery capability. Boiler systems (steam for sterile processes, clean rooms, autoclaves) and cooling water systems (air conditioning, reactor cooling, process water) are particularly critical.

Typical risks:

  • Corrosion in boiler and cooling circuits → Leaks, contamination

  • Scaling in heat exchangers → Loss of performance, waste of energy

  • Biofouling → hygienic risk, validation problems (e.g. in cooling towers with product proximity)

ALMA AQUA process additives significantly reduce these risks:

  • Oxygen binders and corrosion inhibitors prevent material damage in boilers, thereby avoiding downtimes caused by leaks.

  • Hardness stabilizers and antiscalants keep heat exchangers free of deposits, ensure constant energy efficiency and prevent validation deviations in energy/temperature profiles.

  • Biocides and bioinhibitors control microbial growth in cooling water systems, which is particularly important in order to comply with hygienic GMP requirements.

In addition, we supply complete batch documentation and monitoring reports that can be used directly as evidence in audits (GMP, FDA, EMA). This not only prevents technical failures, but also strengthens the regulatory safety of operations.

Wastewater from the chemical and pharmaceutical industries is among the most complex of all. It is often contaminated discontinuously (e.g. by batch processes) and contains mixtures of organic residues, solvents, salts, heavy metals and nutrient imbalances. Typical problems:

  • Highly fluctuating COD/TOC values → Overloading of biological stages

  • Low biodegradability (high proportion of poorly biodegradable substances)

  • Impurities such as surfactants or emulsions that impair flocculation and sludge stability

  • High disposal costs due to poorly dewaterable sludge

ALMA AQUA process additives specifically address these points:

  • Precipitants (e.g. iron or aluminum salts) remove phosphates, metals and colloidal compounds that would otherwise lead to unstable discharge values.

  • Flocculants with precisely matched charge density ensure that even the finest particles are combined to form large, stable flocs - a prerequisite for reliable separation.

  • Special sludge conditioning agents improve dewaterability → higher dry matter content, lower disposal costs.

  • Trace substances and nutrient doses stabilize the biological residual stage by achieving an optimal C:N:P ratio.

The key in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry lies in a dynamic, adaptive additive strategy that compensates for load fluctuations. With our jar tests, pilot tests and online monitoring, we ensure that the wastewater quality remains reliably within the standard range - even with complex and changing loads.

In the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, energy and operating costs often account for a large proportion of total costs. Cooling water and boiler systems in particular are key consumers here. Even small deposits (1 mm of limescale or milkstone) can increase energy consumption by 10-15 %.

ALMA AQUA process additives specifically counteract this effect:

  • Hardness stabilizers and antiscalants prevent crystal growth and keep heat exchanger surfaces clean.

  • Corrosion inhibitors ensure a smooth surface without the formation of deposits caused by corrosion products.

  • Defoamers stabilize boiler operation and prevent uneven steam formation.

By using these additives, operators in pharmaceutical industry projects have been able to stabilize their heat exchanger performance, increase energy efficiency and reduce CO₂ emissions. The added benefit: The measures can be measured immediately - by monitoring the approach temperature, efficiency or fuel consumption.

Pharmaceutical plants often use high-pressure boiler systems for steam generation - whether for sterilization, autoclaves or reactors. These systems often run 24/7 and are extremely sensitive to deposits and corrosion. Even minor faults can cause production stoppages and validation problems.

The conditioning strategy must therefore:

  • Eliminate oxygen (oxygen binder) to prevent pitting and stress corrosion cracking

  • Stabilize pH (alkalizing agent) to keep pipes and boiler walls in the optimum range

  • Check hardness formers (hardness stabilizers, antiscalants) to prevent deposits on heating surfaces

  • Ensure steam cleanliness (defoamer) to prevent foaming and product contamination

ALMA AQUA boiler additives are formulated precisely for these requirements and can be coupled with online monitoring so that operators receive real-time feedback on conductivity, pH and oxygen content. This not only maximizes operational safety, but also ensures auditability in GMP environments.

Metal processing & electroplating

For stable compliance with limit values, a multi-stage, robust scheme is recommended, which can be run with our ALMA AQUA process additives with practical reliability:

  1. Preconditioning / reduction

    • Cr(VI) → Cr(III) using a reducing agent at acidic pH.

    • If necessary, break the emulsion and surfactant load in advance with de-emulsifier/coagulant so that the subsequent precipitation takes effect.

  2. Precipitation & pH control

    • Precipitate metals as hydroxides (typically alkaline range) or as sulphides in the case of impurities.

    • Our pH regulators ensure narrow windows and reduce post-dosing.

  3. Flocculation & separation

    • Build up micro- to macroflocs with application-optimized flocculants/polymers.

    • Separation via lamella clarifier/DAF; secondary filter (sand/fine filter) for residual turbidity.

  4. Special case of complexing agents (e.g. EDTA, citrates, amines)

    • Use of complex-splitting additives or oxidative stages; optionally our neutral pH-capable ALMA AktivFlock combination (precipitation+flocculation+Fenton) to dissolve stable metal complexes and reduce residual COD.

Process notes (industry practice):

  • Online monitoring: pH/redox/conductivity, periodic ICP/AAS for residual metals.

  • Sludge management: Trim polymer selection for dewaterability; cake strength reduces disposal costs.

  • Incident suitability: Provide buffer volume; define recipe with safety windows (temperature, pH, redox).

Benefits: reproducibly low residual metals, robust compliance and lower overall chemical costs thanks to targeted dosing windows.

A viable concept combines pre-treated rinsing water with membrane-compatible process additives:

Pre-treatment (key to service life):

  • Fine filtration (e.g. 5-20 µm) for particle reduction, optional activated carbon against organic impurities.

  • pH trimming and antiscalant dosing against carbonate, sulphate and metal phosphate scaling.

  • Biofouling prevention through dosed biocides (membrane-compatible, not critical on the bath side).

  • For high metal loads: Partial precipitation before NF/RO so that the membrane does not become a "metal trap".

Membrane operation:

  • Clearly define the operating window (transmembrane pressure, recovery, temperature).

  • Keep SDI/turbidity under control; define CIP strategy (alkaline/acidic/oxidative - material-compliant).

  • Permeate return: depending on the process, use as rinse water or partially treated bath feed water; treat concentrate in a process-specific manner (e.g. return to the waste water line).

Additive compatibility:

  • Select antiscalants & dispersants in such a way that no bath disturbances (gloss/deposition errors) occur.

  • Validate biocides with regard to materials (brass, aluminum, seals) and downstream effects.

The result: lower fresh water consumption, stable coating quality and low operating costs thanks to extended membrane service life.

For high system availability and energy efficiency, we recommend a coordinated additive & monitoring concept:

Cooling water (open/closed):

  • Corrosion inhibitors (phosphonate/molybdate or organic systems) suitable for materials (CS, Cu alloys, Al).

  • Hardness stabilizers/dispersants against carbonate and metal phosphate scaling at increased concentration cycles.

  • Biocide management with rotating insert (oxidative/non-oxidative) for biofouling control, compatible with heat exchanger materials.

  • Core KPIs: Conductivity (cycles), pH window matching the material, ΔT/ΔP via heat exchanger, ATP/germ count.

Boiler/steam systems:

  • Sauerstoffbinder (z. B. O₂-Rest < 10 ppb anstreben), Alkalisierungsmittel für Dampfraum-/Kondensat-pH, Härtestabilisatoren gegen Kesselstein, Entschäumer für sauberes Verdampfen.

  • Desalination control based on conductivity/silicon; consistently ensure feed water quality (softening/RO).

Integration & OEM compatibility:

  • Our ALMA AQUA process additives are OEM-compatible, can be integrated into existing dosing technology and are coordinated on the bath and waste water side - important for heat exchangers, coating systems and steam generators in surface treatment.

Benefits: lower energy and maintenance costs, consistent production quality and extended system service life.

Complexing agents bind metals so stably that classic hydroxide precipitation is often not sufficient. This is where we rely on a specialized additive strategy:

  • Oxidative digestion: By using Fenton-based additives or peroxide systems, stable complexes are broken down so that metals can subsequently be precipitated.

  • Special precipitants: Organically modified precipitants also react with complex-bound metals and lead to stable, separable flocs.

  • Process integration: In surface treatment in particular, it is important that these stages can be integrated into existing clarification and rinsing water systems without disrupting production.

Benefit: With our ALMA AQUA specialty additives, legal limits for nickel, zinc and copper can be safely complied with, even with EDTA, citrate or amine complexes.

The quality of electroplated coatings depends directly on the purity of the rinsing water. Contamination (e.g. by metals, carbonate hardness or biofilm) leads to stains, clouding or adhesion problems.

  • Hardness stabilizers keep dissolved calcium and magnesium salts in solution and prevent precipitation in the rinsing bath.

  • Dispersants and biocides prevent deposits and microbial growth, which would otherwise be introduced into electroplating baths as impurities.

  • Membrane-compatible additives also enable a rinse water circuit in which permeate is reused as rinse water - without any loss of quality.

Benefits: With the right additives, rinsing baths remain free of interfering back-entry, the coating quality is consistently high and reworking is reduced.

High waste water costs are incurred in electroplating plants and metal processing - caused by chemical consumption, sludge production, disposal and energy consumption. With the right process additives, this cost item can be significantly optimized without jeopardizing operational safety:

  • Reduced chemical consumption
    Customized precipitants and flocculants efficiently remove metals, particles and emulsions. Targeted dosing strategies reduce the required chemical dose and prevent overdosing.

  • Optimized sludge management
    Many standard products generate unnecessarily large quantities of metal hydroxide sludge. Our highly effective special additives form compact, easily dewaterable flocs. This significantly reduces the volume of sludge, lowers disposal costs and facilitates dewatering.

  • Energy and operating cost efficiency
    Stable processes mean fewer malfunctions, downtimes and re-treatments. At the same time, additives that are compatible with existing systems (lamella clarifiers, DAFs, filters, membranes) reduce maintenance costs and increase the service life of filters and membranes.

  • Practical example of electroplating operations
    The difference is particularly evident in rinsing water treatment systems with highly fluctuating metal loads: with optimized additives, dosing quantities can be reduced by 20-30 %, while at the same time improving the effluent quality - a direct lever for operating costs.

Benefits: With the targeted use of ALMA AQUA process additives, metal processing and electroplating companies achieve a sustainable reduction in wastewater costs, remain reliably within the limit values and at the same time increase their economic efficiency.

Pulp and paper industry

In modern paper machines, fillers such as calcium carbonate, kaolin or talc are used to improve whiteness, bulk and printability. These additives can account for up to 35% of the paper weight - which makes their retention economically crucial. Without suitable process additives, large quantities are lost with the white water, end up in the waste water or pollute circulation systems.

  • Retention agents (e.g. cationic polymers or aluminum compounds) ensure that fillers and fibers are bound in the sheet formation process and retained in the screen.

  • Flocculants support the formation of larger aggregates (macroflocs) that are stable enough not to be rinsed out again.

  • This combination of additives works in a similar way to industrial wastewater treatment, where precipitants and flocculants are used to separate fine particles and dissolved substances.

Practical relevance:

  • Increased retention reduces raw material consumption and saves costs.

  • At the same time, process stability is improved as fewer fines enter the cycle.

  • Wastewater treatment also benefits because lower solids loads are produced and the treatment stage is relieved.

Conclusion: Retention and flocculation agents are a key tool for achieving efficient stock utilization in the paper machine - with direct parallels to wastewater technology.

The paper industry works with large quantities of process and circulation water that are rich in organic substances (fibers, starch, lignin residues). These substances provide ideal conditions for bacteria, yeasts and algae. At the same time, air ingress and surfactants promote strong foaming. Both can massively disrupt production: Foam causes measurement errors and overflows, biofilms lead to deposits, odor, hole formation or stains in the paper.

  • Defoamers break up stable foam immediately and prevent foam formation. They have a physical effect without impairing the paper quality.

  • Biocides (oxidative and non-oxidative) control microbiological growth. A rotating biocide strategy is important here to prevent the development of resistance.

  • In combination, both types of additive ensure that circuits remain free of slime, biofilms and unwanted foam.

Parallel to wastewater treatment:
Foam and biofilms are also typical problems in biological wastewater treatment plants or return sludge, which are solved with targeted additives. The experience gained from these applications flows directly into the process additives for the paper industry.

Practical benefits:

  • Fewer unplanned shutdowns and cleanings

  • Stable paper quality without stains and holes

  • Lower microbiological load in the circuits, which also improves the wastewater values

Conclusion: With the right additive package, biofouling and foaming can be permanently controlled - for trouble-free production and consistent paper quality.

In addition to fibers, filler losses and starch, wastewater streams in the paper industry also contain organic residues (e.g. lignin, resins, pulping chemicals). Depending on the additives used, heavy metals such as aluminum, iron or traces of dye components may also occur. Without targeted treatment, it is not possible to comply with the strict limit values.

  • Precipitants (e.g. iron or aluminum salts) react with dissolved ions and organic substances and convert them into insoluble, separable compounds.

  • Flocculants (polymers) enlarge the resulting particles and facilitate their separation in sedimentation or flotation systems.

  • pH regulation ensures that the additives work in the optimum effective range - similar to electroplating or the metal industry, where metals are specifically precipitated in the hydroxide range.

  • For residues that are particularly difficult to break down, oxidative additives can also be used to break down dyes and lignin fragments.

Practical benefits for the paper industry:

  • Reliable compliance with legal limits even during peak loads

  • Reduced sludge volumes thanks to optimized precipitation and flocculation combinations

  • Relief of biological stages and improved effluent quality

Conclusion: Wastewater treatment in the paper industry uses very similar process additives to industrial wastewater treatment - with the difference that the high organic load and fiber residues pose a particular challenge here.

Background
In pulp production, bleaching is a key step in removing lignin residues and brightening the pulp. Typical oxidizing agents are chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, oxygen or peroxyacetic acid. This process is one of the biggest cost factors in a paper mill and has a direct impact on product quality and wastewater pollution.

Solution with process additives

  • Chemical stabilizers prevent hydrogen peroxide or chlorine dioxide from decomposing prematurely. This prolongs the effectiveness and stabilizes the bleaching effect.

  • pH regulators maintain the optimum environment: peroxide develops its maximum effect in the slightly alkaline range, chlorine dioxide in the slightly acidic environment. Additives help to reliably maintain these narrow windows.

  • Oxidation enhancers (e.g. metal catalysts or Fenton-like systems) can increase efficiency so that fewer primary chemicals are required.

  • Foam and slime control in the bleaching stages using defoamers and biocides avoids side problems that are often underestimated but lead to malfunctions.

Benefits for the paper industry

  • Reduce chemical costs: Less consumption with the same or better effect.

  • Constant degrees of whiteness even with changing wood quality.

  • Relief for wastewater treatment, as fewer residual chemicals are introduced.

Background
Paper mills are among the largest industrial users of energy and water. They work with large quantities of cooling water and operate powerful steam boilers for process heat and drying. Problems caused by limescale deposits, corrosion and biofouling lead directly to energy losses, increased operating costs and production stoppages.

Solution with process additives

  • Hardness stabilizers and dispersants bind calcium and magnesium ions and prevent the formation of limescale and salt deposits in cooling water and boiler systems.

  • Corrosion inhibitors protect metallic surfaces (steel, copper, aluminum) in pipelines, heat exchangers and pressure systems.

  • Defoamers prevent foam cushions in the boiler water, which can lead to turbulent steam formation and mechanical problems.

  • Biocides in cooling circuits reduce microbial growth (bacteria, algae, fungi) and prevent biofilms that block heat exchangers and accelerate corrosion processes.

Benefits for the paper industry

  • Energy savings thanks to clean heat exchanger surfaces without insulation layers.

  • Longer service life of boilers, cooling systems and paper machines thanks to protection against corrosion.

  • Less downtime and predictable maintenance intervals.

  • Reliable compliance with OEM specifications for water quality and additive compatibility.

Background
Paper mills consume enormous amounts of process heat and cooling capacity. Steam boilers generate the energy required for the drying process, while large cooling water systems keep paper machines and ancillary equipment stable. Deposits, corrosion and biofouling not only lead to high energy costs, but also to unplanned downtimes.

Solution with process additives

  • Boiler water: Oxygen binders prevent corrosion processes, alkalizing agents stabilize the pH value in the steam space and condensate, hardness stabilizers reduce scale formation, and defoamers ensure trouble-free steam formation.

  • Cooling water: Hardness stabilizers and dispersants prevent limescale and salt deposits, corrosion inhibitors protect pipes and heat exchangers, biocides inhibit microbial growth and prevent biofouling.

  • Combination with monitoring: The effectiveness of the additives is continuously checked by online measurements (pH, conductivity, oxygen, corrosion rates) so that dosages can be precisely adjusted.

Benefits for the paper industry

  • Energy efficiency: Clean heat exchanger surfaces and boiler-side linings save up to double-digit percentages of energy.

  • System protection: Extended service life of boilers, pipes and cooling circuits.

  • Operational safety: fewer unplanned shutdowns due to corrosion, scaling or biofouling.

  • Legal compliance: Additives are OEM-compatible and matched to the water quality of the paper industry.

Energy supply & district heating

Boiler scale as a risk to efficiency and operational safety
Boiler scale is caused by the precipitation of calcium and magnesium salts (carbonates, sulphates, silicates). These are deposited on heat exchanger surfaces, reduce heat transfer and lead to energy losses. Just 1 mm of deposits can reduce efficiency by up to 10 %. In addition, the risk of overheating and damage to the boiler walls increases.

Process additives against deposits in boiler operation

  • Hardness stabilizers keep calcium and magnesium ions in solution so that they do not precipitate.

  • Softeners (ion exchangers, chemical dosing) reduce the total hardness in the feed water in a targeted manner.

  • Scale inhibitors / dispersants prevent the growth of crystal nuclei and convert residual minerals into sludge, which is sludged off in a controlled manner.

  • Phosphates bind hardness formers and at the same time form a thin protective layer on boiler walls - corrosion protection and deposit control in one step.

Practical benefits for energy supply and district heating
By using these additives, energy efficiency remains stable, the number of cleaning cycles is reduced and the service life of the boiler systems is significantly extended. This saves both fuel and maintenance costs.

Why oxygen is so dangerous
Oxygen is one of the main drivers of corrosion damage. Even the smallest amounts can cause pitting in boilers, pipes and heat exchangers. District heating networks are particularly at risk, as oxygen continuously enters the system through micro-leaks or diffusion. Without protection, there is a risk of rusting, sludge formation and premature material failure.

Process additives for reliable corrosion protection

  • Oxygen binders (sulphite or modern substitutes) react immediately with dissolved oxygen and remove it completely from the feed water.

  • Alkalizing agents (NaOH, phosphates) keep the pH value above 9 - a critical value below which steel no longer remains passive.

  • Film formers create a microscopically thin protective layer on metal surfaces that acts like a barrier film.

  • Corrosion inhibitors block electrochemical reactions on the metal surface and increase the service life of sensitive components.

Practical benefits for network operators and suppliers
The combination of these additives ensures maximum protection for pipes and heat exchangers, reduces unplanned downtime and extends the service life of the entire system. At the same time, security of supply is increased, which is particularly important for district heating with thousands of connected households.

Challenges in large district heating systems
District heating networks are complex systems with long pipes, large volumes of water and long retention times. The water often circulates for months or years, while the load changes greatly depending on the season. These conditions promote corrosion, deposits and loss of quality in the network. Repairs or pipe renovations are extremely expensive and lead to downtimes that are critical for operators and customers alike.

Additives for sustainable protection in grid operation

  • Alkalizing agents keep the pH value constantly above 9 to reliably prevent oxygen corrosion.

  • Corrosion inhibitors and film formers create protective layers on pipes and heat exchangers and prevent surface corrosion as well as pitting.

  • Long-term stable formulations ensure that additives retain their effect even at high temperatures and long dwell times in circulation.

  • Continuous monitoring and re-dosing ensure consistent water quality and make network operation plannable.

Practical benefits for the energy supply
The use of suitable additives reduces maintenance costs, extends the service life of the infrastructure and ensures a reliable heat supply even during extreme peak loads in winter. Network operators benefit from greater operational reliability and predictable maintenance intervals.

Importance of feed water quality
The feed water is the lifeline of a steam boiler. Even small amounts of hardness constituents, silicates or oxygen can lead to deposits, corrosion and serious damage. Efficient feed water treatment is therefore a basic prerequisite for trouble-free operation.

Additives and conditioning processes

  • Demineralization and demineralization: Reduce hardness formers and salts that can lead to scale.

  • pH correction with caustic soda: Ensures alkaline conditions in the feed water.

  • Oxygen binding agents (sulphite, carbohydrazide, DEHA): Remove residual oxygen after thermal degassing.

  • Condensate care: Alkalizing agents prevent CO₂-related acid corrosion in condensate returns.

Practical benefits for power stations and heating plants
Stable feed water quality ensures maximum plant safety, reduces chemical consumption in boiler operation and significantly extends maintenance intervals.

Dangers from oxygen and CO₂
Even the smallest amounts of dissolved oxygen in the feed water lead to pitting in boilers and pipes. CO₂ is also critical, as it leads to the formation of carbonic acid and pipe corrosion in the condensate.

Methods and additives for oxygen removal

  • Thermal degassing in the degasser reduces the oxygen content to a minimum.

  • Oxygen binders (e.g. sulphite or modern substitutes) eliminate the last traces.

  • Alkalizing agents increase the pH value in the condensate and prevent carbonic acid corrosion.

Practical benefits for energy supply and district heating
The combination of thermal degassing and additives reliably protects boilers and networks, extends service life and increases operational safety - especially in the continuous load operation of power stations and heating plants.

Why biofouling is problematic
In cooling water systems, microorganisms such as bacteria, algae or fungi form biofilms on surfaces. These layers impair heat transfer, clog pipes and promote corrosion. Just a few tenths of a millimeter of biofilm can significantly increase energy consumption.

Additives against microbiological growth

  • Biocides (oxidative and non-oxidative) prevent the spread of microorganisms.

  • Rotating biocide strategies ensure that no resistance develops.

  • Defoamers prevent foaming, which typically occurs with high microbial loads.

  • Dispersants keep particles and biofilm residues in suspension and facilitate separation.

Practical benefits for operators of cooling systems and networks
A controlled cooling circuit ensures heat transfer, protects heat exchangers from fouling and reduces unplanned downtime. Energy consumption is also reduced as no biological insulation layers are created.

Recycling & waste management

Challenge: Heavy metals in recycling wastewater
Wastewater from disposal and recycling facilities often contains high concentrations of heavy metals such as copper, lead, zinc, nickel or chromium. These substances are highly toxic, accumulate in the environment and are therefore subject to very strict limit values. In addition, complexing substances (e.g. EDTA or amines) make precipitation more difficult, as they keep metals stable in solution.

Process additives for heavy metal removal

  • Precipitants based on iron or aluminum salts form insoluble hydroxides or sulfides.

  • Special additives with a complex-splitting effect dissolve stable metal complexes so that the metals can then be safely precipitated.

  • Flocculants (polymers) ensure the formation of stable, separable flocs.

  • pH regulation is crucial, as each metal has its own precipitation window (e.g. nickel at pH 9.5, chromium at pH 7-8).

Practical benefits
The combination of these additives means that even highly fluctuating feed values can be treated reliably. Operators achieve permanently safe limit values, avoid official complaints and also reduce the amount of sludge through targeted dosing of chemicals.

Particular contamination of landfill leachate
Leachate from landfills has a complex composition: high salt loads, organic residues, nitrogen compounds (NH₄-N), heavy metals and sometimes halogenated hydrocarbons. In addition, there are large seasonal fluctuations, as rain and snowmelt have a strong influence on the load.

Process additives for leachate treatment

  • Precipitant and flocculant for the safe removal of heavy metals, colloids and suspended solids.

  • Oxidizing agents (e.g. hydrogen peroxide, Fenton process) break down organic substances and color compounds that are difficult to degrade.

  • pH regulators optimize the effectiveness of additives and create favorable conditions for biological post-treatment.

  • Polymers improve the separation of residues and increase the efficiency of flotation or filtration.

Practical benefits
With the right additives, even highly fluctuating landfill leachate can be reliably stabilized. This reduces the load on downstream biological stages, ensures compliance with limit values and reduces treatment costs.

Problem definition Hazardous waste streams
Highly contaminated liquid waste often accumulates in the waste management industry - e.g. oil/water mixtures, paint and varnish sludge, solvent residues or chemical process wastewater. These material flows are particularly difficult as they can contain high COD values, toxic substances and stable emulsions.

Process additives for hazardous waste treatment

  • Coagulants and flocculants break up emulsions and enable the separation of oil and water.

  • Oxidizing agents break down organic residues and hazardous substances such as cyanides or sulphides.

  • De-emulsifiers ensure safe separation of oil-containing phases.

  • Special formulations are customized to treat even very heterogeneous waste streams.

Practical benefits
With these additives, even highly contaminated hazardous waste streams can be treated economically and in compliance with the law. At the same time, operating costs are reduced through optimized dosing strategies and safety in plant operation is increased.

Sludge as a cost and disposal factor
The treatment of wastewater and hazardous waste generates large quantities of sludge. Without optimized additives, high volumes with poor dewaterability are produced, which cause high disposal costs and place an additional burden on the processes.

Process additives for efficient sludge management

  • Optimized precipitants form compact sludges with a low water content.

  • Polymers as flocculants improve dewatering in belt filter presses, centrifuges or chamber filter presses.

  • Conditioning agents change the sludge structure in such a way that water release is facilitated.

  • Defoamers prevent disruptions in sludge treatment and maintain process stability.

Practical benefits
With the right additives, the sludge volume is significantly reduced, disposal costs are lowered and the dewatering capacity of existing plants is increased. Operators also benefit from more stable process control, as there is less reloading due to poorly dewaterable sludge.

Challenge: High COD due to poorly degradable organics
Hazardous waste, landfill leachate and wash water from recycling processes often contain emulsified oils, surfactants, traces of BTEX/PAK, dyes and polymer-rich residues. These components are difficult to biodegrade and drive up COD/TOC and color/turbidity.

Process additives & steps for COD reduction

  • Oxidation additives: Peroxide-based systems (e.g. Fenton approach), activated peroxide or peroxyacetic acid split long-chain molecules and reduce colored/oxidizable components.

  • Coagulation/flocculation: After oxidation digestion, coagulants and polymers bind the fragments formed into easily separable flocs (lamella clarifier/DAF/filtration).

  • Ensure pH window: Oxidation and precipitation reactions only work stably in the correct pH range; inline pH control (NaOH/acid) significantly increases the yield.

  • Additive synergies: Combined Fenton flocculation (e.g. neutral pH-capable formulations) enables COD reduction and decolorization in one step - ideal for mixed loads.

Process and operating instructions

  • Optimize dosing strategy via Redox/UV254/TOC trend; avoid overdosing.

  • Observe sludge management: Make oxidation coagulation sludge dewaterable with suitable polymers.

  • Safety aspects: Only use oxidizing chemicals with suitable PPE, storage and ventilation concepts.

Practical benefits

  • Significant COD/color reduction with heterogeneous loads

  • Stabilization of downstream biology or disposal

  • Cost benefits thanks to precise dosing and dewaterable sludge

Why pre-treatment is crucial
Membrane systems are an effective tool for concentrate formation, rinse water recirculation and residue separation in the waste management industry. However, without suitable additives, there is a risk of scaling (carbonates/sulphates), organic fouling, emulsion breakthrough and rapid flux losses.

Additive package for diaphragm-compatible operation

  • Antiscalants & dispersants: Inhibit crystal formation (CaCO₃, CaSO₄, Ba/Sr sulphates, silicate) and keep particles in suspension.

  • Coagulation/flocculation upstream: Breaks emulsions and binds colloids so that the membranes do not become "oil/polymer scavengers".

  • Biocide strategy: Doseable, membrane-compatible biocides against biofouling; rotating use reduces resistance risks.

  • pH trimming: Adjust the pH window so that both antiscalant effectiveness and material compatibility of the membrane are maintained.

CIP and operating concept

  • Determine CIP recipes (alkaline/acidic/oxidative - material-compliant) and define triggers (ΔP increase, flux drop, SDI/turbidity).

  • Monitoring: Track conductivity, SDI/NTU, ΔP, TMP and permeate quality online; adaptively control dosing quantities.

  • Concentrate handling: return to a chemical-physical line (precipitation/flocculation/oxidation) prevents reloads.

Practical benefits

  • Longer membrane service life, stable flux, lower CIP frequency

  • Better permeate quality and reliable compliance with limit values

  • Lower operating costs thanks to additive-supported pre-treatment and targeted cleaning

Plastics industry & extrusion

Why deposits are a major problem
In extrusion and injection molding, cooling water is used to quickly cool down tools and plastic parts. Even the smallest deposits of lime, iron or biofilms significantly reduce the cooling capacity. This results in longer cycle times, higher energy costs and quality problems such as uneven surfaces or dimensional deviations.

Additives against limescale, corrosion and biofouling

  • Hardness stabilizers prevent the crystallization of calcium carbonate and magnesium salts.

  • Dispersants keep corrosion products and fine particles in suspension so that they can be rinsed out.

  • Biocides inhibit microbial growth and stop the formation of biofilms in cooling ducts.

  • Defoamers prevent foam blankets in cooling tanks, which impair cooling performance.

Practical benefits for extrusion and injection molding
These additives keep tools, cooling channels and heat exchangers free of deposits. This means stable cycle times, consistent product quality and lower energy costs.

Typical problems in boiler operation
Steam boilers are used in the plastics industry to heat extruders, drying systems or temperature control units. Without conditioning, there is a risk of scale, corrosion and unstable steam formation. Even a thin layer of limescale in the boiler can reduce efficiency by several percent and noticeably increase energy consumption.

Process additives for safe boiler operation

  • Oxygen binders such as sulphite or modern substitutes remove residual oxygen and prevent pitting corrosion.

  • Alkalizing agents (NaOH, phosphates) stabilize the pH value in the alkaline range and prevent CO₂-related acid corrosion.

  • Hardness stabilizers & deposit inhibitors prevent the formation of limescale and silicate deposits that block heat transfer.

  • Corrosion inhibitors & film formers create a stable protective layer on metal surfaces.

  • Defoamers ensure even steam formation and prevent foam cushions.

Practical benefits
Optimally conditioned boiler water ensures greater energy efficiency, a longer service life for the system and minimizes unplanned downtime in the production process.

The challenge of plastic washing water
Washing films, flakes or regrind produces highly contaminated wastewater containing surfactants, grease, dyes and organic residues. These significantly increase the COD values and make it difficult to comply with legal limits. Without pre-treatment, there is also a risk of problems in downstream biological stages or membrane systems.

Additives for efficient wastewater treatment

  • Precipitants convert dissolved substances into poorly soluble particles.

  • Flocculants & polymers form large, stable flocs and enable separation in lamella clarifiers, DAFs or filters.

  • pH regulators ensure the right environment for the precipitation and flocculation reactions.

  • Special additives such as de-emulsifiers break up oil/fat emulsions.

Practical benefits
Plastic wastewater streams are reliably stabilized with additives and can be treated economically. Operators benefit from safe compliance with limit values, lower chemical costs and reduced sludge volumes.

Why biofouling is so dangerous
In closed cooling circuits, biofouling is caused by bacteria, fungi and algae that use organic material as a source of nutrients. Biofilms on pipes or heat exchangers lead to a drop in performance, increased energy requirements and corrosion damage.

Additives against biofouling

  • Biocides (oxidative & non-oxidative) control the growth of microorganisms.

  • Rotating biocide strategies prevent the development of resistance.

  • Dispersants stabilize biofilm residues that are removed in the water flow.

  • Defoamers prevent foaming in circuits, which is often associated with a high biological load.

Practical benefits
Clean cooling circuits ensure a high level of heat transfer, prevent energy losses and increase the service life of system components.

The challenge of recirculation
Process water is recirculated in the extrusion of pipes, profiles and films. Without additives, it becomes contaminated by fillers, abrasion and microorganisms. This leads to deposits in cooling channels, odor development and fluctuating cooling performance, which impair product quality.

Additives for process water stability

  • Hardness stabilizers prevent the formation of limescale on cooling channels and tools.

  • Biocides keep the water hygienically stable and prevent odors.

  • pH regulators ensure stable conditions and corrosion protection.

  • Dispersants keep solids in suspension and prevent deposits.

Practical benefits
A stable process water circuit ensures constant cooling capacity, consistently high product quality and reduces chemical consumption through targeted dosing.

Why wastewater treatment is expensive
Wastewater from the plastics industry varies greatly - from washing water to cleaning wastewater with surfactants and additive residues. Without targeted treatment, high chemical costs, large volumes of sludge and high energy consumption arise.

Additives for cost-efficient wastewater treatment

  • Efficient precipitants produce compact, easily dewaterable sludge.

  • Polymers improve water separation in presses and centrifuges.

  • Oxidative additives break down stubborn organic residues.

  • Defoamers prevent process disruptions and increase system performance.

Practical benefits
Optimized additives reduce operating costs in wastewater treatment by up to 30 %, while at the same time ensuring compliance with limit values.

Power plants & CHP plants

Why the choice is crucial
Materials (steel vs. copper alloys), pressure/temperature and boiler design determine whether AVT(R) (reducing), AVT(O)/OT (oxygenated treatment) or phosphate/Na/PO₄ regimes are appropriate. The wrong strategy will lead to FAC (flow-accelerated corrosion), phosphate heateout, turbine deposits or conductivity fluctuations.

Proven selection logic

  • All-ferrous, once-through/HRSG & ultra-high pressure: often AVT(O)/OT (targeted, low O₂ flow) to minimize FAC in feed/econ areas.

  • Copper-containing systems / older drum boilers: preferably AVT(R) (reducing conditions with oxygen binders), as Cu alloys tolerate OT poorly.

  • Drum boiler with phosphate control: Coordinated/congruent phosphate (Na/PO₄ ratio) for deposit control in the drum boiler; avoid phosphate hideout through close conductivity and Na/PO₄ monitoring.

  • Film formers/FFS (Film-Forming Substances): as a supplementary measure (not a substitute) for passive layer stabilization in start/stop-intensive HRSG operations - OEM and IAPWS-compliant use.

Additives & conversion (ALMA AQUA)

  • Alkalization (ammonia/amines) for the specified pH window in feed/condensate.

  • Oxygen binders (e.g. sulphite systems or modern alternatives) for AVT(R).

  • Phosphates for drum boilers with Na/PO₄ regime, monitored via CACE (cationic conductivity) & sodium.

  • Film formers with controlled dosing and verification (e.g. by means of organic-sensitive measured variables) for layer integrity.

Monitoring - what counts
CACE & specific conductivity, Fe/Cu transport (ppb trend), sodium/silicon in vapor/condensate, dissolved O₂ (depending on regime), differential pressures/temperatures in high-risk FAC zones.

Main drivers of the damage

  • FAC: too low oxide layer stability in weakly reducing, high flow velocities/high turbulence.

  • Pitting under deposits: metallic particles/salts promote underfilm corrosion.

  • Turbine sensitivity: minimal carrier impurities (Na⁺, SiO₂, organics) lead to deposits/erosion.

Protection concept with additives & operation

  • Alkalizing agents (ammonia/amines): operate within the OEM/IAPWS pH window; use neutralizing amines with a suitable distribution number for long returns.

  • AVT(O)/OT for all-ferrous HRSG: small addition of O₂ for oxide layer stabilization; AVT(R) for Cu alloys.

  • Film former (FFA/FFP) as a thin hydrophobic protective film in problematic return/moisture zones; dosage & verification documented.

  • Condensate treatment: CPU/Polisher (strong acid cation/anion) limit trace ions; bypass strategies for resin protection.

  • Cleanliness: sidestream filter & rinsing strategies against particle transport.

Monitoring & limit indicators
CACE trend, Fe/Cu-ppb (transport), Na & silicate in steam/condensate, O₂ depending on regime, TOC/UV-254 (organic inputs in FFS), Δp increases as fouling indicator.

System features
High heat loads, large surface areas and changing raw water (surface/brackish water, partial flow RO) create scaling, MIC/biofouling and corrosion risks. At the same time, water balance and desalination are economically critical.

Chemical control (ALMA AQUA)

  • Hardness stabilizers/antiscalants: Inhibition of CaCO₃, CaSO₄, Ba/Sr sulphates, silicate; operation according to saturation indices/project data.

  • Corrosion inhibitors: phosphonate/organic systems suitable for CS/Cu/Al materials; zinc-free options for environmental requirements.

  • Biocides: rotating oxidative/non-oxidative program against MIC/biofilm; defoamer for stable cooling tower hydraulics.

  • Dispersants: Particle/silt control, keep deposits mobile.

Operating & measurement concept

  • Optimize number of cycles/desalination vs. raw water & environmental requirements.

  • Online KPIs: pH, conductivity, ORP, turbidity/SDI, nutrients, ΔT/Δp.

  • Side stream filtration (1-5 %) reduces particle/biofouling.

  • Material protection: sacrificial anodes/ICCP on exposed components, check compatibility with inhibitors.

Origin & loads
Waste water from cooling systems/boilers, rinsing and cleaning water, ion exchanger regenerates. Typical loads: hardness/salts, phosphates, iron/copper, organic residues, biocides.

Treatment chain (modular)

  • Precipitation/flocculation & pH control: separation of metals/phosphate/silicate; polymers for dewaterable flocs.

  • Oxidative stages (e.g. peroxide-based) for COD/color reduction, detoxification of reactive species.

  • Membrane routes: UF as protection, RO for recovery; with high salt load possibly EFC/crystallizers or ZLD concepts.

  • Circulation: RO permeate as make-up/feed water; return concentrate to chemical-physical line.

Additive compatibility
ALMA AQUA formulations are RO/UF compatible, minimize scaling/fouling and are selected so that downstream (Bio/RO) is not impaired.

Benefit

  • Safe limit values and reduced disposal costs

  • Water reuse (permeate) reduces raw water and energy requirements

  • Predictable operating costs thanks to sludge-optimized precipitation/flocculation packages

Why load changes are critical
Modern CHP plants and HRSG (Heat Recovery Steam Generators) often operate in flex mode - fast starts, frequent load changes, partial load. This puts enormous strain on the water chemistry: pH fluctuations, oxygen ingress, FAC risks and unstable passive layers are the result.

Additive strategies for flexible driving

  • Fast-reacting oxygen binders: prevent corrosion peaks when starting up.

  • Amine combinations with a high distribution number: ensure uniform pH in long returns even at changing temperatures.

  • Film formers (FFS): protect against repeated condensation & evaporation cycles through stable hydrophobic layers.

  • Phosphate strategy in the drum boiler: closely monitored (Na/PO₄ ratio) to avoid "hideout" effects at partial load.

Monitoring & operating instructions

  • Online O₂, conductivity (CACE), Fe transport & Δp trends.

  • Automated dosing, coupled to load changes.

  • Periodic metal analysis (Fe/Cu) for FAC prevention.

Practical benefits
Even in flex mode, the boiler, HRSG and pipe systems remain protected, downtime corrosion is avoided and availability for grid control operation is ensured.

Why film formers are increasingly important
Film-forming substances (FFS) based on amides/amines are used as a supplement to classic AVT/OT regimes. They create ultra-thin protective layers on metal surfaces and protect particularly sensitive areas such as wet returns, air coolers or low-temperature condensation zones. However, incorrect application can cause turbine deposits, foam or analytical problems.

Application and dosing strategy

  • Introduction with defined "initial dose", then switch to low continuous dosing.

  • Combination with AVT(O)/AVT(R), no replacement - pH control remains central.

  • Dosing points: ideal in feed water or directly in front of CPU outlet to ensure homogeneous distribution.

  • CIP & cleaning: no residues in resins, therefore check compatibility.

Proof & control of effectiveness

  • Indirect evidence via Fe transport (ppb trend): decreasing values confirm protective effect.

  • Organic monitoring (TOC/UV-254): peaks that are too high indicate overdosing or degradation products.

  • Visual inspections during revisions (coating pattern, surface gloss).

  • Carry out OEM/IAPWS-compliant test series before widespread use.

Practical benefits
Film formers provide additional protection at critical weak points, reduce FAC risks in the return flow and extend the service life of the system - when used in a controlled manner with reliable monitoring.

Navy & Shipping

Problems in shipping
Marine boilers (auxiliary boilers, exhaust gas boilers) often work with varying feed water qualities - desalinated seawater, condensate returns or harbor water. Without water chemistry, scale (CaCO₃, silicates) and corrosion due to oxygen or CO₂ occur. These lead to efficiency losses, pitting and, in the worst case, boiler failures.

Additive solutions

  • Oxygen binders (e.g. sulphite, modern substitutes) eliminate residual O₂.

  • Alkalizing agents ensure a feed water pH of 8.5-9.5, prevent carbonic acid corrosion and protect condensate returns.

  • Hardness stabilizers prevent limescale and silicate deposits even with residual hardness.

  • Film formers create a hydrophobic protective film on boiler walls.

Practical benefits
Optimized boiler water chemistry ensures higher fuel efficiency, extended boiler tube service life and significantly reduces maintenance costs.

Why cooling circuits are so sensitive
Both seawater (primary circuit) and treated fresh water (secondary circuit) are used in main and auxiliary cooling circuits. Seawater contains high chloride concentrations that lead to pitting, while fresh water sides are susceptible to scaling and biofouling.

Additive solutions

  • Corrosion inhibitors (e.g. molybdates, organic inhibitors) protect steel and copper components.

  • Hardness stabilizers prevent limescale and salt deposits in fresh water sides.

  • Dispersants keep particles mobile and prevent deposits.

  • Biocides (oxidative & non-oxidative) stop biofouling that isolates heat exchangers.

Practical benefits
A clean cooling circuit ensures stable cooling performance, lower energy consumption and protects motors, heat exchangers and pumps from expensive breakdowns.

The problem of bilge water
Bilge water is a complex mix of oils, fuel residues, lubricants, detergents and solids. Without suitable additives, stable emulsions form that overload flotation systems. The risk: exceeding the IMO MARPOL limits (15 ppm oil in the effluent).

Additive solutions

  • Coagulants & flocculants break up stable oil-water emulsions and concentrate particles.

  • Dispersants improve the separation of suspended solids.

  • Defoamers prevent process disturbances in the flotation circuit.

  • pH regulation optimizes the reaction conditions for oil and solids separation.

Practical benefits
The separation efficiency increases, oil values in the effluent fall safely below the MARPOL specification of 15 ppm and the operational safety of the flotation system is increased.

Special challenges
Ship wastewater contains high levels of organic pollutants, surfactants, fats and solids. MARPOL requires strict limit values for discharges. Mechanical systems often reach their limits at peak loads.

Additive solutions

  • Precipitant and flocculant for the separation of organic and inorganic impurities.

  • Oxidizing agents (e.g. peroxides) reduce COD and odorous substances.

  • pH correction creates optimum conditions for the additive effect and protects materials.

  • Combination with flotation systems increases the separation of fats and suspended solids.

Practical benefits
Wastewater is stabilized and can be discharged safely, sludge volumes are reduced and the plant load is lowered - a contribution to MARPOL compliance.

Problem definition
Drinking water is usually obtained by desalinating seawater (RO, evaporator). When stored in tanks, there is a risk of recontamination and biofilm build-up, especially in warm climates.

Additive solutions

  • Biocides & disinfectants (chlorine, chlorine dioxide, peroxides) prevent the formation of germs.

  • Stabilizers ensure the long-term effect in tanks with long residence times.

  • pH regulation prevents corrosion in pipes and tank systems.

  • Corrosion inhibitors prevent material damage and germ niches.

Practical benefits
The crew and passengers receive safe drinking water, operators comply with international hygiene regulations and reduce the risk of complaints during port inspections.

Why costs can explode
Without additives, deposits, corrosion damage and biofouling occur, leading to more cleaning, replacement parts and energy consumption.

Additive solutions

  • Optimized boiler and cooling water conditioning prevents damage and energy losses.

  • Special additives for flotation systems reduce chemical consumption and sludge volume.

  • Film formers & corrosion protection extend the service life of pipes and heat exchangers.

Practical benefits
With a targeted additive strategy, operating costs are reduced by up to 25-30%, while system availability and legal certainty increase.

Wastewater & Water Treatment

Background & typical loads
Industrial and municipal wastewater often contains orthophosphate (PO₄-P), condensed phosphates and heavy metals such as Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, Cr. The aim is to achieve stable compliance with limit values despite inflow fluctuations and complexing agents (e.g. EDTA, amines).

Chemical principles 

  • Phosphorus precipitation: formation of sparingly soluble Fe/Al phosphates using iron/aluminum salts (FeCl₃, Fe₂(SO₄)₃, Al₂(SO₄)₃).

  • Heavy metal precipitation: Precipitation as hydroxides (pH increase) or sulphides (in the case of complexed metals and strict residual values).

  • Coagulation/flocculation: Charge neutralization + polymers (anionic/cationic) → macroscopically separable flocs for sedimentation or DAF/flotation.

Optimal pH window (practical values)

  • Fe/Al-Phosphat: pH 6,0–7,2 (gute P-Restwerte < 1 mg/L möglich).

  • Cu: pH 8-9, Zn: pH 9-10, Ni: pH 9.5-10.5 (hydroxide precipitation).

  • Cr(VI): first reduction to Cr(III) (e.g. with FeSO₄/sodium bisulphite), then precipitate pH 7.5-8.5.

  • For strong complexing agents: sulphide precipitation (e.g. dithiocarbamates/thio systems) + polymers.

Additive solutions (ALMA AQUA)

  • Fe/Al coagulants in different basicities for low residual P values.

  • Complex cracker for EDTA/amine complexes before precipitation.

  • Special sulfidic reagents for low residual metal values.

  • High-performance polymers (powder/emulsion) matched to raw water, temperature, stirring regime.

  • pH regulators (NaOH, milk of lime, CO₂ strip) for exact window maintenance.

Practical benefits

  • Reliable compliance with limit values even with inlet fluctuations.

  • Lower chemical costs through pH-optimized operation & polymer synergies.

  • Robust separation in flotation systems with oil/tenside-rich streams.

Problem definition
Precipitated/flocculated sludge and excess sludge have high water contents. Disposal costs correlate directly with the sludge volume and the achievable dry substance (DS). Objective: best possible dewaterability with minimum use of chemicals.

Mechanisms of action & additives

  • Cationic polymers (powder/emulsion): Bridging & charge neutralization → larger, firmer flakes.

  • Conditioning agents (mineral/organic): change surface charge and hydration shell, reduce CST (Capillary Suction Time) and SRF (Specific Resistance to Filtration).

  • Synergies: Pre-coagulation (e.g. FeCl₃) + low-dose polymer can significantly increase TS.

  • Additives: Lime to improve the structure (depending on the utilization path).

Devices & shearing regime (important!)

  • Chamber filter press: high dry matter content (often 35-45 % for chemical-physical sludges).

  • Centrifuge: flexible, TS 20-30 % (depending on sludge type/polymer).

  • Belt filter press: TS 18-28 %, but low energy requirement.

  • Shear sensitivity: Do not "break" the polymer after slow flocculation (adjust agitator/screw inlet).

ALMA AQUA performance

  • polymer portfolio (charge density/viscosity) to precisely match the isothermal behavior of your sludge.

  • Define inline pre-contacting & aging time for powder polymers.

  • Pilot dewatering (mobile) for setting the dosing point, shear and recipe.

Practical benefits

  • Up to double-digit % TS improvement: significant reduction in disposal costs.

  • Stable machine operation (fewer tear-offs/overflows).

  • Lower polymer consumption thanks to clean presetting & training.

Initial situation
Many industrial wastewaters are rich in carbon (high COD/CSB) but low in nitrogen and phosphorus. In addition, trace elements (e.g. Fe, Mg, Co, Ni, Zn) are often missing, which limits biomass activity (nitrification, denitrification, P uptake).

Guard rails & target values (rules of thumb)

  • C:N:P ratio (based on BOD₅/COD):

    • roughly 100 : 5 : 1 (BOD₅ basis) or 100 : 2.5 : 0.5 (COD basis).

  • Nitrification: requires sufficient alkalinity (∼ 7.1 mg CaCO₃ per mg NH₄-N oxidized) and DO ≥ 1.5-2.0 mg/L.

  • Denitrification: needs readily available C-source replenishment (cargo control).

  • Keep F/M ratio & SVI within the target corridor (prevent bulking sludge).

Additive solutions (ALMA AQUA)

  • Macronutrients:

    • Nitrogen as NH₄⁺/NO₃- (can be dosed depending on the process),

    • Phosphorus as PO₄³- (dynamic, to control residual P values & struvite risks).

  • Trace element blends: Fe, Mg, Co, Ni, Zn, Cu, Mn in bioavailable forms (chelate-stable, avoid overdosing).

  • Combination solutions for start-up/load jumps (short-term activity backup).

Monitoring & control

  • Online: NH₄-N, NO₃-N, PO₄-P, pH, DO, temperature.

  • Laboratory: OUR/ATU tests (nitrification performance), SVI, F/M, microscopy (filament monitoring).

  • Trend control: adaptive C:N:P dose coupled to influent COD and oxygen demand.

Practical benefits

  • Constant discharge values (NH₄-N, NO₃-N, PO₄-P) despite inlet fluctuations.

  • Robust biology with rapid regeneration after shocks (toxins, temperature).

  • Reduction of external carbon inputs through targeted micro/macronutrient management.

Challenge
Many industrial wastewaters - e.g. from the chemical, food or textile industries - contain organic residues that are difficult to biodegrade. These include long-chain hydrocarbons, aromatic compounds, surfactants and dyes. These lead to very high COD values (chemical oxygen demand) and overload biological stages, as microorganisms can only utilize these substances slowly or not at all.

Solution approaches with process additives
Chemical-oxidative processes are the first choice here. The Fenton process, in which hydrogen peroxide forms highly reactive hydroxyl radicals in the presence of iron as a catalyst, has proved particularly effective. These attack even stable organic molecules and break them down into smaller, biodegradable compounds. Peracetic acid or ozone can also be used to increase the rate of degradation.

An additional combination with precipitants and flocculants is often useful. The degradation products resulting from oxidation are directly precipitated and separated, which further reduces the residual COD values. Precise pH conditions (usually slightly acidic to neutral) and the correct dosing strategy are crucial for effectiveness, as over- or underdosing leads to loss of effectiveness or increased chemical consumption.

Practical benefits
With an upstream oxidation stage, COD reductions of 50-80 % can be achieved. This significantly reduces the load on biological treatment stages, reduces the energy required for aeration and ensures compliance with discharge limits - even with highly contaminated industrial wastewater.

Challenge
Membrane systems such as ultrafiltration (UF), nanofiltration (NF) or reverse osmosis (RO) are key components of modern water treatment. However, they are sensitive to deposits. Scaling caused by calcium carbonate, calcium sulphate or silicates as well as fouling caused by organic substances, particles or biofilm lead to pressure increases, performance losses and shortened membrane service lives. Even small amounts of precipitation can worsen the Silt Density Index (SDI) and significantly shorten cleaning cycles.

Solution approaches with additives
Antiscalants are special inhibitors that inhibit the crystallization of hardness formers and keep salts in solution. They are effective even at low dosages and enable a significantly higher degree of concentration in the system. Dispersants complement this by stabilizing fine particles and colloids and preventing them from adhering to the membrane surface.

Targeted pH control also increases the solubility of critical salts and helps to protect the membrane. Pre-treatment of the raw water is also important: flocculation, sedimentation or filtration reduce the degree of turbidity and reduce the load on the membrane.

Practical benefits
With a coordinated additive strategy, cleaning intervals can be significantly extended and membrane service life increased by several years. At the same time, the permeate quality remains consistently high and the operating costs for energy and cleaning agents are significantly reduced.

The challenge
Wastewater treatment plants produce numerous side streams - such as backwash water from sand filters, desalination streams from cooling systems or regenerates from ion exchangers. These contain highly concentrated loads of salts, heavy metals or organic residues. If they are fed into the main line in an uncontrolled manner, they can lead to peak loads and jeopardize compliance with the discharge limits.

Solution approaches with additives
Targeted neutralization and precipitation are used to remove excess acids, bases or metals in the bypass flow. Flocculants support the formation of separable particles. In the case of organically contaminated streams, oxidizing agents can be used to break down residual COD and toxic substances. In many cases, return to the main line is possible if the side streams are stabilized in advance. Alternatively, they can be treated so that the water can be reused as process or circulation water.

Practical benefits
These measures reduce the total load in the main stream, increase the process stability of the wastewater treatment plant and save fresh water at the same time. Operators benefit from lower disposal costs and sustainable use of water as a resource.

Challenge
Conventional stages (precipitation/flocculation, activation) only remove micropollutants such as pharmaceutical residues, pesticides or industrial chemicals to a limited extent. PFAS are a special case: very stable, water-soluble substances that are hardly biodegradable and can only be treated inadequately with standard oxidation.

Treatment methods & additives

  • Adsorption with activated carbon: PAC (powdered activated carbon) is dosed and separated after flocculation/filtration; GAC (granulate) in fixed-bed filters with periodic change/regeneration. On the additive side, we control the PAC suspension, dosing aids and pH fine adjustment so that the DOC/UV254 reduction remains stable.

  • Ozonation + biologically activated filters (BAF): Ozone breaks down many organic trace substances into more easily degradable fragments; the downstream BAF stage breaks them down further biologically. We accompany this with pH/alkalinity management and coagulation fine-tuning to minimize bromate/by-product formation.

  • PFAS strategies: Anion exchanger (AIX) and/or RO (reverse osmosis). On the additive side, antiscalants/dispersants ensure operating conditions that are gentle on membranes and resins; CIP concepts are adapted to the material. (Note: conventional AOP processes are generally not sufficient for PFAS - mechanical/adsorptive separation is standard).

Monitoring & target values
In addition to DOC/TOC and UV254, targeted analyses (e.g. LC-MS for lead substances) should be planned. SDI, conductivity and differential pressures are decisive for membrane/AIX.

Practical benefits
Combinatorial lines (PAC/GAC, ozone+BAF, AIX/RO) deliver robust trace substance reduction with stable operating costs - thanks to additive-supported pH, antiscalant and flocculation control.

Challenge
Ammonium (NH₄⁺), phosphate (PO₄³-) and magnesium (Mg²⁺) come together in centrate/filtrate streams (sludge water). This leads to struvite deposits(magnesium ammonium phosphate, MAP) in pipes, pumps and drainage technology - or opens up the opportunity for targeted recovery of N and P.

Two operational goals - two strategies

  • Coating prevention: bind phosphate in the upstream chain with iron/aluminum coagulants; use antiscalants to prevent MAP nucleation; keep pH moderate (typically 6.5-7.2 in the critical line) to increase MAP solubility.

  • Targeted recovery: Deliberately raise the pH to ~8.0-8.5 in a crystallization reactor and dose Mg salt (e.g. MgCl₂). Nucleating agents/seed material improve grain size and discharge. On the additive side, we control pH/alkalinity control (NaOH/NaHCO₃) and fine flocculation for solid-liquid separation.

Process details & additive role
Struvite formation follows ion activity - pH, temperature, ionic strengths and hydraulic retention time are therefore key levers. Our additive packages (coagulant/antiscalant/pH regulator) are designed strand by strand to avoid deposits in bottlenecks and to create stable crystallization conditions.

Practical benefits

  • Coating strategy: less downtime, lower cleaning and spare parts costs.

  • Recovery strategy: valuable use (MAP fertilizer), relief of the main line (PO₄, NH₄ load) and plannable OPEX.

Challenge
Fluctuating feeds and mixed loads make rigid dosing schemes inefficient. Without real-time data, there is a risk of overdosing (costs/sludge) or underdosing (limit value risk).

Measured variables & control philosophy

  • Feed-forward (load-proportional): Dose follows Q-C (e.g. flow rate × online PO₄-P, NH₄-N, UV254/TOC). In this way, the control system responds to feed trends before the process.

  • Feed-back (residual led): Fine adjustment according to residual values (e.g. effluent PO₄, clear water turbidity/NTU, streaming current/zeta potential for coagulation, SDI for membrane protection).

  • Process-specific:

    • Oxidation/Fenton via pH/ORP/peroxide residue;

    • Biology via NH₄-N/NO₃-N/PO₄-P/DO (incl. alkalinity);

    • Membrane via Δp , permeate conductivity, SDI;

    • Struvite lines via pH, PO₄, NH₄-N, Mg²⁺.

Additive integration & safety
Dosing points are set so that mixing intensity and contact time are suitable (high-speed mixer → flocculation → separation). Skids are equipped with non-return valves, leakage monitoring, regulator limits and - for critical media - material-compliant fittings. Our customer-specific mixtures (Made in Germany) allow coupling to SCADA and adaptation to site-specific sensors (e.g. dose as a function of online PO₄ and pH).

Practical benefits
With clean online monitoring and two-stage control, chemical OPEX and sludge volumes are reduced, while limit values, membrane protection and process stability increase measurably.

By application:

cooling circuits

Legionella are rod-shaped bacteria that can multiply rapidly in warm water (25-45 °C). Aerosols are produced in evaporative cooling systems, cooling towers and wet separators, through which legionella can enter the ambient air and cause serious lung diseases (legionellosis). They are therefore one of the most critical hygienic risks in the operation of cooling water circuits.

Strict requirements apply in Germany and Europe:

  • 42nd BImSchV: Operators are obliged to regularly monitor cooling systems, carry out microbiological tests and document all results.

  • VDI 2047 Sheet 2: requires the hygienic operation of evaporative cooling systems, including clear specifications on sampling, measurement intervals, action plans and documentation requirements.

Our OEM process additives and concepts ensure legionella control on several levels:

  • Biocides and biocide combinations for the targeted reduction of legionella populations and other microorganisms.

  • Individually adjusted dosing and monitoring settings to ensure that the effect remains constant and compliant.

  • Regular sampling and verification in accordance with legal requirements so that operators are legally protected.

  • Reporting for authorities and inspection bodies as complete proof of hygienically safe operation.

Conclusion: Our products and monitoring concepts effectively minimize the risk of legionella outbreaks, reliably meet the requirements of the authorities and ensure hygienic operation.

The legally compliant operation of cooling water circuits requires compliance with several technical standards and legal requirements. These are particularly relevant:

  • VDI 2047 Sheet 2: Hygienic operation of evaporative cooling systems to avoid legionella risks.

  • 42nd BImSchV: Obligation to regularly monitor, document and report when limit values are exceeded.

  • DIN EN 16798 / VDI 3803: Requirements for ventilation and air conditioning systems with water-bearing circuits.

  • AGFW worksheets: Specifications for district cooling and special applications.

In order to comply with these standards, the operating parameters must be kept chemically and biologically stable. This is where process additives come into play:

  • Corrosion inhibitors form protective layers on metal surfaces and prevent material loss.

  • Hardness stabilizers and antiscalants bind hardness formers and prevent deposits.

  • Biocides reduce germs and biofilms and ensure hygienic safety.

  • pH regulation and defoamer ensure stable process conditions and trouble-free operation.

In addition, the combination of dosing concepts, monitoring strategies and regular sampling is crucial. This is the only way to prove that the cooling water circuit is operated in compliance with the law and at the same time works in an energy and resource-efficient manner.

Result: Our process additives enable operators to seamlessly meet technical and legal requirements, increase system safety and sustainably improve energy efficiency in cooling operations.

The conductivity of the cooling water is one of the most important parameters for controlling the water chemistry. It indicates the total concentration of dissolved salts and increases continuously with evaporation in the cooling tower. If the conductivity is too high, this leads to critical oversaturation, causing hardness formers (e.g. calcium or magnesium salts) to precipitate and form deposits on heat exchanger surfaces. These deposits impair heat transfer, increase energy consumption and can cause lasting damage to the system due to scaling.

The conductivity is controlled by controlled blowdown and regulated make-up. In practice, the target value is adapted to the concentration factor of the raw water. Typical values in open circuits are between 1,500 and 3,000 µS/cm, depending on water hardness, materials and operating mode.

The pH value has a direct influence on the tendency to corrosion and deposits.

  • Bei zu niedrigen Werten (< 6,5) wird die Metallkorrosion durch Säureeinwirkung stark beschleunigt.

  • If the values are too high (> 9.0), the risk of calcium carbonate precipitation increases.

The aim is to achieve a stable pH range between 7.0 and 8.5 (depending on the system, materials and additives used). This is achieved using pH stabilizers, buffer solutions and targeted additive dosing.

Conclusion: Only by continuously monitoring and adjusting the conductivity and pH value can the requirements of VDI 2047 Sheet 2 and the 42nd BImSchV be met and energy-efficient, low-corrosion operation ensured.

Biofilms are complex accumulations of microorganisms that accumulate in a slime-like matrix on surfaces in the circuit. They often form in areas with poor flow or in heat exchangers with slightly elevated temperatures. Biofilms are problematic because they cause several negative effects at the same time:

  1. Thermal: Just a few tenths of a millimeter of biofilm can reduce the heat transfer coefficient by up to 20 %.

  2. Hydraulic: Biofilms constrict pipe cross-sections, increase the flow resistance and thus the pump energy requirement.

  3. Corrosion: Anaerobic zones can form under biofilms, leading to pitting corrosion.

  4. Hygienic: Biofilms serve as a reservoir for pathogenic germs, especially legionella, which can protect themselves from biocides.

The control of biofilms requires a multi-stage procedure:

  • Use of oxidative biocides (e.g. sodium hypochlorite, chlorine dioxide, bromine compounds), which have a broad germicidal effect.

  • Combination with non-oxidative biocides (e.g. quaternary ammonium compounds), which destabilize biofilms in a targeted manner.

  • Dispersants and biodispersants that dissolve the extracellular matrix and allow biocides to penetrate the film.

  • Regular dosing strategies in alternating operation to avoid resistance.

  • Monitoring through sampling (e.g. heterotrophic bacterial count, ATP measurements) and visual inspections of heat exchanger surfaces.

This ensures that biofilms do not form in the first place or are kept in an area that meets the hygiene requirements of VDI 2047 Sheet 2.

In evaporative cooling systems, part of the cooling water is evaporated, whereby only pure water is released into the atmosphere. All dissolved substances (salts, hardeners, silicates, organic substances) remain in the circuit. This leads to an increase in concentration. This effect is described by the concentration factor, i.e. the ratio of the salt content in the circulating water to the salt content in the raw water.

Example: If the concentration factor doubles from 2 to 4, the precipitation tendency of calcium carbonate increases exponentially. This increases the risk of deposits, which not only hinder heat transfer, but can also cause local overheating and material damage.

These effects need to be controlled:

  • Hardness stabilizers and antiscalants to bind calcium and magnesium salts so that they do not precipitate.

  • Corrosion inhibitors to ensure a protective layer on metal surfaces despite increasing salt concentrations.

  • biocides, as the higher concentration of nutrients also promotes the growth of microorganisms.

  • Regular desalination to control conductivity and prevent critical oversaturation.

Only a balance between evaporation rate, desalination, dosing and monitoring can ensure stable operation in accordance with the legal requirements (42nd BImSchV, VDI 2047).

The energy efficiency of cooling water circuits is directly dependent on the cleanliness and stability of the water-bearing components. Even the smallest faults cause significant additional costs:

  • 1 mm of limescale deposits on heat exchanger surfaces can increase energy consumption by up to 10 %.

  • Biofilms 0.5 mm thick can impair heat transfer by 20 %.

  • Corrosion damage leads to pressure losses and increases the energy consumption of pumps.

Optimized water treatment makes a decisive contribution to reducing these effects:

  • Hardness stabilizers prevent the formation of limescale deposits.

  • Corrosion inhibitors ensure stable surface protection and prevent pressure loss.

  • Biocides and dispersants keep surfaces free of biofilms and ensure hygienically safe conditions.

  • pH stabilizers and buffer solutions ensure the optimum operating range for maximum efficiency.

In addition, continuous monitoring systems (online measurements of pH, conductivity, redox potential) in combination with intelligent dosing strategies can automate operation and optimize chemical consumption.

Conclusion: With targeted water treatment, cooling water circuits can not only be operated in a legally compliant and hygienic manner, but operating costs and CO₂ emissions can also be significantly reduced - an increasingly important factor for companies with sustainability strategies.

The adjustment of a cooling tower requires a systematic approach in which all water chemistry, operational and hygiene aspects are taken into account. ALMA AQUA accompanies operators step by step:

  1. System survey: First, the system technology, operating mode and the raw water quality used are recorded. Important parameters include conductivity, hardness, pH value and oxygen content.

  2. Target definition: Together with the operator, priorities such as energy efficiency, corrosion protection or legionella control are defined.

  3. Product recommendation: Based on the analysis, we select the appropriate process additives (e.g. hardness stabilizers, biocides, corrosion inhibitors).

  4. Dosing and monitoring concept: We define dosing points, quantities, cycles and limit values for online monitoring. In doing so, we ensure compliance with VDI 2047, 42nd BImSchV and company-specific specifications.

  5. Sampling & validation: Water samples are taken during operation and analyzed for microbiological, corrosive and scaling-relevant parameters.

  6. Adjustment & optimization: The results are integrated into the operational management so that the cooling tower runs in a permanently energy-efficient, compliant and hygienically safe manner.

In this way, we not only ensure technical stability, but also legal compliance with the authorities and the economic efficiency of the cooling tower.

Our work does not end with the one-off adjustment of the system; we support operators throughout the entire life cycle of their cooling water circuits. Typical services include

  • Regular sampling and laboratory analyses to ensure compliance with all limit values (chemical and microbiological).

  • Monitoring concepts with continuous control of pH, conductivity, redox potential and bioindicators.

  • Reporting and documentation for submission to supervisory authorities within the framework of the 42nd BImSchV.

  • Adaptation of dosing strategies to seasonal fluctuations, load changes and raw water quality.

  • Technical advice in the event of malfunctions or anomalies during operation.

  • Training for operating personnel so that the systems can be managed and monitored correctly on site.

In this way, the cooling tower is not just adjusted once, but remains permanently stable, energy-efficient and hygienically perfect in operation.

boiler systems

Boiler and steam generators operate at high temperatures and pressures. Even small deviations in water quality can have serious consequences. Without targeted conditioning, oxygen corrosion, scale formation or foaming problems occur, which impair the steam quality. The condensate pipes are also at risk from carbonic acid corrosion.

The consequences are not only of a technical nature, but also directly affect profitability:

  • Efficiency losses due to coatings on heating surfaces → increased fuel consumption

  • Unplanned downtime due to material damage and leaks

  • Increased operating costs due to cleaning, spare parts or emergency chemicals

There are also clear normative requirements:

  • EN 12952-12 (water tube boilers) and EN 12953-10 (shell boilers) define water qualities, limit values and test intervals

  • Manufacturers specify specific target values for conductivity, pH/alkalinity, phosphate, silicic acid and oxygen

  • Operators are obliged to take documented samples and provide evidence

This makes it clear that only a coordinated overall concept comprising raw water treatment, degassing, chemical treatment and monitoring ensures steam quality, energy efficiency and material protection.

The choice of additives depends on the raw water quality, boiler type and operating conditions. In practice, five main groups are used:

  • Oxygen binders (O₂ scavengers): Bind residual oxygen after degassing and prevent corrosion in feed and boiler water pipes. Typical are sulphite or modern carbohydrazide-based products with a passivating effect.

  • Hardness stabilizers and phosphate/polymer conditioning: They bind hardness formers and disperse particles so that no hard scale is formed. Polymers keep sludge in suspension, which is specifically removed via blowdown.

  • Alkalizing agents & pH buffers: They set the correct alkalinity, stabilize the phosphate program and minimize corrosion risks.

  • Defoamer: Prevents foam formation and thus ensures constant steam quality without carry-over.

  • Condensate treatment agents: Neutralizing amines raise the pH value in the condensate, while film-forming substances create hydrophobic protective layers on pipes.

The dosing strategy is crucial: additives must be added at the right points - typically in the feed line or directly in the boiler drum area. In addition, online measurements (conductivity, pH, oxygen) and laboratory analyses ensure the correct setting. Only through this combination can the system remain free of deposits and corrosion and meet the requirements of the standards.

The compliant operation of a boiler water system depends not only on the right chemistry, but also on consistent monitoring. ALMA AQUA supports operators in reliably meeting the requirements of EN 12952/12953.

The central building blocks are:

  • Online monitoring: Conductivity, pH, temperature, pressure and blowdown quantities are continuously recorded.

  • Laboratory analyses: Regular determinations of phosphate, alkalinity, silicic acid, iron, copper, oxygen and hardness parameters supplement the online data.

  • Sampling: Takes place via cooled sampling points on the feed, boiler and condensate lines in order to avoid falsified values.

  • Blowdown strategy: Combination of continuous conductivity control and periodic soil blowdown to remove salts and sludge from the system.

The results are documented, evaluated in trend analyses and compared with the standards. Deviations lead to clearly defined measures (e.g. adjustment of dosing or blowdown operation).

ALMA AQUA creates a specific monitoring plan with target values, limit values, measurement frequencies and responsibilities for each customer. This ensures that boiler operation is legally compliant, energy-efficient and audit-proof.

Choosing the right conditioning program is crucial to avoid deposits in the boiler and at the same time ensure stable water chemistry.

Phosphate programs have been standard for decades and are characterized by their robustness:

  • They react with calcium and magnesium to form soft, easy-to-sludge slurries.

  • Precipitation can be controlled through targeted alkalinity adjustment.

  • Particularly suitable for higher pressure levels and constant operating conditions, as a stable residual phosphate flow can be easily realized here.

Polymer programs rely on modern dispersants that keep hardening agents and particles in suspension:

  • They completely prevent precipitation and result in a clean inner boiler surface.

  • They are more flexible in the face of fluctuating raw water qualities and load changes.

  • Particularly suitable for variable operating modes or systems in which precise phosphate management is difficult.

In practice, a combination of phosphate and polymers is often used in order to utilize the advantages of both systems. The optimal strategy depends on the boiler type, pressure level, raw water quality and operating practice. ALMA AQUA creates individual programs that are precisely tailored to the respective system.

The condensate represents a significant part of the water balance and is extremely valuable from an energy point of view. At the same time, it is susceptible to corrosion due to CO₂ absorption. This is where special additives come into play, which have different effects depending on the type of system and condensate network.

Neutralizing amines (e.g. morpholine, ethanolamine, cyclohexylamine):

  • Bind carbonic acid and raise the pH value in the condensate.

  • Protect against CO₂-induced corrosion.

  • Particularly suitable for networks with a high proportion of return flow and uniform operating conditions.

Film forming substances (FFS):

  • Form a hydrophobic protective film on the inner surfaces of the pipes.

  • Prevent direct contact between condensate water and metal.

  • Offer advantages for branched or poorly controllable networks, as the protection remains in place even if the chemistry fluctuates.

In many cases, a hybrid approach is chosen in which neutralizing amines ensure pH stability and film-forming substances provide additional material protection.

The choice of the right condensate program is closely linked to the network topology, return rate and process requirements. ALMA AQUA supports operators with detailed analyses, dosing strategies and monitoring concepts to keep the condensate network corrosion-free and energy-efficient in the long term.

The type of boiler largely determines the requirements for water chemistry and treatment with process additives. While the basic principles - corrosion protection, deposit control, steam and condensate quality - apply to all systems, the details differ significantly.

Shell boilers (EN 12953):

  • Widely used in industry, robust and tolerant of fluctuating operating conditions.

  • The water and steam spaces are large, which means that short-term loads can be buffered.

  • Treatment: Classic with phosphate/polymer programmes, alkalizing agents and defoamers. Monitoring via conductivity, phosphate and pH.

Water tube boiler (EN 12952):

  • Are used at higher pressures and outputs, e.g. in power plants or energy-intensive industries.

  • Very sensitive to deposits, as thin-walled pipes are operated with high heat flows. Even thin deposits lead to overheating and damage.

  • Treatment: Stricter requirements for feed and boiler water (fully demineralized, possibly with polishing via mixed bed filters). All-volatile treatment (AVT) strategies with oxygen binders and pH adjusting agents are frequently used. Phosphate addition is only permitted to a limited extent and is closely monitored.

Low pressure boiler:

  • Often work in smaller commercial applications or as auxiliary boilers.

  • Lower pressures and temperatures, but often with strongly fluctuating loads.

  • Treatment: Less complex, usually covered with softening, sulphite dosing and simple phosphate management. Nevertheless, regular sampling is crucial to prevent corrosion and the formation of deposits.

Hot water boiler:

  • Used for process and district heating.

  • No evaporation, so the focus is on corrosion control.

  • Treatment: Focus on oxygen binding, pH control and corrosion inhibitors, less on defoaming or vapor quality.

Summary:

  • Shell boilers: robust, classic programs, higher tolerance.

  • Water tube boiler: high sensitivity, strictest water quality, AVT programs.

  • Low-pressure boilers: simple systems, but with increased risk in the event of fluctuating operation.

  • Hot water boiler: Focus on corrosion protection, no steam treatment.

ALMA AQUA takes these differences into account and develops customized dosing and monitoring concepts that precisely reflect the respective boiler type, pressure level and manufacturer specifications.

The operation of a boiler system does not end with the initial commissioning. Continuous support is crucial to ensure that feed, boiler and condensate water are kept within the permissible limits at all times. ALMA AQUA supports operators with a complete service package over the entire life cycle:

  • Regular sampling and analysis: Analysis of conductivity, pH, oxygen, hardness, phosphate, silicic acid, iron/copper and condensate parameters.

  • Monitoring concepts: Combination of online measurements (conductivity, pH, oxygen, temperature) and laboratory analyses with defined measurement frequency.

  • Dosing and operating optimization: Adjustment of chemical quantities, blow-down strategies and pH control to current operating conditions.

  • Reporting and documentation: Provision of measurement protocols, trend analyses and standard-compliant verifications (EN 12952/12953).

  • Education and training of operating personnel: imparting know-how for correct sampling, chemical handling and incident routines.

  • Incident and optimization support: Quick adjustment of treatment programs in the event of raw water changes, peak loads or deviations.

In this way, we ensure that boiler systems not only comply with regulations, but are also operated in an energy-efficient, safe and economical manner.

Correct adjustment is the basis for stable and safe operation. We proceed in several coordinated steps:

  1. System survey: Analysis of the boiler system (boiler type, pressure level, feed water station, degassing, blowdowns) and recording of the operating conditions and raw water quality.

  2. Target definition: Definition of priorities - e.g. maximum steam quality, minimization of corrosion, reduction of fuel costs or increased condensate recovery.

  3. Product recommendation: Selection of suitable additives (oxygen binders, phosphate/polymer conditioning, alkalizers, defoamers, condensate programs) based on the analysis.

  4. Dosing and monitoring concept: Development of a strategy with dosing points, quantities, target values for conductivity, pH, phosphate and blowdown cycles.

  5. Validation through sampling: Regular laboratory and online measurements confirm that the set values are maintained in a stable manner.

  6. Optimization and documentation: Adaptation of the strategy in operation, creation of trend reports and evidence for operators and authorities.

This ensures that the boiler system complies with regulations from the first day of operation and can be operated reliably and efficiently even under changing conditions.

Membrane systems

Membrane systems such as reverse osmosis (RO), nanofiltration (NF), or ultrafiltration (UF) operate with high retention rates. This results in a high concentration of hardness minerals, sulfates, silicates, and other salts in the concentrate stream. Without suitable countermeasures, scaling deposits form on the membrane surface. These deposits block the pores, increase the differential pressure, and reduce the permeate throughput.

The consequences of uncontrolled scaling are:

  • Increased energy consumption due to higher delivery pressures

  • Decreasing salt retention and fluctuating permeate quality

  • Increasing cleaning effort up to irreversible membrane damage

  • Reduced service life of membrane elements and higher OPEX

Antiscalants prevent these effects by disrupting crystal growth, blocking crystal nuclei, and delaying or completely preventing the precipitation of hardness salts. The result is stable operation with:

  • higher recovery rates (yield),

  • extended cleaning intervals,

  • consistent water quality,

  • significantly longer membrane service life.

A precisely adjusted antiscalant program is therefore not only technical protection, but also a key lever for cost optimization and increased efficiency in membrane operation.

In addition to scaling, biofouling is one of the main causes of performance losses. Microorganisms accumulate on the membrane surfaces, forming biofilms and leading to a gradual, often difficult-to-detect drop in performance. These layers increase pressure losses, reduce water flow, and serve as a breeding ground for pathogenic germs.

Organic substances (e.g., humic substances), iron/manganese compounds, or silicates can also form deposits that block the membrane pores and stress the material structure.

Measures against biofouling and organic deposits:

  • Controlled pretreatment (filtration, softening, deferrization, activated carbon filter) to reduce the load in the inlet

  • Biocide programs with oxidative or non-oxidative active ingredients, tailored to membrane materials and approvals

  • Dispersers that break up biofilms and facilitate the transport of organic particles

  • Regular CIP cleaning (alkaline/enzymatic) to remove organic layers

  • Monitoring through microbiological tests (e.g., HPC, ATP, qPCR), pressure difference and permeate flow measurements

Only a combination of preventive measures, adapted biocide strategies, and targeted cleaning can prevent biofilms and organic deposits from compromising the economic efficiency of the membrane system.

Even with optimal dosing of antiscalants and biocides, deposits cannot be completely avoided. That is why cleaning-in-place (CIP) is a mandatory part of every membrane system. It is not initiated at fixed intervals, but according to defined operating parameters:

  • Permeate output drops by 10–15% compared to the initial value

  • Differential pressure increases across the diaphragm stages

  • Salt retention decreases and permeate quality deteriorates

Types of cleaning agents:

  • Acid cleaners: Remove limescale, sulfate, and metal deposits (calcium, barium, iron, manganese)

  • Alkaline cleaners: Remove organic deposits, biofilms, oils, and fats

  • Special cleaners: Dissolve silicate deposits or mixed coatings

A CIP process consists of rinsing, circulating with appropriate chemicals and temperature, exposure times, and final rinsing. It is crucial that the cleaning agents are compatible with the membrane material, as free chlorine compounds, for example, cause irreparable damage to many polyamide membranes.

A structured CIP concept ensures that the membranes regain their original performance and their service life is maximized.

The recovery rate describes the ratio of permeate to feed water and is a decisive parameter for the economic efficiency of RO plants. A high recovery rate saves water, energy, and wastewater disposal costs. At the same time, however, as retention increases, so does the concentration of salts and hardness minerals in the concentrate stream—and with it the risk of scaling.

Optimization is achieved through a combination of process control and additive use:

  • Antiscalants: enable higher concentration factors by suppressing crystallization processes.

  • Online monitoring: Control of conductivity, pH, and pressure difference to detect critical conditions at an early stage.

  • Adjustment to raw water quality: The maximum permissible recovery value depends heavily on calcium, sulfate, silicate, iron, and barium.

  • Staging & hydraulics: Multi-stage system designs enable higher overall recovery while reducing the load on individual membrane stages.

  • Simulation tools: Software models (e.g., from membrane manufacturers) calculate the risk of scaling depending on water chemistry and recovery.

Only through these measures can the recovery rate be raised to economically optimal values (e.g., 75–85% in the industrial sector) without endangering the membranes.

The Silt Density Index (SDI) is the most important parameter for evaluating raw water quality upstream of a membrane system. It measures the tendency of water to clog filters or membranes with colloidal particles and fine suspended solids.

Typical limit values:

  • SDI ≤ 5: required for safe operation of RO systems

  • SDI 5–20: Pretreatment absolutely necessary (e.g., sand filter, ultrafiltration, coagulation/flocculation)

  • SDI > 20: direct use of RO membranes not possible

Significance in operation:

  • An excessively high SDI leads to fouling and increased pressure in the membrane.

  • It influences the frequency of CIP cleaning and thus the operating costs.

  • Regular SDI measurements are an integral part of operational monitoring and are often required by authorities or customers as proof.

ALMA AQUA ensures that membrane systems are operated with appropriate pretreatment (filtration, flocculation, UF) and continuous SDI monitoring. This minimizes fouling risks, reduces CIP frequency, and extends the service life of the membrane elements.

Choosing the right biocide strategy is crucial for controlling biofouling in membrane systems in the long term. Since membranes—especially polyamide membranes—are sensitive to certain chemicals, their use must be carefully coordinated.

Oxidative biocides (e.g., sodium hypochlorite, chlorine dioxide, ozone):

  • Broad-spectrum and very fast-acting against bacteria, algae, and fungi.

  • Removes biofilms by oxidatively destroying cell structures.

  • Can only be used to a very limited extent with RO and NF membranes, as polyamide is irreversibly damaged by free chlorine or ozone.

  • Often suitable for pretreatment (e.g., in UF systems, cooling water pretreatment stages, or open storage tanks).

Non-oxidative biocides (e.g., isothiazolinones, quaternary ammonium compounds, glutaraldehyde):

  • Intervene specifically in the metabolism of microorganisms and destroy cell walls.

  • Membrane-compatible, as they do not cause oxidative decomposition.

  • Also effective in biofilms, but slower and often dependent on exposure time and concentration.

  • Typically used in the ongoing operation of RO and NF systems.

Practical strategy:

  • Combination of oxidative disinfection in raw water treatment and non-oxidative biocide use in ongoing membrane operation.

  • Supplemented by regular CIP cleaning to remove dead biomaterial.

  • Strict adherence to the manufacturer's specifications regarding dosing quantities, contact times, and rinsing cycles to prevent damage to the membrane.

With a coordinated biocide strategy, microbiological contamination can be controlled sustainably, pressure losses kept low, and membrane service life significantly extended.

The correct selection and dosage of antiscalants determines whether a membrane system can be operated stably, efficiently, and over the long term. Standard solutions are often insufficient, as each water composition poses individual risks for scaling.

ALMA AQUA therefore relies on specialized calculation tools that make precise predictions about possible precipitation based on water analyses. Parameters such as calcium, magnesium, barium, strontium, silicate, iron, sulfate, and carbonate hardness are taken into account.

The calculation tool provides:

  • Predictions of supersaturation indices for various hardness constituents (e.g., Langelier, Stiff & Davis, or silicate indices).

  • Calculation of solubility limits for calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, strontium sulfate, and silicates.

  • Recommendations for the optimal antiscalant dosage in mg/L, tailored to the desired recovery rate.

  • Scenarios for different operating conditions (temperature, pressure, recovery) to also cover load changes and raw water fluctuations.

This simulation-based approach allows us to ensure that:

  • the right antiscalant is selected for the respective water chemistry,

  • the plant can be operated at maximum possible recovery,

  • Scaling is reliably prevented and cleaning intervals are extended.

This is how we combine scientifically sound calculations with practical operational reliability —and offer operators a customized solution for the efficient management of their membrane systems.

Membrane systems are subject to various stresses during operation. Deposits can be of mineral, organic, or biological origin—often in combination. An effective CIP (cleaning-in-place) strategy must therefore be precisely tailored to the type of deposits in order to remove them without damaging the membranes.

Typical types of deposits and how to clean them:

  • Mineral deposits (scaling): These include calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, strontium sulfate, and silicates. → Treatment with acidic cleaners (e.g., citric acid, phosphoric acid, or organic complexing agents) that dissolve the salts and restore the membrane surface.

  • Metallic deposits (iron, manganese, aluminum): Caused by corrosion products or inadequate pretreatment. → Removal using special complexing agents or reducing agents that dissolve the oxidation products.

  • Organic deposits: Humic substances, oils, fats, or surfactants can block membrane pores. → Clean with alkaline cleaners that contain surfactants and disperse organic substances.

  • Biofouling (microbiological deposits): Bacterial colonies and biofilms cause pressure losses and hygiene risks. → Removal using alkaline cleaners with enzymes or dispersants, followed by disinfection with non-oxidative biocides if necessary.

Strategic points in CIP planning:

  • Combination of cleaners: Often, alternating between acidic and alkaline cleaning is necessary to remove mixed deposits.

  • Sequence: As a rule, alkaline cleaning (against organic deposits and biofilms) is performed first, followed by acidic cleaning (against mineral deposits).

  • Operating parameters: Temperature, pH, and contact time must be strictly adhered to in order to achieve maximum effect with minimum membrane stress.

  • Monitoring: Performance monitoring via differential pressure, permeate flow, and salt retention—only when these parameters stabilize is the CIP considered successful.

With this deposit-dependent cleaning strategy, operators can ensure that deposits are removed in a targeted manner, the membranes are protected, and the original performance of the system is restored.

Heating networks & district heating

Heating networks are designed for reliable energy transfer over decades. The transport medium water is constantly in contact with the materials of the system - pipes, heat exchangers, pumps and fittings. Even the smallest chemical or physical disturbances can cause major damage in the long term.

Without targeted conditioning, there is a threat:

  • Corrosion damage: Oxygen ingress via make-up water or leaks leads to pitting and stress corrosion cracking. Incorrect pH management accelerates material attack, especially in mixed installations with steel, copper or aluminum.

  • Deposits and sludge build-up: Magnetite formation, limescale deposits or rust sludge clog up pipes and heat exchangers. This reduces the flow cross-section and impairs heat transfer.

  • Energy losses: Even thin coatings on heat exchanger surfaces significantly reduce efficiency and increase pump performance.

  • Increased operating costs: Regular flushing, desludging and material replacement cause high OPEX and often lead to unplanned downtimes.

Water treatment ensures that the water chemistry remains within the specifications of AGFW FW 510, FW 524 and VDI 2035. This specifically prevents corrosion and sedimentation processes and significantly extends the service life of the network infrastructure.

The right choice of additives is the key to the chemical stability of the network water. Unlike open cooling systems, heating networks are closed circuits with long residence times and high temperatures - the requirements are therefore special.

Typical additive groups and their benefits:

  • Corrosion inhibitors: They form a stable protective film on the metal surfaces that reliably prevents oxygen and CO₂ corrosion. This protects particularly susceptible areas such as heat exchanger bundles and pump impellers.

  • Hardness stabilizers & dispersants: They keep limescale, magnetite and sludge in suspension so that they are transported with the circulation and not deposited. This effectively prevents deposits on heat exchanger surfaces.

  • pH stabilizers & alkalizing agents: They ensure that the pH value remains within a standard window (often 8.2-10.0, depending on the material system). This protects against material attack and ensures the stability of the inhibitors.

  • Oxygen binders: Despite closed systems, oxygen can enter the network via backfeeds or diffusion. Special O₂ scavengers bind the residual oxygen and prevent corrosion reactions.

The result is a chemically stable network in which heat is transferred efficiently and operating costs are reduced in the long term.

The operation of district heating systems is safeguarded by a large number of technical regulations. These standards not only specify target values for water chemistry, but also procedures for sampling, monitoring and verification.

The most important regulations are

  • AGFW worksheet FW 510: Defines the requirements for filling and make-up water. Parameters such as conductivity, hardness, oxygen, iron and pH must be complied with here.

  • AGFW worksheet FW 524: regulates water treatment, monitoring and documentation during operation.

  • VDI 2035: Describes strategies for preventing corrosion and scale formation in hot water heating systems - also relevant for district heating systems.

  • DIN EN 14336: Contains requirements for the commissioning and testing of hot water heating systems.

By complying with these regulations, operators achieve:

  • Legal certainty, as all specifications are documented in accordance with standards,

  • Planning security, because damage and downtime are minimized,

  • Cost-effectiveness, as efficiency losses are avoided and maintenance costs are reduced.

ALMA AQUA supports operators not only in complying with these regulations, but also in implementing them optimally with customized dosing and monitoring concepts.

The adjustment of a heating network is a structured process that ensures that the network is chemically stable and operated in accordance with standards from the outset.

The process comprises several phases:

  1. System survey: recording of the network structure, materials used, temperatures, volumes and make-up quantities.

  2. Target definition: Setting priorities - e.g. corrosion protection, deposit control, energy efficiency or verification.

  3. Product recommendation: Selection of suitable additives (inhibitors, dispersants, pH stabilizers, O₂ binders), matched to the wetting parameters.

  4. Dosing and monitoring concept: Determination of dosing points and target values (pH, conductivity, oxygen, iron, turbidity), definition of monitoring intervals and limit values.

  5. Sampling & validation: laboratory and online measurements, comparison with standard values and manufacturer specifications.

  6. Reporting & optimization: Documentation of results, trend analyses and adjustment in the event of load changes or raw water fluctuations.

This ensures that the grid operates efficiently and in compliance with regulations from the first day of operation and remains stable throughout its entire service life.

A heating network is a dynamic system: load profiles change, make-up quantities vary and leaks can occur over time. The water chemistry is also not static, but reacts to temperature and pressure fluctuations.

ALMA AQUA therefore supports operators not only during commissioning, but throughout the entire life cycle of the network.

Our services in ongoing operations include

  • Regular sampling & laboratory analyses of mains, make-up and filling water (parameters including pH, conductivity, oxygen, iron, turbidity).

  • Online monitoring with continuous recording of conductivity, pH, temperature and oxygen as well as alarm functions in the event of deviations.

  • Optimization of the dosing strategy to reduce chemical requirements, energy consumption and sludge discharge.

  • Training of operating personnel so that the right measures can be taken on site.

  • Documentation & verification that is audit-proof for internal quality assurance and external authority audits.

As a result, operators benefit from permanently stable water chemistry, maximum operational reliability and verifiable compliance with standards - thus ensuring the long-term economic efficiency of their heating networks.

Even closed heating networks are not completely oxygen-free. Every make-up feed potentially introduces dissolved oxygen into the system, and even the smallest amounts can greatly accelerate corrosion processes.

The consequences of oxygen input are

  • Pitting corrosion on steel pipes and heat exchangers, especially in areas with low flow velocity.

  • Magnetite formation (Fe₃O₄) as a corrosion product that leads to sludge deposits in pipes and separators.

  • Interference with the inhibitor effect, as oxygen can destabilize certain protective films.

Strategies for control:

  • Use of demineralized make-up water with very low gas solubility.

  • Use of oxygen binders that chemically neutralize residual O₂.

  • Pressurization systems and membrane degassing to technically minimize the oxygen input.

  • Monitoring, e.g. by regularly measuring dissolved oxygen and iron as corrosion indicators.

This ensures that the network remains chemically stable and corrosion-free in the long term, even if replenishment is unavoidable.

Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) is produced by corrosion processes in steel pipes and is a well-known by-product in district heating networks. On the one hand, magnetite in thin protective layers can even have a corrosion-inhibiting effect; on the other hand, excess magnetite in suspension leads to massive operating problems.

Problems caused by magnetite in the grid:

  • Formation of sludge that clogs heat exchangers or burdens pumps.

  • Increased flow resistance and therefore higher energy requirement.

  • Imbalances and wear in pumps and fittings.

Measures for magnetite management:

  • Chemical dispersants that keep magnetite particles in suspension and prevent deposits.

  • Separators and filters that specifically remove solids from the network.

  • Corrosion inhibitors that suppress the formation of magnetite right from the start.

  • Regular analyses of iron and solids content to assess grid stability.

Structured magnetite management ensures that district heating networks can be operated free of deposits and in an energy-efficient manner.

The pH control is one of the most important factors for corrosion protection. In classic high-temperature district heating networks, the target values are usually between pH 9.0 and 10.0, as the corrosion rate and inhibitor stability are optimally balanced here.

In Niedertemperaturnetzen (z. B. Nahwärme, Quartierslösungen mit Vorlauftemperaturen <70 °C) verschieben sich die Anforderungen jedoch:

  • Lower temperatures slow down the corrosion kinetics,

  • At the same time, the risk of microbiological growth (e.g. sulphate-reducing bacteria) is significantly higher.

For this reason, slightly higher pH target values (e.g. 9.5-10.2) are often aimed for here, combined with strict oxygen control and biocide strategies if necessary.

To summarize:

  • High-temperature networks: pH 9.0-10.0, focus on corrosion control.

  • Low-temperature networks: pH 9.5-10.2, additional focus on biological stability.

ALMA AQUA develops individual pH and inhibitor strategies for every network topology and temperature range, ensuring corrosion protection and hygiene in equal measure.

Biological water treatment

In biological wastewater treatment processes, microorganisms take on the central task of breaking down organic and nitrogenous compounds. In order for these microorganisms to work efficiently, they require not only the main nutrients carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) but also a large number of trace elements. These include iron, copper, zinc, cobalt, nickel, molybdenum and manganese.

These trace elements act as cofactors of enzymes that are responsible for key metabolic functions:

  • Nitrification: Enzymes such as ammonium monooxygenase or nitrite oxidoreductase require copper, iron and nickel.

  • Denitrification: Molybdenum and iron, among others, are essential for the reduction of nitrate to gaseous nitrogen.

  • COD degradation: Many enzymes that break down organic carbon compounds are metal-dependent.

If these trace elements are missing or are not present in a bioavailable form, this leads to:

  • Decrease in biological activity,

  • unstable discharge values (e.g. increase in ammonium or COD),

  • increased sludge accumulation and disturbances such as filament growth,

  • In the worst case, this can lead to a biological process crash.

ALMA AQUA therefore develops customized trace substance solutions that are precisely tailored to the respective wastewater characteristics. In this way, deficits are eliminated and the biology works stably and efficiently.

Industrial wastewater differs greatly in its composition. Dairy wastewater, for example, contains a lot of nitrogen but often too few trace elements. Wastewater from the paper industry, on the other hand, may be rich in organic carbon but lack important metals. Standard products cannot reflect these differences.

This is why ALMA AQUA is taking the path of individualization:

  1. Process analysis: Detailed analysis of the inlet and outlet water as well as the biomass. The main nutrients, trace element content and possible inhibitors are determined.

  2. Biological tests: measurement of respiration rates, nitrification performance, denitrification rate and microscopic sludge diagnostics.

  3. Derivation of the requirement: Identification of limiting factors - e.g. iron deficiency in nitrifiers or cobalt deficiency in denitrifiers.

  4. Formulation: Development of a precisely balanced trace substance solution that compensates for the deficits without risking overdosing or unfavorable side reactions.

  5. Piloting: Testing of the recipe in operation and adaptation based on the results.

The result is a customized solution that guarantees the operator a stable biology, reliable discharge values and often lower operating costs.

If the biology is not optimally supplied, this manifests itself in typical operating problems. These can be specifically avoided with trace substance and nutrient concepts.

Frequent malfunctions with deficiency:

  • Foam formation: Due to overgrowth of filamentous bacteria, which get out of hand if the nutrient supply is unbalanced.

  • Odor formation: Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) is formed when denitrification stops and sulphate reducers dominate.

  • Unstable discharge values: Exceedances of ammonium, COD or nitrate due to lack of enzyme activity.

  • Excess sludge: Inefficient metabolism leads to more biomass with the same substrate decomposition.

Targeted countermeasures:

  • Regular process analysis for early detection of deficits.

  • Demand-oriented dosing of nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements.

  • Individually developed trace substance solutions that are precisely tailored to the process.

  • Continuous monitoring of key parameters such as ammonium, nitrate, sludge index or oxygen consumption.

This prevents malfunctions in the long term and ensures stable operation - even under changing loads.

Efficient biology requires less external energy and produces fewer by-products. The targeted supply of trace elements and nutrients therefore has a direct effect on operating costs:

  • Energy saving: Microorganisms with a complete supply of trace elements work more efficiently. They require less oxygen input for the same substrate decomposition - this reduces the aerator output, which usually causes the greatest energy consumption in wastewater treatment plants.

  • Reduced sludge consumption: Optimized metabolic pathways avoid excess biomass. Less excess sludge means lower disposal costs.

  • Stable processes: Fewer emergency measures, lower CIP/rinsing frequencies and no unplanned downtimes reduce OPEX.

  • Higher plant efficiency: A stable biological process reduces the need for downstream treatment and ensures that the effluent limits are permanently met.

The combination of process analysis and individually developed trace substance solutions means that biological wastewater treatment plants can not only be operated more stably, but also more economically and sustainably.

Nitrification - i.e. the conversion of ammonium (NH₄⁺) to nitrate (NO₃-) - is carried out by special bacteria (Nitrosomonas, Nitrobacter). These organisms are sensitive to trace element deficiencies because their key enzymes are metal-dependent.

Important trace elements for nitrification:

  • Copper (Cu): Component of ammonium monooxygenase.

  • Iron (Fe): Necessary for nitrite oxidoreductase.

  • Nickel (Ni): Essential for urease and hydrogenases, which often act in parallel.

  • Cobalt (Co) & molybdenum (Mo): Involved in denitrification and redox systems.

Signs of deficiency:

  • Increase in ammonium in the effluent despite adequate aeration.

  • Slow nitrite degradation (accumulation of NO₂-).

  • Higher oxygen consumption without corresponding degradation performance.

  • Microscopically: weak, unstable flake formation.

Targeted trace element dosing based on analyses ensures that nitrification remains stable even at high loads.

Filamentous bacteria often occur when the biology is out of balance. Common causes are nutrient deficiencies, trace element deficiencies or unbalanced C:N:P ratios. Filaments lead to foam, bulking sludge and drainage problems.

Causes of filament growth:

  • Nitrogen or phosphorus deficiency in carbon-rich wastewater.

  • Lack of trace elements that limit the growth of the desired heterotrophic bacteria.

  • Unfavorable operational management (e.g. low sludge age, oxygen fluctuations).

Strategies for control:

  • Individually developed trace substance solutions that specifically promote the desired biomass.

  • Adjust the nutrient supply so that the C:N:P ratio (100:5:1) is maintained.

  • Stabilization of operational management (aeration, sludge age, return flow).

With the right trace element supply, operators can control the growth conditions in such a way that filaments are pushed back and stable flocs are promoted.

In anaerobic processes, bacteria and archaea convert organic material into methane and carbon dioxide. These consortia are highly sensitive to trace element deficiencies, as many of their key enzymes are metal-dependent.

Important trace elements in anaerobic bacteria:

  • Nickel (Ni): Component of methyl-coenzyme M reductase, key enzyme in methanogenesis.

  • Cobalt (Co): Important factor for vitamin B₁₂-dependent enzymes in propionate and acetate cleavage.

  • Molybdenum (Mo) & tungsten (W): Necessary for formate and hydrogenases.

  • Iron (Fe): Component of many redox enzymes.

Problems with shortages:

  • Increased propionate or acetate concentrations in the fermentation sludge.

  • Drop in methane production and increasing CO₂ content in biogas.

  • Acidity drop and unstable fermentation.

Biogas plants and anaerobic wastewater treatment plants can be operated in a stable, gas-rich and trouble-free manner with a targeted supply of trace elements, tailored to the feed and substrate composition. ALMA AQUA develops individual solutions for this based on a precise analysis of the substrates and fermentation conditions.

Chemical water treatment

Chemical wastewater treatment uses a sequence of targeted reactions to convert dissolved and colloidal substances into a separable solid phase. Precipitants, neutralizing agents and flocculants form the central active ingredient system, which determines how stable and efficient wastewater treatment is by coordinating the entire process chain.

Precipitants are used to convert dissolved substances - such as heavy metals, phosphates or carbonates - into poorly soluble compounds.
On contact with water, they dissociate to form metal ions, which react chemically with the anions present and form insoluble particles. These particles are usually very fine and initially colloidal, i.e. they remain in suspension for a long time without further treatment.
Iron and aluminium salts are most commonly used because they cover a broad spectrum of activity, are easy to control and also have an adsorptive effect on accompanying substances.
While iron compounds are particularly resistant to complexing substances and are suitable for heavily contaminated industrial wastewater, aluminium salts produce more compact flocs with a lower sludge volume.

Neutralization plays a major role in this reaction chain because almost every chemical transformation in water is pH-dependent.
If the wastewater is too acidic or too alkaline, many precipitants remain in solution or form unstable hydroxide structures that do not form viable flocs.
This is why the pH value is brought into the optimum reaction range with suitable neutralizing agents - such as caustic soda, milk of lime, magnesium hydroxide or CO₂.
Neutralization therefore not only ensures corrosion protection and occupational safety, but above all the right chemical environment in which the precipitants can develop their maximum effectiveness.

The flocculant then takes on the role of the "binding element".
After precipitation, millions of microscopically small particles are present in the water, whose electrical surface charge causes a natural repulsion.
Flocculants - usually long-chain polymers - bridge these particles and bring them together into macroscopic flocs through adsorption and bridging mechanisms.
These flocs are stable, can be separated quickly and can be easily filtered, floated or sedimented.
Depending on the charge character of the wastewater, anionic, cationic or non-ionic polymer types are used, whose molecular weight and structure are specifically adapted to the preceding precipitation chemistry.

The interaction of the three additive groups is highly sensitive:
The precipitants determine the chemical reaction and substance binding, the neutralization determines the reaction conditions, and the flocculants form the resulting particles into a stable, separable solid phase.
A reproducible process with clear effluent quality, low chemical consumption and easily dewaterable sludge can only be achieved if the concentration, sequence and dosing points are precisely coordinated.

In industrial applications, this finely tuned interaction is crucial to ensure constant discharge values and high operational reliability even with fluctuating wastewater loads.
Here, it is not the quantity of chemicals but the quality and coordination of the additives that determines the success of the process.

The selection of the right precipitant is based on the ion matrix, the target parameter and the desired sludge quality.

Iron(III)-based precipitants (FeCl₃, Fe₂(SO₄)₃):

  • Particularly effective for phosphate and heavy metal precipitation (e.g. Pb, Cu, Ni, Zn)

  • Wide pH application range (6-9)

  • also promote oxidation reactions (e.g. with H₂O₂ in Fenton systems)

Aluminum-based precipitants (Al₂(SO₄)₃, NaAlO₂):

  • produce compact flocs with low residual turbidity

  • Ideal for filtration or DAF systems where sludge volume and clear water quality are crucial

Mixed precipitants (Fe/Al combinations):

  • combine reaction rate (Fe) and compact formation (Al)

  • stabilize the process during load peaks or fluctuating pH

Sulphidic precipitants (Na₂S, NaHS, thioacetamide):

  • Selective precipitation of precious and heavy metals in a complex matrix

  • Bilden schwerlösliche Sulfide (z. B. CuS, PbS) mit extrem niedrigen Löslichkeiten (<10⁻²⁰ mol²/l²)

  • ALMA AQUA offers organically stabilized sulphide donors for this purpose, which enable controlled release without the risk of H₂S

Flocculants (polymers):

  • Selection according to charge type, molecular weight and chain structure

  • anionic types for metal hydroxides, cationic types for organic sludges

  • Dosage typically 0.1-3 g/m³, depending on floc density and reactor hydraulics

In der Praxis werden Fällung und Flockung in mehrstufigen Reaktoren oder LAPS-Systemen kombiniert, um die Reaktionskinetik zu optimieren und die Schlammstruktur zu stabilisieren.
Das Ergebnis: niedrige Restmetallwerte (< 50 µg/l), gut entwässerbarer Schlamm und eine hohe Prozessrobustheit gegenüber Belastungsschwankungen.

Oxidation processes are a central component of chemical wastewater treatment, especially for wastewater with a high organic load, substances that are difficult to degrade or substances containing complexing agents.
While precipitation and flocculation are based on the formation of poorly soluble solids, oxidation processes are aimed at the chemical conversion or destruction of dissolved organic molecules.
The oxidation power is used specifically to mineralize, detoxify or modify substances so that they can be removed more easily in subsequent treatment stages.

Oxidizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite or persulphates are often used in upstream process stages to break down organic residues, dyes, surfactants or interfering complexes.
These additives work via electron transfer processes in which the oxidizing agents themselves are reduced while the target substances are oxidized and thus destroyed or changed in their molecular structure.
In industrial wastewater, this reaction is often used to break down complexing agents such as EDTA or citrates, as they hold metals strongly in solution and prevent precipitation.
Only after oxidation are these metals chemically available again and can then be safely precipitated using conventional precipitants.

The Fenton process is an extended form of these oxidation reactions.
It combines an iron source (usually iron(II) ions) with hydrogen peroxide to generate reactive oxygen species.
These short-lived radicals are extremely strong oxidants and attack even stable organic bonds - such as aromatic rings, chlorine compounds or polyethylene oxide structures.
As a result, even substances that cannot be sufficiently removed biologically or by simple chemical oxidation can be broken down.
In industrial applications, such as in the chemical, pharmaceutical, textile or paint industries, the Fenton process is used to convert toxic, colored or COD-intensive compounds into safer intermediate products.

Reaction control is crucial for practical operation.
The oxidizing agents must be dosed in such a way that they have sufficient reaction partners without breaking down into side reactions.
Too high a concentration can, for example, lead to hydrogen peroxide itself breaking down into oxygen and water without oxidizing organic substances.
The pH value also plays a key role: Fenton reactions are particularly efficient in the acidic range, while many other oxidation systems - such as hypochlorite or persulfates - also work well in a neutral or slightly alkaline environment.

In process practice, oxidizing agents and Fenton systems are often used upstream of a precipitation or flocculation stage.
This releases previously stably bound metals, destroys complexed organic substances and significantly reduces COD values.
This leads to greater process stability in the downstream chemical and biological stages and at the same time reduces the overall consumption of precipitants.

The combination of targeted oxidation chemistry with classic additives creates a multi-stage, reaction-optimized system that not only enables safe compliance with legal limits, but also improves the long-term stability of the entire wastewater process.
If designed correctly, these processes can significantly improve effluent quality and reduce the need for chemicals - especially in complex industrial applications with fluctuating material flows.

Sulphidic precipitants are used when conventional hydroxide or carbonate precipitants reach their limits - for example, in the case of very low residual metal requirements or in wastewater containing high levels of complexing agents.
Their active principle is based on the high chemical affinity of many heavy metals to sulphur, which results in extremely poorly soluble metal sulphides. These compounds have a significantly lower solubility than corresponding metal hydroxides and thus enable residual concentrations in the lower µg/l range.

In practice, sodium sulphide (Na₂S), sodium hydrogen sulphide (NaHS) or organically stabilized sulphide dispensers are usually used, which release sulphur in a controlled and uniform manner.
This stabilization is crucial, as pure sulphides can lead to the formation of hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) - a toxic and odorous gas - if dosed incorrectly.
Stabilized products, on the other hand, act slowly, uniformly and without significant gas development, which makes the process safe and controllable.

Sulphide precipitation is preferably used for wastewater containing precious metals, lead, copper, cadmium or mercury. It is also often part of the process in galvanic processes or electronic scrap processing.
Another advantage is selectivity: as sulphide reacts more strongly with soft metal ions (according to HSAB theory), certain metals can be specifically removed from complex mixtures while others remain in solution.

The process is usually carried out after upstream neutralization, often in a slightly alkaline environment. Stable dosing, intensive mixing and a subsequent flocculation stage are crucial for reliably separating finely dispersed metal sulphides and making them filterable.
The sludge structure can be further improved by combining it with anionic polymers or iron precipitants.

Sulphidic systems are therefore a precise tool for the fine purification of metal-containing wastewater and an ideal supplement to conventional precipitation processes - especially when limit values below 0.1 mg/l are required or complexing agents prevent conventional precipitation.

Complexing agents such as EDTA, NTA, citrates, tartrates or amines represent one of the greatest challenges in industrial wastewater treatment.
They bind metal ions into stable chelate complexes and prevent them from precipitating as hydroxides or phosphates through conventional precipitants.
Even high precipitant concentrations then only lead to incomplete reaction or residual values significantly above the limit values.

Oxidative precursors are used to treat wastewater containing complexing agents.
Oxidation attacks the organic ligands at their functional groups and splits them so that the bound metals are once again present as free ions.
Depending on the matrix, hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorite, ozone or persulphates are used.
In more difficult cases, Fenton reactions or combined oxidation/precipitation systems are used, in which metal release and binding take place in a single step.

Alternatively, a pH strategy can also be used:
With a gradual increase in pH, the complex equilibria change, which initially releases weaker bound metals.
This allows a gradual precipitation, for example first for copper, then for zinc or nickel.

Another key is the hydraulics and contact time.
Complex cleavage is kinetically slower than a simple precipitation reaction - sufficient reaction time, intensive mixing and temperature control are therefore necessary to achieve complete conversion.

Through a combination of oxidative digestion, graduated precipitation and precise pH control, even highly complexed industrial wastewater can be treated safely.
ALMA AQUA process additives enable targeted adjustment of the reagent composition in order to maximize the efficiency of complex destruction and precipitation yield.

The quality of the sludge produced is a decisive criterion for the operational safety and economic efficiency of a chemical wastewater treatment plant.
It influences not only the disposal costs, but also the process stability, the clear water quality and the energy requirement of the subsequent dewatering.

A good chemical sludge is characterized by compact, dense flocs with a homogeneous structure, low water binding and clear phase separation.
These properties are only achieved if the chemical reaction conditions are optimally adjusted - in particular pH value, dosing points, additive quantities and agitation intensity.

If the pH value is varied too much, amorphous, gelatinous hydroxides are formed, which trap a lot of water and are difficult to dewater.
If the precipitant is added too quickly or unevenly, this leads to locally supersaturated areas in which microflocs are formed, which can neither settle well nor be enlarged by flocculants.
The timing of the polymer dosing also plays an important role:
If it is added too early, before hydroxide formation is complete, the polymer adsorbs on unstable primary particles and loses its effect; if it is added too late, the flocs are already so dense that bridging can no longer take place.

In addition to the chemistry, ionic strength, temperature and filler content also influence the sludge structure.
High salt contents can limit the effectiveness of polymers, while low temperatures reduce the reaction kinetics and dewatering speed.
The selection of process additives - especially the polymer types - is therefore precisely matched to the operating conditions.

The goal is a mechanically stable, easily dewaterable sludge with minimal volume and the lowest possible residual water content.
Such a sludge significantly reduces disposal costs and improves the overall balance of the plant.
Well-coordinated precipitation and flocculation systems, such as those offered by ALMA AQUA, make a decisive contribution to ensuring this quality in the long term.

The selection and dosing of the appropriate flocculant is one of the decisive steps for the performance and stability of a chemical wastewater treatment plant.
Flocculants take on the task of forming large-volume, rapidly separable aggregates from fine, mostly colloidal particles.
They do not act purely physically, but via specific electrostatic and chemical interactions that depend heavily on the composition of the wastewater.

A basic distinction is made between cationic, anionic and non-ionic polymers.
The effectiveness is based on two main mechanisms: charge neutralization and bridging.
In charge neutralization, negatively or positively charged particles are stabilized by oppositely charged polymer groups, which eliminates electrostatic repulsion.
Bridging, on the other hand, occurs when long polymer chains adsorb simultaneously to several particles and physically connect them.
The result is stable flocs with a significantly larger diameter and higher density, which can be sedimented, filtered or floated much more easily.

The selection of the appropriate polymer type depends on several factors:

  • Type of precipitant and pH value: Iron or aluminum salts produce differently charged hydroxide flocs. In the case of iron overdosage, there is often a positive surface charge, which favors the use of anionic polymers. In the case of aluminum dominance or organic load, cationic types can be advantageous.

  • Ionic strength and conductivity: A high salt concentration in wastewater can reduce the effectiveness of charged polymers, as the electrostatic attraction is weakened by the ionic environment. Non-ionic or weakly charged polymers are more stable here.

  • Temperature and shear stress: Low temperatures reduce the reaction speed and flexibility of the polymer chains, while high shear forces (e.g. in agitators or pumps) can break up flocs again. This is why coordinated hydraulics are just as important as the chemistry itself.

  • Time and place of dosing: The polymer must be added precisely when the primary flocs have already formed but have not yet sedimented. Dosing too early leads to unstable microflakes, too late to incomplete bridging.

The concentration of the polymer in the dosing solution also plays a role:
Solutions that are too dilute lead to uneven distribution and incomplete adsorption, while solutions that are too concentrated lead to local overdosing and inhomogeneities.
On an industrial scale, concentrations of 0.05 - 0.2 % in conjunction with an intensive but brief mixing phase have proven successful.

In practice, a well-tuned flocculation system is characterized by clear phase separation, low residual turbidity and a compactly dewaterable sludge.
Fine-tuning and type selection are usually carried out on the basis of laboratory tests (e.g. jar tests) and subsequent process optimization under real conditions.

Experience shows that an optimally selected polymer not only increases the separation performance, but also reduces the precipitant requirement, improves the sludge volume index and noticeably reduces the operating costs of the overall system.
This is why the selection of the right flocculant is always a chemically and procedurally coordinated process in which the product, dosing strategy and system hydraulics must be precisely coordinated.

Private Label & OEM

private label

Our private label solutions are aimed at companies that want to establish their own brand for process additives in the field of industrial water and wastewater treatment. We cover all the main areas of application that are relevant in industrial plants:

  • Boiler water: Additives for oxygen binding, pH value stabilization, hardness stabilization and the prevention of boiler scale and deposits. These products ensure trouble-free boiler operation, reduce energy losses and extend the service life of the systems.

  • Cooling water: Conditioning agents such as corrosion inhibitors, hardness stabilizers and biocides that prevent deposits and microbial growth and thus protect heat exchangers, pipes and pumps in the long term.

  • Wastewater treatment: Precipitants and flocculants, oxidizing agents, sludge conditioning agents as well as nutrient and trace element solutions that ensure stable biological purification, safe removal of pollutants and discharge in compliance with the law.

  • Membrane systems: Antiscalants, dispersants and cleaning additives that prevent deposits and fouling in reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration and nanofiltration systems. This keeps permeate quality and membrane service life permanently high.

All products are formulated in such a way that they can be used universally and we can adapt them to customer-specific requirements if necessary. This means that your own brand can be tailored precisely to the needs of your markets, your customers and the system technology used.

The development of a private label in the field of process additives takes place step by step in close cooperation with our experts:

  1. Initial consultation & needs assessment - We analyze your requirements, areas of application (e.g. boilers, cooling water, waste water, membranes) and target markets.

  2. Focus & product selection - Together we select the right additives from our portfolio to carry your own brand. We take into account technical requirements, the competitive environment and market potential.

  3. Regulatory & technical requirements training - We ensure that you and your team are familiar with all relevant requirements (REACH, CLP, safety data sheets) and technical properties.

  4. First fillings with your own label - your products are filled in the desired container sizes, labeled and provided with your branding. This is how the first market-ready batches are created.

  5. Brand development & positioning - We support you in the development of your brand identity, accompany customer acquisition and advise on sales concepts.

  6. Further training & sales training - Your team will receive technical and sales training so that you can not only sell your own brand, but also present it competently to customers.

This structured process ensures that your private label solution is not only implemented quickly, but also professionally, legally compliant and market-oriented.

A private label own brand offers you several decisive advantages:

  • Fast market entry: You use our existing production and development infrastructure and save high investments in your own facilities.

  • Quality "Made in Germany": Our additives are manufactured to the strictest standards and meet all regulatory requirements.

  • Flexibility in filling & labeling: Whether small quantities or large series - you determine the container size, design, branding and labeling.

  • Discretion & security: Your recipes, data and strategies remain absolutely confidential.

  • Market advantage through your own brand: With your private label solution, you stand out from the competition, retain existing customers and gain new market segments.

  • Support beyond the product: We assist you with brand development, employee training and the development of sales concepts.

In short: With a private label solution from ALMA AQUA, you ensure technical reliability, regulatory security and a clear competitive advantage - all from a single source.

With a private label solution, the focus is on your own brand. You receive ready-made process additives from us, which are sold on the market under your brand name. We take care of development, filling, labeling and packaging according to your specifications - you appear to the outside world as the manufacturer of your own brand.

An OEM partnership, on the other hand, is more focused on integration into systems or solutions from plant manufacturers. The focus here is on long-term cooperation, technical coordination and supply chain integration. OEM products are often specially tailored to the respective system technology and run under the brand of the OEM partner.

In short: Private Label means your name on our products - OEM means our products integrated into the systems of a partner.

To ensure that your private label can be marketed safely and legally, various requirements must be met. These include above all

  • REACH Regulation: Registration and authorization of chemicals used in the EU.

  • CLP Regulation: Classification, labeling and packaging according to hazardous substances legislation.

  • Safety data sheets (SDS): Provide comprehensive information on handling, storage and transportation.

  • Transport regulations: Compliance with ADR (road), IMDG (sea) and IATA (air) for dangerous goods.

We take on these regulatory tasks for you and ensure that all documents are prepared correctly and kept up to date. This allows you to offer your private label products on the market without risk.

A successful private label not only needs good products, but also a competent team that can market and use them. That's why we offer training and further education for different target groups:

  • Application engineers learn the correct dosing, monitoring and optimization of additives in boiler, cooling water, waste water and membrane systems.

  • Sales staff are trained to communicate the benefits of the products clearly and practically to customers.

  • Regulatory workshops teach the basics of REACH, CLP and safety data sheets so that your sales department can also provide legally compliant advice.

This combination of technical and sales training ensures that your own brand is not only sold, but also competently represented on the market.

We offer our private label process additives not only in Germany, but throughout Europe and internationally. Thanks to our production in Germany and compliance with all relevant standards (REACH, CLP, ADR, IATA, IMDG), the products can be safely exported and used in various markets.
We supply partners in the EU, other European countries and worldwide who want to establish or expand their own brand in the areas of boiler water, cooling water, waste water treatment and membrane systems.

The minimum purchase quantities depend on the product, country and area of application and are agreed individually with our partners. In principle, however, we are very flexible and attach great importance to personal cooperation.
This means that we also support projects with small purchase quantities to make it easier to get started with private label. At the same time, we can easily handle larger volumes for international markets.

original equipment manufacturer

Plant manufacturers who integrate OEM products into their portfolio can offer their customers comprehensive system solutions. This means that in addition to the system itself - whether steam boiler, cooling water system or membrane system - end customers also receive the appropriate process additives and operating materials. This reduces interfaces and minimizes the risk of incorrect applications, as the products are precisely matched to the technical requirements of the system.

In addition, OEM products create added value in a competitive environment: system manufacturers not only act as manufacturers or integrators, but also as complete suppliers with their own branded products. This gives customers greater operational reliability, a longer system service life and optimized water chemistry, which reduces breakdowns, corrosion and deposits.

If required, ALMA AQUA provides support as early as the development and test phase: we carry out pilot tests, dosing tests and practical trials, prepare technical documentation and provide assistance with approvals and certifications. This enables plant manufacturers to offer OEM products with proven quality that strengthen their reputation on the market and enhance the service concept for end customers.

Yes - ALMA AQUA sees OEM as a full-service partnership. In addition to product development, we also offer complete filling, labeling and logistics services. In concrete terms, this means

  • Filling in all standard container sizes such as canisters, drums, IBCs and small containers, tailored to the needs of your customers.

  • Labeling in corporate design: We take care of the design with logo, color scheme and layout according to your specifications. At the same time, we integrate all legally required information (e.g. CLP labeling, safety data sheets, barcodes).

  • Quality assurance & traceability: Each batch is fully documented to ensure consistent quality.

  • Flexible logistics models: from neutral shipping to direct delivery to end customers - discreet and reliable.

For our OEM partners, this means that they can position their products on the market under their own brand without having to invest in expensive production and logistics infrastructure themselves. This increases profitability and significantly shortens time-to-market.

At ALMA AQUA, OEM is more than just providing products - we see ourselves as a strategic partner for growth and brand building. Our support comprises three central levels:

  1. Brand development: We support you in building your own brand in the water treatment sector, jointly develop a technically sound value proposition and define the USPs of your product line. This allows you to clearly differentiate yourself from the competition and convey trust and security to your customers.

  2. Product range expansion: With our OEM products, you can gradually expand your portfolio - from boiler water additives and cooling circuit products to membrane protection agents and waste water additives. This allows you to be perceived as a complete supplier that covers all relevant water cycles.

  3. International expansion: We are familiar with the regulatory differences in various countries and support you in adapting documentation, labels and approvals. Thanks to our experienced logistics, we can also reliably deliver OEM products internationally - flexibly and scalably.

As a result, our OEM partners are developing from pure suppliers or service providers into brand manufacturers with their own product range, increasing their reach and securing a strong competitive position in the long term - both nationally and internationally.

Our OEM solutions are aimed at technical companies, service providers and trading partners who are active in the field of industrial water treatment and want to offer their customers customized products and system solutions. We cover the entire spectrum - from boiler water treatment, cooling water systems and membrane systems to industrial waste water treatment.

1. plant manufacturer

  • Boiler systems & steam boilers: Plant engineers who design high-pressure or low-pressure boilers benefit from OEM products such as oxygen binders, alkalizing agents, hardness stabilizers and defoamers. These additives ensure corrosion-free and efficient operation.

  • Cooling water systems (open, semi-open, closed): For cooling towers and process cooling systems, we develop corrosion inhibitors, biocides and hardness stabilizers that prevent deposits, microbial growth and material damage. This enables plant manufacturers to offer their customers complete cooling systems including coordinated chemistry.

  • Membrane systems (reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration): OEM products such as antiscalants, dispersants and cleaning agents extend the service life of the membranes and reduce operating costs. Plant manufacturers can thus supply high-performance filtration systems with integrated water chemistry.

Advantage: System manufacturers increase their competitive advantage by selling systems not just as hardware, but as a complete system solution with its own brand.

2. service providers and service companies

  • Maintenance and repair companies: Companies that service boiler systems, cooling towers or membrane systems can use OEM products directly in their service. This makes maintenance more efficient and the end customer receives a fully coordinated solution.

  • Industrial cleaners: Specialized cleaning companies use OEM products for the chemical cleaning of cooling circuits, heat exchangers or membrane systems. The OEM additives ensure a lasting cleaning effect and reduce downtimes.

  • Facility management providers: Operators of supply systems benefit by integrating OEM products into their operating concepts and thus guaranteeing their customers maximum operational reliability.

Advantage: Service providers can expand their service quality by using their own products with OEM branding - this strengthens customer loyalty and increases margins.

3. dealers and distributors

  • Chemical and industrial distributors: Wholesalers and distributors can sell OEM products under their own brand and expand their portfolio - without having their own production infrastructure.

  • Online retailer for industrial supplies: The market for digital platforms is growing - OEM products with individual labeling make it possible to sell completely market-ready products online.

  • Component and spare parts dealers: In addition to pumps, valves or membrane modules, dealers can offer OEM process additives and thus provide their customers with a one-stop store for water treatment solutions.

Advantage: Retailers increase their competitiveness by developing individual private labels and being able to react flexibly to customer requirements.

Conclusion

OEM solutions from ALMA AQUA are ideal for:

  • Plant manufacturers who want to offer complete systems (hardware + chemistry),

  • Service providers who want to increase their service quality with coordinated products,

  • Retailers who want to expand their market position with their own brands.

With our OEM services - from consulting and product development to filling & labeling, branding and international expansion - we create a scalable basis for growth, efficiency and long-term competitiveness.

Our OEM products are developed and produced according to the highest quality and safety standards. All process additives meet the requirements of current European and international standards (e.g. REACH, CLP, DIN/EN standards) and are subjected to complete quality control before delivery.

We work with a multi-stage quality assurance system:

  • Incoming inspection of all raw materials for purity and conformity

  • In-process controls during production to ensure consistent product quality

  • Final inspection of each batch including analysis reports for traceability

  • Preparation of safety data sheets (SDS) in several languages and technical data sheets for the end customer

  • CLP-compliant labeling and compliance with all hazardous substance directives

We also advise OEM partners on legal requirements and adapt labels, packaging and documentation to country-specific specifications. In this way, we ensure that products can be distributed both nationally and internationally in a legally compliant manner.

For our partners, this means maximum product safety, international usability and end customer confidence.

Yes - the strength of our OEM partnerships lies in their individual adaptability. While standard products often only offer generic solutions, we develop OEM products that are precisely tailored to the technical and operational conditions of your customers.

Examples of individual customizations:

  • Boiler systems: development of oxygen binders and hardness stabilizers that are adapted to the operating temperatures and water hardnesses

  • Cooling water systems: Formulations of corrosion inhibitors and biocides based on materials, flow rates and hygienic requirements

  • Membrane systems: selection of special antiscalants and cleaning agents, tailored to the membrane type, raw water quality and operational management

  • Wastewater treatment: combination of precipitants and flocculants, adapted to the specific pollutants and required discharge values

We accompany the entire process from formulation development to laboratory and pilot tests to practical application in the plant. The result is OEM products that are not only chemically effective, but also economically efficient and reliable.

This enables our partners to offer their customers tailor-made solutions that create a clear competitive advantage and optimize plant operation in the long term.

Our OEM solutions are available internationally. We supply partners throughout Europe and in selected markets worldwide. In doing so, we take into account both the technical requirements of the systems and the legal framework conditions of the respective country.

  • Europe: Comprehensive supply including creation of safety data sheets (SDS) and labels in the national language, adapted to local CLP and REACH requirements.

  • International markets: Support with export documentation, customs clearance and country-specific approvals.

  • Individual solutions: Minimum purchase quantities are flexible and depend on the country, product and application. While some markets require large quantities, we also allow smaller batches to support partners during market entry or test phases.

The advantage for our partners: global OEM solutions from a single source that are convincing in terms of both technical standards and legal conformity.

Yes - an essential part of our OEM partnerships is the training of our partners' sales, technicians and service teams. After all, successful OEM products are not only characterized by their quality, but also by correct application and in-depth knowledge.

Our training courses include:

  • Product training courses: Functionality, dosing, safety aspects and typical applications of our OEM additives.

  • Technical training: In-depth study of boiler water chemistry, cooling circuits, membrane protection and waste water treatment with practical examples.

  • Workshops for service technicians: correct handling, dosing strategies, analysis of water parameters and troubleshooting.

  • Sales training: argumentation, USP definition and technical sales support for the sales force.

  • Individual training concepts: On-site, online or combined on request - adapted to the respective target group.

This ensures that our partners not only receive a finished product, but also the necessary know-how for successful application and marketing.

The minimum purchase quantity for OEM products is not fixed across the board, but depends on several factors:

  • Product type: Liquid process additives such as corrosion inhibitors, antiscalants or biocides can already be filled in smaller quantities, while more complex specialty products are usually economical from larger batches.

  • Area of application: For pilot projects or market entries, we deliberately allow small quantities so that our partners can test new markets without risk.

  • Country & logistics: The minimum quantities vary depending on the destination country and transport route - in Germany and Central Europe we can react very flexibly, while larger units (e.g. IBCs or pallets) often make sense for overseas shipments.

  • Container size: We offer flexible solutions from small containers (e.g. 10-25 l canisters) to drums and 1,000 l IBCs.

Basically, we are very flexible and customer-oriented. Smaller purchase quantities are also possible when it comes to launching a new brand, building an OEM portfolio or specific applications. For established markets and series products, we can also supply large quantities economically.

This gives our partners the certainty that we will find individual solutions - from the small initial batch to continuous series production.

Proof of Performance - Our references

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Get in touch with us!

Frank Kuntze

Sales Manager Water and Process Additives

frank.kuntze@almawatech.com
+49 151 5102 8728