Sulfate Testing

What Is Sulfate? 

Sulfate (SO42-) is a naturally occurring compoundSulfates are a combination of sulfur and oxygen. 

Sulfate can be found in almost all natural water – most sulfate in water comes from dissolved mineralsSulfates can also be introduced into treated waters through the use of sulfate-containing chemicals 

Sulfates are also found in minerals, soil, rocks, plants and food. 

Where Is Sulfate Found?  

Sulfate In Drinking Water 

Sulfate minerals can cause a build-up of scale in water pipes which may be associated with a bitter taste in drinking water. High sulfate levels in drinking water can have a laxative effect.  

According to the WHO the levels of sulfate commonly found in drinking water is not a concern for health, therefore there are no health-based guidelines for sulfate in water. However, they do state that below 250 mg/L sulfate is less likely to affect the taste of the water.  

The US EPA class sulfate as a secondary contaminant and specify a maximum level of 250 mg/L. This is based on aesthetic effects, including the taste and smell of the water, rather than health effects. To find out more about Secondary Drinking Water Standards click here 

The FDA also give a secondary maximum contaminant level of 250 mg/L for sulfate, and the DWI also state a guideline value of 250 mg/L.  

To remove sulfate from water there are three main physical treatment technologies commonly used. These are reverse osmosis, distillation or ion exchange. Sulfate can also be removed using chemical treatment such as lime precipitation or biological treatment methods. 

Sulfate In Wastewater 

Many wastewaters contain high concentrations of sulfate. This is common in wastewaters from mining or mineral processing industries. The wastewater may be subject to discharge limits of sulfate between 250 and 2000 mg/L and therefore it is often necessary to remove extra sulfate prior to discharge. 

Sulfate In Surface / Groundwater  

As water moves through soil and rock formations that contain sulfate minerals some of the sulfate dissolves into water. Examples of minerals containing sulfate are magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt), sodium sulfate (Glauber’s salt) and calcium sulfate (gypsum). 

Contact us for more information

How Do You Test For Sulfate In Water?  

Our Pocket Kits offer simple and cost-effective testing of sulfateConveniently packaged in hard compact cases, Pocket Kits contain reagents and all accessories required to perform simple visual testingTo view our full range of visual testing equipment click here 

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