Water treatment is essential across multiple industries, from municipal water systems to data centers and industrial cooling towers. Traditional treatment methods often rely on chemicals such as chlorine, bromine, and synthetic biocides, which can pose environmental risks, safety hazards, and logistical challenges. In response to these concerns, industries are shifting towards sustainable, chemical-free alternatives that enhance both efficiency and safety.
One such innovation is the onsite generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a powerful oxidant used in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), odor control, biofilm control and other industrial water treatment applications. This article explores how onsite H2O2 generation can transform water treatment across different sectors, reducing chemical dependency and improving sustainability.
Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) and Chemical-Free Water Treatment
AOPs play a critical role in eliminating micropollutants such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and surfactants from water sources. Traditionally, AOPs use a combination of hydrogen peroxide and UV light or ozone to break down harmful contaminants. However, conventional hydrogen peroxide is typically transported and stored as a high-concentration liquid, requiring strict safety measures.
With the advent of onsite generation technology, hydrogen peroxide can now be produced at the point of use, eliminating the need for chemical transport and storage. Onsite-produced H2O2, such as Peroxide UltraPure™, is generated from just water, air, and electricity. This means no stabilizers, no hazardous waste, and a fully biodegradable solution that breaks down into pure water and oxygen.
Field studies, such as one conducted at Evonik’s facility in Germany, demonstrated the effectiveness of onsite H2O2 generation in an AOP system, successfully degrading contaminants like ibuprofen and caffeine. This approach not only ensures cleaner water but also enhances safety by removing the need for high-risk chemical handling.
Data Center Water Treatment: Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability
Data centers rely on extensive cooling systems, often consuming significant amounts of water and requiring chemical treatments to prevent microbial growth and scaling. Traditional treatments involve chemical biocides that pose environmental and operational challenges.
Onsite hydrogen peroxide generation offers a viable alternative by introducing a chemical-free, biodegradable oxidant into the cooling loop. Unlike chlorine-based biocides, which can cause corrosion and leave toxic residues, hydrogen peroxide decomposes harmlessly into water and oxygen. This reduces the risk of equipment degradation while ensuring efficient cooling system operation.
A global data center case study showcased the benefits of switching to onsite hydrogen peroxide generation, highlighting improved safety, reduced chemical logistics, and enhanced water efficiency. By eliminating the need for external chemical supply chains, data centers can achieve greater operational resilience and align with sustainability goals.
Cooling Tower Water Treatment: A Green Approach to Industrial Water Management
Cooling towers are widely used in industrial and commercial facilities, yet they pose water treatment challenges due to microbial growth, corrosion, and scaling. Traditional solutions rely on chemical biocides like chlorine and bromine, which can be toxic to aquatic ecosystems and require careful handling.
Onsite hydrogen peroxide generation presents a safer, greener alternative. Hydrogen peroxide acts as a powerful oxidizer without the harmful byproducts associated with chlorine-based treatments. Additionally, its compatibility with a wide range of materials reduces corrosion, extending the lifespan of cooling tower components.
A Danish cooling tower case study demonstrated how switching to onsite hydrogen peroxide generation successfully controlled bacterial contamination while eliminating the need for chlorine-based biocides. Similarly, a pharmaceutical company found that adopting onsite H2O2 significantly improved site safety and sustainability.
A New, Smarter Way to do Water Treatment
Onsite hydrogen peroxide generation is emerging as a game-changer in water treatment across multiple industries. By eliminating the reliance on hazardous chemicals, it offers a safer, more sustainable, and more efficient approach to water management. Its uses extend beyond industrial water treatment to agriculture, municipal water treatment and beyond. This technology is paving the way for a future where clean water solutions align seamlessly with environmental and operational goals.
As industries continue to prioritize sustainability and safety, onsite H2O2 generation represents a step forward in making water treatment greener, safer, and more reliable.
Want to Learn More About Onsite Green Oxidation and Circular Water Treatment?
To explore these topics in more detail and gain insights from industry experts, join our upcoming webinar. This session will cover the benefits of onsite hydrogen peroxide generation, real-world case studies, and how this technology can improve your water treatment processes. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to ask our presenters any questions you may have.
The Role of Onsite Green Oxidation in Circular Water Treatment, is happening next week—April 2nd at 3:00 PM CET! It is hosted by HPNow, a Danish water treatment technology company which introduced the world’s first onsite H2O2 generator. Secure your spot here.
The webinar will dive into how onsite hydrogen peroxide generation can help industries optimize water treatment—making it more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective.
Register now to secure your spot and be part of the discussion!
