Alum: Understanding its Use in Drinking Water and Its Safety

Alum, a compound known as aluminum sulfate, is commonly used in water treatment processes. This article explores the nature of alum, its usage, safety, and the differences between alum and purifiers such as reverse osmosis in ensuring drinking water safety.

The Nature of Alum

Alum, which is chemically known as aluminum sulfate, is a water treatment chemical used to remove particulates in water through the process of flocculation. This means it helps to precipitate and then coagulate soluble impurities, making them easier to filter out or settle. While this process is effective in water treatment, it is crucial to understand that alum does not kill germs such as cholera, typhoid, bilharzia, or amoebic dysentery. Its primary function is to remove dangerous soluble salts.

Is Alum Safe for Drinking Water?

There is a common misconception that alum can be directly consumed, but the truth is, alum is not itself edible. However, when added in controlled amounts to drinking water, alum assists in the process of removing dust and pollutants. These impurities and other particulates form clumps (flocs) that settle at the bottom of the water container. Thus, water treated with a small quantity of alum becomes safe for drinking. It is widely accepted in water treatment facilities and in swimming pools.

Understanding the Safety and Efficacy of Alum

Alum is a coagulant that helps in the removal of suspended solids during the water treatment process. However, it is important to note that alum alone does not purify water. It does not sanitize the water or remove metals or toxins. Post-flocculation filtration is often followed by further treatment steps such as reverse osmosis and chlorination to remove remaining contaminants to an acceptable level.

While alum helps in the flocculation stage, it is not a final solution for water purification. The accepted standards set by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) require that drinking water should have a total dissolved solids (TDS) of less than 500 mg/L and should not contain any toxic elements or disease-causing bacterial populations. Therefore, while alum helps in the initial stages, water often needs to undergo additional purification steps like reverse osmosis to meet these stringent standards.

Blue Mount Alkaline RO Water Purifier: A Reliable Option

For those seeking to ensure they have the safest and cleanest drinking water, the Blue Mount Alkaline RO Water Purifier is an excellent choice. This purifier is the first of its kind in India, featuring an LED display and a wide range of models that can be tailored to meet specific needs. It not only ensures that the water is free from acid components but also makes the water alkaline, which is beneficial for health. The purifier removes acid components from the water and ensures that the water remains pure and safe to drink.

The Blue Mount Alkaline RO Water Purifier helps to enhance your overall health by providing you with healthy and safe water. This aligns with the growing trend of health-conscious consumers who prioritize clean and safe drinking water. Investing in a quality water purifier like the Blue Mount is a wise decision for anyone looking to improve their daily water consumption habits and overall health.

Whether you're concerned about water safety, looking to boost your health, or simply investing in a reliable water purification system, the Blue Mount Alkaline RO Water Purifier is a top choice. By using products like this, you can ensure that the water you drink is not only clean, but also beneficial for your health.