Innovations
Copper-Ion Generators
Copper Ion technology has been successfully applied to limit or eliminate bio-fouling problems for many years. Bio-fouling is the undesirable accumulation of microorganisms, plants, and animals on artificial surfaces. Across the United States aquatic nuisance species, such as freshwater bryozoans, didmyo, and New Zealand mud snails, have became a major issue with non-potable irrigation systems. These organisms attach themselves to the inside of pipes, and equipment clogging entire systems and rendering them ineffective. Non-potable irrigation systems are extremely susceptible to the problem of bio-fouling, although it is rarely detected until it is too late. We highly recommend the installation of this technology on all non-potable irrigation systems.
In order to control bio-fouling, treatment must occur within the pipes of the system not the water source. Copper ion technology uses the process electrolysis. These units emit low levels of copper ions which coat the inside of irrigation pipes. The levels of copper remain below drinking water levels. This copper coating deters organisms from proliferating and allowing for colonies to develop. Copper is toxic to many aquatic nuisance species, therefore providing control against colonization within the pipes. Copper ions have exceptional killing power even at low concentrations and, unlike other technologies, are not affected by pH levels within the water.
Copper ion generators have been successfully installed in nuclear power plants to control bio-fouling for nearly a decade now. The installation of these units provides a cost effective solution to bio-fouling problems in a wide array of equipment and treatment systems.
