What is aluminium and how does it end up in drinking water?

Aluminum is a light metal that is abundant in the earth's crust, used in many industries. It can enter drinking water through the natural erosion of aluminum-containing rocks or through human activities such as wastewater treatment and the use of aluminum-based coagulants for water purification.

In addition to natural sources, aluminum can also end up in drinking water through human activities. One of the main anthropogenic sources is the use of aluminum-based coagulants in drinking water treatment. Aluminum salts, such as aluminum sulfate, are commonly used in treatment plants to remove impurities from water.

These coagulants work by forming flocs that precipitate and carry the suspended particles with them, thus clarifying the water. This process can leave aluminum residues in the treated water, contributing to its presence in drinking water.

What are the potential effects of aluminum on human health?

Aluminum, which occurs naturally in the environment and is used in a variety of industrial applications, can have potentially adverse effects on human health when ingested, inhaled, or comes into contact with the skin.

Exposure to aluminum occurs primarily through the ingestion of food and water, inhalation of dust and fumes, and skin contact with aluminum-containing products.

Health effects:

Neurotoxicity : Chronic exposure to high doses of aluminum may be linked to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Aluminum can cause oxidative stress and neuronal damage, impairing cognitive function.

Kidney toxicity : Aluminum can build up in the kidneys and cause kidney damage, especially in people with kidney failure.

Bone effects : Aluminum interferes with calcium and phosphorus metabolism, leading to bone diseases like osteomalacia and osteoporosis.

Hematological disorders : Aluminum can inhibit iron absorption and affect the production of red blood cells, leading to anemic states.

What are the international standards for the aluminium content in drinking water?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that the concentration of aluminum in drinking water should not exceed 0.2 mg/L (200 μg/L). Many countries follow this guideline or have similar regulations to ensure drinking water safety.

It is important to note that while exposure to low levels of aluminum is generally considered safe for the majority of the population, people with specific medical conditions, such as kidney failure, or vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and children, may be more sensitive to the effects of aluminum.

How can we test the aluminium content in our tap water?

To test the aluminium content in tap water, commercially available test kits can be used or a laboratory specialising in water analysis can be used. These tests measure the concentration of aluminum and other metals potentially present, providing accurate results on water quality.

Why use a water purifier Pure Filters equipped with Coldstream FTO+ filters to remove aluminum from drinking water?

Water purifiers Pure Filters equipped with Coldstream FTO+ filters are specifically designed to effectively remove aluminum from drinking water, among other things. These filters use advanced ceramic and activated carbon filtration technology, which not only reduce aluminum content, but also remove other contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and heavy metals.

Using the Pure Filters water purifier guarantees you healthy and safe water, thus improving the quality of the water consumed on a daily basis.

Read our article on the results of the Coldstream filter laboratory tests.