WAYs to Eliminate Cyanide in Wastewater

The current manufacturing process for electroplating and metal surface finishing relies heavily on the use of cyanide, an ideal solution for this procedure. It is important to note, that using

cyanide in a manufacturing capacity requires a plan for wastewater treatment. Clear regulations require plants to treat any water that could contain free cyanide, weak acid dissociables, and strong acid dissociables. There are several good options for treating

wastewater available to manufacturers.

Here is a quick overview of five current methods for eliminating cyanide from water:

Bleach (alkaline chlorination)

An inexpensive and highly effective method for treatment, this

approach fully destroys the cyanide. While it is not as

environmentally friendly as other options, it is the most cost

effective.

Hydrogen peroxideUsing copper as a catalyst, this

process produces cyanates, which are less hazardous than cyanide

but require additional treatment. Because of the high cost of

hydrogen peroxide, this is generally used for lower volume batches.

Thermal destructionOne of the simplest methods of

remediation, this approach has a smaller environmental impact than bleach. But, like hydrogen peroxide

and potassium permanganate, it does not completely destroy the

cyanide.

Ozone oxidation and UV oxidation UV oxidation exposes hydrogen peroxide and creates hydroxyl radicals that quickly oxidize cyanide. This method adds a few secondary products to the wastewater.

Potassium permanganateThis solution is very fast, and will remove most heavy metals when combined with additional treatment processes. It can be costly, and produces cyanates, which may require addition treatment in some instances.

O

O

O

Hydrogenperoxide

Interested in finding the best cyanide destruction method based on your business needs? Contact the professionals at dmpcorp.com

for a consultation.