pH Control for Swimming Pools

Certain diseases can be transmitted through contaminated pool water. This is why swimming pools need to be disinfected, preferably with solutions that will not affect the pool users nor the environment.

The most widely used method is chlorination with sodium hypochlorite. However, it has its limitations. If the pH of the pool water is not kept between 7.2 and 7.6 the chlorinated water could cause eyes, skin and mucous membrane irritation to the pool users. At the same time, it would also become corrosive to pool's equipment.

Historically, pH control has been carried out with harsh solvents (mineral acids) that can be dangerous to handle. Carbon dioxide offers a clean and safe alternative for pH correction. When dissolved in water, CO₂ reacts to form carbonic acid, a weak acid capable of safely reducing the pH to the desired value. Recuperated from natural processes, it is also an environmentally friendly solution.