Lime Slurry And The Environment

Pollution of our waterways is one of the biggest environmental threats next to deforestation and air pollution. While we might have access to clean, usable water, others do not. It’s important that we maintain this clean access and don’t contaminate our waterways with wastewater or sewage.

This is where lime slurry comes into play. Now, those of you reading this article might be like “what is lime slurry and what does that have to do with the environment?” Well, let’s take a look.

Lime slurry

While it sounds absolutely grotesque and like it should be classified as a pollutant, it’s actually a very good thing. Lime Slurry is when the suspension of Calcium Hydroxide is added to water in order to increase the pH levels of water sources.

It aids in the purification of wastewater so it can safely be released back into lakes, rivers, or ponds without causing harm. It also allows for the water treated with lime slurry to be re-used for other processes. It also prevents corrosion of water pipes for drinking water.

How does it do all this?

It filters out dangerous particles from the water by dissolving certain metals like iron, lead, and manganese. Raising the pH of the water to a certain level makes sure that the metals are filtered out so they can’t cause undue harm.

Is it dangerous?

No, but it should be handled with care when using and transporting it. Most places that deal in lime slurries have storage solutions that require very little direct handling so those working with it don’t have to be exposed to it all the time.

While lime slurries aren’t dangerous, they can still cause some health problems if it’s not handled with care. With the pH balance in the lime being as high as it is, it can cause irritation to the skin or eyes if it’s exposed. It’s rarely dangerous or severe but it’s still no fun having skin irritation if it can be avoided.

One of the best ways that companies can ensure safety protocols is to have everyone working with or near the lime wear some sort of eye protection, dust mask, and safety gloves.

Also, the good news is that lime slurries aren’t flammable, but they can be combustible if it’s mixed with an acid. This means that it should be kept separate from other chemicals or potentially flammable substances.

For more information on the possible dangers and first aid measures of lime exposure, click here.

What are the benefits?

I already listed quite a few, but there are even more benefits to be aware of. Lime slurries help ensure that wastewater doesn’t contaminate our drinking supplies and our natural water populations. This way we can ensure that our ecosystems and our overall health remain intact.

Lime slurries help with odor control and disinfect wastewater from dangerous bacteria, that way no one gets sick from being in or drinking this water. What’s more, in other aspects, high levels of Dolomite lime can be used to improve soil’s pH levels which help your crops grow better, if you are new to understand it, here are some dolomite lime benefits that will win you over.

What do I need to make a lime slurry?

One of the most obvious things that you need to make a lime slurry is lime. It’s the most essential ingredient in the whole mixture. The equipment you need for lime slurries can vary depending on how you’re making it. Lots of companies can order it ready-mixed so they can avoid the hassle. If you’re using the ready-mixed lime slurry, then all you need is the mix tank.

If, however you decide to make it on sight, then you’re going to need a few more things. You’re going to need equipment to store the dry lime until it’s ready to be mixed in with the water and you’re going to need to have a system in place that helps feed the lime into the water – or vice versa – so that it can be added all together. A control system to regulate this flow will also be necessary.

It honestly depends on how you decide to acquire your lime slurry. I recommend talking to a company that specializes in lime slurries so you know what your options are. You may discover that onsite lime slurry making might be a better option or you might decide that getting git delivered premade is the better solution. It all depends on preference and cost.

If you decide to make it yourself without the help of an expert, take a look at the formula for a Lime Slurry here.

Lime slurries help the environment and our communities by keeping them clean and healthy but creating the perfect lime slurry can be complicated, especially if you’ve never done it before.

If you’re struggling, call and talk to an expert. You want to make sure you’re disposing of your wastewater safely so if you feel as though you need help, don’t hesitate to call in reinforcements.