Ideal Distributors Limited - Copper Silver Ion Overview

Ion Systems Overview

The concept of today's electrolytic mineral ion system is based on the scientifically proven principal that there are natural, effective methods by which you can control bacteria, algae and viruses.

The principal goes back hundreds of years but the first reasonably modern attempts to use metal ions as a means to sanitize water were made in the 1930's. Then, in the 1960's and early 1970's, the Johnson Space Center conducted a research program aimed at the development of a small, lightweight water purifier that required minimal power and no human monitoring. This program produced an electrolytic silver ion generator, slightly larger than a pager and weighing only nine ounces. One or more units, mounted at various locations in the potable water supply and waste water system of the Apollo or any future spacecraft, would dispense silver ions sufficient to eliminate bacteria and sanitize the water within hours. This rekindled the interest for use in other areas.

NASA made this design information available to the industry and from this beginning, one of the world's most advanced water purification systems was developed. It is capable of handling water volumes into the millions of gallons and used in many different applications. Pools, spas, decorative water applications, cooling towers, injection molding systems all routinely use ionization as a means of water sanitation.

In very basic terms, these ion systems consist of an anode, made of a proportion of copper and silver, and a cathode. These are placed in a chamber that is mounted in the existing water recirculation system. An electronic controller sends current to the anode, which in turn, dispenses microscopic particles (ions) of copper and silver into the water as it passes through the chamber.

In simple terms, ions work like this. Copper has the ability to pierce the protective outer membrane of a cell and disrupt enzyme balance. Silver is effective because of its capabilities of interfering with DNA production and accelerating the death phase. Although lethal to bacteria and algae, this process is completely safe for humans. A multitude of scientific tests have been done proving the effectiveness of copper silver ion systems in swimming pool and spa applications.

Ion systems can be used in conjunction with other methods of sanitation including chemical, ozone, and ultraviolet systems for improved performance. A report on the advantages of dual stage sanitation shows the improved performance that can be achieved from chlorine by combining it with an electrolytic ion system.

There are a number of advantages to to using an ion system. Unlike standard sanitizing chemicals, ions are relatively unaffected by pH, temperature, aeration or sunlight. As they are not as prone to evaporation or dissipation, they tend to remain resident in the water to provide longer lasting and more constant purification. New ions are added automatically as the water circulates. Operating costs and maintenance are low. From a health standpoint, it is completely safe as no toxic chemicals are produced or consumed. Water quality is outstanding. The system is environmentally friendly. The water is healthy, sanitary and odor free.

All ion systems sold through our company have all necessary CSA approvals. Health Canada PCP documents are currently in the application process and should be available shortly.

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