The process of removing chlorine from municipal water sources is a common practice undertaken to render water suitable for various applications. Chlorine, while effective as a disinfectant in public water systems, can be detrimental to certain organisms and processes. For example, in aquariums, chlorine is toxic to fish and other aquatic life. Similarly, in brewing, chlorine can react with phenols to create chlorophenols, resulting in undesirable off-flavors.
Eliminating chlorine offers numerous benefits. Beyond protecting aquatic ecosystems and improving the taste of beverages, dechlorinated water is essential for specific scientific and industrial purposes. The absence of chlorine ensures accurate results in chemical analyses and prevents unwanted reactions in manufacturing processes. Historically, methods for chlorine removal have evolved from simple aeration techniques to more sophisticated chemical treatments, reflecting an increasing awareness of the impact of water quality across diverse sectors.