Kemira Completes First Full-Scale US Trial of Chlorine-Free Wastewater Treatment Solution, KemConnect DEX

Capital Region Water’s trial shows Kemira’s chlorine-free DEX system adapts to changing water conditions while rapidly cutting bacteria counts

Kemira, a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions for water-intensive industries, today announced that it has successfully completed the first US full-scale trial of its chlorine-free wastewater treatment technology, KemConnect^® DEX, with Capital Region Water, the advanced wastewater treatment facility serving the city of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and surrounding municipalities. This milestone was achieved in just eight months after the core ingredient of DEX was registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for commercial use in the US.

The KemConnect DEX solution is uniquely based on performic acid, a fast-acting, sustainable alternative to traditional chlorine-based microbial control. Results from the one-month full-scale trial demonstrate that even at low doses, Kemira’s performic acid-based solution quickly reduces bacteria levels and rapidly auto-degrades into readily biodegradable compounds, which exhibit low environmental persistence- thereby improving water quality, while minimizing environmental impact.

“Working with performic acid as a new microbial control technology was great all around. This trial showed us that there are legitimate alternatives to chlorine disinfection that do a better job and are safer for the environment,” said Jess Rosentel, Chief Operations Officer at Capital Region Water. “Capital Region Water worked hand-in-hand with Kemira to take this first step in North America, and we could not be happier with the experience and look forward to continuing to help pave the way.”

The technology behind KemConnect DEX automates treatment dosing based on real-time data, with flexible feed-rate capabilities that enable operators to consistently meet required bacterial limits despite weather-driven fluctuations in flow and water quality. The DEX technology platform is also installed on-site, enabling facilities to modernize their infrastructure without the considerable costs and investment often required by many chlorine-based solutions and UV treatment alternatives.

“With the success of this full-scale trial in the US, we’re proving that DEX is the modern treatment system that facilities need to meet increasingly stringent regulations and changing requirements,” said Tuija Pohjolainen-Hiltunen, Executive Vice President, Water Solutions at Kemira. “Performic acid helps operators control bacteria safely and effectively, without relying on chlorine-based chemistry – while our digital platform enables real-time visibility and the flexibility to adapt dosing as needed. This DEX system trial brings us one step closer to achieving more resilient, modern and sustainable water systems across the country.”