Sustainability: The Evolution of Water Treatment

Water treatment has come a long way from its early days of simple filtration and chlorination. Today, advanced technologies and sustainable chemical solutions are employed to address a wide range of contaminants and ensure water safety. Brainerd Chemical is proud to lead the way in developing biodegradable and non-toxic chemicals and processes to help our customers achieve more responsible water treatment operations.

The Rise of Peracetic Acid

Peracetic acid (PAA) is an organic peroxide with strong oxidizing properties. It is produced by reacting acetic acid with hydrogen peroxide. PAA has gained popularity in water treatment due to its effectiveness, versatility, and environmental benefits.

PAA is a broad-spectrum disinfectant that is highly effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its strong oxidizing potential allows it to break down cell walls and disrupt cellular functions, leading to rapid disinfection¹.

Unlike chlorine-based disinfectants, PAA does not produce harmful disinfection by-products. This is a significant advantage, as DBPs like trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) have been associated with health risks².

PAA decomposes quickly into acetic acid, water, and oxygen, leaving no harmful residues. This makes it an environmentally friendly option for water treatment². And, PAA maintains its efficacy across a wide pH range and is less affected by the presence of organic matter compared to other disinfectants. This makes it suitable for diverse water treatment applications¹.

Applications of Peracetic Acid

Peracetic acid’s versatility makes it a valuable tool increasingly used for water treatment due to its effectiveness and environmental benefits. A wide range of industries use PAA to improve operational efficiency and achieve greater environmentally responsible operations such as:

Municipal Wastewater Treatment

PAA is increasingly used in municipal wastewater treatment plants to disinfect effluent before discharge into water bodies. Its rapid action and minimal environmental impact make it an attractive alternative to chlorine².

Food and Beverage Industry

In the food and beverage industry, PAA is used to sanitize equipment, surfaces, and packaging materials. Its ability to break down into harmless by-products ensures that there is no risk of contamination³.

Oil & Gas

PAA is use as a biocide to control bacteria in water systems, reduce microbial contamination, control hydrogen sulfide levels, reduce iron sulfide emulsions and scale, as well as treat produced and flow-back water allowing for more sustainable operations that are less dependent upon fresh water.

Healthcare

PAA is employed in healthcare settings for sterilizing medical instruments and surfaces. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and rapid action are crucial for maintaining hygiene and preventing infections³.

Pulp and Paper Industry

PAA is used for bleaching and disinfecting paper products. Its strong oxidizing properties help achieve high levels of whiteness and microbial control⁴.

Cooling Towers

PAA is used in cooling towers to control microbial growth and biofilm formation. Its effectiveness in varying water conditions and rapid decomposition make it a preferred choice for maintaining system efficiency⁴.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Peracetic acid (PAA) is a safe and powerful oxidizing agent offering significant benefits. The Brainerd Chemical team helps our customers expand the use of this eco-friendly solution by overcoming commonly perceived challenges:

Handling and Safety Concerns

   – Challenge: PAA is a potent chemical that requires careful handling to prevent skin burns, respiratory issues, or other safety hazards.

   – Solution: Proper safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adequate ventilation, and proper storage practices, are critical. Additionally, training workers on safe handling procedures and emergency response can minimize risks.

Stability and Storage

   – Challenge: PAA can decompose over time, especially when exposed to light or heat, which reduces its effectiveness.

   – Solution: PAA should be stored in cool, dark conditions and used within its shelf life. Manufacturers often provide stabilized formulations of PAA to extend its stability.

Odor and Byproducts

   – Challenge: PAA has a strong vinegar-like odor, which can be unpleasant and may cause discomfort. It can also produce acetic acid and other byproducts that may affect water quality or require further treatment.

   – Solution: Proper dosing and ventilation can minimize odor issues. Additionally, the use of activated carbon or other treatment methods can help remove unwanted byproducts from treated water.

Dosing and Control

   – Challenge: Precise dosing of PAA is essential for effective treatment without overuse, which can lead to excess residuals or unwanted side reactions.

   – Solution: Automated dosing systems with real-time monitoring can ensure accurate application of PAA. These systems can adjust the dosage based on the water’s characteristics, such as organic load or microbial count, to optimize effectiveness.

Regulatory and Environmental Concerns

   – Challenge: There may be regulatory restrictions on the use of PAA, especially regarding discharge limits for byproducts like acetic acid. Environmental impacts need careful consideration.

   – Solution: Compliance with local and federal regulations is crucial. This may involve pre-treatment or post-treatment steps to ensure that discharge levels meet environmental standards. Conducting environmental impact assessments and working closely with regulators can help address these concerns.

Compatibility with Other Treatment Chemicals

   – Challenge: PAA may react with other treatment chemicals, leading to reduced efficacy or the formation of harmful byproducts.

   – Solution: Careful planning and coordination of chemical dosing schedules are required to avoid adverse interactions. Compatibility testing and consultation with chemical suppliers can guide the safe and effective integration of PAA into a water treatment program.

Cost

   – Challenge: PAA can appear to be more expensive than other disinfectants.

   – Solution: Cost concerns dissipate when considering the impact of PAA adoption across the complete water treatment operation including effectiveness, reduced safety issues, and substantially improved environmental outcomes. Additionally, optimizing the dosing and using PAA in conjunction with other treatment methods often reduces overall costs.

Learn How to Integrate PAA Into Your Operations

Organizations can take advantage of the benefits of PAA while minimizing potential downsides. There are a variety of resources available to learn more about implementing peracetic acid solutions for water treatment. The upcoming Association of Water Technologies (AWT) Annual Convention & Exposition in Louisville, KY is an ideal resource. A host of experts will be on hand including water treatment specialists from Brainerd Chemical Company. Attend educational sessions to build the skills that can have an immediate effect on the future direction of your business—and impact your bottom line. And the Exposition Hall offers a glimpse of the latest industry advances and live demonstrations of products and technologies that are changing the field of water treatment.

Looking Forward

The future of water treatment is promising with peracetic acid emerging as an effective and sustainable tool, offering broad-spectrum disinfection and minimal environmental impact. Its versatility makes it suitable for various applications across multiple industries, including municipal wastewater treatment, food and beverage, healthcare, pulp and paper, oil and gas, and cooling towers.

Ongoing research and development efforts are focused on improving its stability, reducing costs, and expanding applications.  to help industries prioritize environmentally responsible operations through sustainable water treatment solutions.

By embracing innovative technologies like peracetic acid, the water treatment industry can continue to evolve and meet the growing demands for safe and clean water through environmentally responsible solutions.

About Brainerd Chemical Company:

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent suppliers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States, manufacturing, blending, packaging and distributing chemical products to a wide variety of industrial sectors.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company

1 Emerging Trends In Disinfection Peracetic Acid – Water Online. https://www.wateronline.com/doc/emerging-trends-in-disinfection-peracetic-acid-0001.

2 How peracetic acid is changing wastewater treatment. https://cen.acs.org/environment/water/peracetic-acid-changing-wastewater-treatment/98/i15.

3 What You Need To Know About Peracetic Acid (PAA) For Water Treatment …. https://www.blue-white.com/article/what-you-need-to-know-about-peracetic-acid-paa-for-water-treatment/.

4 Formation of Halogenated Byproducts upon Water Treatment with Peracetic …. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/acs.est.1c06118.

Brainerd Chemical at the AWT 2024 Convention

Louisville, KY // August 22, 2024 // Brained Chemical Company, a leading innovator in water treatment solutions, is thrilled to announce its participation in the Association of Water Technologies (AWT) Annual Convention & Exposition, taking place from September 10-13, 2024, at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville, KY. Attendees are invited to visit Brained Chemical Company at Booth 141 to explore our latest products and services designed to meet the evolving challenges of water treatment.

The AWT Annual Convention & Exposition is the premier event for professionals in the water treatment industry, bringing together experts, innovators, and decision-makers from around the world. This year, Brained Chemical Company will be highlighting its cutting-edge solutions that address key industry challenges, including advanced water treatment chemicals, corrosion control strategies, and sustainable practices that align with today’s environmental standards.

What to Expect at Booth 141:

  • Innovative Water Treatment Chemical Solutions: Discover our latest chemical formulations engineered for efficiency and effectiveness across various industrial applications.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Explore how Brained Chemical Company is leading the charge in sustainable water treatment, with solutions that reduce environmental impact while maintaining superior performance.
  • Expert Consultations: Our team of experts will be on hand to discuss your specific water treatment challenges and provide tailored solutions to optimize your processes.
  • Corrosion Control Solutions: Learn about our state-of-the-art technologies designed to protect your equipment and infrastructure, ensuring long-term reliability.

“We are excited to be part of the AWT Annual Convention & Exposition, which is a key event for showcasing our latest innovations and connecting with industry professionals,” said David Potter, Water Treatment Specialist at Brained Chemical Company. “We look forward to engaging with attendees, learning about their most pressing challenges and demonstrating how our solutions can help them more effectively achieve their water treatment goals.”

Brained Chemical Company has been at the forefront of the water treatment industry for over 64 years, consistently delivering high-quality products and services that meet the diverse needs of our clients. Our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction sets us apart as a trusted partner in the industry.

Join us at Booth 141 to experience firsthand the cutting-edge technologies that the Brainerd Chemical team are developing to help create more sustainable water treatment solutions.

For more information about Brained Chemical Company and our products, please visit BrainerdChemical.com

About Brained Chemical Company

Brained Chemical Company is a leader in the water treatment industry, specializing in innovative chemical solutions, corrosion control, and sustainable practices. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on customer success, we provide cutting-edge products and services that help our clients achieve optimal water quality and system performance.

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company

Benefits of Eutectic Solutions

Brainerd Chemical Company is on a mission to lead change in the chemical industry. Eutectic solvents are just one of the many products our team supplies that provide environmentally friendly and effective alternatives to traditional products in order to drive more sustainable chemical solutions.

Eutectic Solvents Offer Broad Benefits:

Eutectic solvents are a powerful tool for advancing green manufacturing efforts. Their environmental benefits, cost-effectiveness, versatility and scalability make them an attractive alternative to traditional solvents, helping manufacturers reduce their ecological footprint while improving process efficiency and sustainability.

Key benefits of eutectic solvents:

  1. Reduced Environmental Impact. Many eutectic solvents offer biodegradability and low toxicity. Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) are derived from natural, non-toxic components. Eutectic solvents are typically a non-toxic and low VOC alternative compared to traditional organic solvents.
  2. Sustainability and Resource Efficiency. Eutectic solvents can be made from readily available, renewable resources, such as sugars, organic acids, and amino acids, reducing dependency on petroleum-based chemicals and fostering a more sustainable supply chain.
  3. Versatility and Customization Across a Wide Range of Applications. Eutectic solvents can be tailored allowing manufacturers to optimize solvents for process precision and efficiency. And they offer enhanced solubility, including in both polar and non-polar compounds, making them ideal for diverse applications without the need for multiple solvents.
  4. Process Improvement and Waste Reduction. Eutectic solvents often facilitate milder reaction conditions, which can enhance reaction rates and yields, reduce the formation of by-products, and minimize the need for harsh chemicals or catalysts. This can lead to cleaner processes with fewer impurities and less waste generation. Recovery and reuse are simplified due to their stabile and non-volatile nature, reducing solvent waste and lowering overall production costs.
  5. Scalability. Eutectic solutions can be produced and implemented on a large scale able to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly products and solutions.
  6. Reduced Regulatory Compliance Liability. Eutectic solvents can help manufacturers comply with increasingly stringent environmental and safety regulations, reducing the risk of fines and penalties.
  7. Consumer and Market Appeal. The use of eutectic solvents can enhance a company’s reputation and competitiveness as consumers and industries increasingly demand greener products and processes.

Types of Eutectic Solvents

Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) are a class of eutectic solvents typically formed by mixing a hydrogen bond donor (HBD) and a hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA). They are often created by mixing a quaternary ammonium salt, such as choline chloride, with a hydrogen bond donor like urea, glycerol, or an organic acid.

DES are biodegradable and non-toxic, easily prepared by simple mixing without requiring complex synthesis, offer a wide liquid range and high thermal stability.

DES may be used as green solvents in chemical reactions, extractions, and separations.

Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) are a subclass of DES that are formed using natural compounds such as sugars, amino acids, and organic acids. They mimic natural environments within cells and are considered more biocompatible.

NADES are made from entirely natural, renewable components, have a high solubilization capacity for biomolecules, are used in the extraction of bioactive compounds from plants, and serve as media for enzymatic reactions and other biotechnological processes.

Eutectic Solvent Applications

  1. Chemical Reactions: Used as reaction media for green chemistry processes, promoting more sustainable and efficient chemical reactions.
  2. Extraction and Separation: Employed in the extraction of valuable compounds from natural sources, such as plants and minerals, and in the separation of chemical mixtures.
  3. Electrochemistry: Used in electroplating, batteries, and capacitors due to their ionic nature and ability to conduct electricity.
  4. Biotechnology: Serve as solvents in enzymatic reactions and processes involving biomolecules, such as protein and nucleic acid solubilization.
  5. Pharmaceuticals: Used in drug delivery systems and formulations to enhance the solubility and stability of pharmaceutical compounds.

The Takeaway

Brainerd Chemical Company embraces eutectic solvents, particularly deep eutectic solvents (DES) and natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES), because they represent an innovative and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional solvents. Their unique properties, such as low melting points, high solubility, and non-toxicity, make them suitable for a wide range of applications, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable and versatile chemical processes.

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent suppliers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States. They specialize in manufacturing, blending, packaging, and distributing chemical products across a diverse range of industrial sectors.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company

The Power of Just-in-Time Chemical Manufacturing

At Brainerd Chemical Company, we’ve embraced JIT to deliver custom solutions, ensuring optimal performance and reduced waste for our clients.

Just-in-Time (JIT) manufacturing is more than a buzzword—it’s an approach that helps businesses streamline operations and improve competitiveness. By producing and receiving goods precisely when needed, Brainerd Chemical Company helps maximize efficiency and minimize waste compared to traditional manufacturing models requiring cumbersome and less efficient inventory management solutions.

Specialized JIT Solutions for Mixed Acids

Brainerd Chemical excels in providing JIT solutions for mixed acid supply that provides customers with precise and reliable on-demand delivery, ensuring the highest quality and compliance with safety standards. This comprehensive service allows for seamless integration into your production process, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste.

Brainerd offers custom formulations, toll manufacturing, blending batch sizes from 55 to 40,000 gallons, solid material buffering, white-label packaging, storage, distribution and transportation. We safely supply difficult-to-handle products such as 99% and 65% nitric acid, 70% and 50% hydrofluoric acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, citric, lactic, phosphoric acid, and many other chemicals.

Learn more about Brainerd Chemical mixed acid capabilities.

Comparing Conventional and JIT Chemical Production

Conventional Chemical Production: This traditional method involves producing and storing large quantities of pre-blended chemicals. While it offers supply chain resiliency and benefits from economies of scale, it also comes with significant drawbacks. Storage costs can skyrocket, and there’s always the risk of materials becoming obsolete or spoiling over time.

JIT Chemical Production: Our JIT model involves blending smaller quantities of chemicals to exact specifications on a per-order basis. This approach reduces storage costs, minimizes waste, and allows for greater customization. Our focus on quality management and continuous process improvement means we work closely with manufacturers to fine-tune solutions for their specific challenges, achieving the best possible results.

How JIT Works in the Chemical Sector

Here’s a step-by-step look at how our JIT process operates, highlighting its adaptability and efficiency:

1. Demand Forecasting and Inventory Management:

   – Analyze customer production data to anticipate chemical needs.

   – Maintain minimal raw material inventory, leveraging a network of suppliers for quick procurement.

2. Production Planning and Chemical Blending:

   – Schedule blending operations to match customer demand and delivery schedules.

   – Use automated systems for precise mixing and blending to meet customer specifications.

3. Quality Control and Packaging:

   – Perform rigorous quality checks to ensure products meet standards.

   – Package chemicals safely with clear handling instructions.

4. Logistics and Delivery:

   – Coordinate logistics to ensure timely deliveries, using real-time tracking to monitor shipments and adjust as needed.

5. Customer Integration and Feedback:

   – Deliver chemicals directly to customer production lines.

   – Gather feedback to refine processes and drive continuous improvements.

Core Benefits of JIT Chemical Production

Reduced Waste: By delivering exact quantities on a consistent schedule, JIT minimizes waste from spoilage, obsolescence, and mismanagement. Companies operating with large reserves may become complacent, but JIT encourages lean operations and careful resource management.

Cost Efficiency: JIT avoids the upfront costs of mass production and storage, instead focusing on just-in-time delivery to reduce holding and management costs. This frees up capital for strategic investments in innovation and quality improvements.

Customization and Flexibility: JIT enhances the ability to customize chemical blends to precise specifications, allowing manufacturers to quickly adapt to market demands or regulatory changes. This flexibility helps maintain competitiveness and responsiveness in a dynamic market.

The Takeaway

JIT production is transformative for the chemical industry, offering efficiency, waste reduction, and significant flexibility. By aligning production and delivery with customer demand, JIT minimizes inventory needs, cuts storage costs, and mitigates risks associated with spoilage and obsolescence. This approach supports better resource management and cost savings while enabling manufacturers to quickly adapt to industry changes and customer needs. At Brainerd Chemical Company, we’re proud to provide JIT solutions across a wide range of manufacturing sectors, including metal treatments, coatings, process chemicals, and wastewater management.

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent suppliers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States. They specialize in manufacturing, blending, packaging, and distributing chemical products across a diverse range of industrial sectors.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Celebrates 5 Years of PAA Innovation

The 5th anniversary of Brainerd Chemical’s Danville facility opening reminds us of the progressive steps our leadership team have taken to streamline our distribution processes and expand our capabilities into a strategic hybrid supply network that provides customers with flexible PAA solutions and a resiliently dependable supply chain that maximizes efficiencies.

With the addition of two state-of-the-art PAA production facilities – our Scooba, MS location opening in 2022 and Seaford, DE in 2023, President Brian Miller commented, “We are excited about how our strategic network streamlines our customers supply chain through the highest quality products, packaged to their specifications and safely delivered on demand.”

Brainerd Chemical companies’ hybrid supplier model allows our customers to boost bottom line growth through fully integrated services. Simplifying operations through a single partner reduces potential biases and inefficiencies often inherent within traditional supply practices by unifying three fundamental supply chain benefits:

Product Manufacturing Expertise –highly skilled chemical experts offer in-house blending, quality control, custom solutions, and flexible production capabilities.

Logistics Services – robust warehouse, inventory management and inbound/outbound logistics capabilities provide lower total system costs by consolidating inventory across the entire supply chain, including taking inventory off customers’ floors and delivering goods on an as-needed basis.

Integrated Solutions – such as custom packaging and white-label solutions further streamline operations, reduce operational costs and accelerate time-to-market.

Growing PAA Demand

With the rise of PAA as a preferred sanitizer, disinfectant, sterilant and bleach across a broad range of industries, sourcing from a hybrid supplier able to provide reliable supply-chain resilience is a critical advantage.

The market for PAA is projected to grow significantly, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the United States of 5.1% and 7.4% globally through 2028.

A major factor contributing to this growth is the increased use of PAA in industrial wastewater treatment, where it is favored for its effectiveness as a disinfectant and its environmentally friendly properties. The disinfectant segment is expected to hold 41.2% of the market share in 2024 due to its extensive use in industries such as food processing, healthcare, and agriculture​.

Water treatment facilities are eager to transition to peracetic acid products as they aim to meet stringent regulatory standards and efficiently control microbial contamination and biofilm formation with safer, more eco-friendly solutions.

In healthcare, the demand for PAA is projected to account for 34.3% of the market share in 2024, driven by its application in sterilizing medical instruments, surfaces, and equipment.

Oil and gas producers use PAA to scavenge hydrogen sulfide, iron sulfide, and other contaminants from drilling, completion, and production waters while avoiding the harmful byproducts and safety hazards of traditional chemicals.

Hybrid Supplier Benefits to Buyers

Integrating a hybrid supplier like Brainerd Chemical into your supply chain helps companies by:

  • Growth-focused advice. With growth mindset and resources to execute, hybrid suppliers bring innovations that help reduce expenses, accelerate revenue growth and improve safe and responsible operations to you.
  • Comprehensive solutions: Through a comprehensive solution portfolio, hybrid suppliers often facilitate growth and reveal cost savings through experience, analysis, and access to a wide array of services for different customers helping you be more efficient and potentially boost your growth trajectory.
  • Reduced overhead: Through strategic logistics networks, hybrid suppliers can hold and deliver goods on-demand, freeing up storage, handling, insuring, and administration resources.
  • Flexibility and speed to market: Improve time to market through lower minimum-order sizes and in-stock availability. This allows for faster time-to-market for you.
  • Turnkey services and SPOC coordination: One call can replace many while also improving quality consistency and ensuring acute accountability. The same consolidation role benefits geographically spread organizations, where hybrid suppliers like Brainerd provide a strategic network serving your full business footprint.
  • Simplified operations: With a wide array of products, valuable services, and flexible solutions, a hybrid supplier can replace many single-purpose vendors. Our single-point of contact allows you to cut back on administration and focus on what you do best.

Conclusion

By integrating advanced production facilities and leveraging a hybrid supplier model, Brainerd Chemical provides its customers with unparalleled efficiency, reliability, and customized solutions. The company’s commitment to quality, logistics, and integrated services not only streamlines operations but also supports significant bottom-line growth for its clients. As the demand for PAA continues to rise across various industries, Brainerd is well-positioned to meet these needs with innovative and eco-friendly solutions. This comprehensive approach meets current market demands while anticipating significant future growth. Celebrating five years of success at the Danville facility marks just the beginning of Brainerd’s continued evolution and leadership in providing exceptional PAA solutions.

About Brainerd Chemical Company:

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent suppliers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States, manufacturing, blending, packaging and distributing chemical products to a wide variety of industrial sectors.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Joins Omni Chem 136 Alliance

Tulsa, OK // January 1, 2024 // Brainerd Chemical Company, a leading U.S. based chemical manufacturer and hybrid distributor headquartered in Tulsa, OK, has joined the Omni-Chem 136 alliance effective January 1, 2024.

Omni-Chem 136 is the largest global alliance of regional independent chemical distributors working to provide an extensive range of supply chain solutions for both customers and chemical manufacturers throughout the Americas and Europe.

“The Omni-Chem 136 alliance of world class companies offers the blueprint for Brainerd’s evolving and ever-changing focus on the business of chemistry.” says Mathew Brainerd, CEO Brainerd Chemical Company, Inc. “I appreciate the Omni-Chem 136 member companies welcoming the Brainerd team and I look forward to rolling up my sleeves as together we write the next chapter for innovation.”

Fred A. Buehler, Managing Director Omni-Chem 136 commented, “Their [Brainerd Chemical Company] unwavering commitment to innovative customer solutions, safety and responsible distribution aligns with the values of the Omni-Chem alliance. Together we look forward to working alongside Brainerd Chemical to push the boundaries of what is possible through our global alliance of independent chemical distributors.”

About the Omni-Chem 136 Alliance:

With more than 150 locations, 40 million gallons of bulk storage, 8 million square feet of warehousing capacity and 2,400 employees, the Omni-Chem136 alliance has the capability, experience and resources for large scale integrated chemical distribution while at the same time delivering products and services to customers in a flexible, personalized approach, typical of a smaller scale independent distributor. The 16 member companies are globally competitive and locally responsive, offering a diversified range of products and services that touch essentially every segment of the chemical industry from commodity industrial chemicals to specialty ingredients.

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical is one of the largest independent providers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States. Brainerd Chemical manufactures, blends, packages and distributes custom industrial chemical products serving a broad array of industries.

Media Inquiries

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

Omni-Chem 136:  www.omni-chem.com

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company & Omni-Chem 136, LLC

Supporting STEM Learning

Lansdowne, VA // June 24, 2024 — Brainerd Chemical Company is thrilled to champion STEM education as a proud sponsor of the first-ever Swings for STEM golf tournament. Today’s event hosted by the American Chemistry Council (ACC) and the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD supports of the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI).

Lucinda Shofer, Chief Operating Officer of the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) commented, “Special thanks from the ACD team to our members, Brainerd Chemical Co., Inc., Brenntag and Catalynt™ (formerly TRInternational) for supporting this event. Your generosity will fund several scholarships for Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) scholars. Looking forward to next year!”

Brian Miller, President of Brainerd Chemical, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Supporting students in their pursuit of STEM education is a cause close to our hearts. These future innovators will drive us towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking world. We’re eager to see the remarkable contributions they will make.”

The tournament saw nearly 100 participants, including professionals from the chemical industry, affiliated associations, Congressional staff, and representatives from Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). The event was a hub for meaningful discussions about the importance of STEM and its critical role in the future of the chemical industry and our nation. Eric R. Byer, President & CEO of ACD, remarked, “This week’s event represents an important step in investing in the future of our workforce so that we can continue to demonstrate the value of our industry among students nationwide.”

In today’s competitive global economy, fostering growth and creating opportunities for diverse, young talent is more crucial than ever. FOSSI is dedicated to bridging the STEM workforce gap in the chemical industry by supporting scholars who would otherwise not have access to a STEM education by eliminating financial barriers. Thanks to the generous support Brainerd Chemical Company and over 20 sponsoring organizations, the event successfully raised $75,000 for this powerfully impactful scholarship initiative.

About the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI)

Launched in 2020 by the American Chemistry Council, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), The Chemours Company, and the HBCU Week Foundation, FOSSI is a national initiative that offers scholarships to students pursuing degrees in STEM at HBCUs. With funding from over 70 chemical industry stakeholders, the program has supported more than 600 scholars through 2025 with scholarship recipients representing 30+ states, with students attending 42 HBCUs.

Since its inception, thousands of high school students across the nation have applied for FOSSI scholarships, demonstrating both the urgent need for this program and the enormous pool of untapped talent.

FOSSI will welcome 150 new scholars in the fall of 2025 providing program recipients with a four year scholarship as well as leadership development, mentoring, and internship opportunities. For more information, visit futureofstemscholars.org

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent suppliers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States. They specialize in manufacturing, blending, packaging, and distributing chemical products across a diverse range of industrial sectors.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company, The American Chemistry Council, The Alliance for Chemical Distributors and the Future of Stem Scholars Initiative (FOSSI).

Safety First

Tuttle, OK // June 12, 2024 // Brainerd Chemical Company proactively works to ensure swift emergency response and containment by engaging with local area first responders and emergency management planners to develop relationships, improve communication and amplify first responder facility layout knowledge.

Brainerd Chemicals’ Tuttle facility supplies energy producers and the food safety industry with the chemical products and guidance they need for more efficient, effective, and environmentally responsible operations.

Every Brainerd employee is expected to promote a culture of safety by continuously striving for the safest way forward. And every employee is empowered to stop, review, and improve any process they feel can be made safer. It’s an approach that helps our team foster a positive, healthier environment for our staff, customers, and the communities we live and work in.

Brainerd Chemical strives for open, transparent, and frequent communication with the local, state, and federal organizations taking a proactive approach to responsible operations. “Safety is at the forefront of everything we do,” says Garrett Woodson, Operations/Logistics Manager.

Garrett and his team regularly host a two-hour facility tour and lunch meetings with local emergency management teams. The process helps build invaluable relationships, accelerate communication, and provide first responders with the critical on-site familiarization they need to expedite response times, reduce human risks and help minimize potential environmental damage in the event of an emergency.

Jessica Lane, reporter for the Chickahsa Express-Star learned a lot when she joined the Grady County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) for a facility tour. All operations are shut down during the tour, ensuring a safe and comprehensive learning opportunity.

Lane noted that Brainerd Chemical Company has a unique “constant visual” of safe operations. Safety features are engineered into every square foot in the facility such as the sloped floors nearly everywhere the LEPC group walked. Woodson explained that keeping all chemicals off the ground is a priority. Although barely perceptible if not pointed out, sloped floors direct any spilled material towards a retention area where they can be safely remediated.

Overhead, the Brainerd facility has specialized, explosion-proof lighting, as well as highly sensitive sensors able to detect chemical leaks and prevent potential emergencies before they happen. Should a situation occur, a fire suppression system is in place able to provide 21 minutes of continuous flow to quickly knock-down flames.

Integrated physical safety systems are only as effective as the people and culture behind them. At Brainerd, every employee is expected to focus on safety and improve any process in pursuit of a healthier environment for staff, customers, and the neighboring communities.

About Brainerd Chemical Company:

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent suppliers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States, manufacturing, blending, packaging and distributing chemical products to a wide variety of industrial sectors.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE:

Brainerd Chemical Company, Chickasha Express News, Grady County LEPC & City of Tuttle Fire Department

Brainerd Brings Family Festival to Tulsa Tough

Tulsa, OK // June 8, 2024 // In partnership with Tulsa Tough, Brainerd Chemical Company presents the first-ever Brainerd Family Festival on Guthrie Green during the FC Tulsa Arts District Criterium bicycle race.

Free and open to everyone, the Brainerd Family Festival on Guthrie Green provides the best seat in the house where families can cool off in the shade while watching the crit race excitement. It’s an extension of how Brainerd puts CARE into action every day through our philanthropic involvement in the communities where we work and live. This event provides a variety of amusements for the whole family to enjoy including face painting, inflatables, yard games, the Saint Francis Bear Clinic, and much more. And, the first 300 Saint Franics Tulsa Tough Kids Race participants receive a free t-shirt.

One of Tulsa’s most beloved traditions, Saint Francis Tulsa Tough, is a unique three-day cycling festival experience for racers, riders, and spectators, all centered in beautiful downtown Tulsa and along the banks of the Arkansas River. The event attracts professional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts from around the world. It’s an amazing event that showcases a wide variety of cycling races, rides and events, encouraging people to have fun and stay active while raising funds for worthy Tulsa causes through the Tulsa Community Foundation.

About Brainerd Chemical Company:

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent suppliers of chemicals and related services in the continental United States, manufacturing, blending, packaging and distributing chemical products to a wide variety of industrial sectors.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company:  1+ (918) 622-1214

SOURCE: Saint Francis Tulsa Tough and Brainerd Chemical Company

HCl Supply Chain Resilience

For hydrochloric acid (HCl) customers, navigating supply complexities involves much more than finding any supplier. It requires partnering with a company that helps them navigate safety and regulatory compliance, delivers supply resilience, and customizes solutions to their specific needs.

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the most trusted domestic suppliers of HCl providing safe, consistent, and cost-effective supply for a vast array of industries. What makes Brainerd unique is our ability to help customers through responsible regulatory compliance, supply chain resilience, and uniquely tailored solutions.

Responsible HCl Supply

The corrosiveness and reactivity properties that make HCl so valuable also make its handling, transportation, and storage challenging. This is where Brainerd Chemical shines, setting industry benchmarks for safety and stringent regulatory compliance.

Our team helps customers mitigate risks, navigate evolving regulatory challenges, maintain safety, improve sustainability, and protect our environment while maintaining efficient operations.

Brainerd Chemical’s robust safety protocols ensure that every aspect of HCl handling — from procurement and blending to storage and distribution — is conducted under the highest safety standards. Our comprehensive approach includes:

  • Rigorous Training Programs: Every Brainerd Chemical team member undergoes extensive training in HCl handling and emergency response, ensuring that the latest safety practices are second nature.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Brainerd storage and transportation solutions are designed with safety and compliance at their core, using the latest technology to mitigate risks protecting people and the environment.
  • Proactive Regulatory Compliance: Brainerd works closely with regulatory authorities to meet, exceed and set safety and environmental standards.

With an eye towards the future, Brainerd Chemical responds to today’s challenges and actively invests in sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. We help customers reduce operational waste and explore greener alternatives. By aligning our business practices with our environmental responsibilities, we aim to lead by example in our industry, showing that safety, compliance, and sustainability can go hand-in-hand with operational efficiency.

Supply Chain Resilience

Brainerd Chemical excels at providing consistent and reliable HCl supply for our customers. Through our diversified partner network, strategic stockpiling and hybrid distribution network the Brainerd team ensures reliable HCl supply that consistently overcomes global shortages and logistical hurdles. This robust supply chain resilience is a testament to Brainerd’s commitment to serving its customers’ needs, regardless of the external market conditions.

Strategic Stockpiling

By maintaining robust inventories across our nationwide network of facilities, we can rapidly respond to fluctuating demand and

Customized Solutions

Understanding that every customer’s needs are unique, we offer tailored services ranging from custom blending to just-in-time delivery schedules.

Brainerd helps customers overcome the challenges associated with HCl procurement and application. Through a combination of specialized products, stringent quality controls, and supply chain agility, our team overcomes HCl supply challenges, proving time and again its value as a pivotal player in the chemical supply industry.

Tailored HCl Solutions

Brainerd effectively supplies industries where the demand for hydrochloric acid is as varied as its applications. Customers across diverse sectors from pharmaceuticals to petrochemicals, face unique challenges that require more than just off-the-shelf solutions.

At the heart of Brainerd Chemical’s success lies a deep commitment to understanding the nuanced requirements of each customer and offering unparalleled expertise and flexibility in delivering customized HCL solutions.

Understanding Customer Needs

The first step in Brainerd Chemical’s approach involves a detailed analysis of each customer’s specific HCl needs. This process includes understanding the industry’s regulatory environment, the intended application of the acid, and any particular challenges the customer might be facing, such as supply chain reliability, storage limitations or custom packaging needs.

Unparalleled Quality

Brainerd Chemical doesn’t stop at just meeting customer specifications. The company also places a high emphasis on providing the finest quality, ensuring that HCl products are available in specific grades and concentrations.

Innovative Packaging and Delivery Options

Understanding that the handling and transportation of HCl can pose significant challenges, Brainerd Chemical offers innovative packaging and delivery solutions designed to ensure product integrity and safety. From specially designed containers that minimize the risks to flexible delivery schedules that ensure timely replenishment, Brainerd goes the extra mile to address the logistical concerns of its customers.

Brainerd Chemical Company HCl Solutions

Hydrochloric Acid is a critical component in a multitude of applications ranging from pH control in water treatment processes to use in food production, pharmaceuticals, and various manufacturing processes. The demand for HCl is constant and spans a broad spectrum of industries, making its supply a pivotal concern for businesses reliant on this indispensable chemical.

Brainerd Chemical Company provides robust solutions to provide safe, efficient and reliable HCl supply for diverse clientele needs.

Unwavering Supply in Various Concentrations

One of the standout features of Brainerd Chemical’s offering is the daily supply of Hydrochloric Acid in concentrations ranging from 1 – 36%. This flexibility allows Brainerd to cater to the specific needs of different industries and applications, ensuring that clients receive HCl that precisely matches their requirements. Whether it’s for industrial-scale pH adjustments or for delicate use in food processing, Brainerd Chemical ensures its clients have access to the exact concentration of HCl they need.

Custom Packaging and Hybrid Distribution Solutions

Understanding the variegated needs of its clientele, Brainerd Chemical offers HCl in various packaging options — drums, totes, or bulk tanker quantities. This versatility in packaging and volume options signifies Brainerd’s commitment to providing tailored solutions, accommodating both small and large-scale HCl requirements.

The nimbleness of Brainerd’s hybrid distribution network sets it apart in the chemical supply industry. This well-orchestrated supply chain infrastructure allows Brainerd Chemical to deliver HCl efficiently and reliably, minimizing delays and ensuring that clients’ operations remain uninterrupted. The hybrid nature of the distribution network, combining multiple transport and storage strategies, ensures flexibility and resilience in the face of supply chain challenges.

  • Brainerd supplies Hydrochloric Acid every day in concentrations from 1 – 36%
  • Brainerd supplies HCl in drums, totes or bulk tanker through our hybrid distribution network

A Partner for HCl Customers

In a world where the chemical supply can often be unpredictable, Brainerd Chemical stands out for its reliability, flexibility, and dedication to customer service. Its innovative approach to HCl supply and distribution exemplifies how understanding customer needs and tailoring solutions accordingly can lead to enduring success and customer satisfaction.

For businesses looking for a steady hand in navigating the complexities of Hydrochloric Acid supply, Brainerd Chemical offers a blueprint for excellence and partnership, ensuring that HCl needs are not just met but exceeded.

Brainerd Chemicals Dedication to Environmental Stewardship

In the face of global supply challenges, Brainerd Chemical stands out as a beacon of sustainability and reliability for Hydrochloric Acid customers. With an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative supply solutions, Brainerd Chemical is not just overcoming these hurdles; it’s setting a new standard for the industry.

The company’s investment in eco-friendly production technologies marks a significant advance in sustainable chemical manufacturing. By adopting processes that produce less waste and consume fewer resources, Brainerd Chemical not only reduces its ecological footprint but also offers customers HCl products that are responsibly manufactured.

Brainerd Chemical’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with its own operations. The company actively assists its HCl customers in minimizing their environmental impact through strategic consultation. This comprehensive support extends to helping customers understand and implement best practices for HCl storage and use, further enhancing safety and sustainability. Through ongoing education and resources, Brainerd Chemical ensures that its customers are well-equipped to use HCl in the most environmentally responsible manner possible.

The Indispensable Nature of Hydrochloric Acid

Hydrochloric Acid (HCl), also known as muriatic acid, is one of the most widely used chemicals in the world today. HCl is a clear, colorless solution of hydrogen chloride in water, and is a strong, corrosive mineral acid.

It’s pivotal in producing organic compounds like dichloroethane and vinyl chloride for PVC production, to its critical role in maintaining the pH balance in food, pharmaceuticals, and drinking water production.

Hydrochloric acid is integral to our modern world with many common uses, including:

  • Chemical synthesis and production as a powerful catalyst aiding chemical reactions that facilitate the creation of essential compounds in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride).
  • Wastewater treatment is aided by the potent acidic properties which helps neutralize harmful pollutants, heavy metals, and alkaline substances present in wastewater to mitigate environmental hazards. By employing hydrochloric acid in wastewater treatment, industries demonstrate their commitment to eco-friendly practices and sustainable operations.
  • Metal cleaning and pickling in metal fabrication and manufacturing. Metal surfaces often accumulate rust, scale, and other impurities. Through the pickling process, hydrochloric acid efficiently removes these impurities, preparing the metal for further processing, such as coating or welding. The result is clean, smooth, and corrosion-resistant surfaces, significantly enhancing the quality of metal products.
  • Regulating the pH level in a wide variety of manufacturing processes including the production of drinking water, food, and pharmaceuticals. Maintaining the right pH levels is critical in numerous industrial applications. Hydrochloric acid acts as a reliable pH adjuster, ensuring optimal conditions for different processes. It helps stabilize pH levels in swimming pools, food processing, and even in the petroleum industry during oil well acidizing. The precise pH control offered by hydrochloric acid is essential for the efficiency and safety of various operations.
  • Oil and gas industry relies on hydrochloric acid for removing drilling mud and stimulating well production. Through acidizing hydrochloric acid is a key component in enhancing oil and gas extraction. Its effectiveness in dissolving carbonate formations ensures improved reservoir permeability, ultimately leading to increased yields.
  • Regeneration of ion exchange resins widely used for water softening, demineralization, and purification processes. Over time, these resins become saturated with unwanted ions and lose their efficacy. Hydrochloric acid effectively regenerates these resins, restoring their ion-exchange capacity and extending their lifespan. This process not only optimizes water treatment but also reduces operational costs.
  • Food processing and beverage producers rely on HCl as a sanitizing agent and pH regulator. It ensures food safety by neutralizing pathogens and undesirable microorganisms, extending the shelf life of products. Additionally, hydrochloric acid plays a vital role in the production of beverages like soft drinks and breweries, contributing to their consistent flavor and quality. It is used in the processing of various additives like fructose, citric acid, and hydrolyzed vegetable protein. And HCL is used tin purifying table salt.

Looking Ahead

Brainerd Chemical’s innovative approach to overcoming HCl supply challenges demonstrates that it is possible to maintain market competitiveness while adhering to principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Looking to the future, Brainerd Chemical continues to explore new technologies and methodologies that will further reduce the ecological footprint of HCL production and distribution.

For Hydrochloric Acid customers searching for a partner who values both product reliability and environmental responsibility, Brainerd Chemical represents an ideal choice. Through its sustainable practices, innovative supply chain solutions, and commitment to customer education, Brainerd Chemical is not just a chemical supplier; it’s a leader in the shift towards a more sustainable chemical industry.

Brainerd Chemical’s efforts to ensure a stable, responsible HCl supply not only benefits its customers but also contributes significantly to global conservation efforts, positioning Brainerd Chemical at the forefront of sustainable chemical supply solutions.

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the largest independent providers of chemicals and related services in the United States. As a manufacturer and hybrid distributor with a strategic network of facilities located in Oklahoma, Illinois, North Carolina, Mississippi, and Delaware. Brainerd Chemical Companies’ dedicated team of engineers, chemists and skilled technicians are high-hazard chemistry specialists proudly leading the way in safe, responsible chemical manufacturing and supply. https://brainerdchemical.com

Media Inquiries

1.918.622.1214

@Brainerd Chemical Company

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company