Leading Oil & Gas Producers Shift to PAA Biocide Programs

Faced with rising costs and tighter sustainability regulations, oil and gas producers are under pressure to improve their water management practices. Leading industry executives are shifting away from traditional microbial control chemistries in favor of PAA-based biocides with the ability to enhance productivity while safeguarding people, assets, and the environment.

PAA biocides offer significant benefits to oil and gas producers by optimizing hydrocarbon recovery processes, reducing freshwater demand and related costs, enhancing safety, and mitigating regulatory risks. Unlike traditional chemicals like glutaraldehyde or THPS, PAA is an environmentally friendly option.

Traditional biocides like CIO2 can be effective, but they pose significant risks concerning safe handling and potential contamination of wells and groundwater. On the other hand, peracetic acid-based products provide broad-spectrum effectiveness while reducing risks to both humans and the environment. And they minimize adverse interactions with other chemicals present in frac fluids, such as friction reducers and scale inhibitors.

Reducing Infrastructure Costs by Recycling Fracking Water

High producing operators actively work to reduce water use which is why the adoption of PAA biocides is growing exponentially. Water is crucial in the fracking process. It creates fracking fluid; initiates pressure at the start of operations and is key for cleanup and debris flushing. Over the years, the water required per well has steadily increased. Geology and multiple other factors influence water demand at the well site. According to the American Petroleum Institute (API), a typical fracking operation utilizes around 4 million gallons of water per well. Reusing and recycling frack water increases operational efficiency by reducing costs related to sourcing, transporting, and storing fresh water.

Pros and Cons of Chlorine Dioxide for Microbial Control

Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) has been a popular choice for microbial control in the oil and gas industry, but there is a misconception that it can handle all microbial issues on its own. Operators need to be aware that while effective in various applications, its efficacy decreases after initial topside decontamination.  High doses are needed to eliminate bacteria during fracturing operations, which can lead to corrosion and reduced productivity. It’s crucial for industry professionals to realize that no single biocide is effective in every production phase. Successful microbial control requires a customized program that uses the right biocide for each specific phase and application.

Comprehensive Microbial Prevention and Control Programs

To effectively prevent microbial contamination in oil and gas operations, a structured approach across three main phases—preparing the water, decontaminating the well, and protecting the reservoir—is essential. At Brainerd, we tailor our biocide recommendations to the specific needs of each phase, considering factors like temperature, salinity, and both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, along with the control duration required.

During water injection, native downhole populations, along with microbes introduced with the water, can lead to bacterial contamination in wells. Introducing a potent biocide into drilling and stimulation fluids is critical for gaining initial control. It is equally important to manage microbial growth in the reservoir continuously. Biocides capable of maintaining their effectiveness under high temperatures, pressures, and salinities are crucial to prevent issues like reservoir souring, asset corrosion, and the formation of in situ biofilms over time.

Expert Microbial Control Advice and Service

Brainerd Chemical Company water treatment technologies are effective against a broad spectrum of micro-organisms over a wide pH range. Operators use our chemistries to reduce bacteria, hydrogen sulfide, iron sulfide and other oilfield contaminates in topside and downhole applications without the harmful byproducts and safety risks associated with traditional chemistries. 

Whether you need treatment technologies for injection water or produced water reuse or disposal, Brainerd Chemical microbial control solutions will help you control costs, meet specifications and reduce regulatory risks. We support you with proven biocide chemistries, reliable service and a proven team of experts able to advise you.

Our Terrastat® line of specialty peracetic acid biocides can be utilized during drilling, fracturing, productivity enhancement, and secondary recovery as a biocide and oxidizer. And they are compatible with other water treatment chemicals and work in a variety of water-intensive applications.

ProductBlendTypical ApplicationsUses
Terrastat® 15-S16% peracetic acid and 10.5% hydrogen peroxide.Scavenge hydrogen sulfide, iron sulfide, and other contaminants from drilling, completion, and production waters.Well drilling operations. Formation fracturing operations. Productivity enhancement systems. Secondary recovery systems. Pipeline and tank maintenance. Drilling muds, fracturing fluids, well squeezed fluids Flooding, injection and produced water sanitation.  
Terrastat® 1522-S16% peracetic acid and 23% hydrogen peroxideControl anaerobic sulfide-forming bacteria or aerobic slime forming bacteria.Fresh or recycled waters. Secondary recovery systems. Pipeline and tank maintenance. Drilling muds, fracturing fluids, well squeezed fluids. Flooding, injection and produced water sanitation.  
Terrastat® 2223.5% peracetic acid and 9% hydrogen peroxide.Scavenge hydrogen sulfide, iron sulfide, and other contaminants from drilling, completion, and production waters.Drilling muds. Workover & completion fluids. Water flooding operations. Saltwater disposals and injection wells.  
Terrastat® 22-S22% peracetic acid and 5% hydrogen peroxide.Scavenge hydrogen sulfide, iron sulfide, and other contaminants from drilling, completion, and production waters.Drilling muds. Packing fluid. Secondary oil recovery systems.  

Optimizing Energy Production Through PAA

Oilfield microbial control methods are constantly evolving. And, with pressure from rising operational costs and environmental regulation risks, leading operators are incorporating PAA-based biocides into their microbial control programs to boost productivity while safeguarding personnel, assets, and the environment.

Microbial control methods in oilfields are continually advancing, making it essential for operators to ensure their programs are optimized at every stage of production.

Partnering with a trusted PAA biocide supplier like Brainerd Chemical Company offers operators essential technical expertise and exceptional service to help them continually optimize operations through every stage of production.  

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is a leading manufacturer and supplier of innovative technologies and peroxyacetic acid formulations, delivering wide-ranging solutions that optimize water treatment improving safe, efficient and environmentally responsible operations. Through our hybrid distribution network, our team delivers a complete line of EPA and FDA approved products for a variety of industries including oil & gas production, industrial water treatment, meat and poultry processing, food & beverage, agriculture, animal health, wastewater treatment and more.

Media Inquiries:

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

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company.

Brainerd Chemical Thrives at WEFTEC 2024

Brainerd Chemical shares industry insights at WEFTEC 2024

New Orleans, LA, USA // Oct 12, 2024 — Brainerd Chemical Company is proud to lead the way in water treatment at the WEFTEC 2024 exhibition and conference in New Orleans October 5-9th. David Potter, Water Treatment Specialist, Brainerd Chemical Company commented, “WEFTEC was a huge success. I really enjoyed catching up with industry friends, learning about new trends impacting their business and introducing a new generation our water treatment technologies that are helping them build more sustainable wastewater treatment solutions.”

About WEFTEC 2024

WEFTEC, the Water Environment Federation’s Technical Exhibition and Conference, is the largest annual water quality exhibition in North America. It offers water quality professionals the best water quality education and training available by bringing together voices from diverse cultures, communities, and backgrounds—each with a unique connection to water.


WEFTEC is more than just a conference—it’s an immersive experience that empowers attendees to learn how to positively impact the future of water quality and environmental sustainability by exploring cutting-edge solutions, connecting with sector leaders, and discover new tools to drive sustainable change. With expert insights, unparalleled networking opportunities, and groundbreaking innovations, WEFTEC empowers you to tackle today’s challenges and shape the future of water and the environment.

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, WEFTEC 2024.

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.

AWT2024-BrainerdChemicalCo-Booth141-MapDownload

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

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

NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 Certified Water Treatment

Water supply and wastewater systems rely on consistent delivery of water treatment chemicals to maintain effective and efficient operations. Yet, many organizations struggle to find the NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certified water treatment products they need in quantities smaller than bulk tanker loads, resulting in reduced operational efficiency.

Brainerd Chemical stands apart as one of the few suppliers that offers NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certified water treatment chemicals in quantities smaller than bulk tanker including citric acid, ferric chloride, ferric sulfate, hydrochloric acid, hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, sulfuric acid, and the Terrastat© line of peracetic acid products. Visit www.nsf.org to view all Brainerd Chemical NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certified water treatment products.

Brainerd Chemical Company is uniquely positioned to help you safely meet your operational and sustainability goals. Whether you need to improve water quality, manage water reuse, or to extend equipment life, we offer a wide selection of NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 Certified water treatment products as well as custom labeling and packaging services tailored to your specific requirements.

Brainerd Chemical Company Key Benefits

When you work with Brainerd Chemical Company, you can expect that we place stewardship, safety, and service at the forefront of everything we do. You can count on:

Comprehensive product offering: NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certified products for use in municipal and industrial water treatment.

Flexible packaging options: NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certified chemicals are supplied in 5-gallon pails, drums, totes, or bulk tanker.

Custom private labeling: Products are ready for immediate use with custom-branded labels to your specifications on any size of packaging.

Minimized risks. Our team of expert chemists, engineers and a highly trained service staff focused on safety, stewardship, and unparalleled service through every phase of the supply chain.

Market segments we serve:

Brainerd Chemical Company supports businesses across various industries by providing NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certified products for:

1. Municipal Water Treatment: Drinking water and wastewater treatment. Chemicals commonly used in municipal water treatment plants for coagulation and flocculation processes. These chemicals help to remove impurities and suspended solids from water, ensuring regulatory standard compliance for safe drinking water. NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification establishes that these chemicals are safe for use in municipal water treatment systems.
2. Industrial Water Treatment: Industrial wastewater and pre-treatment. Treatment chemicals may be used as corrosion and scale inhibitors, coagulants, and flocculants, as well as a biocide, disinfectant or oxidizer. NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification ensures the safety and quality of these chemicals in industrial water treatment applications, such as boiler water treatment, cooling water treatment, and process water treatment.
3. Hygiene and Janitorial: Commercial buildings, including hotels, hospitals, and office complexes use treatment chemicals as a sanitizer, biocide, disinfectant, antimicrobial, bleaching agent, and deodorizer. NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification provides assurance that these chemicals meet stringent safety and quality standards for use in commercial water treatment applications.
4. Agriculture: Treatment chemicals help improve water quality for irrigation and crop production while minimizing environmental impact. NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification ensures that these chemicals are safe for use in agricultural applications and do not pose risks to human health or the environment.
5. Food and Beverage: Food and beverage manufacturers use water treatment chemicals to ensure the quality and safety of their products. NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification is essential to meet regulatory requirements and ensure consumer confidence in the safety of food and beverage products.
6. Oil and Gas: The oil and gas industry utilize water treatment chemicals for various purposes, including fracking, drilling, and production processes. NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification ensures that these chemicals meet health and environmental standards.
7. Recreational Facilities: Recreational facilities such as parks, campgrounds, and sports facilities often use water treatment systems for drinking water supplies and sanitation purposes. NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certified products are crucial for maintaining water quality in these environments.

What is NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 Certification?

NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 is an American National Standard that establishes the minimum health-effects requirements for the chemicals, chemical contaminants and impurities that are directly added to drinking water from drinking water treatment chemicals.
Certification ensures that these chemicals meet the safety standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
This standard does not establish performance or taste and odor requirements for drinking water treatment chemicals.
In North America, any organization that manufactures, sells, or distributes water treatment chemicals is required to comply with NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 minimum standard requirements. Certification is not a one-time process. Various aspects of a product, including raw materials, manufacturing processes, labeling, and more, require ongoing monitoring and testing to ensure continued safety and quality compliance. In addition to human health considerations, NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification also assesses the environmental impact of water treatment chemicals and systems. A joint committee comprised of public health experts, end users and industry members routinely monitored and update the standard.

Chemicals within the scope of this standard include:

  • Corrosion and scale inhibitors
  • Coagulants and flocculants
  • Disinfection and oxidation chemicals
  • Well-drilling aids
  • pH adjustment, softening, precipitation and sequestering chemicals
  • All other specialty chemicals used in drinking water treatment

What’s Important About NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 Certification?

NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water and wastewater treatment chemicals and systems. Understanding these aspects of NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification is essential for ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water treatment products and systems. Key points:

  1. Purpose: NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification evaluates the health effects of water treatment chemicals, including their potential to leach contaminants into drinking water.
  2. Standard Compliance: It ensures that these chemicals meet the safety standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
  3. Testing Criteria: The certification involves rigorous testing to assess factors such as potential health risks, chemical composition, corrosion potential, and overall performance.
  4. Regulatory Compliance: NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification is often required by regulatory bodies and government agencies for the approval of water treatment chemicals and systems.
  5. Consumer Confidence: Consumers can trust products with this certification to meet stringent safety and quality standards, providing peace of mind regarding the safety of their drinking water.
  6. Manufacturer Responsibility: Manufacturers of drinking water treatment chemicals and systems must adhere to the guidelines and requirements set forth by NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 to attain and maintain certification.
  7. Continuous Monitoring: Certification is not a one-time process; it requires ongoing monitoring and testing to ensure continued compliance with safety and quality standards.
  8. International Recognition: While primarily recognized in North America, NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification is also respected internationally, indicating a product’s adherence to high-quality standards.
  9. Comprehensive Evaluation: The certification process evaluates various aspects of a product, including raw materials, manufacturing processes, labeling, and more, to ensure comprehensive safety and quality assurance.
  10. Environmental Impact: In addition to human health considerations, NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 certification also assesses the environmental impact of drinking water treatment chemicals and systems.

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

Sustainable Water Treatment

Peracetic acid (PAA) is a powerful disinfectant with the potential to revolutionize water treatment. It is environmentally friendly, safer to handle and more cost-effective. Because of these benefits, PAA has rapidly become a preferred choice sanitizer, disinfectant, sterilant and bleach for a host of applications across a wide variety of industries. In this article, we will provide a deep-dive into what makes Peracetic Acid the smart choice – not just a viable alternative.

An Effective and Sustainable Solution

The chlorine compounds that industries have relied on for decades to accomplish disinfection and sanitation are wrought with significant drawbacks such as toxicity, corrosiveness, environmental harm and safety hazards. Chlorine is widely used because it is inexpensive and potent however, chlorine has the potential for forming carcinogenic and mutagenic disinfection by-products1 (DBPs).

Peracetic Acid is an eco-friendly alternative that addresses these concerns while providing equal or superior results. PAA boasts a unique chemistry that effectively targets bacteria and other contaminants, has no known DBP formations, rapidly reacts with pollutants, and breaks down into safe chemicals (acetic acid, oxygen and water).

Peracetic acid is an equilibrium mixture of acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide and water. PAA has the chemical formula CH3CO3H and is produced as an equilibrium solution as shown in Figure 1. Commercially available PAA such as the Terrastat® line of products from Brainerd Chemical Company, typically contains a stabilizer to increase storage life.

Figure 1: PAA Formula
Figure 1. PAA has the chemical formula CH3CO3H and is commercially available as an equilibrium solution.

Commercial preparation includes reacting acetic acid with hydrogen peroxide in the presence of a catalyst; specific grades of PAA are formulated by controlling the concentration and amounts of reagents during the manufacturing process.

With a half-life in the order of minutes, PAA typically degrades before entering waterways. The result is an effective disinfection, sanitation, and sterilization agent with minimal potential threat to aquatic environments or reduced water quality. Bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms or in sediments is highly unlikely because PAA has low octanol water partition coefficients (KOW) (0.3, 0.4, and 0.68, respectively) and low sediment adsorption coefficients2 and, PAA typically degrades before entering waterways because its half-life is in the order of minutes.

Extensive testing has shown that this powerful oxidant successfully passes fish toxicity testing and poses no harm to aquatic life. A study conducted by Davidson et al. (2019)3 discovered that PAA does not have any adverse effects on water quality or the performance metrics of rainbow trout, including growth, survival, and feed conversion ratio. To ensure the protection of aquatic ecosystems, the EPA recommends residual PAA concentration at the effluent discharge be below 1mg/1 which is commonly achieved when recommended application guidelines are followed.

Versatility That Goes Beyond Expectations

One of the biggest advantages of PAA is its versatility as a highly adaptable oxidizing that is effective in the order of minutes, is easy handle safely, offers a one-year shelf life when stored properly, it leaves no harmful residues and decomposes into harmless byproducts. In most applications, versus other alternatives, capital cost savings are immediate because retrofitting does not require additional equipment5.

Brainerd Chemical Company stands at the forefront as one of the leading producers of peracetic acid, offering a diverse range of top-tier products and comprehensive services from experienced professionals. With various peracetic acid concentrations, the Terrastat® line of products find extensive utility in chemical synthesis, bleaching, sanitization, disinfection, hygiene, and sterilization across numerous industries.

Safety Doesn’t Have to Be Compromised

Organizations often choose Peracetic Acid because it is equally or more effective without compromising safety.

Traditional disinfectants like chlorine compounds raise concerns about safety hazards to people and our environment. These corrosive substances can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues in people as well as disinfection by-products that wreak havoc on eco-systems.  However, Peracetic Acid (PAA) offers a safer, more secure, and environmentally friendly alternative throughout the entire chemical manufacturing process, from production and service to storage, handling, transportation, and disposal.

What sets PAA apart is its safety approvals from regulatory bodies such as the EPA and FDA. With low toxicity levels, PAA is safe for both workers and food products. Its use doesn’t leave any harmful residues, making it environmentally friendly.

When utilized for antimicrobial applications, PAA is typically diluted5 (ranging from 50 to 2,000 ppm in solution). It’s important to note that exposure to PAA in its diluted form as a vapor or mist may cause temporary eye, nose, throat, or respiratory irritation, but these symptoms usually subside once exposure ceases. To minimize any potential over-exposure, it is crucial to implement adequate containment, ventilation, and process controls, thereby reducing direct contact between workers and the vapor, mist, or droplets.

Water Management, Water and Wastewater Treatment

PAA is a game-changer for organizations seeking to mitigate bacterial and effluent wastewater impacts. Facilities are adopting PAA at an exponential rate because it provides more than just an eco-friendly and effective solution – PAA reduces operational headaches and minimizes compliance considerations.  

As described in the Alternative Disinfection Methods Fact Sheet: Peracetic Acid’, the need for an economical and relatively simple retrofit to an existing wastewater treatment facility is obvious because of concerns of formation of halogenated disinfection byproducts (DBPs). Peracetic acid (PAA) is a viable alternative to halogenated disinfection chemicals (such as chlorine-based products).

Facilities choose Peracetic Acid because:

  • PAA is an effective disinfection compound that does not generate harmful DBPs; toxic residuals and mutagenic or carcinogenic compounds are absent after disinfection.
  • PAA is a more rapid acting disinfectant than chlorine-based disinfectants.
  • PAA can be economically retrofitted and/or work in series with an existing disinfection system.
  • PAA dissipates rapidly and does not generate harmful disinfectant by-products even if overdosed.
  • PAA allows for safer and easier handling, storage, and shipping.
  • Does not require expensive capital investment to implement.
  •  Does not require quenching (i.e., no dechlorination).
  • Eliminates the possibility of over feeding or under feeding Sodium Bisulfite making it easier to meet regulated discharge permits.
  • Normally does not require a Risk Management Plan (RMP).
  • Absence of persistent toxic or mutagenic residuals or by-products.
  • Small dependence on pH.
  • Requires short contact time (minutes vs hours).
  • Effective for primary and secondary effluents.
  • Effective under varying influent conditions.

PAA is federally approved for use in wastewater disinfection and is currently permitted in approximately 18 states, with several more states in the process of gaining approval. PAA is regulated under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide ACT (FIFRA, 7 U.S.C. Section 136)8.  North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, West Virginia, Oklahoma, and Texas all have current policies/permitting requirements for PAA usage.

PAA is more effective than Sodium Hypochlorite in wastewater management. It is a stronger oxidizer with oxidation potential higher than that of chlorine or chlorine dioxide9. Significantly shorter contact times (minutes vs hours) are required while using less product to accomplish the same job. And PAA is effective where UV treatment is ineffective in treating industrial wastewater.

Disinfection of wastewater effluents with peracetic acid has been shown to reduce levels of fecal contamination by 97%. The process of disinfection with peracetic acid is easier to manage than other more common methods and the tests performed confirm that from the bacteriological point of view good results can be obtained for urban effluents15.

PAA is proven effective and efficient in treating wastewater at scale for over a decade.  The first full scale commercial application of PAA occurred at the St. Augustine Wastewater Treatment Plant, Florida, in 201212 with other large municipalities following such as the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati13 and the M.C. Stiles Wastewater Treatment Plant14 in Memphis, TN. Their success is paving the way for similar facilities eager to take advantage of all the benefits Peracetic Acid offers.

Broad Application Potential

Industries benefiting from peracetic acid solutions are not limited to municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities. PAA benefits food and beverage processing (think fruit and vegetable processing, poultry processing), pharmaceutical manufacturing, environmental remediation, industrial sanitization as well as oil and gas production.

As a broad-spectrum biocide with fast reaction time that leaves no harmful by-products Peracetic Acid is effectively being used as a disinfectant and sterilant in aquaculture, food, oil and gas water treatment, medical, and pharmaceutical industries. Its potency against viruses and bacteria has earned it a reputation as one of the most versatile disinfectants, and as a result, it has become a preferred choice in these industries.

EPA regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of peroxyacetic acid6, in or on all raw and processed food commodities when used in sanitizing solutions containing a diluted end-use concentration of peroxyacetic acid up to 500 ppm, and applied to tableware, utensils, dishes, pipelines, tanks, vats, fillers, evaporators, pasteurizers, aseptic equipment, milking equipment, and other food processing equipment in food handling establishments including, but not limited to dairies, dairy barns, restaurants, food service operations, breweries, wineries, and beverage and food processing plants. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of peroxyacetic acid.

Safer Water Treatment for People and Our Planet

Peracetic acid is recognized as a potent force multiplier that facilitates thorough water treatment and supports a more sustainable future. Compared to traditional chemical treatments, PAA is safe, effective and offers low corrosive qualities while being easy to handle, store, and apply. PAA is a fast-acting disinfectant7. It offers effectiveness, low toxicity, and high biodegradability. This makes PAA versatile delivering powerful performance, minimizing environmental damage, ensuring safety, and reducing the overall cost.

Peracetic acid is making remarkable waves, giving water treatment facilities sustainable and efficient cleaning methods that cater to many different industries. Its versatility, eco-friendliness, and thoroughness have made it the preferred choice for a growing number of plant & facility managers, food, oil and gas producers, and municipalities. By accomplishing tasks faster and reducing operating costs, PAA empowers organizations to achieve more while promoting environmental sustainability that safeguards the planet for all of us.

ABOUT BRAINERD CHEMICAL COMPANY: 

Brainerd Chemical Companies dedicated team of engineers, chemists and skilled technicians proudly serve as an industry leader in the manufacturing and supply of peracetic acid. Our expertise in oxygenation and oxidative chemistry sets us apart, enabling us to deliver exceptional solutions through an extensive range of peracetic acid products registered as sanitizers, disinfectants, and antimicrobial agents through the EPA, FDA, and USDA.

Brainerd Chemical Company offers specialty PAA blends under the following tradenames: Terrastat® 15, Terrastat® 15-S, Terrastat® 15-OF, Terrastat® 5-S, Terrastat® 22 and Terrastat® 22-S.

Brainerd Chemical safely manufactures, blends, packages, and distributes custom industrial chemical products and services.

Media Inquiries

1+ 918.622.1214

Brainerd Chemical Company

SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company

Citations

  1. Goveas et al. 2010. Bench-Scale Evaluation of Peracetic Acid and Twin Oxide™ as Disinfectants in Drinking Water, US EPA
  2. Bell, Kati and Wylie, Varsha. 2016. The Age of Peracetic Acid –A Solution to Increasingly Challenging Regulations, Water Online.
  3. Davidson et al. 2019. Evaluating the effects of prolonged peracetic acid dosing on water quality and rainbow trout Oncorhynchus performance in recirculation aquaculture systems, Aquacultural Engineering.
  4. Pileggi et al. 2022. Side-Stream Comparison of Peracetic Acid and Chlorine as Hypochlorite for Disinfection of Municipal Wastewater Effluent at a Full-Scale Treatment Facility, Ontario, Canada. ACS EST Engg.
  5. Health Hazard Information Sheet Peroxyacetic Acid (PAA), FSIS ESHG-Health-03.00
  6. U.S. EPA 2000. Peroxyacetic Acid; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance
  7. U.S. EPA 2012. Alternative Disinfection Methods Fact Sheet: Peracetic Acid
  8. FIFRA, 7 U.S.C. Section 136
  9. USDA 2020. Peracetic Acid Processing.
  10. Bai et al. 2023. Enhanced inactivation of Escherichia coli by ultrasound combined with peracetic acid during water disinfection, Chemosphere.
  11. Stampi et al. 2001. Evaluation of the efficiency of peracetic acid in the disinfection of sewage effluents, Journal of Applied Microbiology.
  12. Graham and Skipp. 2015 Peracetic acid replaces chlorine at Florida wastewater treatment plant, The Municipal.
  13. Garg et al. 2019. Wastewater Disinfection with Peracetic Acid (PAA) and UV Combination: A Pilot Study at Muddy Creek Plant [Cincinnati, OH], EPA/600/R19/084
  14. Bettenhausen. 2020. How peracetic acid is changing wastewater treatment Chemical and Engineering News.
  15. Ryther and Champion. 2013. Peracetic acid gains traction as a multifaceted water management tool.
  16. Au, K and Dunkley, Barry. 2016 Peracetic Acid to Replace Gaseous Chlorine for Wastewater Disinfection: From Bench Scale Testing to Pilot Demonstration. Water Environment Federation pg. 319-330.
  17. FIFRA, 7 U.S.C. Section 136
  18. NSF Approval Letter Peracetic Acid 15%
  19. OSHA Chemical Database PAA
  20. NIH compound summary
  21. The Water Resource Foundation. 2019. Application of Peracetic Acid for Municipal Wastewater Processes (PROJECT NO.LIFT14T16/4805)
  22. Water Environment Federation. 2020. Peracetic Acid Disinfection: Implementation Considerations for Water Resource Recovery Facilities, Access Water.

    2023 Association of Water Technologies Conference

    Team Brainerd is proud to share and learn with water treatment industry leaders at the 2023 AWT Conference. We’re proud partners with all our AWT colleagues. Key takeaways from the conference were highlighted by the growing market for PAA especially in the disinfectant segment, and its rising adoption in water treatment. It also showcased new applications and technologies related to PAA, providing valuable insights for attendees.

    Shout-out to Chad Hight and Derk Pinkerton for helping educate water treatment professionals on the ecofriendly advantages and efficacy of Peracetic Acid.

    ABOUT AWT

    The Association of Water Technologies (AWT) is the international water treatment association representing over 500 companies that specialize in applying water treatments for industrial and commercial cooling and heating systems. The association works to support members and provide them with the tools they need to succeed and grow their careers and their businesses — training, certification, networking, and regulatory and public awareness programs.

    ABOUT THE AWT ANNUAL CONVENTION

    The AWT Annual Convention is where water treatment professionals and industry partners gather to exchange time, resources, strategies, solutions, and more. Over three days of learning, growing, and finding inspiration, attendees are equipped with a year’s worth of support in their daily responsibilities as leaders in the industry.

    ABOUT BRAINERD CHEMICAL COMPANY 

    Brainerd Chemical safely manufactures, blends, packages and distributes custom industrial chemical products and services.

    MEDIA INQUIRIES

    1+ 918.622.1214

    Brainerd Chemical Company

    SOURCE: Brainerd Chemical Company