5 Reasons Wastewater Plants Are Switching to Peracetic Acid

Brief: Brainerd Chemical Company is a trusted national leader in peracetic acid (PAA) supply, helping wastewater facilities meet tightening regulatory and sustainability demands with confidence. Through strategically located production sites, rigorous quality control, and responsive logistics, Brainerd ensures reliable, high-purity PAA delivery nationwide. Its technical experts provide hands-on guidance—from pilot testing to safety and compliance—making PAA adoption seamless, efficient, and future-ready for municipalities and industrial operators alike.

Across the U.S., wastewater treatment facilities are re-evaluating their disinfection methods in response to tighter regulatory limits, sustainability goals, and safety concerns. Peracetic acid (PAA) is rapidly emerging as a preferred solution—offering powerful microbial control, minimal by-products, and simplified operations compared to traditional chlorine-based systems. This article explores why so many municipalities and industrial plants are making the switch, how PAA supports permit compliance, and how Brainerd Chemical Company is leading the way with reliable supply, technical guidance, and unmatched expertise in PAA applications.

Regulatory Pressures Are Driving Change

Tightening effluent limits and stricter NPDES permit conditions have forced utilities to reconsider their legacy disinfectants. Traditional chlorination, while effective, often produces halogenated disinfection by-products (DBPs) such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs)—compounds that are increasingly restricted due to their toxicity and persistence in aquatic ecosystems.
PAA, by contrast, decomposes into oxygen, water, and acetic acid, leaving virtually no harmful residuals. This makes it easier for wastewater facilities to meet evolving discharge requirements and avoid DBP-related violations.
In many states, regulators now actively encourage utilities to evaluate non-chlorine disinfection methods. PAA’s strong oxidation potential and rapid microbial kill rate make it one of the most permit-friendly options available—particularly for plants facing low toxicity limits or sensitive receiving waters.

Simplified Operations and Reduced Chemical Handling Risks

Unlike chlorine gas or sodium hypochlorite, PAA does not require specialized gas storage systems, de-chlorination chemicals, or complex feed controls.
Because it is a liquid, ready-to-use oxidant, PAA can be fed directly into existing contact chambers with minor infrastructure modifications. This simplicity translates into less operator exposure, lower capital investment, and fewer moving parts to maintain.
Facilities that transition from chlorine and sulfur dioxide systems also enjoy improved safety profiles, eliminating the hazards associated with toxic gas cylinders and leak detection systems.

Proven Performance and Flexibility Across Wastewater Types

PAA’s efficacy is well documented in both municipal and industrial wastewater systems. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action effectively neutralizes bacteria, viruses, and spores—even in high-solids, low-clarity, or variable-pH environments.
PAA’s disinfection mechanism is based on oxidation; it remains effective over a wide range of organic loads and maintains residual power even when other disinfectants are inhibited by ammonia or nitrogen compounds.
In addition, the fast reaction kinetics of PAA mean that many facilities can achieve target log-reductions with shorter contact times, enabling higher throughput and better operational flexibility during peak flow events.

Lower Lifecycle Costs and Fewer Permit Headaches

Although the chemical cost per gallon of PAA may initially appear higher than chlorine, the total cost of ownership often favors PAA when safety, de-chlorination, maintenance, and regulatory compliance are considered.
For example, eliminating sodium bisulfite for de-chlorination can reduce both chemical consumption and storage complexity, while minimizing operator training requirements.
Equally important: the elimination of DBPs and residual chlorine in effluent often helps facilities avoid expensive permit violations, costly remediation, or negative public scrutiny.

A Sustainable, Future-Proof Choice

Sustainability is becoming a core KPI for wastewater utilities. PAA’s eco-friendly breakdown products—oxygen, water, and acetic acid—align perfectly with green infrastructure and ESG goals.
Unlike chlorine, PAA leaves little to offers a scalable, sustainable solution that aligns with no halogenated footprint, making it the preferred option for facilities that discharge into sensitive aquatic habitats or supply reclaimed water for reuse. As utilities face increasing pressure to modernize infrastructure and minimize chemical hazards, PAA represents a scalable, sustainable solution that fits both regulatory and environmental priorities.

Meeting Compliance with Confidence

Regulatory momentum continues to build in favor of peracetic acid. State environmental agencies and the U.S. EPA are recognizing its potential as a safe, effective alternative that meets both microbial and toxicity standards without contributing to chlorinated by-products.
For municipalities preparing for permit renewals or plant upgrades, now is the time to evaluate pilot testing and document performance data. Early adopters have already demonstrated reliable disinfection performance across a variety of wastewater matrices, paving the way for broader regulatory acceptance nationwide.

Brainerd Chemical Is Your Trusted PAA Supply Partner

When reliability, regulatory expertise, and on-time delivery matter most, Brainerd Chemical stands as the nation’s benchmark for peracetic acid (PAA) supply and support. With more than a century of chemical manufacturing experience and one of the industry’s most robust distribution footprints, Brainerd Chemical delivers consistency, safety, and performance that utilities can depend on.

From production through delivery, every stage of Brainerd’s PAA program is designed for quality assurance and continuity of supply. The company’s strategically located facilities—including regional production and transloading hubs—allow rapid fulfillment to wastewater treatment facilities across the U.S., minimizing lead times and transportation costs. Advanced storage, blending, and packaging capabilities ensure that every gallon meets strict purity standards, backed by rigorous testing and quality control.

Beyond supply, Brainerd Chemical partners with clients to ensure successful PAA adoption and optimization. Its technical experts offer field-level assistance, pilot testing guidance, dosage calibration, safety and handling training, and regulatory compliance support—helping operators integrate PAA seamlessly into existing systems. This consultative approach ensures plants achieve consistent microbial control, predictable costs, and permit ready performance with minimal operational disruption.

In an industry where downtime is costly and compliance is non-negotiable, Brainerd Chemical’s scale, reliability, and service excellence make it the trusted PAA partner for municipalities and industrial operators nationwide.

A Stronger Tomorrow Through Smarter Wastewater Treatment

Peracetic acid (PAA) represents a decisive step forward for organizations interested in advancing sustainability, protecting operators, and safeguarding communities. By eliminating halogenated by-products, reducing chemical handling risks, and simplifying compliance, PAA helps facilities operate more safely and sustainably while maintaining exceptional microbial control.

For utilities facing aging infrastructure, tighter permit renewals, or public pressure to reduce risks, PAA offers a future-proof path that aligns operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. Facilities that make the switch gain more than just regulatory peace of mind—they gain operational resilience, community trust, and a disinfection strategy built for tomorrow’s standards.

With Brainerd Chemical as a supply partner, wastewater operators can count on reliable delivery, deep technical support, and industry expertise that turns the promise of PAA into real-world performance. Together, these advantages make PAA not only a better disinfectant, but a smarter investment in the future of clean water.

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is one of the nation’s leading chemical manufacturers and distributors, supporting industries from energy and agriculture to water treatment and manufacturing. We combine proven expertise with innovative packaging, logistics, and service solutions to help our partners achieve efficiency, safety, and long-term success.

Why PAA Biocides Outperform Glutaraldehyde

Glutaraldehyde’s regulatory future in oilfield water treatment is uncertain. Peracetic acid (PAA) biocides fuel a safer, effective, and future-ready alternative to protect operations, reduce compliance risks, and align with ESG goals. Learn why oilfield leaders are shifting to PAA biocides for compliance, performance, and ESG advantage.

Oilfield water management is entering a new era. What used to be a straightforward “dose-and-go” choice is now a boardroom discussion about regulatory exposure, ESG optics, worker safety, and long-term cost. In that conversation, glutaraldehyde (GA) is increasingly the weak link—while peracetic-acid (PAA) biocides are proving to be the essential, safe, effective, and future-ready alternative.

A practical brief follows to help leadership, specifying engineers, procurement teams, and well-servicers who want to increase responsible operations and future-proof against regulatory risks.

 

The squeeze on glutaraldehyde is real—and growing

Worker safety pressure is mounting. Respiratory and skin contact risks are continually more demanding and costly.

Regulatory reviews aren’t going away. In the U.S., EPA’s ongoing registration review program for pesticides (including industrial biocides) can impose new mitigation requirements—PPE, engineering controls, label changes, or use restrictions—mid-cycle. GA’s review docket remains active, which means additional compliance steps may still be required as updates publish. Planning for alternatives now reduces change-order chaos later.

Environmental scrutiny is intensifying. Peer-reviewed literature has highlighted the aquatic toxicity and fate concerns of several oilfield biocides, including GA, fueling pressure from regulators and stakeholders to curb persistent, toxic residuals in discharge and recycle streams.

Bottom line: Even before any outright restrictions, the cumulative burden—exposure controls, monitoring, training, reporting, and reputational risk—pushes GA’s true cost higher each year.

 

Why PAA biocides are the future-ready standard

Clean breakdown, minimal residues. PAA decomposes rapidly into acetic acid, oxygen, and water, leaving no halogenated or persistent byproducts. That’s powerful for recycled frac water, produced-water reuse, and discharge optics—exactly where ESG and permit pressure converge.

Broad-spectrum, fast kill—including SRB and biofilms. Field and lab studies show PAA’s strong activity against sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), key H₂S generators and corrosion drivers. Reports from oilfield trials and independent studies demonstrate efficacy in complex waters and even within sessile communities where other oxidants struggle.

Operationally compatible. PAA is used across industrial water treatment precisely because it works in variable pH and temperature windows and coexists with common oilfield chemistries (FRs, scale inhibitors) when applied correctly. This reduces the risk of chemistry conflicts that derail pad schedules.

Worker-safety advantages. As an oxidizing biocide with rapid decay, PAA minimizes long-lived residual exposure. Its well-understood decomposition profile simplifies containment and incident response relative to sensitizers. (Safe handling is still essential—PAA is a strong oxidizer and corrosive—but the exposure narrative is fundamentally different.)

ESG-aligned without sacrificing performance. For operators publishing sustainability metrics, “no persistent biocidal residues” and “lower aquatic-toxicity footprint in treated effluents” are benefits that resonate with investors and communities—without compromising bacterial control.

 

Total cost of ownership: where PAA wins

1) Compliance drag: As GA-related controls tighten, compliance cost grows (monitoring, respiratory programs, training, incident reporting). PAA’s profile reduces that overhead.

2) Performance risk: SRB-driven corrosion and souring are seven-figure problems. PAA’s fast oxidation and biofilm penetration reduce re-treat cycles, H₂S incidents, and downtime.

3) Water-reuse economics: PAA’s rapid decomposition supports recycle targets by limiting carry-over residuals that can foul later stages—improving reuse rates and chemistry reliability.

 

Application guidance: where to specify PAA

 

    • On-the-fly frac water treatment: Dose for rapid broad-spectrum knockdown; verify with ATP/bug counts and residual monitoring.

 

    • Pond/impoundment control & H₂S mitigation: Periodic PAA shock or continuous low-dose to manage SRB and odors; integrate with aeration for best results.

 

    • Produced-water recycle loops: Target kill while minimizing residuals that impact separation and midstream handling.

 

 

Design considerations

 

    • Demand & dose: Run quick-kill demand tests against site water to map required PAA dose (accounting for COD/sulfides).

 

    • Contact time: PAA works fast; on-the-fly setups should ensure adequate mixing and seconds-to-minutes of contact before the wellhead.

 

    • Monitoring: Track kill with ATP or culture methods; confirm PAA residual decay to protect downstream chemistries and equipment.

 

 

The strategic takeaway

You don’t need a ban to feel the pinch. GA’s sensitizer classification, safety ceilings, and the drumbeat of regulatory review create ongoing compliance drag and reputational risk. PAA offers the inverse: robust performance against the bugs that matter (including SRB), rapid, clean decomposition, and an ESG-aligned story your stakeholders can endorse. Moving now locks in operational reliability and regulatory resilience for the years ahead. If you’re ready to evaluate a PAA program—bench tests, pad trial design, spec language, and full changeover—Brainerd Chemical can help you build a plan that meets your HSE, performance, and cost targets.

 

Partner With the Future of Oilfield Water Treatment

For energy leaders, staying ahead of risk isn’t just about compliance—it’s about choosing solutions that safeguard people, protect assets, and deliver lasting performance. With Brainerd Chemical Company, you gain more than a supplier. You gain a partner committed to innovation, safety, and reliability in every drop of chemistry we deliver.

Our PAA-based biocide programs are engineered to help you meet today’s operational challenges and tomorrow’s regulatory expectations—reducing downtime, streamlining water reuse, and strengthening ESG performance.

Let’s talk about your next project. Contact our technical specialists today at +1 (918) 622-1214 to learn how Brainerd Chemical Company can help you build safer, cleaner, and future-ready operations.

 

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is a leading U.S. manufacturer and distributor of specialty and commodity chemicals, serving energy, agriculture, water treatment, and manufacturing industries. Our mission is simple: to safely supply the solutions you need, the support you want, and the reliability you depend on—every single day.

 

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Key Factors in Choosing a Sodium Bisulfite Supplier

Sodium bisulfite is widely used across industries such as water treatment, oil and gas, pulp and paper, and food processing. For companies that depend on this chemical for critical operations, selecting a supplier is not just about cost, it’s about ensuring long-term reliability, regulatory compliance, and operational support.

Read on to better understand the most important considerations for evaluating and selecting your ideal sodium bisulfite supplier.

Logistics Capability & Commitment to On-Time Delivery

Reliable supply is essential for avoiding production delays. Disruptions in delivery—whether due to weather, labor shortages, or transportation bottlenecks—can have significant financial and operational consequences.

When evaluating suppliers:

  • Review their on-time delivery performance.
  • Understand the structure of their distribution network.
  • Ask about contingency plans for supply chain interruptions.

Product Expertise and Support

While sodium bisulfite is a well-established chemical, its safe and effective use can vary by industry. Sodium bisulfite must meet precise purity specifications to function effectively, especially in applications involving sensitive reactions or regulatory oversight. Inconsistent quality can cause downstream issues such as corrosion, inefficiency, or contamination. Expertise in application chemistry is essential.

Key questions to ask:

  • What quality control measures are in place?
  • Are batch records and certificates of analysis available?
  • How is consistency verified across shipments?
  • What product selection and usage guidance is available?
  • How does your team troubleshoot process compatibility issues?

Supply Chain Transparency

Supply chain transparency has become increasingly important for risk management and ethical sourcing. Understanding where and how raw materials are sourced—and how they are handled throughout the supply chain—can reduce exposure to liability and strengthen corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Look for suppliers that:

  • Provide clear sourcing information.
  • Maintain traceability from raw materials to delivery.
  • Operate with documented ethical sourcing policies.

Scalability and Flexibility

A supplier’s ability to adapt to changing volumes, whether due to seasonal demand or unexpected growth, is an important differentiator. Capacity constraints or rigid delivery schedules can expose buyers to risk.

Key indicators of flexibility:

  • Scalable production capacity and JIT capabilities.
  • Custom packaging or formulation options.
  • Owned distribution networks.
  • Ability to shift delivery timelines when needed.

Regulatory Compliance

Sodium bisulfite is subject to regulation under environmental, health, and safety laws. Suppliers should maintain full compliance with relevant EPA, OSHA, and DOT regulations—and provide documentation to demonstrate adherence.

Buyers should ensure that suppliers:

  • Hold appropriate safety and environmental certifications.
  • Offer full transparency on regulatory status.
  • Stay current on evolving legal and compliance standards.

Customer Support and Responsiveness

Strong supplier relationships often hinge on the quality of communication and responsiveness. Buyers should expect timely answers to questions, prompt resolution of issues, and proactive communication about delays or changes. During evaluation:

  • Ask about the average response times for customer service.
  • Inquire about escalation procedures and support availability.
  • Review customer satisfaction ratings, if available.

Operational Stability

A supplier’s stability over time is often overlooked but plays a critical role in long-term supply security. Stable companies are less vulnerable to disruptions, more likely to invest in infrastructure, and better positioned to honor long-term agreements. Buyers are advised to investigate the supplier’s history and ownership structure as well as evaluate operational investments and facilities.

Commitment to Innovation

While sodium bisulfite is a mature product, innovation in production methods, safety, and sustainability is a hallmark of top suppliers. Seek companies who continually invest in the people, processes and products such as reduced environmental impact or safer handling.

“Innovative suppliers are always looking for ways to help their customers operate more safely and efficiently,” said Brian Miller, President of Brainerd Chemical Company. “Even incremental improvements in purity, packaging, or process compatibility can have a measurable impact at the operational level.”

Environmental Responsibility

As sustainability goals become more prominent across industries, buyers are placing greater emphasis on suppliers’ environmental performance. This includes not only the chemical itself, but how it is produced, handled, and transported.

Considerations include:

  • Emissions and waste management practices.
  • Use of closed-loop or energy-efficient production systems.
  • Alignment with ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles.

Selecting Your Ideal Sodium Bisulfite Partner

Selecting a sodium bisulfite supplier requires more than a price comparison. From product quality and regulatory compliance to logistics, support, and sustainability, buyers should take a holistic view of supplier performance. By asking the right questions and evaluating potential partners against these criteria, companies can secure a supply relationship that supports both current operations and future growth.

Brainerd Chemical delivers on every front—with the infrastructure, expertise, and integrity that industry leaders rely on. To speak with a technical specialist about sodium bisulfite sourcing, regulatory support, or customized formulations, contact Brainerd Chemical Company at +1 (918) 622-1214.

About Brainerd Chemical Company

Brainerd Chemical Company is a leading U.S. manufacturer and distributor of specialty and commodity chemicals, serving critical industries including energy, agriculture, water treatment, and manufacturing. Our mission is to safely supply the solutions our customers need, the expertise they want, and the reliability they depend on—every single day.

Media Inquiries:

Brainerd Chemical Company

+1 (918) 622-1214

www.BrainerdChemical.com

PAA Helps Overcome Rural Wastewater Treatment Challenges

Water is life, and for rural communities, ensuring its safety is paramount. Yet, these communities often operate under significant challenges such as limited budgets, minimal technical staff, and aging infrastructure compared to their urban counterparts. Yet these facilities must meet the same stringent regulatory requirements for effluent quality.

Peracetic acid (PAA) disinfection offers a promising solution for rural applications, offering significant operational, economic, and environmental advantages over traditional chlorination or UV systems. This article examines the practical applications and benefits of using PAA water treatment processes in facilities serving smaller populations.

The Rural Wastewater Challenge

Rural treatment facilities typically process lower water volumes but face greater variability in flow rates and influent characteristics. Many operate lagoon systems or small package plants, where implementing complex disinfection technologies can be prohibitively expensive.

Historically, these facilities have relied heavily on chlorine disinfection, which requires dechlorination steps to prevent environmental harm, or UV systems that demand significant maintenance and energy inputs.

Peracetic acid (PAA) continues gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional chlorine-based disinfectants in wastewater treatment. According to Koivunen and Heinonen-Tanski (2013), PAA disinfection offers advantages in scenarios with limited infrastructure—precisely the situation many rural facilities face. Their research demonstrated effective pathogen reduction at lower doses than traditionally required for chlorination, reduced toxicity and compliance with discharge limits, improved personal and environmental safety, as well as reduced cost through streamlined operations.

How PAA Works for Rural Applications

Peracetic acid works through oxidation, effectively destroying pathogenic microorganisms by disrupting their cell membranes. What makes PAA particularly suitable for rural applications?

Operational Simplicity: PAA requires minimal contact time compared to chlorine—typically 10-15 minutes versus 30+ minutes—allowing for smaller contact chambers and retrofitting into existing systems without major capital investment (Luukkonen & Pehkonen, 2017).

No Harmful Byproducts: Unlike chlorine, PAA breaks down into benign components (primarily water, oxygen, and acetic acid), eliminating the need for dechlorination equipment and chemicals—a significant advantage for facilities with limited technical capacity.

Effectiveness Across Conditions: PAA maintains disinfection efficacy across a wide pH range (5.5-8.2) and in the presence of suspended solids—conditions often encountered in rural systems with less advanced primary and secondary treatment (Antonelli et al., 2016).

Commercial products like Terrastat® have been formulated specifically with these advantages in mind, offering PAA concentrations and delivery systems suitable for smaller facilities.

Potential Operational Benefits

For water districts with lower-volume (3,000+/- residents) operations facing increasingly strict effluent requirements and challenges related to aging chlorination equipment, results can be compelling when comparing chlorination to PAA. While each situation is unique, Pilot programs typically reveal significant benefits highlighted by:

Capital Savings: By repurposing existing contact chambers and eliminating dechlorination equipment, one operation found capital costs would be 42% lower than projected costs for new chlorination equipment.

Operational Simplicity: Staff training requirements may potentially decrease

Environmental Compliance: Fecal coliform, E. Coli or Enterococci levels consistently meet permit requirements with greater reliability than older chlorination systems.

Reduced Chemical Handling and Associated Risks: Elimination of gaseous chlorine reduces risks to worker safety, which is of particular importance in facilities with limited staff.

Simplicity: For small systems, the simplicity of PAA is often noted as the biggest advantage. Operators don’t need specialized technical knowledge to maintain effective disinfection.

Sustainability Benefits

The sustainability advantages of PAA disinfection are particularly relevant for rural communities where environmental stewardship often connects directly to local livelihoods:

Reduced Chemical Transportation: PAA’s effectiveness at lower doses means fewer chemical deliveries—particularly valuable for remote locations.

Ecological Safety: McFadden et al. (2014) demonstrated that PAA disinfection poses significantly lower risks to aquatic ecosystems than chlorinated effluent, particularly in sensitive receiving waters like the small streams often downstream of rural facilities.

Energy Efficiency: Compared to UV systems, PAA requires little electrical input for disinfection, reducing both operational costs and carbon footprint.

Climate Resilience: PAA systems maintain efficacy during flow variations caused by increasingly common extreme weather events, providing operational stability during challenging conditions.

Implementation Considerations

For rural facilities considering PAA implementation, several factors deserve attention:

Dosing Systems: Manufacturers like Prominet Pumps, Watson & Marlow, Blue & White or Pyxis Labs now offer simplified dosing systems specifically designed for smaller facilities.

Regulatory Approval: While PAA has gained regulatory acceptance, permit modifications may be required.

Staff Training: Though simpler than chlorination, proper handling procedures for concentrated PAA remain essential.

Key Takeaways

For rural wastewater treatment facilities seeking cost-effective, environmentally sound disinfection solutions, Brainerd Chemical Company offers a comprehensive line of Terrastat® PAA-based products, expert service and reliable delivery that offers compelling advantages.

The operational simplicity, minimal infrastructure requirements, and strong environmental profile make Terrastat® PAA-based products particularly well-suited to the unique challenges of rural water treatment applications.

Do You Know? Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an incredibly versatile chemical used in a variety of applications including:

  • Healthcare:  Hospitals use hydrogen peroxide products to kill pathogens like cryptosporidiosis and norovirus.
  • Aerospace: H2O2 propulsion systems powered thrusters in the Gemini and Apollo spacecraft; today, many small satellites are controlled with H2O2 vapor systems.
  • Energy: Oil & natural gas producers use hydrogen peroxide based PAA biocides because they are effective while reducing environmental risks.
  • Water and sewage treatment: Hydrogen peroxide is a prime ingredient in PAA, an eco-friendly disinfectant revolutionizing the industry with safer, more responsible solutions.

Brainerd Chemical supplies hydrogen peroxide in concentrations ranging from 1-50% in pail, drum, or tote packaging as well as bulk delivery.

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

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