High levels of calcium hardness, meaning a high concentration of calcium ions in the water, can reduce the effectiveness of common disinfection processes in several ways. Firstly, calcium can react with disinfectants, consuming them and reducing their concentration available to inactivate pathogens. For instance, calcium can precipitate with carbonate ions to form calcium carbonate scale, which can encrust pipes and equipment, shielding microorganisms from the disinfectant. This is especially relevant with chlorine-based disinfectant....
Log in to view the answer
