“Severyanka” mineral supplements are produced since 1999. These supplements contain only cations and anions which are normally present in any natural water. A wide range of "Severyanka" modifications makes it possible to enhance the macro- and microelement composition of various sorts of drinking water within the hygienic regulations. In the production process, composition and sanitary norms are carefully controlled for compliance.
for Drinking Water
Hydrogen Carbonates in Drinking Water
Content
Hydrogen carbonates (bicarbonates) are the components of water accounting for its alkalinity. Their content is determined by several processes:
- Dissolution of atmospheric carbon dioxide
- Interaction of water with limestone present in the surrounding soil
- Respiratory processes of waterborne organisms
The concentration of bicarbonates in drinking water in most cases determines its total alkalinity (because other contributors – carbonate and hydroxide ions – are present in water in far smaller amounts.
Why Enrich Drinking Water with Bicarbonates?
Hydrogen carbonates in drinking water reduce the concentration of hydrogen ions and thus reduce the acidity of water. Some bicarbonate-rich mineral waters can be used in medical treatment of gastritis and increased acidity of gastric juice. Table drinking water of high quality requires bicarbonates in moderate concentrations for maintaining normal alkalinity, optimal pH, and acceptable taste.
How to Increase Bicarbonate Content in Drinking Water?
Hydrogen carbonate ions are required to adjust the pH of drinking water and to improve its palatability. If the alkalinity of water is too low, pH tends to be unstable due to the low buffer capacity of such water. Low (nearly zero) alkalinity and reduced levels of pH are characteristic of water purified by reverse osmosis.
Hydrogen carbonates in natural water are presented mainly by calcium and magnesium bicarbonates, which, however, exist only in dissolved condition. When water is heated or boiled, hydrogen carbonates of these elements will transform into insoluble carbonates, and the water will become softer.
In some cases (e.g. after R/O treatment) the content of bicarbonate ions in water is increased using special mineral supplements based on sodium and potassium bicarbonates. Along with increasing alkalinity and correcting pH, these supplements can improve the palatability of drinking water. Our company produces several modifications of Severyanka® Bicarbonate supplement to be used in bottled water production.