What would be the advantages and disadvantages of using tribasic sodium phosphate (aka trisodium phosphate) to soften water by removing calcium ions?
http://hpd.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/household/brands?tbl=brands&id=3007033
For the disadvantages check the link given to you by DrBob. The main advantage is that calcium ions in solution precipitate as calcium phosphate thus removed from the water.
To determine the advantages and disadvantages of using tribasic sodium phosphate (also known as trisodium phosphate) to soften water by removing calcium ions, we need to consider its properties and effects. Trisodium phosphate is a white, crystalline compound that is soluble in water. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of using trisodium phosphate for water softening:
Advantages:
1. Effective at removing calcium ions: Trisodium phosphate is capable of precipitating and removing calcium ions from water. By forming insoluble calcium phosphate, it helps reduce the hardness of water, thereby preventing the formation of scale and improving the efficiency of cleaning processes.
2. Cost-effective: Trisodium phosphate is relatively inexpensive compared to other water softening methods, such as ion exchange or reverse osmosis. This makes it a cost-effective option for softening water in certain applications.
Disadvantages:
1. Environmental concerns: Trisodium phosphate is a phosphorus-based compound, and its use can contribute to eutrophication when discharged into natural water bodies. Eutrophication is the excessive growth of aquatic plants due to an abundance of nutrients like phosphorus, leading to oxygen depletion and a detrimental impact on aquatic life. Therefore, the use of trisodium phosphate for water softening should be carefully managed and its discharge regulated.
2. pH adjustment: Trisodium phosphate has an alkaline nature and can raise the pH of water. This can be problematic if the treated water needs to be in a specific pH range for industrial or domestic purposes. Adjustments may be necessary to reestablish the desired pH level.
It is essential to note that the suitability of trisodium phosphate for water softening depends on the specific requirements, regulations, and considerations of the application. It is advisable to consult with water treatment professionals or local regulatory authorities to assess the feasibility and potential risks associated with its use in a given context.