Electrical conductivity

Electrical Conductivity is a measure of the ability of an aqueous solution to carry an electric current. This ability depends on the presence of ions. Solutions that contain more inorganic compounds are relatively good conductors. Conversely, solutions that contain organic compounds conduct current very poorly.

Factors affecting the electrical conductivity of water or EC

-Concentration of dissolved minerals: The higher the concentration of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and chloride in the water, the higher the EC of the water. These minerals ionize in the water and act as carriers of electrical charge.

-Water temperature: As the water temperature increases, the movement of ions in the water becomes faster and the electrical conductivity of the water also increases.

The importance of electrical conductivity

-Water quality assessment: Used as an important indicator to assess the quality of drinking water, agricultural water and industrial water.

-Corrosion control: Can indicate the possibility of corrosion in piping systems and equipment.

-Equipment maintenance: It is very important to determine the suitability of water for use in industrial equipment such as boilers, heat exchangers and water treatment plants.

Different ranges of EC

-Low EC range: Water in this range is purer and may be suitable for drinking, agricultural, or industrial use.

-High EC range: Water in this range contains more minerals and impurities and may be unsuitable for drinking, agricultural, or industrial use.

How to measure

The conductivity of water is measured using a device called a conductometer. A conductometer consists of two electrodes that are placed in the water and measure the electrical resistance between them. The unit of measurement is typically microsiemens per centimeter.