NichtKarbonathärte

NichtKarbonathärte, often translated as non-carbonate hardness, refers to the portion of a water sample's total hardness that is not attributed to carbonate or bicarbonate ions. Hardness in water is primarily caused by dissolved mineral ions, most commonly calcium and magnesium. Total hardness is the sum of both carbonate and non-carbonate hardness.

Carbonate hardness, also known as temporary hardness, is associated with calcium and magnesium ions that are bound to carbonate and bicarbonate ions. This type of hardness can be reduced by boiling the water, as the heating process causes the carbonates to precipitate out. NichtKarbonathärte, or permanent hardness, on the other hand, is caused by calcium and magnesium ions bound to sulfate, chloride, and nitrate ions. Boiling water does not remove this component of hardness.

The presence of non-carbonate hardness can have implications in various applications. In industrial processes, it can contribute to scale formation on pipes and equipment, even after water treatment designed to remove temporary hardness. In aquariums, understanding both types of hardness is crucial for maintaining appropriate water chemistry for aquatic life. The measurement of non-carbonate hardness is typically done by first determining the total hardness and then subtracting the carbonate hardness. This allows for a more complete understanding of the water's mineral composition and its potential effects.