demineralized

Demineralized refers to a material or substance from which mineral ions have been removed. In water treatment, demineralization is the process of stripping inorganic ions such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, sulfate, bicarbonate, and silica. Common methods include ion exchange (using fixed-bed cation and anion resins), reverse osmosis followed by polishing, electrodialysis, and distillation with subsequent treatment. Demineralized water is produced for processes that require low, predictable mineral content and low electrical conductivity to minimize scale, corrosion, and ionic interactions.

Demineralized or demineralized water is widely used in laboratories, pharmaceuticals, electronics manufacturing, and heat or power generation. It serves as a reagent, a solvent for analytical instruments, a coolant or rinse, and boiler feedwater to reduce mineral buildup. Because it has very low conductivity, it can prevent unwanted ion migration and deposition. However, it is not inherently sterile and can support microbial growth if storage and handling are not controlled. It may also interact with certain materials, potentially leaching trace ions from containers or piping.

Demineralization is related to, but not identical with, distillation or deionization. Some sources distinguish demineralized water as produced primarily by ion exchange or other non-thermal methods, while deionized water emphasizes ion removal via exchange resins. In many applications, post-treatment remineralization is used to improve taste or provide essential minerals for drinking water. Regular monitoring of conductivity or total dissolved solids helps ensure the intended purity level.