vízkeménység

Víz keménység refers to the concentration of dissolved minerals in water, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. It is typically measured in milligrams per liter (mg/L) or parts per million (ppm) of calcium carbonate equivalent. Water hardness can be categorized into soft, moderately hard, hard, and very hard, depending on the concentration of these ions.

Soft water contains low levels of dissolved minerals, while hard water has high concentrations. The presence of calcium and magnesium ions can affect water quality and its suitability for various uses. For instance, hard water can lead to the formation of scale in pipes, appliances, and heating systems, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. It can also make it more difficult for soaps and detergents to lather, requiring more cleaning product.

Conversely, soft water can sometimes be corrosive to plumbing materials. While not a health hazard, water hardness can impact the taste of drinking water. In industrial applications, precise control of water hardness is often necessary for processes like boiler operation and chemical manufacturing. Water softening treatments, such as ion exchange, are commonly used to reduce the mineral content of hard water for domestic and industrial purposes.