Case Study: Restoring Water Clarity in a Construction Site Pond

When a recently dug pond at a residential construction site presented water quality challenges, Pure Polymer Solutions stepped in with our expertise in treating construction runoff. The water wasn’t just cloudy; it had turbidity levels of 755 NTUs and a color measurement of 9,653 PCU, making it nearly black. With regulatory requirements and aesthetic goals in mind, we tackled the challenge with innovative chemistry and advanced lab techniques to deliver remarkable results.

The first step was to thoroughly analyze the water. Using particulate size analysis, our lab determined that over 90% of the suspended particles were extremely small in diameter, typical of organic materials causing high color values. This finding confirmed that organic matter was a primary culprit behind the water’s dark appearance.

Additionally, the analysis revealed elevated levels of total phosphorus, putting the pond in a hyper- eutrophic state. This posed the risk of algal blooms, which could impact the surrounding environment and receiving waters. These challenges underscored the need for a precise, custom treatment plan to meet the project’s dual goals: reducing turbidity below the regulatory limit of 29 NTUs and significantly lowering color values.

Our team began testing with our standard chemistries, anticipating that metal salt-based products would excel in reducing color and turbidity. However, initial tests fell short of achieving the desired clarity. Recognizing the need for a more advanced solution, we moved to a second phase of testing, incorporating new proprietary blends developed in our lab. These blends combined the power of metal salts with natural products to tackle the unique characteristics of the water.

The results of this approach were remarkable. Our most successful formula reduced turbidity from 755 NTUs to 3.30 NTUs—a reduction of 99.56%. Color levels dropped from 9,653 PCU to just 50 PCU, achieving a 99.48% decrease. These outcomes not only met but exceeded regulatory requirements, delivering crystal-clear water that the construction company was proud to present to their client.

Another critical objective was to target the site’s elevated phosphorus levels. Post-treatment analysis showed that the blended formula removed 98% of total phosphorus, significantly reducing the risk of algal blooms and improving the ecological balance of the pond.

To ensure long-term clarity, our lab focused on addressing the extremely small particulates in the water. The solution employed a specialized flocculant chemistry to bind these tiny particles into larger chains, increasing their molecular weight. This process not only removed the particles but also ensured they would not resuspend into the water column, providing durable clarity.

This project demonstrates the power of science-driven water treatment. By combining advanced analysis, innovative chemistry, and a commitment to sustainable solutions, Pure Polymer Solutions delivered results that exceeded expectations. The pond went from nearly black to crystal clear, with turbidity and color levels well below regulatory limits.

If your site is facing water quality challenges, contact Pure Polymer Solutions today for a free water analysis. Together, we can design a solution tailored to your needs.