The use of CO2 for pH adjustment and control (neutralizing or lowering) has long been recognized as a cost effective alternate to Sulfuric Acid. Many companies have turned to CO2 for help with their environmental needs because it offers the following advantages:

Greater Control - as it reduces high pH levels quickly. It is then self-buffering as it reaches neutral pH levels. This self-buffering feature allows precise end-point control without the danger of overshooting into undesirable low pH levels.                       

Greater Safety - as CO2 is not stored as an acid solution.

Reduced Maintenance Costs - as CO2 requires less equipment and monitoring costs.

Greater Storage Capacity - convenient bulk systems make it possible to store up to twice as much neutralizing agent in the same amount of storage space with no increase in weight.

Reduced Labor Costs - CO2 requires no handling costs, and can be utilized via a completely automated system.

Extended Equipment Life - as CO2 is non-corrosive to pipes and equipment.

The following industries are currently utilizing CO2 as a water treatment:

Bottling - CO2 is used to neutralize bottle washing effluents before discharge from plant.
Paper and Pulp Production - CO2 economically neutralizes the alkalinity in tall oil soap recovery and bleachery effluents resulting from lime treatment.
Concrete Production - CO2 injection decreases pH of truck wash water permitting sewer discharge.
Power Plants - CO2 is effectively used in water preparation and for cooling water circuits.
Laundry Plants - CO2 controls the pH levels of wash water discharges.
Water Filtration Plants - CO2 is used to adjust pH prior to clarification, flocculation (optimizes alum usage), and after lime softening of water (recarbonation).
Sewer Treatment Plants - CO2 is used to adjust the pH of water before biological treatment and after physical/chemical treatment.