Selective Binding of Hardness Ions by Humic Sorbents for Prevention of Carbonate Scaling in Reverse Osmosis Systems

This article examines the scientific basis for using humic acids for the chemical stabilization of mineralized water prior to reverse osmosis. The need to develop alternative approaches to water pretreatment is due to the limited effectiveness of traditional antiscale reagents at high mineralization, as well as their potential environmental risks and the likelihood of secondary contamination of water systems. The article focuses on the mechanisms of interaction between humic acids and Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ hardness ions, which are mediated by complexation with carboxyl and phenolic functional groups. It is demonstrated that humic stabilization differs from classical softening and demineralization in that it is aimed not at the complete removal of dissolved salts, but at reducing the activity of ions involved in the formation of carbonate deposits. The potential advantages of this approach for reducing the scale-forming potential of water, improving the stability of reverse osmosis membranes, and extending inter-flushing intervals are discussed. The technological limitations associated with residual organic load, possible membrane fouling, the need to control total organic carbon, color and stability of the filter medium, as well as a pilot test of the proposed approach are considered.