At our sand extraction site in Wippingen (Germany), the quality of the water in the extraction lake plays an important role for both the environment and our production process.
A key parameter is the pH value (acidity level). The area where we operate contains minerals that, when in contact with water and oxygen, lower the pH. The permit issued by the competent authority requires us to raise the pH in our lake. One of the ways to achieve this is by adding a chalk suspension.
Continuous insight into water quality
The acidity of the lake can fluctuate due to biological processes, precipitation, and seasonal influences. Sand extraction also affects the pH of the water. That is why the competent authority requires us to manage and monitor the pH throughout our activities. We maintain continuous dialogue with the authorities about our experiences so we can jointly determine how to meet the permit requirements. For all parties involved, including the engineering firm, influencing pH in both the short and long term is new. They see our experiences and progress as a pilot, and only through joint efforts can the best approach be achieved.
Innovative pH management with chalk suspension
pH adjustment takes place in the process water that flows back into the lake. We carefully add a chalk suspension, a natural agent for neutralising pH. This controlled method ensures that the process water has a minimum (higher) pH before returning to the lake.
Responsible sand extraction with respect for nature and the environment
By actively managing the pH of the process water, we comply with our permit obligations and improve the water quality of our extraction lake. In this way, we contribute to the water system connected to our sand extraction lake. This enables us to extract sand responsibly in Wippingen, with respect for both the surrounding environment and the ecosystem.
Dit wordt een button
