What is the most practical method for removing nitrates from water?

The most practical method for removing nitrates from water is ion exchange. This process involves exchanging nitrate ions in the water with other ions, such as chloride, on a resin material. Ion exchange is particularly effective because it can selectively remove nitrates even at low concentrations, which is often necessary since high nitrate levels can be harmful to human health, particularly in drinking water. The system can be designed to regenerate the resin, allowing it to be reused multiple times, making it both effective and cost-efficient for ongoing treatment needs.

Unlike other methods, ion exchange can handle the specific chemical structure of nitrates, making it a targeted approach. For instance, reverse osmosis can also remove nitrates but is not always as practical due to higher energy costs and the need for regular maintenance. Filtration, on the other hand, typically does not target chemical compounds like nitrates effectively, and activated carbon is mainly used for organic contaminants and taste/odor issues, not for nitrate removal. Thus, ion exchange stands out as the most effective and practical method for removing nitrates from water supply systems.