Kemira successfully trials chlorine-free KemConnect DEX in the US, proving performic acid offers effective, sustainable, and modern wastewater treatment alternative.
Kemira, a global provider of sustainable chemical solutions for water-intensive industries, has announced the successful completion of the first full-scale U.S. trial of its chlorine-free wastewater treatment technology, KemConnect® DEX. The trial was conducted in collaboration with Capital Region Water, an advanced wastewater treatment facility serving Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, along with nearby municipalities. This achievement marks a significant milestone, reached just eight months after the key ingredient used in the DEX system received approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for commercial deployment in the United States.
KemConnect DEX is built around performic acid, an innovative and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chlorine-based disinfection methods. Known for its rapid action, performic acid effectively reduces microbial contamination in wastewater systems. During the one-month full-scale trial, the solution demonstrated strong performance even at relatively low dosage levels. It was able to quickly lower bacterial counts while also breaking down into biodegradable byproducts. These compounds exhibit minimal environmental persistence, contributing to improved water quality and reduced ecological impact compared to traditional chemical treatments.
Feedback from Capital Region Water highlighted the effectiveness and sustainability of the solution. According to Chief Operations Officer Jess Rosentel, the experience of working with performic acid proved highly positive. The trial confirmed that viable alternatives to chlorine disinfection not only exist but can outperform conventional methods while offering improved environmental safety. The collaboration between the utility and Kemira also represented a pioneering effort in North America, setting a precedent for other facilities considering similar transitions.
A key advantage of the KemConnect DEX system lies in its advanced digital platform, which enables automated dosing based on real-time monitoring data. This ensures consistent compliance with bacterial limits, even when wastewater flow and composition fluctuate due to weather or seasonal changes. The system’s flexible feed-rate capability allows operators to adjust treatment levels dynamically, improving operational efficiency and reliability. Additionally, the DEX platform is designed for on-site installation, allowing facilities to upgrade their treatment processes without incurring the high capital costs typically associated with chlorine-based systems or ultraviolet (UV) alternatives.
Kemira’s leadership emphasized that the successful trial demonstrates the readiness of KemConnect DEX to meet evolving regulatory standards and operational demands. The company views this technology as a modern solution for utilities seeking safer, more adaptable, and environmentally responsible wastewater treatment options. By eliminating reliance on chlorine chemistry and integrating digital control systems, DEX supports the transition toward more resilient and sustainable water infrastructure.
Overall, this full-scale trial represents a critical step forward in advancing chlorine-free wastewater treatment in the United States. It underscores the potential for performic acid-based solutions to play a central role in modernizing water treatment practices, improving environmental outcomes, and helping utilities adapt to increasingly stringent regulatory requirements.
