Nitrate ions consist of nitrogen and oxygen compounds. NO3- is simply negatively charged.
Nitrate in drinking water
The Drinking Water Ordinance in Germany specifies a limit of 50 mg/l for nitrate. There are several water treatment processes that can be used to remove excessive nitrate content from drinking water . Reverse osmosis has proven itself in the municipal sector. Ion exchange can be used for private households.
The contamination of groundwater with nitrates arises from excessive fertilization in agriculture.
Health significance of nitrate
Increased nitrate levels in drinking water lead to an increased risk of colon cancer. Especially for babies, you should ensure that the nitrate content in drinking water is as low as possible. The possible formation of nitrite causes problems with high nitrate levels.
