The Shocking Truth About Distilled Water vs Deionised Water Revealed!

The terms “distilled water” and “deionised water” often get thrown around interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. While both are forms of purified water, they differ in their purification processes and resulting properties. This article will delve into the key differences between distilled water vs deionised water, exploring their applications, advantages, and disadvantages.

What is Distilled Water?

Distilled water undergoes a process called distillation, where it is boiled and the steam is collected and condensed to create purified water. This process effectively removes most impurities, including minerals, salts, bacteria, and other dissolved substances.

How it Works:

1. Boiling: Water is heated to its boiling point, causing it to evaporate.
2. Evaporation: The steam rises, leaving behind the impurities in the original water.
3. Condensation: The steam is then cooled, causing it to condense back into liquid water.
4. Collection: The condensed water is collected as distilled water.

What is Deionised Water?

Deionised water, also known as demineralized water, is created by removing ions (charged particles) from the water. This process is achieved through ion exchange, where ions in the water are replaced with other ions from a resin bed.

How it Works:

1. Ion Exchange: Water is passed through a bed of ion-exchange resin.
2. Ion Replacement: The resin contains positively and negatively charged ions that attract and bind to the ions in the water.
3. Deionised Water: The water that emerges from the resin bed is now free of most ions, making it deionised.

Key Differences Between Distilled Water and Deionised Water

While both distilled and deionised water are considered pure, the processes and resulting properties differ significantly:

1. Impurities Removed:

• Distilled water: Removes almost all impurities, including dissolved minerals, salts, bacteria, and organic compounds.
• Deionised water: Primarily removes ions, leaving behind dissolved non-ionic substances like organic molecules.

2. Conductivity:

• Distilled water: Has very low conductivity due to the absence of ions.
• Deionised water: Also has low conductivity, but may have a slightly higher conductivity than distilled water due to the presence of non-ionic impurities.

3. pH Level:

• Distilled water: Can have a slightly acidic pH due to the absorption of carbon dioxide from the air.
• Deionised water: Can have a neutral pH or a slightly alkaline pH depending on the type of resin used.

4. Cost:

• Distilled water: Generally more affordable to produce than deionised water.
• Deionised water: Requires specialized equipment and resin replacement, making it more expensive.

Applications of Distilled Water

Distilled water has a wide range of applications, including:

• Laboratory and Industrial Uses: For laboratory experiments, analytical procedures, and industrial processes that require high purity water.
• Medical and Pharmaceutical Applications: Used in medication preparation, intravenous fluids, and medical equipment sterilization.
• Battery Applications: Used as an electrolyte in lead-acid batteries.
• Automotive Applications: Used in car radiators and windshield washer fluid.

Applications of Deionised Water

Deionised water finds its uses in:

• Electronics Manufacturing: Used in the production of electronic components and circuits to prevent corrosion.
• Boiler Feedwater: Used in boilers to prevent scale formation and improve efficiency.
• Aquariums: Used in freshwater aquariums to maintain water quality.
• Industrial Processes: Used in various industrial processes that require water free of ions, such as chemical processing and electroplating.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Distilled Water

Advantages:

• High purity: Removes almost all impurities, making it suitable for sensitive applications.
• Relatively inexpensive: Cost-effective compared to other purification methods.
• Versatile: Can be used in a wide range of applications.

Disadvantages:

• Can absorb CO2: Distilled water can absorb carbon dioxide from the air, making it slightly acidic.
• Not suitable for drinking: Lack of minerals can make it taste flat and not ideal for human consumption.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Deionised Water

Advantages:

• Specific impurity removal: Effectively removes ions, making it suitable for applications where ion content is crucial.
• High purity: Provides a high level of purity for specific applications.

Disadvantages:

• More expensive: Production costs are higher due to specialized equipment and resin replacement.
• May contain non-ionic impurities: While ions are removed, non-ionic substances may remain.

Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between distilled water and deionised water depends on the specific application and the desired level of purity.

• Choose distilled water: If you require water with the highest level of purity, including the removal of all dissolved minerals and organic compounds.
• Choose deionised water: If you require water free of ions, but the presence of non-ionic impurities is acceptable.

The Verdict: Distilled Water vs Deionised Water

Both distilled water and deionised water offer unique advantages and disadvantages. The choice ultimately depends on the specific application and the desired level of purity. Distilled water is suitable for applications requiring the highest level of purity, while deionised water is ideal for applications where ion removal is paramount.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Can I drink distilled water?

While distilled water is safe to drink, it is not recommended for regular consumption. The lack of minerals can lead to mineral deficiencies and an imbalance in electrolytes.

2. Can I use deionised water for drinking?

Deionised water is not recommended for drinking as it lacks essential minerals and can disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance.

3. Is distilled water better than bottled water?

Distilled water is generally purer than bottled water, but it lacks the essential minerals found in bottled water.

4. Can I use tap water instead of distilled water?

Tap water is not suitable for all applications that require distilled water. Tap water contains dissolved minerals, salts, and other impurities that can affect the outcome of sensitive processes.

5. How long can I store distilled water?

Distilled water can be stored for a long time if kept in a clean, airtight container. However, it is recommended to use it within a few months to ensure its purity.