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Is Deionised Water the same as Distilled Water?
Two common types of high-grade water often come up: deionised water and distilled water. They may seem similar, but they are produced through different processes and have distinct properties that make them suitable for various applications. So, you may have asked yourself, ‘Is Deionised Water the Same as Distilled Water?’ In this blog, discover the differences between Deionised and Distilled Water with APC Pure.
What is Deionised Water and Distilled Water
Deionised Water
Deionised water (DI water) is purified through an ion-exchange process, which removes mineral ions such as sodium, calcium, iron, and copper. This results in water that is free from most dissolved salts and minerals, making it highly pure and ideal for applications where ionic contaminants can interfere with results.
Deionised water is commonly classed as a type of demineralised water, a broad term used to describe water that has undergone purification to remove mineral content. The deionisation process ensures that DI water has low electrical conductivity, making it suitable for industrial, pharmaceutical, and laboratory applications. However, it does not remove organic contaminants, bacteria, or certain gases, so additional purification methods may be required depending on its intended use.
Distilled Water
Distilled water is produced through distillation, a process that involves boiling water to create steam and then condensing it back into liquid form. It is one of the oldest methods for creating pure water and is still effective to this day. This method removes impurities, dissolved solids, bacteria, and organic compounds, resulting in highly purified water. The distillation process ensures that distilled water is free from most contaminants, including minerals and many microorganisms.
Both Deionised Water and distilled water offer high purity, but their manufacturing processes and specific applications differ. DI water is preferred for applications requiring low ionic content, while distilled water is ideal for situations where a broader range of contaminants needs to be removed.
What is the difference between Distilled Water and Deionised Water?
Deionised Water is created by removing mineral ions (such as calcium, sodium, and iron) using ion-exchange resins, making it ideal for applications where low ionic content is required. However, it does not remove uncharged organic molecules or bacteria.
Distilled Water is created by boiling and condensing water, effectively removing most impurities, including bacteria, minerals, and organic compounds.
The Applications of Deionised Water and Distilled Water
The properties of Deionised Water make it suitable for the following applications, such as…
- Laboratory and Pharmaceutical Applications
- Topping Up Acid and Alkaline Batteries
- Perfumes and Cosmetics
- Large-Scale Heating and Cooling Systems
- Pressure Testing
- Household Detergents
- Nebulisers
The properties of Distilled Water make it suitable for the following applications, such as…
- Humidifiers
- Car Maintenance
- PC Water Cooling
- Vinyl Record Cleaning
- Washing Fruits and Vegetables
- Ironing
- Healthy Hair
- Home Cleaning
For more information, read our blog, What is Distilled Water? (APC Pure's Ultimate Guide)
What Industries Commonly use Distilled and Deionised Water?
Distilled and Deionised Water is used across various industries due to its high purity levels. Common applications include:
Pharmaceutical Industry Formulating medications and solvents in drug manufacturing.
Cosmetic Industry: As primary ingredients in products like lotions and creams to maintain quality.
Semiconductor Industry: In cleaning wafers during manufacturing to prevent defects.
Automotive Industry: To top up lead-acid batteries and in cooling systems, preventing scaling and corrosion.
Laboratories: In experiments and analyses to prevent interference from impurities, ensuring accurate results.
Fire Suppression Systems: In water-fog fire-extinguishing systems, especially in environments with sensitive equipment, to minimise electrical conductivity and potential damage.
How does APC Pure Manufacture Distilled Water?
APC Pure manufactures Distilled Water through a 6-step process.
Softening: A water softener reduces hardness by removing calcium and magnesium ions.
Reverse Osmosis (RO): Water undergoes pre-purification through an RO system, removing dissolved salts and contaminants.
Glass Distillation: The purified water is distilled in glass, ensuring high purity and preventing contamination from metal surfaces.
UV Treatment: High-intensity ultraviolet (UV) light is used to eliminate bacteria and microorganisms.
Microbial Filtration: The water is filtered through a 0.2-micron microbial particulate system, removing any remaining impurities.
Polishing: A final purification step ensures that the distilled water meets Atom Scientific's stringent quality standards.
For more information on APC Pure’s high-grade water, please read our blog, The Many Uses of High Grade Water
Where can I buy Deionised and Distilled Water?
APC Pure Manufactures both Deionised and Distilled Water in a wide variety of pack sizes.