In water treatment , antiscalants play an important role in preventing contamination of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. However, chemical safety is of particular importance in drinking water treatment. NSF/ANSI 60 is the most recognized international standard in this field and guarantees the safety of antiscalants in drinking water systems.
Part 1: Understanding NSF/ANSI Standard 60
1.1 Definition and history
Developed by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Standard No. 60 “Chemicals Used in Drinking Water Systems: Health Effects” was first published in 1988 and regularly updated.
1.2 The main objective of the standard
The objectives of NSF/ANSI 60 are:
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The chemicals used in drinking water treatment are harmless to human health.
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The concentration of chemicals in the purified water does not exceed the permissible levels.
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Proven products contain stable and reliable ingredients.
Part 2: NSF/ANSI 60 Requirements for Contaminant Control
2.1 Restrictions on vehicles
NSF/ANSI Standard 60 sets strict limits for:
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Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, etc.)
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Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
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Carcinogens
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Identify other harmful contaminants.
2.2 Mandatory tests
To obtain certification, the corrosion inhibitor must successfully pass the following tests:
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Complete, comprehensive analysis
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Toxicological tests
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Check the stability of the formula
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Assess the purity of materials with clean water.
2.3 Acceptable dose
The standard defines a maximum allowable daily allowance (MADL) for each compound based on:
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Toxicity of substances
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Residual amount in the water
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Calculate the Acceptable Daily Allowance (ADI).
Part 3: NSF/ANSI 60 Certification Process
3.1 Main Stages of Certification
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Initial assessment : Review of the design and technical documentation
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Product tests : physical, chemical and toxicological tests
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Factory inspection : Assessment of production processes and quality control.
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Certificate issuance : after final approval
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Continuous monitoring : regular checks and spot checks
3.2 Specific problems of pollution control
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Complexity of the chemical formula
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Special performance testing required.
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Strictly limit dietary supplements
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Detailed document requirements
Part Four: Benefits of Using NSF/ANSI 60 Anti-Contamination Materials
4.1 Health Benefits
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Provision of clean drinking water
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Prevent pollutants from entering the water
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Reducing risks to consumer health
4.2 Technical Data
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Reliable operation of reverse osmosis systems
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Compatibility with different membranes
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Effectively reduces sludge formation
4.3 Legal and commercial interests
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Compliance with hygiene standards
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Increase customer trust
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It can be used for government and public projects.
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Competitive advantages in the market
Section 5: Differences Between NSF/ANSI 60 and Other Standards
5.1 Comparison with general quality standards (e.g. B. ISO 9001)
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The National Science Foundation places special emphasis on ( occupational safety and health, not just work).
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Stricter requirements for vehicles
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Toxicological tests are required.
5.2 Comparison with environmental standards (e.g. ECOLOGO)
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The National Science Foundation is concerned about the impact on human health.
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Special requirements for drinking water
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Strictly limit impurities
Section 6: Proper Selection and Use of NSF/ANSI 60 Antifouling Materials
6.1 Product selection tips
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Verify the certificate (via the NSF website)
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Compatible type of reverse osmosis system
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Please note the pH range and operating temperature.
6.2 Best practices
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Follow the manufacturer’s dosage recommendation.
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Suitable injection system
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Regularly monitor system performance
6.3 Maintenance and storage
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Suitable temperature conditions
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Prevent product contamination
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Commitment at term
At last
The NSF/ANSI Standard 60 for limescale inhibitors is a fundamental requirement for drinking water systems. It sets strict health and safety standards to prevent harmful substances from entering drinking water. For consumers, choosing a limescale inhibitor with this certification means:
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Provision of clean drinking water
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Effectively prevent rain
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Compliance with hygiene standards
With this certification, manufacturers can objectively confirm the quality of their products and strengthen their market position. In addition, as a global standard, NSF/ANSI 60 plays a fundamental role in ensuring public health and drinking water quality.