Zelbrite helps avoid asthma risk

News 25 June 2003

Health Alert for Swimming Schools - University study links chlorine to asthma epidemic.

Australian news media recently reported a new Belgian study linking pool chlorine to an asthma epidemic, which shows signs of spreading in developed countries.

On 29th May 2003, an ABC news bulletin reported: "Researchers at Brussels Catholoc University of Louvain say when chlorinated water reacts with organic matter such as urine or sweat it creates trichloramine, a gassy, easily inhaled irritant.  Trichloramine is already known as a trigger for three proteins that destroy the cellular barrier protecting the lungs making it more prone to an asthma attack".

On the same day, Melbourne's Herald Sun and Sydney's Daily Telegraph reported the story: "The increasing exposure of chlorination products in indoor pools might be an important cause in the rising incidence in childhood asthma and allergic disease in industrialised countries", said the research team led by toxologist Alfred Bernard

The research team added, "The question needs to be raised as to whether it would not be prudent in the future to move towards non-chlorine based disinfectants, or at least to reinforce water and air quality controls in indoor pools in order to minimise exposure to these reactive chemicals."

There is an effective and affordable solution...

Zelbrite high performance pool filter media

 FACT   The formation of trichloramine in pool water occurs when chlorine ions react with free ammonium ions. Ammonium ions are formed as a result of the breakdown of the same organic material produced by bathers as mentioned in the Belgian report.

 FACT   Ammonium ions are removed from solution by passing water through a filter using Zelbrite media rather than traditional sand.

Zelbrite effectively suppresses the formation of trichloramine by significantly reducing levels of ammonium

 HOW?   Zelbrite removes ammonium through a process called ion-exchange. Manufactured from Clinoptilolite a "chemically active" naturally occurring mineral, Zelbrite is able to preferentially, exchange certain ions. Zelbrite has in particular a great affinity for ammonium ions and effectively absorbs these into Zelbrite's "cage-like" molecular structure where they are firmly held and rendered unavailable for combination with free chlorine and formation of trichloramine.

For further information contact us

Zelbrite, helps avoid asthma risk from chlorine in swimming pools