Metalaxyl is a fungicide used to support the growth of vegetable crops. Our water technology, Nyex, is extremely effective at metalaxyl removal from water. We have treated this common fungicide to below 0.02 µg/L (below the limit of detection).
Metalaxyl is a systemic fungicide widely used in agriculture to control a variety of fungal diseases in crops. Its introduction into wastewater primarily occurs through agricultural runoff and improper disposal of unused products.
The consequences of allowing Metalaxyl to accumulate in wastewater should be concerning to everyone. Primarily, it can lead to aquatic toxicity, affecting fish and other organisms. Prolonged exposure can also disrupt reproductive systems and lead to population declines in species.
Second, as Metalaxyl is persistent, it can bioaccumulate in the food chain, posing risks to higher trophic levels, including humans.
Metalaxyl is a fungicide used to support the growth of vegetable crops. Our water technology, Nyex, is extremely effective at metalaxyl removal from water. We have treated this common fungicide to below 0.02 µg/L (below the limit of detection).
Metalaxyl is a systemic fungicide belonging to the phenylamide class of chemicals. It is primarily used to control diseases caused by fungi in various crops, including potatoes, tomatoes, and grapes.
Developed in the 1970s by Ciba-Geigy, Metalaxyl was first approved for use in the United States in 1981 and later in Europe and the UK.
As Metalaxyl is a systemic fungicide, it’s absorbed by the plant and moves throughout its tissues. This allows it to protect not just the treated area but also new growth. Its primary target is fungal pathogens.
Metalaxyl works by interfering with the fungal cell’s ability to produce essential proteins. It does this by inhibiting an enzyme called RNA polymerase, which is crucial for the transcription of DNA into RNA. By disrupting this process, Metalaxyl effectively stops the fungal cell from growing and reproducing.
This mechanism makes Metalaxyl a valuable tool for agriculturalists, but by consequence, it can persist in the environment, posing risks to aquatic and human health.
Metalaxyl is increasingly recognised as a contaminant of concern due to its potential environmental and health impacts.
Its persistence in wastewater can lead to several adverse effects. For instance, the accumulation of Metalaxyl in aquatic environments can disrupt the balance of ecosystems, leading to reduced biodiversity. Additionally, as it enters the food chain, it poses risks to human health, particularly for populations relying on contaminated water sources for drinking and irrigation.
Regulatory bodies are becoming more aware of the need to address such contaminants, and the lack of effective removal technologies in wastewater treatment systems has been a growing concern.
Several methods can be employed to remove Metalaxyl from wastewater, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) systems are often used for removing contaminants like Metalaxyl from wastewater. The advantages of GAC include its effectiveness in adsorbing a wide range of organic pollutants and its relatively low operational costs. However, there are significant disadvantages to consider.
The carbon footprint of using GAC is a critical concern, particularly regarding the disposal of spent media. When GAC is sent to landfill, it contributes to environmental degradation. Alternatively, reactivating spent carbon can be energy-intensive and may not always be economically viable. Therefore, while GAC systems are effective, their environmental impact must be carefully managed.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) is another method for removing Metalaxyl from wastewater. RO systems are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved solids and organic compounds. However, the CapEx and OpEx costs associated with RO systems are notably high.
These costs are attributed to the need for specialised membranes, high energy consumption and regular maintenance. Additionally, the carbon footprint of RO systems is a concern, as the energy required for operation will contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
While RO is effective, its high operational costs and environmental impact will limit its feasibility for some treatment facilities, particularly in regions with limited resources.
Nyex™ water treatment systems from Arvia Technology are positioned as one of the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions available. They’re ideal for removing contaminants like Metalaxyl from wastewater.
These systems combine adsorption and electrochemistry, achieving high removal efficiencies while minimising energy consumption.
Arvia’s Nyex™ systems are designed to reduce the environmental impact associated with traditional treatment methods. Their compact design allows for easy integration into existing treatment facilities, making them an attractive option for municipalities and industries alike.
Nyex Rosalox™ treatment systems leverage a unique combination of adsorption and electro-chemistry, making them highly effective for removing Metalaxyl and other recalcitrant pharmaceuticals. The advantages of these systems include:
Stephen Strawn
Wastewater Treatment Consultant
Book a meeting at your convenience to talk to one of our specialists about your wastewater issues. Or send us an enquiry.
The removal from wastewater of products like Metalaxyl and other fungicides, is crucial for protecting public health and the environment.
The presence of pharmaceuticals in wastewater can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems.
Arvia Technology stands at the forefront of wastewater treatment innovation, offering next-generation solutions like Nyex™ to address the challenges posed by pharmaceutical contaminants in wastewater.
By prioritising the removal of these pollutants, we can protect our water resources and promote a healthier environment for future generations.
