What We Do
Thioguard® Study
In 2007 DC Water received funding from a federal grant and from the Premier Chemicals, LLC, to apply an industrial strength version of Milk of Magnesia to the Potomac Interceptor. This non-toxic liquid, called Thioguard®, prevents acid from destroying the concrete piping while reducing the objectionable odors in parks and yards. It is made of natural deposits from Nevada and mixed only with water, no other additives.
A storage tank for applying Thioguard® to the PI
The amount of chemical added is minute relative to the flow in the pipe. The objective of the trial was to determine how effective the chemical is, at what rates of addition, and at what cost. This information can then be applied for other permanent installations along the Potomac Interceptor, or in other parts of the DC Water system. Ultimately, this application should save money in major rehabilitation construction and enhance the environment surrounding the interceptor.
The original funded study lasted from June to August of 2007 and proved to be a success.
Download the Complete Thioguard® Study (PDF 640 kb) .