Alkalinity

Alkalinity is a measure of water's capacity to neutralize acids. The higher the alkalinity, the greater the neutralizing capacity or ability to resist pH changes. Alkalinity is due primarily to the carbonate, bicarbonate and hydroxide ions present in water. Alkalinity is not harmful at levels under 500 mg/L; but at higher levels it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Water with very low alkalinity tend to be more corrosive on pipes, while very high alkalinity levels can lead to scale deposits in water heaters and pipes. EPCOR's treated water contains an average of 52 mg/L of alkalinity.
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... pH. 15.3 Residual Alkalinity and Mash pH. ... alkalinity. Alkalinity which is not neutralized is termed "residual alkalinity" (abbreviated RA). ...
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