World's Largest Ion Exchange Water Treatment Plant to Deliver Cleaner Water for WA

13th August, 1999

Water Corporation of Western Australia and Orica Limited today signed a Heads of Agreement to establish the first large-scale MIEX® ion exchange water treatment plant in the world, representing a Water Corporation investment of around $11 million.

The technology, known as MIEX®, is a world-first Australian magnetic ion exchange process which allows water authorities to improve drinking water quality by removing impurities which are the main cause of colour, tastes and odours.

Developed by a consortium comprising Orica, SA Water and the CSIRO, MIEX® does not replace chlorine at water treatment plants but removes dissolved organics which interfere with the clarification and disinfection process.

Placed in water, the resin's ion exchange properties attract and bond with impurities. The MIEX® resin is then completely removed from the water, with the organic impurities firmly attached. The impurities can then be removed and the compound used again and again, making the process extremely cost effective.

Water Corporation’s branch manager, water source and treatment, Mr Keith Cadee said, "The MIEX® plant will utilise leading-edge technology developed in Australia to allow water authorities to remove dissolved organic carbon from the water sources.

"This new process will significantly improve water quality and address the intermittent swampy odour problems with Perth’s groundwater."

Orica Watercare business manager Mr David Day said, "MIEX® will potentially open up a brand new market for Orica in Australia and around the world, particularly in countries which are adopting more stringent water quality standards."

The MIEX® treatment plant will be located at the Wanneroo Ground Water Treatment Plant in Western Australia and is scheduled for commissioning in early 2001.

Orica recently announced plans to build the world’s first MIEX® Resin Manufacturing Pilot Plant at their Deer Park site in Melbourne.