Study of the chemical composition of mineral waters
Authors: Kononov Ilya, Subbotina Yana, grade 10, school № 9, Uralets, Sverdlovsk region. Leader: Tereshchenko L.N.

Buying mineral water in a store, we sometimes do not even think about its healing properties. Can you drink it just to quench your thirst? Will it harm a healthy person? What are its composition and properties? Is it all the same, and what is the reason for its beneficial properties? Do our friends and acquaintances drink mineral water correctly, and which one do they prefer?
Purpose of the research: to study the chemical composition of mineral waters from various sources and conditions of correct use.
Research object: mineral water.
Subject of research: quality and chemical composition of mineral water, information on the label.
Research objectives:
- to get acquainted with the origin of mineral waters, their classification and significance for human health;
- to determine the presence of anions in mineral water;
- compare the received data with the information on the label;
- to study the peculiarities of the correct use of mineral water;
- to work out the skills of experimental research of substances by the method of quantitative analysis.
Research methods are hydrochemical.
Organoleptic method - based on the determination of indicators using the senses (color, transparency, smell, taste and taste, foaminess, the amount of suspended solids).
Visually, the colorimetric method is based on comparing the color intensity of the resulting solution by a visual method with a control film scale (determination of hydrogen index, total iron). Additionally, a pH meter was used to determine the pH.
The titrimetric method is based on the quantitative determination of the volume of a solution of one or two substances that react with each other, and the concentration of one of them is known exactly - titrant (titrated solution). Using the titrimetric method, studies were carried out for the quantitative content of anions in mineral water: kabonate and bicarbonate ions, sulfate ions, chloride ions.
The study was conducted over two weeks during the Interregional Ecological Expedition of Russian Schoolchildren, organized by Uchitelskaya Gazeta and the Interregional Club Teacher of the Year of Russia, with the support of the Federal Agency for Education.
The purpose of the expedition is to teach the methodology and practice of environmental research in field workshops, as well as familiarize with the natural complexes of specially protected areas of the Russian Federation and a wide exchange of experience in the field of natural sciences between Russian teachers. In more detail, we will dwell on the 2013 expedition, which took place in the Stavropol Territory, on the territory of the Caucasian Mineral Waters. Caucasian Mineral Waters is the most famous resort in Russia, where treatment with mineral waters is carried out. The reserves of mineral water concentrated in this area are huge and varied.
Therefore, one of the workshops in the framework of the expedition was "100% yashchaya water" under the leadership of Tereshchenko Lyudmila Nikolaevna, teacher of chemistry and biology MKOU secondary school No. 9 in Uralets and Verezhnikova Oksana Nikolaevna, teacher of chemistry at Lyceum No. 3 in Sarov In this project, we want to summarize the results of the work done during the workshop. Classes were conducted using the mini-laboratory of the "Christmas +" company. The systematized and presented materials are the result not only of our work, but also the work of many members of the expedition.
In the course of our work, we examined four varieties of bottled mineral water purchased at retail outlets in Pyatigorsk and Obukhovskaya-11 water purchased in the village of Uralets, as well as six varieties of water from pump rooms and open springs.
In general, the data on the labels correspond to the requirements for product packaging, although the name of the manufacturer is not indicated on the label of Nagutskaya - 26 water. The total mineralization corresponds to the type of mineral water. The analysis allows us to assume the authenticity of the product and the possibility of safe use, according to the recommendations.
Organoleptic properties of water
The organoleptic properties include the following characteristics:
color, transparency, smell, taste and aftertaste, foaminess, amount of suspended solids.
The results of organoleptic studies are presented in tables 1, 2:

Water from pump rooms and open sources has a more intense taste and smell, in comparison with bottled water, although it also belongs to the category of medical dining rooms. Such water is often saturated with hydrogen sulfide, which gives it a specific smell and taste. Kislovodsk and Kabardino-Balkarian water contains iron, which after a while falls out in the form of a brown sediment. In some springs, for example, in the Narzan Glade, the water has natural gas.

Results of a hydrochemical study of bottled water:
The study showed the absence of carbonate ions in the water (the presence of this ion is not indicated on the label). Experimental data confirm the anionic composition declared by the manufacturer. The pH value makes it possible to classify all types of water as acidic. We believe that all mineral water is of high quality and suitable for consumption.
Quantitative analysis data are shown below:

Results of hydrochemical study of water taken from natural sources (diagram 2): The largest amount of sulfates is contained in water from the pump room of spring No. 17 in Pyatigorsk, chlorides prevail in Krasnoarmeiskaya water. Three types of water out of six studied are hydrocarbonate. The water of spring No. 2 in Pyatigorsk is distinguished by the presence of carbonates, which has been confirmed experimentally. Kislovodsk and Kabardino-Balkarian water contains iron. In general, the data obtained empirically confirm the chemical composition of natural mineral water. This fact indicates that the study was carried out qualitatively, although some analyzes had to be repeated.

Hydrocarbonate waters are intended for those who go in for sports (they have a beneficial effect with increased muscle work, as well as with diabetes, infectious diseases). They are used in the treatment of urolithiasis and gout.
Sulfate is recommended for those who have problems with the liver and gallbladder (as a choleretic, as well as a laxative), obesity and diabetes.
Chloride - contribute to the regulation of the intestines, biliary tract and liver.
Contraindications for use - high blood pressure.
Our research was aimed at studying the chemical composition and properties of mineral waters of various sources, as well as the conditions for the correct use of mineral water. We believe that in the course of work on the project, we have fully achieved our goal.
Organoleptic and chemical analysis of a wide range of mineral waters made it possible to classify and confirm the authenticity of samples, evaluate the taste and usefulness of using mineral water in everyday life, as well as for medicinal purposes.
The products of our research are:
- a booklet containing useful information on the composition, properties and use of mineral water; - recommendations on the correct choice and use of mineral water. This information will be useful, for example, to students of our school who, as shown by our opinion poll, have insufficient knowledge in this area. Working on the project allowed us to broaden our horizons, as well as improve the skills of conducting a chemical experiment. The use of the field mini-express laboratory "Chrismas +" has opened up wide possibilities of its application for carrying out various chemical research, for example, in the field of environmental monitoring of water, soil, air.
During our participation in expeditions and hiking trips, we have learned to see the value and beauty of what surrounds us. The results of our research help people understand the need to preserve our main wealth - nature. Now we can say that mineral water is a unique gift that must be cherished in order to use it to serve our health.
Sources of information in literature and the Internet
1. GOST 51232-98 "Mineral water".
2. Alekseev S.V., Becker A.M. We study ecology experimentally. - St. Petersburg, 1993.
3. Caucasian Mineral Waters // Ed. M. S. Sartakova. - M .: Around the world, 2006.
4. Merkusheva NB Treatment with mineral waters. - Pyatigorsk: Price, 2004.
5. Ganeizer G. E. "Underground waters of our Earth", M., Education, 1990
6. Chernikova A. P. "What kind of water do we drink", M., Education, 1999
7. Scientific journal "Geography and natural resources" No. 2 SB RAS, Novosibirsk, 1999.
see also

They are of particular value, the chemical composition of which makes it possible to note their benefits for the human body in comparison with any other water.

Mineral water concept

Mineral waters complex solutions of chemicals (mainly salts and trace elements) are called, the content of which is represented by ions, undissociated molecules, gases, colloidal particles. The content of salts, trace elements and biologically active components in nature in this water determines its balneological value, and therefore the springs are used as part of a spa treatment, the water is applicable for baths and showers, inhalations and rinsing, and, of course, for oral administration.

It is customary to consider as curative those, the physical and chemical characteristics of which determine the curative effect on the human body. This is mainly due to the content in the water of a small but sufficient amount of components. Sodium chloride, bromine, iodine, boron, etc. it is considered to be physiologically active or specific substances that have a therapeutically active effect on the functioning of a living organism.

The consumption of water inside puts forward a number of certain requirements for its composition. Despite the fact that only such intake of a product is considered curative, which is controlled by specialists, and is not produced independently, and the product itself must correspond to the needs of the body and its individual characteristics. Drinkable mineral waters are considered to be extracted from aquifers or complexes. The latter must be protected from anthropogenic impact, which allows you to preserve the natural chemical composition of water and refer it to food. The therapeutic and prophylactic effect is determined by increased mineralization or an increased content of certain biologically active components. For sale, mineral water is bottled, often artificially carbonated. Drinking fountains are sometimes arranged near mineral water springs. This water has an effect on the digestive tract in particular and on general health in general.

Outdoor consumption mineral waters has a general strengthening and healing effect, in addition, a local effect of waters on the hollow and external organs is produced. External use consists in bathing in open springs and pools, taking baths and showers, conducting sessions of inhalation, irrigation, and washing. It is relevant for diseases of the same gastrointestinal tract, nasopharynx and upper respiratory tract, organs of the genitourinary, endocrine and circulatory systems, musculoskeletal system.

Signs and criteria for evaluating mineral waters

Mineral waters are assessed according to a number of characteristics that determine their composition, and hence the effect on the body. External signs include taste, smell, color:

  • the content of hydrogen sulfide in the water can be determined by the characteristic odor, perceptible at very considerable distances, and carbonic waters are distinguished by spontaneous, but violent gas evolution in the springs;
  • the taste of mineral waters is diverse - from neutral to salty and bitter, which is again due to the chemical composition of the water;
  • the color can be assessed in relation to the mineral waters used externally, by the content of ferruginous, siliceous, calcareous, fluorine-bearing deposits in the springs, which is typical, respectively, for ferruginous, siliceous, carbonic / calcium, fluoric waters.

Natural mineral waters are produced at the appropriate temperature, in addition, during processing it can change. A higher temperature promotes the dissolution of salts, but such water has a lower gas content. At low degrees, carbonated, but less salty water is formed. Cold mineral waters are considered to be below 20 ° C, warm - 20-35 ° C, hot - 35-42 ° C, moreover, very hot.

A sign of medicinal mineral waters is the acidity level with a pH of 6.8-8.5. The chemical and gas composition of water becomes a separate indicator, distinguish between soda, sulfate, chloride, iodine, bromide waters.

The rest of the criteria for medicinal mineral waters include:

  • total mineralization of waters, that is, the amount of substances dissolved in it;
  • ionic composition of mineral waters;
  • gas composition of mineral waters;
  • the content of mineral and organic trace elements;
  • radioactivity of mineral waters;
  • temperature of mineral waters;
  • acidity of mineral waters or their active water reaction.

Mineral water classification

Classification mineral waters It does not differ in complexity, that is, the most diverse criteria are laid as the basis for the selection of individual groups, but the most popular classifications are based on the characteristics of the chemical and gas composition of mineral waters, taking into account the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the content of ions, trace elements, gases.

The most extensive classification mineral waters represented by the division into six so-called balneological groups:

  • water without specific components and properties - the healing potential of waters falling into this group is due to the ionic composition and the degree of mineralization, and the gas component is represented by nitrogen and / or methane in an insignificant amount
  • carbonic water - the healing potential is determined by the ionic and mineral composition, as well as the predominant amount of carbon dioxide dissolved in the waters of this group, which dominates in the composition of gases, representing about 80% to 100%;
  • hydrogen sulphide or sulphide waters- The therapeutic effect of this category of mineral waters is determined by the content of free hydrogen sulfide or hydrosulfide ions; used mainly for baths;
  • ferrous and arsenic waters- are distinguished by a high content of pharmacologically active components Mn, Cu, Al, Fe, As, the presence of which in the composition (along with the ionic, gas and mineral composition) determines their therapeutic effect; these are mainly waters from zones of oxidation of ore deposits or from some thermal waters of volcanic regions;
  • bromide, iodide, high in organic matter- the corresponding therapeutic effect is determined by the content of 25 mg / l of bromine and 5 mg / l with a total mineralization of not more than 12-13 g / l, a higher mineralization also causes an increase in the concentration of bromine and iodine, so that the water is considered appropriate; norms for high organic matter content have not been developed;
  • siliceous terms- are distinguished by a high concentration of silicon, be it silicic acid or hydrosilicate, but in an amount of at least 50 mg / l.

Another classification approach mineral waters divides them into four types:

  • chloride- salty and bitter-salty waters, containing mainly salts of the chloride group, and to a very small extent hydrocarbonates or sulfates; the cationic composition is predominantly represented by sodium, which, in combination with chlorine, forms table salt, which ensures salinity;
    • sodium chloride
    • chloride-calcium
    • chloride sodium-calcium
  • sulfate- are distinguished by a low salt content (2.4-3.9 g / l), usually these are sulfate salts; the amount of alkali does not exceed a tenth; in the composition, hydrocarbons are represented by lime, and chlorides are represented by table salt;
    • sodium sulfate
    • sulphate-calcium
    • sulphate sodium-calcium
  • hydrocarbonate sodium (alkaline) - in the waters of this type, chlorides are represented by table salt in a small amount (usually 4-13%, maximum 15-18%), and sulfates are usually absent. The cationic composition characterizes the varieties of hydrocarbonate waters, it is either the predominance of sodium, or a mixed composition of cations;
  • combined or complex water composition
    • hydrocarbonate-chloride
    • bicarbonate-sulphate sodium
    • hydrocarbonate sulphate
    • chloride-sulphate
    • hydrocarbonate-chloride sulfate
    • sodium bicarbonate chloride
    • hydrocarbonate-calcium-magnesium waters

According to the level of mineralization, that is, according to the content of dissolved organic substances and inorganic salts in the water, they are distinguished:

  • fresh - up to 1 g / l;
  • slightly mineralized - 1-2 g / l;
  • low mineralization - 2-5 g / l;
  • average mineralization - 5-15 g / l;
  • high mineralization - 15-30 g / l;
  • brine mineral waters - 35-150 g / l;

Depending on the destination mineral waters distinguish between:

  • dining rooms - the level of mineralization does not exceed 1 g / l; able to normalize the function of the digestive organs; valuable for purity and harmlessness to the body; can be used without consulting a doctor, drink without restrictions, combining natural taste and health benefits;
  • medical dining rooms - the level of mineralization is within 1-10 g / l, they are distinguished by pleasant taste, but they also have a therapeutic, but rather preventive, effect on the body; can be consumed on an irregular basis by relatively healthy people;
  • medicinal - the level of mineralization is more than 10 g / l, not suitable for quenching thirst, but only for treatment and are taken as prescribed by a doctor in an appropriate dosage with a certain method of consumption.

The effect of mineral waters on the human body

In order for the consumption of mineral waters to bring maximum benefit to the body, it is important to know about their effect on the body, depending on temperature, chemical composition, physiological or therapeutic effects.

Mineral water low temperatures (up to 20 ° C) relieve fatigue, fatigue, enhance bowel function, and high temperatures (up to 37 ° C) relax and warm.

The effect of mineral waters on the human body is unusually wide and is determined in part by their use:

  • for indoor use
    • drinking cure
    • gastric lavage and irrigation
    • direct introduction into the rectum
    • drip enemas
    • intestinal baths
    • siphon and underwater bowel lavage
    • rarely parenteral administration subcutaneously, intramuscularly, or intravenously
  • for outdoor use
    • baths
    • bathing
    • shower (including Charcot)
    • rubbing
    • inhalation
    • rinses
    • irrigation for gynecological diseases.

Mineral water of the same composition can be used for different diseases due to the effect of its different components. The beneficial effect of mineral waters on the nerve endings and the circulatory system, metabolic processes and hormonal levels, the respiratory and genitourinary systems, the activity of the musculoskeletal system, the gastrointestinal tract and other internal organs has been recognized:

  • chloride waters determine the excretory function of the renal apparatus;
  • sulfates in combination with calcium, sodium or magnesium determine a decrease in gastric secretion and activity;
  • hydrocarbonate waters will certainly stimulate the secretory activity of the stomach;
  • potassium and sodium salts determine the required pressure of tissue and interstitial body fluids.
  • the potassium content in water determines the normalization of the function of the heart and central nervous system;
  • sodium waters cause fluid retention in the body;
  • calcium causes an increase in the contractile force of the heart muscle, increased immunity, anti-inflammatory effect, bone growth; hot calcium waters have a positive effect on stomach ulcers and gastritis;
  • magnesium relieves gallbladder spasms, lowers blood cholesterol levels, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system;
  • iodine activates the function of the thyroid gland, participates in the processes of resorption and recovery;
  • bromine enhances inhibitory processes, normalizes the function of the cerebral cortex;
  • fluoride strengthens bones and teeth, hair and nails;
  • manganese has a positive effect on sexual development and metabolic processes;
  • copper and iron are involved in the process of hematopoiesis;
  • carbonic mineral waters normalize metabolism in the body, and carbon dioxide absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract has a beneficial effect on respiratory and muscular activity;
  • hydrogen sulfide mineral waters have a positive effect on blood vessels, the central nervous system, endocrine glands, they are used mainly externally;
  • hydrocarbonate waters increase the alkaline reserves of the body, as well as normalize the stomach, they are relevant in the treatment of gastritis with increased secretion and acidity of gastric juice, liver diseases and biliary dyskinesia, gout, diabetes mellitus;
  • hydrocarbonate-calcium-magnesium waters determine the normalization of protein, fat, carbohydrate metabolism, are relevant for chronic inflammatory diseases of the stomach, intestines and liver, peptic ulcer, obesity and diabetes mellitus;
  • bicarbonate-chloride-sodium waters are useful for patients with increased and decreased secretion of gastric juice, biliary dyskinesia, chronic diseases of the liver and gallbladder, metabolic disorders; have a beneficial effect on obesity, gout, diabetes mellitus;
  • hydrocarbonate-sulphate waters have an inhibitory effect on gastric secretion, are choleretic and laxative, improve bile formation and pancreatic function, are relevant for gastritis with high acidity, peptic ulcer and liver diseases;
  • chloride waters of sodium composition of water stimulate the separation of gastric juice, are relevant for diseases of the stomach with decreased secretion of gastric juice, are not recommended for increased acidity of gastric juice, kidney disease, pregnancy, allergies, edema of various nature;
  • chloride-calcium waters reduce the permeability of the walls of blood vessels, have a hemostatic effect, increase urine flow, improve liver function, and have a beneficial effect on the nervous system;
  • chloride-sulfate waters have a choleretic and laxative effect, are used for diseases of the stomach with insufficient secretion of gastric juice, with simultaneous damage to the liver and biliary tract;
  • sulfate waters are distinguished by choleretic and laxative effects, they are used for diseases of the liver and biliary tract, for obesity and diabetes mellitus.

Rules for the drinking use of medicinal mineral waters

First of all, it is necessary to learn that canteens and medical canteens can be used by all people who do not have chronic diseases. Table water is used to quench thirst and general health improvement on an ongoing basis, medical table water - to prevent certain diseases on an irregular basis. Medicinal mineral waters are indicated for use only as directed by a doctor in the course prescribed by him.

The bottling of mineral waters into sealed bottles is mainly accompanied by their carbonation with carbon dioxide, which allows preserving their composition and medicinal properties.

The general rules for the consumption of mineral waters are presented below:

  • do not mix with other waters, with the exception of highly concentrated ones, which are diluted with fresh water;
  • drink slowly in small sips with reduced gastric secretion, for long-term effects on the gastric mucosa and stimulation of its secretory work.
  • drink quickly to obtain a laxative effect, then the effect of mineral water will develop in the intestines; topical for stomach ulcers and increased acidity of gastric juice in order to avoid prolonged irritation of the gastric mucosa;
  • excess gases in mineral water can be eliminated by heating it;
  • the duration of the course of treatment is usually 3-4 or 5-6 weeks, during which it is recommended to stop drinking alcohol and nicotine, which reduces the effectiveness of therapy;

More specific rules for the use of medicinal and medicinal-table waters are determined by a specialist after an in-person consultation with a patient:

  • the value of a single dose can range from 1 tbsp. up to 2 glasses;
  • the value of the daily dose is usually ½ l or more, but rarely more than 1.2-1.5 l;
  • mineral water should be taken before meals, during or after meals, as determined by the doctor;
  • the number of water intake can be either 1-2 or 5-6, which again is determined by the doctor;
  • long-term contact of water with air, as well as its long-term storage in a hermetically sealed container, leads to its denaturation, and therefore mineral waters are usually limited to a short shelf life - 1 week for containing organic substances and a year for ordinary ones.

Medicinal mineral waters are natural waters that contain in high concentrations one or another mineral (less often organic) components and gases and (or) possess some physical properties (radioactivity, environmental reaction, etc.), due to which these waters affect the body a person's therapeutic effect to one degree or another, which differs from the action of "fresh" water.

Criteria for classifying waters as "mineral" to varying degrees differ from one researcher to another. All of them are united by their origin: that is, mineral waters are waters extracted or brought to the surface from the depths of the earth. At the state level, in a number of EU countries, certain criteria for assigning waters to the category of mineral waters have been legally approved. In the national regulations regarding the criteria for mineral waters, the hydrogeochemical features of the territories that are inherent in each country have found their reflection.

In the normative acts of a number of European countries and international recommendations - the "Codex Alimentarius", the Directives of the European Parliament and the European Council for the EU member states, the definition of "mineral waters" has acquired a broader meaning.

For example, " Codex Alimentarius»Gives the following definition of natural mineral water: natural mineral water is water that clearly differs from ordinary drinking water, because:

· It is characterized by its composition, which includes certain mineral salts, in a certain ratio, and the presence of certain elements in trace amounts or other components;

· It is directly obtained from natural or drilled sources from underground aquifers, for which it is necessary to observe all precautions within the protection zone in order to avoid the ingress of any pollution or external influence on the chemical and physical properties of mineral waters;

· It is characterized by the constancy of its composition and the stability of the flow rate, a certain temperature and the corresponding cycles of minor natural fluctuations.

In Russia, the definition of V.V. Ivanova and G.A. Nevraeva, given in the work "Classification of underground mineral waters" (1964).

To mineral drinking water (in accordance with GOST 13273–88), includes waters with a total mineralization of at least 1 g / l or with a lower mineralization, containing biologically active microcomponents in an amount not lower than balneological standards.

Drinking mineral waters depending on the degree of mineralization and the intensity of the effect on the body, they are divided into medical-table waters with a mineralization of 2-8 g / l (the exception is Essentuki No. 4 with a mineralization of 8-10 g / l) and medicinal waters with a mineralization of 8-12 g. / l, rarely higher.

Mineral waters, classified in the prescribed manner as medicinal, are used primarily for medicinal and spa purposes. A permit for the use of medicinal mineral waters for other purposes in exceptional cases is issued by the executive authorities of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation in agreement with the specially authorized state body for the management of the use and protection of the water fund, the specially authorized state body that manages the resorts, and the federal body for managing the state subsoil fund.

How to test (analyze) mineral water for quality at home? Varieties of mineral waters, their characteristics and requirements for them. Regulatory documents for mineral waters. What is considered to be the quality standards of mineral water. How is the analysis of mineral water carried out in laboratory conditions, methods of analysis. Before you test (analyze) mineral water for quality, you need to understand the varieties of this liquid and the requirements for its quality. Only then can you judge the quality of the liquid in the bottle based on the test results.

Varieties of mineral water

Mineral water is of natural origin and artificial. The first is made from liquid collected from deep-water artesian wells. Only registered sources may be used for the production of such water. Usually, the quality of such a liquid can be judged by the set and safety of the mineral components. There are several types of mineral water:

  • Water for the treatment of people. It can only be taken on the recommendation of a doctor. The degree of mineralization of such a liquid is 8 g / l.
  • Medical canteen. The concentration of useful mineral compounds in this type of liquid should be in the range of 2-8 g / l.
  • Table water. This kind can be drunk regularly. Its mineralization level should be 1-2 g / l.
  • Table water with a minimum degree of mineral saturation. Their volume usually does not exceed 1 g / l.

The main difference between artificial water is that it is produced at a factory, but in terms of the composition and quantity of mineral compounds, such water does not differ from natural. At the same time, the label must indicate that the water is produced artificially.

Also, mineral water can be carbonated and non-carbonated. In this case, carbonation can occur naturally or artificially. Also, according to the presence of cations and anions in water, it can be divided into 31 types, including chloride, sulfate, hydrocarbonate and mixed waters.

Mineral water quality standards

The quality of mineral waters, be it table or medicinal water, is regulated by GOST R 54316-2011. The quality standards for such water are:

  1. Production method. Natural mineral water is extracted from the well. The produced water is purified and filtered. There are also separate standards for the cleaning and filtration process. By standards, the liquid should be crystal clear, but a slight sediment of mineral compounds is allowed. The taste and smell must match the composition of the liquid.
  2. The standards impose a restriction on a certain list of chemical elements. So, in water with minerals, the content of ammonium in an amount not exceeding 2 mg / l, phenolic substances in a volume of 0.001 mg / l, nitrates up to 50 mg / l, lead up to 0.3 mg / l, nitrites up to 2 mg / l is allowed. The concentration of arsenic is also stipulated: for medicinal water, this indicator cannot exceed 3 mg / l, and in table medicinal water, not higher than 1.5 mg / l.
  3. The concentration of nitrogen dioxide (carbonation of the beverage) cannot be less than 0.3%. The production of still water is also allowed.
  4. Spill requirements. The water is sold in tightly sealed bottles.

After that, the product must be tested to confirm its quality. For this, the sample is analyzed, in which its organoleptic qualities, composition, microbiological indicators are checked, and radiological control is carried out. Also, the safety of all components of the mineral water is strictly controlled, the physical usefulness of the elements is checked.

Analysis of mineral water at home

Each of us can check the quality of bottled water in affordable ways. To do this, you need to conduct a number of small experiments:

  • For the first test, you will need to drip water from a bottle onto a clean glass or mirror and let it dry. If after that no trace remains on the surface, then the water is clean. A dried whitish spot will indicate the presence of an excess of chlorine, and circular stains at the place of the drop will indicate an excess of salts.
  • The second analysis requires bottled water to be kept in a jar. To do this, pour a sample of water into a clean three-liter jar and put it in a dark place for several days. High-quality water should remain the same clean and transparent, odorless and free of sediment. If the water becomes cloudy, turns green, has a sediment or an unpleasant odor, it means that bacteria were present in it. The presence of harmful chemicals will be indicated by an oil film on the surface of the water.
  • If mineral water without gas is poured into a dark-colored saucepan and boiled for 10-15 minutes, then after draining the liquid, conclusions can be drawn about the quality of the water. If there is a white coating, sediment or scale on the walls of the dishes, we can say that there is an excess of salts, iron oxide, calcium in the water.

Mineral water expertise

Organoleptic analysis of high-quality mineral water should give the following results: it is a colorless transparent liquid with a characteristic taste and smell of dissolved minerals. When storing such a liquid, a slight precipitation is allowed.

Mineral water test can be carried out:

  • Express method
  • By weight method

The first method is carried out as follows. First, 100 ml of water from a bottle is drawn into a clean glass. She is allowed to stand for 10 minutes. Then investigate the trace of a drop of this liquid on the glass. Plain drinking water can form a salt circuit. Mineral water will have a vague track outline. In this case, its inner part will be filled with a whitish coating. The trace of a drop in medicinal-table waters should be more densely filled with a white coating, while in medicinal waters the trace will be completely white.

The weighting method allows in laboratory conditions to determine the concentration of mineral salts in grams per cubic decimeter.

If you want to check the quality of mineral water, then you can order the most reliable analysis only in the laboratory. No amount of home checks will give you the full picture. To carry out an analysis in our laboratory, you need to contact us at the numbers indicated on the website.

UDC: 613.31: 543.3 (048.8) CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF MINERAL WATERS OF THE BELGOROD REGION

The study of the chemical composition of 12 types of packaged mineral waters produced in the Belgorod region was carried out. The active concentration of water (pH), its total hardness were determined, the content of calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, sulfate, chloride, fluoride, iodide ions and total iron (II and III) was established. The comparison of these indicators of water quality with those for water from centralized drinking water supply systems is carried out. A biochemical assessment of the results obtained is given.

Key words: mineral water, cation-anionic composition, quality standards, physiological usefulness of drinking water.

L.F. Goldovskaya-Peristaya, I.V. Indina, VA Peristyi, M.N. Yapryntsev

Belgorod State National Research University, Russia, 308015, Belgorod, st. Victory, 85

Email: [email protected]

Introduction

Mineral waters include underground (sometimes surface) natural waters, which are characterized by an increased content of biologically active components and have specific physicochemical properties (temperature, chemical composition, radioactivity, etc.).

Mineral waters are used for medicinal and industrial purposes. Medicinal waters include those waters that, due to their physical and chemical characteristics, have a healing effect on the human body (carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, etc.). The industrially valuable waters are those from which components useful in the national economy (table salt, bromine, iodine, boron) can be extracted.

To classify natural waters as mineral waters, special criteria have been developed that characterize the physiological, and, therefore, therapeutic, effect of waters. These criteria include:

Active reaction of waters, characterized by the pH value;

Water temperature;

Ionic composition of mineral waters;

Gas saturation of waters;

Water radioactivity.

Depending on the quality of the water, improved in relation to the hygienic requirements for the water of the centralized water supply, as well as additional medical and biological requirements, the packaged water is divided into 2 categories.

The first category is drinking water (regardless of the source of its production) safe for health, fully complying with the criteria of favorable organoleptic properties, epidemic and radiation safety, chemical composition harmlessness and stably retaining its high drinking properties.

The highest category is water that is safe for health and optimal in quality (from independent, as a rule, underground, preferably spring or artesian water sources, reliably protected from biological and chemical pollution).

While maintaining all the criteria for water of the 1st category, drinking water of optimal quality must also meet the criterion of physiological usefulness in terms of the content of the main biologically necessary macro- and microelements and more stringent standards for a number of organoleptic and sanitary-toxicological indicators.

The chemical composition of mineral waters is determined by the content of three anions - HCO3-, 5042_, C1- and three cations - Ca2 +, Mg2 +, Na +. The ratio of these six elements determines the basic properties of groundwater - alkalinity, salinity and hardness. According to the anionic composition, mineral waters are classified into:

Chloride (C1-);

Sulfate (5042-);

Hydrocarbonate (НСО3-);

Intermediate (hydrocarbonate-sulfate, sulfate-chloride, chloride-sulfate and more complex composition).

According to the cationic composition, mineral waters can be:

Sodium (Noa +);

Calcium (Ca2 +);

Magnesium (Md2 +);

Mixed.

The chemical composition of groundwater, including mineral water, is formed under the influence of many natural factors and has its own regional characteristics in different geographic zones. It is rarely balanced in a ratio favorable to the human body and is usually characterized by an excess or insufficient content of certain macro- or microelements.

On the territory of the Belgorod Region, mineral underground waters were discovered along the way during the exploration of deposits of solid minerals. The following groups of mineral waters are distinguished: balneological, mineral medicinal, mineral drinking medicinal-table and mineral table. The first group (balneological waters) includes radon waters, which are used in the form of radon baths. Deposits of mineral medicinal waters are common in Belgorodsky, Starooskolsky, Shebekinsky, Chernyansky districts. Mineral drinking medical dining rooms are widespread in Belgorodsky, Shebekinsky, Borisovsky and Rakityansky districts. Mineral table waters are found in the Belgorodsky, Yakovlevsky, Prokhorovsky and Shebekinsky districts. They are called ecologically clean groundwater because they are reasonably well protected from pollution. Such underground mineral waters can be used for bottling without special reagent water treatment both in natural form and with saturation with carbon dioxide (carbonated water), as well as for the preparation of soft drinks, juices, baby food, etc.

The purpose of this work was to assess the quality of mineral drinking medicinal table and table waters of the Belgorod region by the active reaction (pH) and ionic composition.

Research methods

For the study, 12 types of packaged mineral waters produced in the Belgorod region were taken: Aqua Futuri, Blagodatny source, Krasivo, Kreshchensky Spring, Maiskaya Khrustalnaya, Path to the top, Spring Belogorya, Rozhdestvenskaya, Saninskaya, Standard Belogorya, Khrustal Belogorya, Yasny well.

The total hardness, the content of calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, sulfate and chloride ions were determined by the titrimetric method according to the relevant State Standards. The active reaction of the waters, characterized by the pH value, was determined by the potentiometric method. The concentration of trace elements (iodide and fluoride ions) was determined by standard methods. To determine the concentration of iodide ions, we used a photometric method based on the catalytic action of the iodide ion on the oxidation reaction of the iron (III) thiocyanate ion. The concentration of fluoride ions in water was determined by the ionometric method using a B-selective electrode. The concentration of total iron (II and III) was determined by the spectrophotometric method according to the corresponding GOST.

Results and its discussion

Table 1 shows the general characteristics of the investigated mineral waters. The water class is declared by the manufacturer, and the pH value was determined by us experimentally.

Mineral waters of the Belgorod region are extracted from artesian wells at a depth of 320 to 737 m.

Table 1

General characteristics of the investigated mineral waters

No. Name of water Artesian well depth, m Water class by anionic-cationic composition pH Mineral water producer

1 Aqua-Futuri 320 of the first category 7-34, Valuyki, JSC Valuy Distillery

2 Blagodatny source 737 dining room, sodium bicarbonate 8.67 Belgorod district, p. Veselaya Lopan, "Vese-Lolopansky distillery"

3 Beautifully 679 dining room, sodium bicarbonate, medical 8.66 Borisov district, health resort "Krasivo"

4 Epiphany Spring 320 dining room, hydrocarbonate-chloride sodium 7.72, Valuyki, JSC Valuysky distillery

5 Mayskaya Khrustalnaya 640 dining room, sodium bicarbonate 8.45 Belgorod, settlement Mayskiy, OJSC "White Mountains"

6 Way to the top 320 of the highest category 5.21 Valuyki, JSC "Valuy Distillery"

7 Spring Belogorya 500 dining room, sodium bicarbonate 8.58 Korocha, JSC "Belogorye and K"

8 Christmas 465 dining room, sulphate-hydrocarbonate sodium 8.25 Yakovlevsky district, Stroitel, LLC "Rodnik"

9 Saninskaya 385 dining room, bicarbonate calcium-sodium 8.05 Korochansky district, p. Gremyachye, JSC "Agroproduct"

10 Standard Belogorya - dining room, sulphate-hydrocarbonate sodium 8.29, Belgorod, LLC "Water World"

11 Crystal Belogorya 496 dining room, sodium bicarbonate 8.43 Belgorod, JSC "Elgaz-Plus"

12 Yasny well - canteen, bicarbonate calcium 7.83, Korocha, Belogorye and K LLC

Packaged drinking water quality standards First category - 6.58.5 -

Our studies have shown that the pH of the investigated mineral waters is 7.348.67. The pH value of the Path to the Top mineral water is not taken into account, since this water is sold only in carbonated form and cannot be compared with other waters in terms of this indicator. Most of the examined mineral waters meet the hygienic requirements and standards for the quality of drinking water, packaged in containers, the pH of which should be 6.5-8.5. However, the mineral waters "Blagodatny Spring" and "Krasivo" slightly exceed the specified standard. In terms of acid-base properties, the mineral waters under study are weakly alkaline, for which the pH value is 7.2-8.5.

Many authors note that it is very important to drink water with an alkaline pH value, since most biological fluids of the human body have an alkaline reaction of the environment: arterial blood pH 7.35-7.45, venous blood - 7.26-7.36, lymph - 7.35-7.40, intercellular fluid - 7.26-7.38, pancreatic juice - 7.50-8.0, bile in the ducts - 7.4-8.5, etc.

Table 2 shows the results of determining the chemical composition of 12 mineral waters of the Belgorod region. Let's compare them with the hygienic requirements and standards for the quality of drinking water packaged in containers.

According to the value of the total hardness, more than half of the studied mineral waters belong to the group of very soft natural waters, the hardness of which is less than the lower value of the standard for the quality of waters of the highest category and the standard for physiological usefulness.

drinking water, i.e. less than 1.5 mmol / l. The hardness of the rest of the waters meets the specified standards (1.5-7 mmol / l).

table 2

Chemical composition of mineral waters of the Belgorod region

No. Name of water L, mmol / l Ca2 +, mg / l Mg2 + mg / l HCO3 -mg / l 8042-, mg / l C1-, mg / l B-, mg / l mg / l Fe (total) , mg / l

1 Aqua-Futuri 1.40 23.6 2.6 51.7 33.93 18.9 0.44 0.010 0.017

2 Blessed spring 0.10 2.0 Not found 328.5 2.79 30.2 1.67 0.031 0.024

3 Beautiful 0.10 2.2 0.8 265.7 38.52 39.5 1.12 0.015 0.066

4 Epiphany Spring 4.33 56.6 18.0 184.5 44.91 279.5 1.83 0.021 0.006

6 Path to the top 1.97 28.4 6.6 62.7 35.53 34.1 1.04 0.009 0.011

7 Spring of Belogo-Rya 0.20 4.0 Not found 175.3 104.39 22.0 0.99 0.025 0.002

8 Christmas 0.37 6.0 0.8 145.8 100.0 0 16.3 0.60 0.025 0.002

9 Saninskaya 1.95 27.5 6.9 132.9 56.89 15.6 0.35 0.016 0.003

10 Standard of the White region 0.50 8.0 1.2 155.0 41.12 37.6 0.69 0.007 0.023

11 Crystal White-Rya 0.40 6.0 1.2 199.3 24.15 27.0 1.56 0.012 0.038

12 Clear well 5.57 102.0 5.6 179.0 32.33 27.0 0.12 0.014 0.018

Packaged drinking water quality standards First category 7 130 65 400 250 250 1.5 0.125 0.3

Norms of physiological usefulness of drinking water, within 1.5-7 25130 5-65 30400 - - 0.51.5 0.010.125 -

The results of determining the content of calcium and magnesium ions in mineral waters show that more than half of the studied waters are characterized by a low content of calcium and magnesium ions and do not reach the lower physiological value of 25-130 mg / l (for calcium ions) and 5-65 mg / l ( for magnesium ions). Only the mineral waters "Kreshchensky Rodnik", "Path to the Top", "Saninskaya" and "Yasnyi kolodets" meet the standards of the physiological usefulness of drinking water. In terms of the content of these ions, the waters "Kreshchensky Spring", "Path to the Top" and "Saninskaya" also correspond to the standard for the quality of waters of the highest category (25-80 mg / l (for calcium) and 5-50 mg / l (for magnesium)).

As a result of studies by a number of authors, the minimum and maximum concentrations of calcium and magnesium ions in drinking water have been established, which cause dysfunction of organs and systems of the human body. For waters of the hydrocarbonate class, the optimal concentrations should be considered: Ca2 + - 60 mg / l, Mg2 + - 26 mg / l. The content of calcium and magnesium in the investigated mineral waters does not correspond to the specified optimal ratio.

Previously, we found that the hygienic standards for water quality of centralized drinking water supply systems (CPWS) in the Belgorod region were exceeded in terms of total hardness and concentration of calcium ions. The total hardness of CSPV water is 5.8-11.4 mmol / l (in various districts of the region). It was revealed that the water of the CSPV did not meet the quality requirements for hardness in 20 regional centers out of 21 (95% of the samples). The hardness of Belgorod tap water is mainly due to calcium ions, the concentration of which is 104-174 mg / l. The content of magnesium ions is much less (7-58 mg / l) than ions

calcium. However, in terms of the content of magnesium ions, water in all regional centers meets hygienic requirements.

Comparison of the investigated mineral waters with the water of the CBRW of the Belgorod region shows that the total hardness and the content of calcium ions in mineral waters are much less than in tap water, which, on the one hand, can be considered a favorable factor, since the high hardness of drinking water is one of the reasons urolithiasis and hypertension. However, on the other hand, the constant use of soft water with a low calcium ion content can negatively affect the skeletal system. In contrast to the water of CSPV, more than half of the studied types of mineral waters do not meet the quality standards for packaged drinking water in terms of the content of magnesium ions. The insignificant content of magnesium in drinking mineral waters does not allow them to be considered a complete alternative to tap water, since the constant use of such mineral waters can negatively affect the cardiovascular system.

The content of hydrocarbonate ions in the investigated mineral waters corresponds to the standard of physiological usefulness and the quality standard for waters of the highest category. Higher concentrations of hydrocarbonate ions belong to the waters "Blagodatny source" (328.5 mg / l), "Maiskaya Khrustalnaya" (308.5 mg / l), "Krasivo" (265.7 mg / l). Most of the investigated mineral waters can be classified as hydrocarbonate. Mineral waters "Aqua-Futuri" and "Path to the Top" have low concentrations of bicarbonate ions, equal to 51.7 and 62.7 mg / l, respectively.

It is known that mineral waters containing hydrocarbonate ions normalize the secretory and motor functions of the stomach and intestines. Under the influence of hydrocarbonate waters in the body, the content of hydrogen ions, which are the starting material for the production of hydrochloric acid, decreases. The presence of HCO3- ions in the water promotes better absorption of certain trace elements in the intestine, in particular iron.

The content of sulfate ions in the waters under study varies widely from 2.8 to 104.4 mg / L, which does not exceed the values ​​of the considered standards for waters of the first and highest categories. Mineral water "Standard Belogorya" is declared by the manufacturer as sulfate, but the concentration of sulfate ions in it is only 41.12 mg / l. Only two mineral waters contain a significant amount of sulfate ions: "Spring Belogorya" (104.39 mg / l) and "Rozhdestvenskaya" (100 mg / l), which makes it possible to classify them as sulfate waters.

From the literature it is known that sulfate mineral waters significantly reduce the activity of gastric secretion, have a pronounced effect on the intestines and increase metabolic processes in the body.

Although in terms of the concentration of chloride ions, mineral waters produced in the Belgorod region differ significantly from each other, but almost all of them meet the quality standard for waters of the highest category. In general, the content of chloride ions in them is low and therefore they cannot be classified as chloride ions. An excess of chloride ions is observed only in the Kreshchensky Rodnik mineral water (279.5 mg / l), which significantly exceeds the quality standard for waters of the highest category (150 mg / l) and the quality standard for waters of the first category (250 mg / l). Such chloride mineral water should increase metabolic processes, cause a choleretic effect, and with prolonged use, contribute to an increase in the acidity of gastric juice. And in combination with calcium ions, the content of which in the water "Epiphany Spring" is 56.6 mg / l, it can have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce the permeability of cell membranes, reduce bleeding, have a beneficial effect on the growth of bone tissue and teeth.

In terms of the concentration of fluoride ions (0.12-1.83 mg / l), the studied mineral waters differ significantly from each other. Almost half of them comply with the standard of physiological usefulness and quality standard for waters of the highest category. The lack of fluoride ions was found in the mineral waters "Aqua-Futuri" (0.44 mg / l), "Saninskaya" (0.35 mg / l) and "Yasnyi kolodets" (0.12 mg / l). A significant excess of MPC for the content of fluoride ions was recorded in the mineral waters "Kreshchensky Rodnik" (1.83 mg / l), "Blagodatny source" (1.67 mg / l), "Mayskaya Khrustalnaya" (1.63 mg / l), which does not allow them to be attributed to waters of the first and highest category for this indicator.

As is known from the literature, osteoporosis and dental caries are among the manifestations of fluoride deficiency, and the consequence of an excess of fluoride is fluorosis, which is externally expressed in spotting of the teeth.

Our earlier studies showed a deficiency of fluoride ions in tap water in almost all districts of the Belgorod region. Therefore, in order to avoid negative health effects, it can be recommended for consumption instead of

pre-conduit water drinking table mineral waters, which meet the quality standards in terms of the content of fluoride ions (see Table 2).

The investigated mineral waters are characterized by a low content of iodide ions, the concentration of which is approximately 0.01-0.03 mg / l, which is closer to the lower limit of the physiological usefulness of drinking water and does not meet the quality standards for packaged drinking water of the highest category (0.04-0.06 mg / l). The lowest concentration of iodide ions (0.007 mg / l) is noted in the mineral water "Standard Belogorya".

A weak degree of iodine deficiency was also previously established for the water of CSPV. The consequence of iodine deficiency is thyroid disease (endemic goiter).

For comparison, we note that in the tap water of all regional centers of the Belgorod region there is an excess of the maximum permissible concentration of iron (0.3 mg / l)

Iron belongs to the essential trace elements necessary for human health. The function of hemoglobin containing iron (II) in oxygen transport is widely known. Iron is found in over 70 different enzymes. The negative impact of iron deficiency and excess on the human body is described in more detail in our previous publications.

The study of 12 types of prepackaged mineral waters produced in the Belgorod region allows us to give them the following assessment.

The investigated mineral waters belong to the group of slightly alkaline, soft, hydrocarbonate waters.

More than half of mineral waters are characterized by an insufficient content of calcium and magnesium ions, the concentration ratio of which is not optimal for human health.

The concentration of sulfate and chloride ions does not exceed the generally accepted standards.

50% of mineral waters in terms of the content of fluoride ions meet the quality standards for waters of the highest category and the standards for the physiological usefulness of drinking water.

For all investigated mineral waters, a weak degree of iodine deficiency was established.

The concentration of total iron (II and III) does not exceed the maximum permissible value.

The optimal cationic-anionic composition is the Path to the Top mineral water, all indicators of which, except for iodine deficiency, comply with the quality standards for packaged drinking water.

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CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF MINERAL WATERS OF BELGOROD REGION

L.F. Goldovskaya-Peristaya, I.V. Indina, VA Peristy, M.N. Yapryntsev

Belgorod State National Research Uiversity, Pobedy St., 85, Belgorod, 308015, Russia

The chemical composition of 12 kinds prepacked mineral waters produced in the Belgorod region has been investigated. Activity of the solvated hydrogen ions, total hardness, content of calcium-, magnesium-, bicarbonate-, sulfate-, chloride-, fluoride-, iodide-ions and total ferrum (II and III) have been defined. These water quality indicators of mineral waters with those of water from centralized water supply system have been compared. Biochemical estimate of the results has been given.

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Key words: mineral water, cation-anion composition, water quality target, physiological usefulness of drinking water ..