Where?
HF Waste Source
In the solar / photovoltaic (PV) industry, HF (Hydrofluoric Acid) is mainly used in the wafer cleaning and Texturing / Surface Etching stage during silicon solar cell manufacturing.
The wastewater generated from these processes contains high concentrations of fluoride ions (F⁻), which are harmful to the environment and human health.
Therefore, it's imperative to treat HF wastewater to reduce fluoride concentrations to acceptable levels before discharge.
EQA IER 2009
Regulatory Standards in Malaysia
According to Malaysia's Environmental Quality Act (Industrial Effluent) Regulations 2009, the permissible limit for fluoride in industrial effluent is ≤ 5.0 mg/L for Std B & ≤ 2.0 mg/L for Std A. This means that industries must ensure their wastewater treatment processes effectively reduce fluoride concentrations to meet this standard.
How?
Treatment Methods for HF Wastewater
The primary method for removing fluoride from HF wastewater involves chemical precipitation, where fluoride ions are converted into insoluble compounds that can be separated from the water.
Case Study: Effective Fluoride Reduction
A study conducted by Greentech Alpha Sdn Bhd demonstrated the effectiveness of a specialized coagulant, FR-105, in treating HF wastewater from a wafer etching process.
The initial Fluoride concentration (F-) of approximately 5,000 mg/L was reduced to 2.20 mg/L, within regulatory limit of ≤ 5.0 mg/L (IER 2009 Std B).
Conclusion
Treating HF wastewater in the solar industry is essential to comply with Malaysia’s environmental regulations and protect public health. Employing a combination of chemical precipitation, pH adjustment, coagulation, and advanced treatment methods can effectively reduce fluoride concentrations to acceptable levels, ensuring safe discharge into the environment
HF Wastewater Treatment Process
HF Wastewater Treatment Samples
Top View (HF Treated Water)
A Dry White Solid Filter Sludge Cake
Initial Fluoride ISE Reading
(10ppm x 500times dilution = 5000 ppm)
After Removal Fluoride ISE Reading using FR-105 =2.2 ppm
Treated HF Water After Removal with FR-105
Features & Benefits
In Greentech Alpha, we offer advanced solutions for industry wastewater treatment systems. We combine the best technologies to provide cost effective and efficient systems for our valuable clients.
Consultancy, Upgrading & Maintenance Service
- Consultancy & Technical Services related to Wastewater Treatment System (WWTP).
- Submission of Application to D.O.E. for Approval of Wastewater Treatment System (WWTP).
- Wastewater Treatment System (WWTP) Maintenance Service Contract.
- Repair, Upgrade, Modify & Retrofit existing Wastewater Treatment System (WWTP).
- Our experienced, competent and qualified engineers and technicians are fully capable to conduct classroom and on-site training programmes for your production, project and maintenance personnel on the operation & maintenance of Wastewater Treatment System (WWTP).
- Breakdown maintenance and on-site service.
- Our company offers a service that ensures a 10% annual reduction in the costs associated with the development.
