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Aeration

Last updated: October 11, 2018

What Does Aeration Mean?

Aeration is the process by which air is circulated through, mixed with or dissolved in a liquid or substance. Aeration is used in liquids, soils and foods to improve quality and reduce contamination.

In industrial water conditioning, one of the major objectives of aeration is to remove carbon dioxide. Aeration is also used to oxidize soluble iron and manganese to insoluble precipitates. It can also reduce ammonia and hydrogen sulfide (stripping), and is an effective method of bacteria control.

Aeration is also known as aerification.

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Corrosionpedia Explains Aeration

Aeration is a process in which air is brought into contact with another substance.

Aeration of liquids (usually water) is achieved by passing the liquid through air. Uses of liquid aeration include:

  • Smoothing the flow of tap water at the faucet
  • Secondary treatment of sewage or industrial wastewater
  • Dispelling other dissolved gases such as carbon dioxide or chlorine
  • In chemistry, oxidizing a compound dissolved or suspended in water

Aeration of soil refers to the extent of air gaps in soil. Core aeration is done on turf areas as a means of reducing turf compaction, reducing thatch buildup and improving the infiltration of water.

Aeration in food refers to the process in which air, or CO2, is absorbed into the food item. For example, In wine tasting, a variety of methods are used to aerate wine and bring out the aromas, including swirling wine in the glass, use of a decanter to increase exposure to air, or use of a specialized wine aerator.

Aeration usually accelerates anodic corrosion processes. Both general and localized corrosion are stimulated by aeration. Most engineers do not realize the major influence of relatively low levels of oxygen contamination. Corrosion damage can be much more severe with increased oxygen content, with localized corrosion greatly increasing the rate of attack.

Differential aeration corrosion occurs when a metal surface is exposed to differential air concentrations or oxygen concentrations. Waterline corrosion is a case of differential aeration corrosion.

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Synonyms

Aerification

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