Drinking water storage: how to properly preserve its useful properties. About water and containers: safe storage How to keep bottled water fresh

From this article you will learn:

• What is the best container to store drinking water in?
• Conditions and terms of storage of drinking water in plastic containers
• How to properly store drinking water with different properties

Currently, in order to prepare food or just drink, water must be filtered or purchased from a store, where it is sold in 19-liter bottles or in small plastic bottles. In the same container, we, as a rule, store it at home. But is it right? What conditions and terms must be observed when storing drinking water, you will learn from our article.

What are the best containers to use for storing drinking water

First of all, it should be noted that it is correct to store water in a closed container and certainly in a glass one.

If you do not have such a container at hand, take a container made of food-grade plastic, which includes polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene and polypropylene.

The listed polymers are chemically inactive and harmless, however, manufacturers add technological substances - stabilizers to them to improve strength. As a result of chemical decomposition, once in water, they can have a toxic effect. We get the same effect when drinking water is stored for a long time in a plastic container or after it is heated. In addition, polymeric materials, changing (aging), emit decay products.

Polyethylene(abbreviated as PE) is a thermoplastic saturated polymeric hydrocarbon. Its molecule contains ethylene units.

Water and other polar liquids do not wet polyethylene; in addition, organic solvents do not act on it at room temperature. When heated (up to +70 °C and above), PE swells and then dissolves in aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Best of all, polyethylene is dissolved by xylene, decalin and tetralin. Also, at high temperatures, PE decomposes (usually it is pre-softened).

Polyethylene is resistant to strong acids and alkalis, impervious to moisture. It reacts differently to organic solvents (depending on the chemical base of the polymer), and is physiologically harmless.

PVC(abbreviated PVC) - a product obtained as a result of complex chemical synthesis based on natural materials - sodium chloride and oil hydrocarbons.

During the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride, the intermediate product is VC (vinyl chloride) with a monomeric structure. Further, during the polymerization, the VC monomers are converted into PVC polymers. They are already completely inert and non-toxic. The final polymer contains only 0.1 ppm, although the maximum permissible concentration of toxins in plant foods should be 10 ppm.

To give PVC certain properties, various additives are used - stabilizers, plasticizers and fillers. Stabilizers are divided into two types - Ca / Zn (calcium / zinc) and even highly toxic lead compounds can be used.

Polyvinyl chloride is very popular due to its low cost. PVC is used to produce disposable tableware, containers for household chemicals, cosmetic bags, water and beverage bottles. After some time, PVC begins to release VC (vinyl chloride). This carcinogen enters the water, from it into food, and with food into the human body.

According to studies, vinyl chloride begins to be released a week after liquid is poured into a plastic container. A month later, in a mineral water, for example, several milligrams of VC accumulate (according to oncologists, this is quite enough for the development of an oncological disease). In no case should plastic bottles be reused, although we see this all the time.

Polystyrene(abbreviated PS) - obtained as a result of the polymerization of styrene (viniobenzene). This product belongs to the class of thermopolymer polymers (thermal resistant). Its chemical formula is [-CH 2 -CH (C 6 H 5) -] n -. Phenyl groups in the composition of polystyrene interfere with the ordered arrangement of macromolecules and the creation of crystalline compounds.

Polystyrene is characterized as a rigid and at the same time brittle amorphous polymer with a significant degree of optical light transmission and low mechanical strength. In finished form, it is a colorless granules of a cylindrical shape.

PS density is low (1060 kg / m 3), thermal stability - up to +105 ° С, shrinkage during injection molding 0.4–0.8%. It is an excellent dielectric, frost-resistant (can withstand temperatures up to -40 ° C). Possesses low chemical resistance (except for dilute acids, alkalis and alcohols).

In order to improve the qualities of PS, it is modified by mixing with other polymers - they are crosslinked and styrene copolymers are obtained.

Polystyrene dissolves in gasoline, toluene and acetone.

The popularity of polystyrene is based on its low cost, easy processing and a wide range of different types. High-impact polystyrenes are the most common (their production is over 60% of the total production of polystyrene plastics). These are copolymers of styrene with different types of rubber.

PS is inert with respect to water and various liquids. But if you pour hot water into such a container, then this container will begin to release a toxic compound - styrene.

Polyethylene terephthalate(abbreviated as PET, PET) is a thermoplastic that is resistant to elevated temperatures. It is obtained by polycondensation of ethylene glycol with terephthalic acid (and its dimethyl ether). PET is solid, colorless, transparent in the amorphous state, and white and opaque in the crystalline state. The molecular weight is (20-50)x10 3 . PET is an excellent dielectric, strong and wear resistant.

PET is chemically resistant to acids, salts, alcohols, gasoline, paraffin, fats, mineral oils, ether, insoluble in water, resistant to water vapor.

At temperatures from +40 °C to +150 °C, polyethylene terephthalate dissolves in substances such as acetone, benzene, phenol, toluene, cyclohexanone, ethyl acetate, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform.

It practically does not absorb moisture (hygroscopicity 0.4–0.5%) - this depends on the phase state of the polymer and the relative humidity of the air.

PET has high heat resistance (melts at +290 °C), breaks down at a temperature that is 50 °C below the inert environment. It can be operated at temperatures from +60 °С to + 170 °С, undergoes thermal destruction at temperatures from +290 °С to +310 °С.

The destruction of PET proceeds statistically along the polymer chain. PET contains volatile products such as terephthalic acid, acetaldehyde, and carbon monoxide. At a temperature of +90 °C, a large amount of various kinds of hydrocarbons is formed. Most of the volatile products consist of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and methane.

Now polyethylene terephthalate is used in the manufacture of a wide variety of packaging for food and drinks, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, video, audio and x-ray films, tires for cars and much more. This material gained its popularity due to the exceptional balance of PET's capabilities, and also due to the fact that it is easy to control the level of orientation and degree of crystallinity in the finished product.

PET without impurities is non-toxic, but it may contain phthalates and other toxic chemical compounds, dicarboxylic acids, glycols, etc., which increase the light, thermal, and refractory properties of the polymer.

In addition, BPA (Bisphenol A) can be used in the production of plastic beverage containers. It disrupts the endocrine system, promotes the development of breast cancer, and leads to hormonal imbalance.

Initially, British scientists said that the presence of BPA in the human body is dangerous and can lead to the development of cardiovascular diseases, to diabetes. Further experiments proved that BPA levels are also exceeded in liver diseases and obesity, but could not connect this with the use of plastic containers, and traces of formaldehyde are also found in their composition.

On the reverse side of the bottom of hazardous containers, bona fide manufacturers put an icon with the number 3 in a triangle or write PVC (which means PVC). Also, such a bottle is recognized by the characteristic influx at the bottom in the form of a line or a spear at both ends. When you press a dangerous container with a fingernail, a white mark remains. Quality packaging will remain smooth.

Terms and conditions of storage of drinking water in plastic containers

These days, the number of plastic water bottles in stores is steadily increasing. Bottled water can be ordered for home delivery. Hypermarkets are willing to sell such water, since its shelf life is quite long.

Under normal conditions, water under the influence of sunlight and heat quickly loses its properties, and because of the bacteria that have got into it, an unpleasant smell and taste appear. But why is water stored in supermarkets for a long time? The fact is that manufacturers preserve this water.

There are three types of conservation:

• ozonation;
• carbonation;
• adding an antibiotic.

The first two methods are harmless, but such a liquid is stored only until the bottle is opened, that is, as soon as you unpack the container, you should drink water from it over the next few days.

Drinking water preserved in the third way lasts a long time, but antibiotics can seriously harm your health and immune system.

Bottled water should be stored in a dark place at a temperature of +15…+30 °C. It is better to purchase recently bottled in your area - it has more useful substances.

The water storage container must be made of food grade plastic. If it has a PET mark on it, then it is made of polyethylene terephthalate, which does not react with liquid and is not toxic. In no case should water be stored in a bottle marked PVC - this means that it was made from a toxic material. In addition, the liquid stored in melamine containers is dangerous.

In case you did not find any marks on the bottle, then it is quite easy to check which class the material belongs to. Press your fingernail into the container. On the dangerous one you will see a whitish trace, on the PET bottle you will not notice any changes. Tap on the bottle, if the sound is deaf, then the container is made of melamine.

The shelf life of water preserved in a plastic bottle is from 6 months to a year. At the same time, after opening, you can store drinking liquid for about 10 days.

In addition to the expiration date, drinking water also has a so-called “usefulness” period, after which it loses most of its useful properties. Therefore, you need to purchase as fresh water as possible.

Features of storage of drinking water with different properties

According to manufacturers, water in plastic containers is not only possible to store, but simply necessary.

Plastic containers for storing drinking water are predominantly made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET(E)), which is food grade and neutral, that is, it does not react to water and is harmless to health. Plastic markings are usually embossed on bottles. Of course, there are also plastic containers of the PVC class (this material is toxic) or made of melamine (water cannot be stored in such bottles at all). From 6 to 12 months from the date of bottling - this is the shelf life of liquid in plastic bottles.

tap water for storage, it should first be filtered, and then poured into an enameled, glass or plastic (PET) bottle, without closing the lid, let it stand (for example, overnight) so that the chlorine disappears.

After that, the water bottle should be tightly closed and stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature for no more than two to three days.

If you only drink boiled water, store it in a tightly closed enameled container in a small amount, you do not need to boil in reserve.

The shelf life of boiled water depends on its initial quality, composition, degree of purification. Boiling is known to kill all bacteria, including the good ones. But during long-term storage, microorganisms from the external environment again enter the liquid, and the entire effect of boiling it is reduced to nothing. Therefore, it is not recommended to store it for more than 12 hours.

Well or spring water We advise you to store in glass or ceramic (clay) containers. In hermetic form, its natural beneficial properties are preserved for three years. Metal containers for storing drinking water should only be used enameled or with another neutral coating inside.

Pour spring water only from trusted sources, it is dangerous to drink another one!

Today there is a lot of debate about the usefulness structured water and its positive impact on the human body, including at the cellular and gene levels. Such defrosted water can be easily stored in a glass container.

It is best to store structured water in a stainless steel or metal dish with an admixture of silver in a place where direct sunlight does not reach. Russian scientists have proven that the effect of liquid structuring increases significantly in silver dishes in the light - by about 7.5% within two hours.

If the water quality leaves much to be desired…

The problem of dirty water in the house can be partially solved by installing a high-quality filter, but in such systems it is periodically necessary to replace components, because it directly depends on how well the drinking liquid will be cleaned.

At the same time, the question remains: how to ensure that our workplace or a child at school has the best quality water? The best solution is to buy it with delivery.

The Iceberg company offers favorable conditions for servicing its customers:

• free delivery of water to your home or office: buyers pay only the cost of the goods;
• wells from which our water is drawn have registration documents in the State Water Cadastre of the Russian Federation;
• for the extraction and bottling of water, advanced technologies are used, which helps to preserve and increase its quality and natural purity;
• we also sell modern water coolers and other equipment manufactured by well-known European brands, taking into account existing quality standards. The sizes of pumps and racks for bottles vary, allowing you to install devices even in small rooms;
• delivery of drinking water to your home or office is carried out at the lowest price, thanks to constant promotions from our company;
• along with water, you can purchase disposable tableware, tea, coffee and other auxiliary products.

Clean water is valuable, but it should not be worth its weight in gold. Our mission is to provide every home and workplace with high-quality drinking water, so we have prepared the most favorable conditions for our customers.

Hello!

I have a question. What is the best container to store water in? As far as I understand, it is better in transparent, for ultraviolet radiation. But in connection with this, the next question. I studied at the Faculty of Chemistry, studied polymers, according to the information I have, polymers can release certain substances at temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. Is there glass left or has science overstepped my knowledge in recent years and now polymer containers are harmless?

Thank you in advance for your response.

Hello!

It is best to store water in a closed glass container..

If this is not possible, then it is better to use containers made of food-grade plastic, which is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate.

These polymers are chemically inert and non-toxic, but technological additives - stabilizers, which are added by manufacturers to increase strength, can have a toxic effect when they get into water as a result of chemical decomposition. This can also occur during long-term storage or heating of water. In addition, polymeric materials, undergoing change (aging), emit degradation products.

The main polymeric materials used in the manufacture of plastic containers are listed below:

Polyethylene (denoted as PE) is a thermoplastic saturated polymeric hydrocarbon whose molecules consist of ethylene units.

PE is not wetted by water and other polar liquids. at room temperature, it is insoluble in organic solvents. Only when the temperature rises (70°C and above) does it first swell and then dissolve in aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. The best solvents are xylene, decalin, tetralin. When heated (often with pre-softening), PE decomposes. It is not sensitive to moisture, resistant to strong acids and alkalis, the ratio to organic solvents is different (depending on the chemical nature of the polymer). Physiologically, PE is harmless.

Polyvinyl chloride (referred to as PVC) is a product of complex chemical synthesis, which is based on natural raw materials - sodium chloride and oil hydrocarbons. In the production of PVC, the intermediate product is VC (vinyl chloride), which has a monomeric structure. They are then converted into PVC polymers during the polymerization process. The latter, unlike biologically active monomers, are absolutely inert and non-toxic. The final content of VC in the polymer is 0.1 ppm, while the maximum allowable concentration (MPC) of toxins in plant foods is 10 ppm. To give PVC the required properties, various additives are used, such as stabilizers, plasticizers and fillers. Modern stabilizers are of two types - Ca / Zn (calcium-zinc) and even lead compounds, which are highly toxic. PVC is widespread all over the world, tk. extremely cheap. It is used to make bottles for drinks, boxes for cosmetics, containers for household chemicals, disposable tableware. Over time, PVC begins to release a harmful carcinogen - vinyl chloride. From the bottle it gets into the water, from the plate into the food, and with the food into the body. According to experiments, a harmful substance from PVC begins to be released a week after the contents have been poured into it. A month later, several milligrams of vinyl chloride accumulate in mineral water (oncologists believe that this is enough for the development of oncological diseases). Often, plastic bottles are reused: water or other drinks, even alcoholic ones, are poured into them. They sell milk and sunflower oil in the markets, which is highly undesirable.

Polystyrene(denoted PS) - a product of the polymerization of styrene (viniobenzene), belongs to the class of polymers of thermopolymers, i.e. polymers resistant to thermal effects. It has a chemical formula of the form: [-CH 2 -CH (C 6 H 5) -] n -. Phenyl groups in the composition of PS prevent the ordered arrangement of macromolecules and the formation of crystalline formations. PS is a hard, brittle, amorphous polymer with a high degree of optical light transmission, low mechanical strength, produced in the form of transparent cylindrical granules. Polystyrene has a low density (1060 kg/m³), thermal resistance (up to 105 °C), shrinkage during molding processing of 0.4-0.8%. PS has excellent dielectric properties and good frost resistance (up to 40°C). It has low chemical resistance (except for diluted acids, alcohols and alkalis). To improve the properties of polystyrene, it is modified by mixing it with various polymers - it is subjected to crosslinking, obtaining styrene copolymers. PS is soluble in acetone, toluene and gasoline. The widespread use of polystyrene (PS) and plastics based on it is based on its low cost, ease of processing and a huge range of different grades. The most widely used (more than 60% of the production of polystyrene plastics) are impact-resistant polystyrenes, which are copolymers of styrene with various types of rubber. PS is inert to water and cold liquids. But when hot liquid or water is placed in it, a container made of polystyrene can release some amounts of a toxic compound - styrene.

Polyethylene terephthalate(denoted as PET, PET) - a thermoplastic resistant to elevated temperatures, a product of the polycondensation of ethylene glycol with terephthalic acid (or its dimethyl ether); solid, colorless, transparent substance in the amorphous state and white, opaque in the crystalline state. Molecular weight (20-50)·10 3 . PET Durable, wear-resistant, good dielectric.

PET is insoluble in water and has great chemical resistance to acids, salts, alkalis, alcohols, petrol, paraffins, fats, mineral oils, and ether. PET is also highly resistant to water vapor. PET material dissolves at 40-150 °C in acetone, benzene, phenol, toluene, cyclohexanone, ethyl acetate, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform. PET has low hygroscopicity (water absorption is usually 0.4-0.5%), which depends on the phase state of the polymer and the relative humidity of the air. Characterized by high heat resistance (290°C); degradation in air begins at a temperature 50 °C lower than in an inert medium. Operational properties of PET remain in the range from - 60 to 170°C. Polyethylene terephthalate undergoes thermal degradation at a temperature range of 290-310 °C. The degradation of PET proceeds statistically along the polymer chain. The volatile products are terephthalic acid, acetaldehyde and carbon monoxide. At a temperature of 900 ° C, a large number of various hydrocarbons are formed. The main volatile products consist of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and methane.

In the cold and heated state, PET retains excellent ductility. The thermoforming process is simple and high-tech due to the fact that the material has low internal stresses. PET does not require pre-drying, as the heat capacity of the material is much less than that of polystyrene and plexiglass. PET allows you to save on electricity and significantly reduces labor intensity, because much less heat energy and time for molding temperature are needed. All this ensures a reduction in the cost of production. Thus, polyethylene terephthalate can easily replace transparent solid polycarbonate, having an order of magnitude lower cost.

PET is used for the production of polymer fibers, threads, containers and packaging.

The world production of PET in 1989 amounted to about 9.3 million tons, with 90% of all PET being used for the production of packaging fibers.

Fiber-forming polyethylene terephthalate was first synthesized in the UK in 1941.

Today, PET is used for the production of a variety of food and beverage packaging, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, PET materials are indispensable in the manufacture of audio, video and X-ray films, car tires, beverage bottles, films with high barrier properties, fibers for fabrics. A wide range of applications is possible due to the exceptional balance of PET's capabilities and the fact that the degree of crystallinity and the level of orientation can be controlled in the finished product.

Speaking about the toxicity of PET, it should be noted that pure PET is not toxic. However, PET may contain phthalates and other toxic chemical compounds, dicarboxylic acids, glycols, etc., which are introduced into the polymer to improve thermal, light, and refractory properties.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is also sometimes used in the manufacture of plastic bottles, which disrupts the endocrine system, provokes breast cancer and leads to hormonal imbalance. Parents should especially pay attention to the use of plastic bottles for feeding children.

Initial studies by English scientists showed that the presence of BPA in the human body can lead to the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Subsequent experiments led to more restrained conclusions. It has been proven that in liver diseases and obesity, the content of BPA in the body is also increased, but it was not possible to associate this phenomenon with the use of plastic containers. In addition, traces of formaldehyde are found in the composition of plastic bottles.

Conscientious manufacturers put an icon at the bottom of dangerous bottles - a three in a triangle, or PVC, i.e. PVC. Harmful capacity can also be recognized by the influx on the bottom. It comes in the form of a line or a spear at both ends. If you press the bottle with your fingernail, a whitish scar forms on the dangerous one. The correct bottle stays smooth.

In the issue of long-term storage of drinking water, two patterns are clearly visible. We have become more concerned about proper nutrition and the use of high-quality drinking water, and living conditions in a big city simply make us do this.

Now, few citizens will risk drinking tap water, and using it without purification for cooking is even scary. Hence, the use of all kinds of home filters, the purchase of high-quality drinking water in supermarkets and stores, and the need to stock and store water at home are in vogue.

In addition, urban residents, of course, visit public places of recreation: cafes, canteens, restaurants, where the need for clean drinking water is no less. But here visitors have to take on faith the fact that pure drinking water is used to prepare first courses, and sometimes second or numerous berry drinks.

How serious is the storage problem?

Let's think... Clean drinking water is always needed at home. In addition to quenching thirst, cooking, proper and healthy "watering" of children, you can remember something else. For example, driving around the city in a car in the summer without some water is not always a joy.

Traveling far and near... Trips to the country house, to the river, just to relax without a bottle of water will not do. And if 3-4 people go on such a trip? That's right, the number of liters of liquid should be more. And if - this is a trip by car to the southern regions, when it is not known what will be in roadside stores. Of course, it is better to travel with your proven water supplies.

In general, how cheerfully they sang in one wonderful Soviet comedy film: “Because without water - neither there nor here!” And one cannot but agree with this.

Proper storage

For long-term and proper storage of drinking water, it is necessary to fulfill the conditions associated with lighting, ambient temperature and containers (or containers).

Ideal storage conditions are:

• dark place;
• temperature from 15 - 25 C?;
• glass or aluminum container.

But, we agree that storing water or taking it with you in glassware is very inconvenient (it is heavy and the volumes are small). And the way out is seen in the widespread and massive use of plastic containers (bottles, bottles and bottles).

Storage in plastic

Containers in which water will be stored must be made of food grade plastic. The label of such a bottle should be labeled PET (polyethylene terephthalate - plastic is not dangerous to humans). There is also a PVC marking (PVC). is a material with toxic properties. The containers are suitable for storing detergents, but not for drinking water.

Containers made of melamine, white dense plastic - are categorically not suitable for storing drinking water. Their purpose is to store technical liquids. Such containers are visually recognizable (especially by motorists) and when tapped on them, they emit a muffled low sound.

If there is no information on the plastic bottle about what material it is made of, all this can be checked. It is enough to press and run your fingernail over the surface, the PET bottle will be restored, a characteristic white mark will remain on the PVC container.

Additional storage conditions

Drinking water often comes to us from the store, which means you need to carefully read the label and pay attention to the following:

• conservation method. There are three of them: with an antibiotic, carbonation, ozonation. 1st well increases the shelf life, but this water can destroy human immunity. The other two are harmless, but after opening the container, the water must be used within a few days;
• spill period. The closer it is, the more useful substances are stored in the water;
• spill site. It is better if the water is harvested in your area, and the path to the store is not far, and in terms of shelf life, this is good.

In general, drinking water in stores in sealed containers, under the right conditions (dark place, temperature 15-25 C?) can be from 6 to 12 months without loss of useful properties. If we approach the storage of drinking water with all seriousness, then we must remember that after the “store” container is unpacked and all the liquid has been used, it is not very desirable to use the same container for re-storing water. Since even PET containers, after about a week, they begin to saturate the water with a harmful substance: vinyl chloride. So, it would be more correct to use plastic bottles one-time or as containers for short-term storage of drinking water. It is better to contact trusted suppliers, for example, you can order water to the office at the Raiske Dzherelo company - the quality there is at a good level.

Summing up

Drinking water can be stored in plastic containers for up to 12 months, provided that the bottling and packaging was carried out in the factory. In order for the liquid to retain its properties, it is necessary to observe the storage conditions (darkness, and temperature).

At home, it is permissible to store drinking water in "plastic" only for a short time (up to 10 days). When traveling, plastic bottles are suitable for water supplies, but, say, in a week you need to get rid of such containers. For long-term storage of water, glassware should be used.

Determine your family's daily water needs. Add up the following numbers to determine how much water you need to store (for at least 3 days, preferably longer) - each number represents a daily amount:

• Each person will need 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of drinking water to drink.
• For personal hygiene, each person will need 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of drinking water
• For sanitary needs (toilet), each person needs an average of 2 to 7 gallons (7.6 - 26.5 liters), but this does not require drinking water. If it is possible to dig a pit latrine in your backyard, the amount of water required can be reduced slightly by providing water only for personal hygiene needs (washing hands and removing any faeces from the skin, such as those of infants or those suffering from diarrhea).
• Don't forget about pets. They will also need clean drinking water.

Fill the water containers to the brim and then place the lid on top. Leave no air gap.

Find suitable ways to store water. It is desirable that you have a variety of containers of various sizes. While a tank or barrel can be a wonderful way to store large amounts of water, what if you suddenly need to take only what you can carry and go somewhere else where you are safe? What if old, weak or sick people are left on their own and have to carry large volumes of water? It is better to have containers of different sizes in stock, which will fit in any unforeseen circumstances.

• Choose food-grade plastic water storage tanks or tanks made to store rainwater. Do not use plastic that will contaminate the water.
• In the US, FDA approved #34 opaque containers may be used.