Ion Exchange Resin

Ion exchange resins are polymers that are capable of exchanging particular ions within the polymer with ions in a solution that is passed through them. This ability is also seen in various natural systems such as soils and living cells. The synthetic resins are used primarily for purifying water, but also for various other applications including separating out some elements. The resins are prepared as spherical beads 0.5 to 1.0 mm in diameter. These appear solid even under the microscope, but on a molecular scale the structure is quite open, This means that a solution passed down a resin bed can flow through the crosslinked polymer, bringing it into intimate contact with the exchange sites. Most plating process water is used to cleanse the surface of the parts after each process bath. To maintain quality standards, the level of dissolved solids in the rinse water must be regulated. Fresh water added to the rinse tank accomplishes this purpose, and the overflow water is treated to remove pollutants and then discharged.