Technical Information

What is Polydex?Polydex is a bacteriostatic algaecide for the control of algae and bacteria in water-holding containments, such as agriculture dugouts, municipal potable water impoundments, golf course ponds, and ornamental waterscapes. Polydex was the first environment-friendly non-halogen, non-oxidizing product to provide faster, more effective, and longer-lasting algae control in potable water and wastewater storage.

Why is Polydex different?

Polydex is a highly biologically active ionized mineral matrix, which effectively stabilizes copper ions [Cu(H2O)6]2+ and disperses them evenly throughout water.

• Greater concentrations of ionsLower required doses
• Higher efficacy
• Most biologically active form
• Works in a range of water conditions

Polydex is strongly hydrophilic in nature. Therefore, it self-disperses quickly in clean water (~6 meters/hr in all directions). Polydex remains in a state of high molecular stability. The active ingredient remains in an ionic state indefinitely in a wide range of water conditions. Polydex will always be uniformly distributed throughout the water body, regardless of seasonal temperatures or water condition.

How does Polydex work?
Polydex works on organisms in entirely different way than chlorine and similar products. Halogens and oxidizers attack micro-organisms from the outside. They “burn” them out of existence. Algae absorb Polydex, where copper ions interfere with natural metabolic processes, such as membrane permeability, respiration, digestion, reproduction, metalloenzyme function, and even the denaturing of DNA. As a result, the algae die from their inability to perform vital functions. Once Polydex has cleared a water body of algae, the unused active ingredient remains in the water, effectively rendering the entire water body bacteriostatic. This prevents algae from returning as long as there is a minimum residual.

What can you expect?
In ponds where there is an existing algal bloom, expect to use Polydex in proportion to the demand for copper needed to kill the bloom. After applying Polydex, algae at the surface may appear to turn brown – and may exhibit a foaming activity as resident bacteria digest the dead algae. This is short lived and the water should clear in a matter of days.in clear water, there will be no visual change and, when properly maintained, the water will remain free from algae.

To Control Algae in Impounded Water, Lakes, Ponds, and Reservoirs
Probably the simplest and most satisfactory method is to pre-dilute Polydex in water and spray the solution over the body of water. A small pump mounted in the boat can be easily used for this purpose. Polydex may be broadcast directly on the water surface from a properly equipped boat. When using this method, the wind direction is an important factor. Do not use this method unless completely familiar with this type of application.

Application Method when Dosing Polydex from a Boat
Begin treatment along the shoreline and proceed outward until one-third to one-half of the total area has been treated. Care should be taken that the course of the boat is such as to cause even distribution of Polydex. In large lakes, it is customary for the boat to travel in parallel lines about 20 – 100 feet (6 – 30 meters) apart.

Polydex Dilutions (Equivalent Copper ppm) for Freshwater Algae
Use the lower recommended rate in soft waters (less than 50 ppm methyl orange alkalinity) and higher concentration in hard water (above 50 ppm alkalinity). Always consult local authorities before applying this product to municipal waters.

Testing Water for Copper Level before Re-Application
Always test the water before re-applying Polydex. Purchase  Free/Dissolved Copper test strips from a local pool supply store and follow the directions on the label.
 

• About Polydex: A Bacteriostatic Algaecide for Potable Water
• TEST: See THINK PURITY in action!