Yes, if it meets the CS batch requirements for the conductivity (I doubt), why not. But as I know, these methods as: reverse osmosis, ion exchange beds (katex & anex or mixbeds) and membrane iontophoresis are generally followed by classical water distillation in a steam distiller to make the pure DW. Only this way we get the real DW and then, some 0.5 microsiemens of conductivity or better (!) can be reached. If we use the distiller without the processes stated above, you can get some DW with 8 - 1.5 microsiemens of conductance. This is a result of that the steam in a distiller pulls tiny particles from boiling raw water with it into the condenser. This mode the purity of incoming raw water affects the purity of outgoing DW. The purity of the outgoing DW logically can be improved by moderated boiling of water and also choosing "the right" distiller. ( = The results also may differ distiller by distiller and results are probably dependent on the mechanical arrangement of the distiller parts inside. Also the manufacturer often states possible results (available DW purity) - if you buy a new one... but never tells about the input water quality ... see above.)
And that´s the reason why the pre-purification methods are used ahead the classical (steam) distillation. The better incoming water - the better DW you get. So the answer may be: Yes, it can be used but: best as the pre-purification stage ahead the steam distiller. Then, the resulting DW would be excellent, even it is necessary to say, the constant measurements of the outgoing DW should be proceeded! My opinion is that this is a hard lab work, it is not so easy to ward the DW purity. Very excellent DW is available at the chemical plants, they often sell DW of a very high grade and very cheap. Better buy it. I can get some 20 litres (approx. 5.3 U.S. gallons) per one USD from the nearly chemical plant, with some 0.17 microsiemens of conductivity. Here also I want to warn these, who want to use any DW which is inscribed so. This refers especially to the DW which is sold at the gas stations, drugstores, general stores, etc. This water specified as DW is a just desalinated water (has nothing with the seawater, it is only adjusted sweetwater which behaves like soft water.). It has even nothing with demi water, which is first passed through katex and then through anex bed (or mixbed). This water is not suitable and it is good just to put it into the radiator of your car. The lettering "distilled water" is a mystification in this case !!! So, check your DW first, if you buy it anywhere. Do not believe the labels and do not believe the salesman who´s first target is to sell us our own nose between the eyes (slightly modified Czech proverb). The purity of DW may result on the conductance (or PWT) measurements only. Pavel H. Hi all -- a question has come up on another list, and I knew that the answer would be forthcoming on this one! ;-) Someone has asked if they can use reverse osmosis water to make Colloidal Silver. Anyone know the answer? Thanks. MA
