Copper and Zinc Alloy Filter Media: Principles, Advantages, and Applications

1. What Is Aquavow Copper and Zinc Alloy Filter Media?

Copper and Zinc Alloy Filter Media, also known as Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF), is a high-purity copper-zinc alloy used in water filtration systems.
It removes contaminants through a redox (oxidation-reduction) reaction that transforms harmful impurities into harmless compounds. For example, this filtration medium converts chlorine into harmless chlorides.

Copper and zinc alloy filter media is widely used in water purifiers, shower filters, and other point-of-entry (POE) or point-of-use (POU) filtration systems.
The most common types include:

• KDF055 – optimized for removing chlorine and heavy metals

• KDF085 – effective for eliminating iron and hydrogen sulfide

Compared to traditional activated carbon filters, copper and zinc alloy filter media is significantly more durable, with a lifespan of over 10 years.

This durability is due to its unique material composition and redox chemistry:

• It does not become saturated like activated carbon;

• Removes up to 99% of residual chlorine;

• Eliminates 98% of heavy metals, reducing lead, copper, and mercury into insoluble, non-toxic forms;

• Can be regenerated by simple backwashing;

• Possesses antibacterial properties, instantly killing pathogenic bacteria through electrochemical reactions;

• Enhances the performance and longevity of other filtration components such as activated carbon.

The chart below is a comparison between copper-zinc alloy filter media and activated carbon.

2. Main Advantages of Copper and Zinc Alloy Filter Media

a. High Efficiency in Contaminant Removal

The copper and zinc alloy filter media effectively removes heavy metals such as lead, iron, nickel, and chromium. It also neutralizes free chlorine, which can harm skin and hair.
For this reason, copper and zinc alloy shower filters are highly popular among health-conscious users.

b. Antibacterial and Anti-Algae Properties

The redox reaction within the filter media creates an environment that inhibits the growth of bacteria, algae, and fungi.
This means Aquavow copper and zinc alloy filters remain cleaner, last longer, and are less susceptible to microbial contamination.

c. Long Lifespan and Regenerability

Copper-zinc filter media lasts significantly longer than most filtration materials. It can even be regenerated or recycled, offering a cost-effective and sustainable solution for water treatment.

d. Compatibility with Other Filtration Technologies

This media can be combined with activated carbon, ceramic, or sediment filters to improve overall system performance and extend filter life.

3. Primary Applications

a. Whole House Water Systems (POE)

Copper and zinc alloy filter media is commonly used in whole-house water filtration systems to treat incoming water before it reaches faucets or appliances.
It effectively removes chlorine, heavy metals, and odors from the water supply.

b. Shower Filters

Because it performs well under high temperature and flow conditions, copper and zinc alloy shower filters are among the most widely used residential filtration products.
They protect hair and skin from chlorine exposure, providing a cleaner, healthier shower experience.

c. Point-of-Use (POU) Water Filtration Systems

Under-sink and countertop filters using copper and zinc alloy filter media are often paired with activated carbon filters.
This combination extends the carbon’s lifespan, boosts filtration efficiency, and effectively removes heavy metals that carbon alone cannot, resulting in superior water quality and taste.

Aquavow Factory Direct Supply

Aquavow directly supplies KDF055 and KDF085 filter media in multiple mesh sizes, ensuring 100% purity, recyclability, and no chemical additives.
Aquavow’s copper and zinc alloy filtration technology is known for its reliability, eco-friendliness, and high filtration performance.
Whether used in KDF055 water purifiers, shower filters, or industrial systems, it provides exceptional contaminant removal, long-term durability, and compatibility with other filter materials.

For anyone seeking cleaner, safer, and healthier water, copper and zinc alloy filter media remains one of the most advanced and trusted choices on the market.

FAQ: 

Q1. What is Copper and Zinc Alloy Filter Media made of?
→ It is composed of a high-purity copper-zinc alloy that removes chlorine, heavy metals, and hydrogen sulfide through a redox reaction.

Q2. What types of filter media are available, and what are their differences?
→ Common models include KDF-55, KDF-85, KDF-F, and KDF-wire.

• KDF-55: Removes chlorine and heavy metals (for drinking water systems)

• KDF-85: Removes iron and hydrogen sulfide (for groundwater or well systems)

• Wire type: Used for specialized filter designs

Q3. What is the filtration mechanism?
→ It works through redox electron exchange, converting harmful contaminants into harmless forms while inhibiting bacteria and algae growth.

Q4. Should it be combined with activated carbon?
→ Yes. Pairing copper and zinc alloy filter media with activated carbon extends carbon filter life and prevents bacterial growth inside.

Q5. What contaminants can it remove?
→ Effectively removes chlorine, lead, mercury, iron, nickel, chromium, and hydrogen sulfide, while also inhibiting bacteria, algae, and fungi.

Q6. Can it remove fluoride or sodium?
→ No. Fluoride and sodium must be removed via reverse osmosis (RO) or ion exchange systems.

Q7. Can it be used under high temperature and pressure?
→ Yes. It withstands temperatures up to 60°C and high pressure, making it suitable for commercial hot water systems and shower filters.

Q8. What is its lifespan?
→ Typically 5–10 years, depending on water quality, flow rate, and maintenance. Backwashing helps extend its service life.

Q9. How to know when replacement is needed?
→ The media does not saturate like carbon, but if redox efficiency decreases (detectable via water quality testing), regeneration or replacement is recommended.

Q10. Is Aquavow copper and zinc alloy filter media certified?
→ Yes. It meets NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for drinking water systems and has FDA, REACH, SGS, ISO 9001, CE, EU RoHS, and MSDS certifications.

Q11. Do you provide OEM / ODM service?
→ Yes. Custom packaging, particle size selection, and integrated system solutions are available upon request.

Q12. Is it compatible with other media?
→ Yes. It can be combined with activated carbon, ceramic, resin, or quartz sand.

Q13. Can it be backwashed or regenerated?
→ Yes. Periodic backwashing removes deposits and maintains redox activity.

Q14. Does it produce harmful byproducts?
→ No. It releases no chemicals and is safe for drinking water applications.

Q15. How should it be stored and transported?
→ Store in a dry, cool place. Avoid long exposure to air or moisture. Protect from impact and humidity during transport.