Iron ochre deposit

Have you noticed a reddish, gelatinous buildup in a foundation drain? It could be an iron ochre problem. This poses a serious threat to air quality and occupant health, since it can lead to basement flooding, excessive humidity and, consequently, mold growth.

Iron ochre is a deposit of iron hydroxide caused by ferruginous bacteria present in groundwater. When conditions are optimal for its formation, iron ochre can grow in volume and clog drains, then proliferate in catch basins and around pumps. Iron ochre is found as a gelatinous, viscous, reddish mass. Ochre can be formed in two ways: chemically or biologically.

The biological process is the fastest and generally leads to larger accumulations. The chemical process, on the other hand, is slower and rarely causes a build-up problem.

In what situations can Lab’EauAirSol help you with a ferrous ochre deposits in your commercial or industrial building ?

• Would you like a price estimate for the analysis of iron ochre deposits in your commercial building?
• You suspect an iron ochre problem in your commercial building
• Want to know if your commercial or industrial building is susceptible to iron ochre?
• You need a laboratory in Quebec to perform the analysis that confirms the presence of iron ochre in your business, all performed by microbiologists qualified to the applicable standards.

Ferrous ochre analysis includes :

• Iron ochre analysis involves examining samples of sludge and/or orange deposits in the catchment basin, to check for the presence of ferruginous bacteria.