A Lifelong Exploration into Chlorine Dioxide
In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, Trace Blackmore welcomes Greg D. Simpson, a recognized authority on chlorine dioxide and a long-time researcher, writer, and technologist in the industrial water treatment space. With decades of hands-on experience and a personal archive of thousands of technical papers, Greg brings unmatched depth to this essential conversation.
From Field Trials to File Cabinets
Greg takes us through his early career, from being tasked to explore chlorine dioxide as an alternative disinfectant on the Gulf Coast to becoming a dedicated advocate of its power and versatility. He explains why chlorine dioxide often outperforms traditional biocides like bromine and chlorine, especially in complex environments such as refineries, hospitals, and cooling towers.
Comparing Monochloramine and Chlorine Dioxide
A central theme in the episode is Greg’s recent research comparing monochloramine and chlorine dioxide. He shares real-world case histories, including treatments at major institutions and breaks performance differences in terms of biofilm penetration, disinfection byproducts, and residual impact. He also discusses regulatory hurdles, competitive dynamics, and what the literature says about long-term microbiological effects.
Building Disinfection Systems and Emerging Applications
The episode explores chlorine dioxide’s expanding role in building disinfection, especially healthcare facilities. Greg shares how generator technologies are changing the game, while also diving into regulatory constraints in places like Texas. He further explains the promising potential of chlorine dioxide in air disinfection and surface sanitation, drawing from both studies and practical implementations.
A Legacy of Learning
From assembling four filing cabinets of technical papers to writing multiple books and collaborating with other industry pioneers, Greg’s story is one of relentless inquiry. His work continues to influence how the industry thinks about safe and effective disinfection strategies.
Conclusion
Greg Simpson’s insights go far beyond operational know-how. This episode is a masterclass in both the science and history of chlorine dioxide in industrial applications. For professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of advanced water treatment chemistry, this conversation is essential.
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Timestamps
04:13 – Water You Know with James McDonald
05:28 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
07:43 – Trace starts the interview with introduction of the master of all things – Chlorine Dioxide
16:25 – Trace asks about paper presented at the Association of Water Technologies chlorine dioxide versus chloramine, a review
31:30 – Benefits of Chlorine Dioxide in Pulp Bleaching and reduced environmental toxicity
36:04 – Chlorine dioxide vs. Monochloramine in hospital water systems and Legionella prevention
41:08 – Advice for Professionals
Quotes
“Find an area to focus on and know more about that than anybody else.”
“Chlorine dioxide doesn’t differentiate too much between the walls and what’s in bulk water.”
“When we changed to chlorine dioxide, it was five or six months before we saw a residual at the other end of our distribution system.”
“Chlorine dioxide does not chlorinate directly any organic.”
Connect with Greg D. Simpson
Phone: +17132060250
Email: greg@clo2guy.com
Website: PureLine
Click HERE to Download Episode’s Discussion Guide
Guest Resources Mentioned
Chlorine Dioxide vs. Monochloramine: A Review technical paper
Practical Chlorine Dioxide: Volume I – Foundations
Practical Chlorine Dioxide: Volume II – Applications
Practical Chlorine Dioxide: Volume III – Oil and Gas
A Focus on Chlorine Dioxide: The “Ideal” Biocide technical paper
The Safe and Effective Use of Chlorine Dioxide technical paper
Biofilm: Removal and Prevention with Chlorine Dioxide technical paper
Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned
AWT (Association of Water Technologies)
Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses
Water You Know with James McDonald
Question: Which water analysis measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in water?
2025 Events for Water Professionals
Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.
