Abstract

Long-term natural geochemical processes result in wide occurrence of fluoride contamination in underground water and fluoride exposure via drinking water for over 500 million people globally. The control of fluoride pollution and fluorosis is one of the most important issues for drinking water safety. In the past several decades, many initiatives failed in defluoridation of water. Better understanding of fluoride occurrence mechanisms in underground water chemistry and the prediction of high-risk areas by geographic information and remote sensing are of crucial importance to minimize fluorosis occurrence. The use of alternative source water or blending should be considered as priority option. Much efforts should be devoted to the fundamental studies on defluoridation reagents and innovative materials, and to the development of highly-efficient, economic, easy-to-handle and stable technologies and integrated instruments. Furthermore, the design, construction, operation, and supervision of defluoridation facilities should be carefully evaluated and strengthened to achieve stable benefits as much as possible.

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