Dug water well

[flyadive]

I installed a pitcher pump well behind my house in southern New Jersey, Pumping out the dirty water trying to clear it up I notice very fine sand with perhaps Silica? It’s silvery flour flakes. Anyone know what it is

 

[ticndig]

Mica?

 

[Assembler]

Mica?

Hard to tell what it is. Some tests need to be done.

 

[flyadive]

How is it tested? Should I add Selsun Blue? Perhaps heat it?

 

[Assembler]

How is it tested? Should I add Selsun Blue? Perhaps heat it?

Methods for testing for silica content. Some steps may not realistically be within the reach of most in the field:

Using a needle, the silica sand is examined under a microscope to see what extent glazing and sintering -has taken place or has not taken place.

In order to be considered a silica sand the material must contain at least 95% SiO2 and less than 0.6% iron oxide. If the sand does not meet this criteria, it will qualify as what's often called 'regular' sand.

How to check silica content in sand:
Potassium fluoride volumetry detects the silica method of silica sand, adopts following reagent: Potassium chloride solution 5%. 15% potassium fluoride solution.

Testing for Silica Using Taylor’s TTi Colorimeter (M-3000)

 

[RobNC]

That doesn't look safe to drink or use. Should take samples for testing.

 

[arizau]

How is it tested? Should I add Selsun Blue? Perhaps heat it?

Your county health deparment may be willing to test it for you. Also there is a hotline called "Safe drinking water hotline"...800 426 4791. I read it provides references for agencies to contact for testing.

 

[Assembler]

Your county health deparment may be willing to test it for you. Also there is a hotline called "Safe drinking water hotline"...800 426 4791. I read it provides references for agencies to contact for testing.

It may be a good idea to call and see what the department tests for. Other tests may be needed.