History of Electrodeionization (EDI) Technology

Pioneering Electrodeionization Since 1977

SnowPure is a recognized leader in electrodeionization (EDI) technology, with roots tracing back to the very beginning of commercial EDI development. Our history reflects nearly five decades of innovation in high-purity and ultrapure water treatment, helping industries eliminate chemicals while improving water quality, sustainability, and reliability.

The Origins of Electrodeionization

The First EDI Prototype (1977–1984)

The modern history of electrodeionization began in 1977, when Harry O’Hare started experimenting with filled-cell electrodeionization (EDI). Working with the Southern Research Institute (SRI), O’Hare developed and tested the first functional EDI prototypes—a major breakthrough in continuous deionization technology.

This work led to the founding of HOH Water Technology in 1979. In 1981, HOH filed the first patents for electrodeionization, which were issued by the U.S. Patent Office in 1984—two years before competing Millipore/Ionpure patents.

Between 1981 and 1989, numerous EDI designs were developed and tested, including early cylindrical EDI modules housed in pressure vessels. With its electrodeionization technology commercially launched, HOH became a public company in 1987.

The Birth of Electropure™ EDI

Commercialization and Industry Adoption (1994–1999)

In 1996, HOH Water Technology changed its name to Electropure, reflecting its focus on industrial electrodeionization. The company aggressively marketed the Electropure™ EPM EDI product line, which quickly gained traction among early adopters in the pure water and ultrapure water industries, especially for pharmaceutical USP water.

In 1994, Electropure licensed its EDI technology to Glegg Water Conditioning Inc., enabling Robert Glegg to develop the E-Cell™ EDI platform, which later became the foundation of what is now SUEZ/Veolia Water’s EDI technology.

In 1998, Electropure Inc. completed development of Excellion™ ion exchange membranes, along with a proprietary production process. These innovations led to the launch of the XL™ EDI product line in 1999, delivering higher performance and durability.

Advancing High-Performance EDI Products

High-Temperature & Laboratory EDI (2004–2005)

In 2004, Electropure introduced the XL-HTS™ (High Temperature Stable) EDI product line, expanding the use of EDI into applications requiring hot water sanitization.

In 2005, the company launched Zapwater™ EDI, specifically designed for laboratory and research applications.

That same year marked a major milestone: SnowPure LLC was formed as a privately held company through a management buyout of Electropure’s EDI division.

The Global Expansion of SnowPure

Scaling Innovation Worldwide (2006–2025)

In 2006, SnowPure began an aggressive expansion into China, opening a sales office in Shanghai to support growing global demand.

Key milestones followed:

• 2007 – Launch of the XL-R™ industrial EDI product line
• 2008 – Formation of SnowPure International in Hong Kong
• 2009 – Introduction of a low-energy, compact UV disinfection system
• 2011 – Global launch of the EXL™ EDI series and opening of a global production and logistics facility in China
• 2017 – SnowPure receives US Presidential E-Award for Exports
• 2025 – SnowPure has EDI installed in over 90 countries worldwide

Continuing Innovation in Electrodeionization

SnowPure continues to advance electrodeionization technology to meet the most demanding water purity requirements, including:

• EDI for hemodialysis water, with enhanced endotoxin removal
• Advanced silica reduction technologies for semiconductor manufacturing and power generation
• ExcellPureRO™ reverse osmosis membranes, offering the highest silica rejection available
• Integration of Solventum Liqui-Cel® membrane degassing technology

These innovations support SnowPure’s mission to replace chemical-based water treatment with cleaner, safer, and more sustainable technologies.

Nearly Five Decades of EDI Leadership

From the first EDI prototype in 1977 to today’s advanced high-purity and ultrapure water systems, SnowPure continues to drive innovation in electrodeionization while expanding its global market presence.

Corporate Note:

In 2005, Electropure Inc. (ELTP) was renamed Micro Imaging Technology Inc. (MMTC). Shareholders of ELTP became shareholders of MMTC. SnowPure is a privately held corporation and operates independently.