Presence of metals in drinking water distribution networks due to pipe material leaching: a review

Abstract

Drinking water quality should remain constant from the drinking water treatment plant to the consumer's tap. However, water quality characteristics might be affected by interactions with pipe materials. This review describes the iron, copper, lead, zinc, aluminum, chromium, and cadmium in drinking water leached from the pipe material present in drinking water, as well as the factors and mechanisms that affect leaching processes. Data analysis suggests that monitoring the water quality in distribution systems is important for their proper management; however, the low measured concentrations highlight the need for sensitive sensors. In addition, further research is necessary to anticipate possible future effects before the installation of new materials/infrastructure or changes in water source/treatment.

Keywords:

• metals
• distribution network
• drinking water
• leaching
• corrosion

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness through the WATMATIN project (CTM2010-21182). The authors wish to thank the anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments that have improved the quality of the text.