AWWA JAW64986 Journal AWWA - Brass Corrosion as a Source of Lead and Copper in Traditional and All-plastic Distribution Systems

Journal Article by American Water Works Association, 08/01/2007

Kimbrough, David Eugene

Full Description

Corrosion by copper pipes has long been consideredthe main source of copper in samples collected underthe Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). Furthermore, regulatoryagencies generally have assumed that the primarysource of lead is lead solder or pipes. Recent research,however, has suggested that brass corrosion may play alarger part in contributing to lead and copper at thecustomer's tap than initially supposed.One obstacle to accurately identifying sources of leadand copper in LCR samples is the possibility of severalsources for both elements. This study focused on twopopulations, houses with traditional plumbing andhouses with all-plastic plumbing, a factor that effectivelyeliminated all but one source. Analysis of first-draw samplescollected from houses with all-plastic plumbingshowed concentrations of lead and copper comparable tothose found in traditionally plumbed houses, indicatingthat the lead and copper found in the plastic systemresulted from brass corrosion. Given that the LCR has alimited focus on brass, these results call into question theefficacy of the LCR in reducing consumer exposure to leadand copper. Includes 12 references, tables, figure.

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Edition: Vol. 99 - No. 8 Published: 08/01/2007 Number of Pages: 7 File Size: 1 file , 160 KB