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Lead Pipe Scale Analysis Using Broad-Beam Argon Ion Milling to Elucidate Drinking Water Corrosion
Citation:
Nadagouda, M. N., C. WHITE, AND D. LYTLE. Lead Pipe Scale Analysis Using Broad-Beam Argon Ion Milling to Elucidate Drinking Water Corrosion . MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS. Springer, New York, NY, 17(2):284-291, (2011).
Impact/Purpose:
To inform the public.
Description:
Herein, we compared the characterization of lead pipe scale removed from a drinking water distribution system using two different cross section methods (conventional polishing and argon ion beam etching). The pipe scale solids were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and acid digestion followed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analyses. The pipe scale consisted of at least 5 layers that contained Pb(II) and Pb(IV) minerals, and magnesium, aluminum, manganese, iron and silicon solids. The outer layer was enriched with manganese and iron, giving it a dark orange to red color. The middle layers consisted of hydrocerussite and cerrusite, and the bottom layer consisted of litharge. Over the litharge layer, hydrocerussite crystals were grown vertically away from the pipe wall which included formations of plattnerite. Significant amounts of trace contaminant vanadium, likely in the form of vanadinite, and copper accumulated in the scale as well.
