Grantee Research Project Results

Evaluation of Lead Service Line Lining and Coating Technologies

EPA Grant Number: R834865
Title: Evaluation of Lead Service Line Lining and Coating Technologies
Investigators: Case, Traci L. , Roberson, J. Alan , Adams, Craig D. , Peltier, Edward F. , Randtke, Stephen J.
Institution: Water Research Foundation , American Water Works Association , University of Kansas
EPA Project Officer: Packard, Benjamin H
Project Period: January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2016
Project Amount: $600,000
RFA: Advancing Public Health Protection through Water Infrastructure Sustainability (2009) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Drinking Water , Water

Objective:

The objectives of this research project are: 1) to comprehensively evaluate lead service line (LSL) lining and coating technologies as alternatives to full or partial LSL replacement, and as a means of protecting and repairing both lead and copper service lines; and 2) to provide water utilities, engineering consultants, state regulators, consumers, and other interested parties with information and supporting documentation needed to make informed decisions regarding lining and coating of both lead and copper service lines.

Approach:

The research plan includes compilation and evaluation of existing data, and an assessment of the long-term performance of linings and coatings based on sampling of water systems having previously installed linings and coatings. Bench-scale and field demonstration experiments will further examine the effectiveness of linings and coatings, including their potential to leach organic and inorganic chemicals of concern into drinking water and their potential to increase corrosion of unlined or uncoated portions of the service line or plumbing materials on the consumers' premises. Implementation requirements, installation procedures, costs, and advantages and disadvantages of commercially available lining and coating technologies will also be comprehensively assessed.

Expected Results:

The project results will be made publicly available in a final report, in presentations, and in peer-reviewed technical publications. Recommendations will be developed for utilities, engineering consultants, state regulators, and consumers considering the use of these technologies to protect human health, to reduce the cost of repairing or replacing service lines, and to improve the aesthetic qualities of drinking water. Ultimately, this research will provide the drinking water community with practical information to help ensure a reliable supply of safe drinking water for consumers.

Publications and Presentations:

Publications have been submitted on this project: View all 12 publications for this project

Journal Articles:

Journal Articles have been submitted on this project: View all 2 journal articles for this project

Supplemental Keywords:

health effects, human exposure, toxics, metals, leachates, solvents, public policy, mitigation, infrastructure, pinhole corrosion, infrastructure failure

Progress and Final Reports:

The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.