Abstract |
Water sampling and monitoring requirements under the Lead and Copper Rule specify one liter samples taken at the comsumers tap following at least 6 hours of stagnation. Probable direct sources of lead in the one liter water volume are lead/tin solder and brass fixtures. Brass ranges in metal composition depending on its application. Composite metal ranges in brass are roughly 60-80% copper, 4-32% zinc, 2-8% lead, less than 6% tin, and trace amounts of iron. There is little information and understanding of the relation between water quality effects on metal leaching and the metal composition of the brass. Initial work by British researchers indicated that the amount of lead leached from the brass is independent of the percentage of lead in the brass. |