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Lead (Pb) Corrosion Control Chemistry
Citation:
Triantafyllidou, S. AND M. Schock. Lead (Pb) Corrosion Control Chemistry. Presented at 2019 EPA Region 6 and ORD Small System Meeting, Addison, Texas, May 21 - 22, 2019.
Impact/Purpose:
This presentation was developed as a training tool. It is a high-level overview of lead (Pb) plumbing sources, corrosion reaction basics, and important aquatic chemistry parameters (e.g., pH, alkalinity, and dissolved inorganic carbon) that affect lead release into drinking water. Conventional theory of lead corrosion and release, as well as advances in our understanding of these phenomena are discussed for a non-technical audience.
Description:
Corrosion of legacy lead (Pb) plumbing materials, and subsequent release of the toxic metal into the flowing drinking water is a complex oxidation-reduction process controlled by several drinking water chemistry parameters. Water pH, alkalinity, dissolved inorganic carbon, oxidants and corrosion inhibitors are just some of the key factors controlling lead release. This presentation provides aquatic chemistry fundamentals for non-technical audiences, to understand lead contamination of drinking water and develop avoidance strategies.