You are here:
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ARSENIC-BOUND SOLIDS IN DRINKING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
Citation:
Lytle*, D A., T J. Sorg*, AND C M. Frietch*. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ARSENIC-BOUND SOLIDS IN DRINKING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS. Presented at AWWA WQTC, Seattle, WA, 11/10-14/2002.
Description:
The removal of arsenic from drinking water using iron-based processes including chemical coagulation with iron salts, removal of iron from source water by oxidation/filtration, and iron-based filtration media has been established. The effectiveness of iron to rmove arsenic is due to the strong affinity of iron solid surfaces to adsorb arsenic. It is therefore reasonable to assume iron solids such as corrosion by-products, scales and sediment that have accumulted in drinking water distribution systems would have similar adsorptive properties and subsequently serve as a sink for arsenic if present in the water.
The objective of this research was to determine the significance of arsenic associated with distribution system materials (e.g., sediment, iron scale, deposits, etc.). Solid samples in the form of pipe sections and fire hydrant flush water samples were collected from water systems that had measurable levels of arsenic in their treated water. An elemental analysis of the solids was conducted, and relationships between arsenic content, the content of other elements and the presence of specific crystalline phases, as well as water chemistries were examined.