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DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM SOLIDS - A RESEARCH APPROACH
Citation:
Lytle*, D A., M R. Schock*, AND T. Hodapp. DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM SOLIDS - A RESEARCH APPROACH. Presented at WSWRD Peer Review, Cincinnati, OH, September 27 - 29, 2004.
Impact/Purpose:
To inform the public.
Description:
The U.S. EPA's AWBERC research facility is equipped with capabilities to analyze a variety of solids in support many Laboratory-wide research studies. Techniques available on site include X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and stereomicroscopy. In addition to in-house capabilities, EPA researchers use outside laboratories (e.g., USGS, Batelle Memorial Institute, and Argonne National Laboratory) for specialized analysis as needed. Solids analysis techniques provide information about the compositional, structural, and topographic characteristics of solids. Specific drinking water research applications include the analysis of corrosion products, precipitated solids, and sediment found in distribution systems, the analysis of filter media, and identification of unknown solids. From analysis findings, EPA researchers are able to improve the understanding of corrosion mechanisms and recommend corrosion control approaches, quantify trace contaminant accumulation in drinking water distribution systems, predict metal solubility and metal levels at consumer's tap, and identify solids of unknown nature found in drinking waters.