This presentation focuses on the current state of industry knowledge regarding the
accumulation and potential release of regulated inorganic and radiological contaminants
within drinking water distribution systems. Several limited-focus case studies have
shown that certain contaminants, such as arsenic and radium, can accumulate within
distribution systems by a variety of mechanisms. Natural and treatment analogs suggest
the potential for other contaminants to accumulate as well. These contaminant-rich
deposits can then be mobilized into the bulk water by hydraulic disturbances, scale
destabilization, and/or re-equilibration due to changing water chemistry.
Investigation of this issue has become a high priority for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the industry
because of the potential for elevated contaminant concentrations at customer taps and
potential public health ramifications. As such, AwwaRF and USEPA have co-funded a
research project entitled "Assessment of Inorganics Accumulation in Drinking Water
System Scales and Sediments" (AwwaRF 3118) to build upon the water industry's
limited understanding of the fate and transport of regulated inorganics and radionuclides
within the distribution system. Includes 20 references, table, figure.
| Edition : | Vol. - No. |
| Number of Pages : | 12 |
| Published : | 06/01/2007 |
