AWWA JAW39553

Contrary to expectations, higher bicarbonate concentrations exacerbate copper corrosion rates and byproduct release. In fact, as illustrated by monitoring experiences of large utilities and by laboratory data, the concentration of copper corrosion byproducts in drinking water increases linearly with bicarbonate concentration at constant pH. This relationship implicates cupric hydroxide solubility in control of copper release from relatively new (less than a few years old) copper plumbing. Decision making guidance from a traditional Larson's ratio or Langelier index approach can aggravate copper corrosion problems; consequently, their use should be discontinued for copper corrosion mitigation. In contrast, aeration-CO2 stripping is a particularly attractive strategy because benefits from higher pH are realized without adverse effects from higher alkalinity. Includes 31 references, tables, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. 88 - No. 3

Published:

03/01/1996

Number of Pages:

14

File Size:

1 file , 1.7 MB