Potential releases of hydrocarbons and heavy metals from polyethylene pipes
Journal of Behdasht dar Arseh (i.e., Health in the Field),
Vol. 11 No. 4 (1402),
5 June 2024
,
Page 21-30
https://doi.org/10.22037/jhf.v11i4.43781
Abstract
Background and Aims: The release of organics and heavy metals from drinking water distribution pipes can adversely affect consumers' health. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of water quality and pipe diameter on the release of organic compounds and heavy metals in polyethylene pipes.
Materials and Methods: The experiments were performed in three different cycles of 72, 144, and 216 hours. The effect of water temperature, pH, hardness and remaining chlorine concentrations, as well as pipes diameter on the release of organics and some heavy metals were investigated. Ethical considerations were all observed during the study.
Results: The release of TOC increased with increasing the contact time of water to the pipe; however, the concentration of released zinc decreased by increasing time. Concentrations of lead, cadmium, and nickel in all samples were lower than the detection limit (LOD). The odor threshold number in all samples was lower than the allowable limit. The results indicated that increasing pH and hardness resulted in the decreased concentrations of TOC and zinc in water. Additionally, with increasing temperature, the concentration of TOC sharply escalated. Nevertheless, the released amounts of both TOC and zinc decreased by increasing pipe diameter.
Conclusion: The results of the study revealed that the existing pipes do not pose a health threat in terms of the release of heavy metals into water. In relation to the release of TOC in water, although these values are low, thorough research should be conducted to determine their types and subsequently assess the risk of released hydrocarbons on the health of individuals.
- Water quality, Polyethylene pipes, Water distribution network, Organic compounds, Heavy metals
How to Cite
References
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