Detecting and Mitigating Contaminated Drinking Water

The United States has one of the cleanest drinking water supplies in the world. Specialized water treatment facilities ensure that only the cleanest water enters the water distribution system. While clean water enters the water distribution system, deteriorating and aging water mains and pipes, as well as lead-containing solder and brass fittings in older buildings, can introduce contaminants into the drinking water system, posing significant health concerns. Contaminants such as lead, copper, and lithium in drinking water pose significant public health risks. Lead exposure in adults is linked to cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and an increased risk of stroke and heart disease. Chronic exposure to high levels of copper can lead to liver cirrhosis and kidney disease. Elevated lithium concentrations (>0.05 mg/L) can cause thyroid dysfunction and kidney issues. Research indicates that 56% of the U.S. population consumes water with lead levels exceeding the advisable health limit of 1 part per billion (ppb). Boiling water to remove heavy metals is NOT an effective solution and may increase the risk of exposure by increasing their concentrations. This paper will discuss the latest technologies in detecting the sources for drinking water contaminants such as lead and copper. Detection technologies based on metallurgical engineering principles, spot testing and identification have proven very effective in yielding consistent and reliable results. Case studies will be presented. A discussion on the effectiveness of home testing kits will also be discussed as well as mitigation measures to improve the drinking water at the home level.