Leaching of organic material in polymeric pipes distributing desalinated water

Polymeric pipes have now become a favourite choice for water distribution networks. However, the role of polymeric pipes with respect to quality of water distributed has not been extensively studied. These studies are critical for desalinated water distribution as the water can be aggressive to its surroundings. The objective of this study was to identify the leaching of organic carbon from three different polymeric pipes; polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PPR) and polyethylene (PE). The study investigated the role of pH and residual chlorine concentrations on the leaching of organic carbon. Laboratory-based pipe loop systems using desalinated water was used to investigate the leaching of organic matter (OM). The results revealed that the migration of organic material was in the order of PE > PPR > PVC. Results indicated the lowest level of potential precursors of disinfection by-products (DBP) was present in PVC pipes, compared to PPR and PE pipes.