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Manganese deposition in drinking water distribution systems
Tammie L Gerke1, Brenda J Little2, J Barry Maynard1
1Department of Geology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0013, USA.
The Science of the Total Environment
|September 27, 2015
Summary
Manganese deposits in drinking water systems contain toxic metals like lead and chromium. These deposits can impact water quality through metal adsorption and resuspension.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Water Chemistry
Background:
- Drinking water distribution systems can accumulate mineral deposits.
- Disinfection byproducts, such as chlorine and chloramine, can influence deposit formation.
- Manganese deposits may interact with other metals, affecting water quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a physicochemical assessment of manganese deposits in drinking water systems.
- To investigate the mineralogy and elemental composition of manganese deposits.
- To understand the relationship between manganese deposits and potentially toxic metal ions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized synchrotron-based in-situ micro X-ray adsorption near edge structure (XANES) for mineralogy assessment.
- Employed in-situ micro X-ray fluorescence (XRF) mapping to determine spatial relationships of elements.
- Analyzed manganese deposits from two operational drinking water distribution systems.
Main Results:
- Manganese deposits, ranging from 0.01 to 400 μm, were primarily composed of Mn oxides/oxhydroxides (birnessite, hollandite) and a Mn silicate (braunite).
- Toxic metals including lead, chromium, and strontium were found co-located within the manganese deposits.
- Iron was also present in the deposits, alongside copper.
Conclusions:
- Manganese deposits in drinking water systems can adsorb and concentrate toxic metal ions of health concern.
- The properties of manganese deposits, including adsorption, oxidation, and resuspension, significantly influence drinking water quality.
- Understanding manganese deposit characteristics is crucial for ensuring safe drinking water.
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