Design of Monitoring Systems for Contaminant Detection in Water Networks Under Pipe Break-Induced Events

Water distribution networks (WDNs) are critical infrastructure yet vulnerable to contamination, thereby threatening public health. Rapid contaminant detection through sensor systems is essential for water safety. This study compares topological and optimization-based methods for sensor placement under intentional and accidental contamination scenarios triggered by low-pressure events. A novel approach is introduced to model pipe break events that generate low-pressure zones, creating pathways for contamination. Unlike traditional models, this method dynamically estimates contaminant intrusion volume based on the available node pressure. The study reveals that while optimization-based sensor placement yields better outcomes than the topological approach, the performance gap narrows as the number of sensors increases or when the system is tested against scenarios different from those used for optimization. The findings highlight a major issue in sensor detection when water quality is considered. For E. coli contamination in a chlorinated system, two conclusions emerge: rapid inactivation of E. coli makes it an unreliable indicator, even with optimized sensors, and sensor type and detection thresholds significantly affect performance, requiring careful assessment before implementation. This study provides a framework for evaluating sensor systems in WDNs, emphasizing tailored strategies that consider hydraulic conditions and water quality dynamics to improve contamination detection and public safety.