Biofilms and microbially influenced cuprosolvency in domestic copper plumbing systems.
OBJECTIVE
To survey biofilm accumulation within domestic copper plumbing pipes in South Australian drinking water distribution systems and examine its role in copper solvation (cuprosolvency).


RESULTS
Cold water copper pipes were sampled from two different plumbing systems receiving filtered and unfiltered potable water respectively. Biomass was quantified by total organic carbon measurements and viable cell counts and microbial activity by respirometry. Biofilm accumulation was related to water chemistry within the systems, particularly nutrients, alkalinity and conductivity, as well as water turbulence. Laboratory coupon experiments were used to determine the effect of extracted biofilm on copper solvation. Biofilms were shown to be capable of both increasing and decreasing aqueous copper concentrations in comparison to sterile controls.


CONCLUSIONS
The results suggest that water quality may influence the accumulation of biofilms in copper plumbing systems, as well as potential cuprosolvency activity.


CONCLUSIONS
The presence of biofilms in copper plumbing systems and their ability to influence aqueous copper concentrations has implications for both public health and the management of distribution systems.
Critchley
M M
MM
Department of Environmental Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia.
Cromar
N J
NJ
McClure
N
N
Fallowfield
H J
HJ
D001419:Bacteria / Q000145:classification / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D018441:Biofilms / Q000254:growth & development*; D003300:Copper / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry; D005374:Filtration / Q000379:methods; D012498:Sanitary Engineering / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014881:Water Supply
D003300:Copper