Implications of nutrient release from iron metal for microbial regrowth in water distribution systems.
Control of microbial regrowth in iron pipes is a major challenge for water utilities. This work examines the inter-relationship between iron corrosion and bacterial regrowth, with a special focus on the potential of iron pipe to serve as a source of phosphorus. Under some circumstances, corroding iron and steel may serve as a source for all macronutrients necessary for bacterial regrowth including fixed carbon, fixed nitrogen and phosphorus. Conceptual models and experimental data illustrate that levels of phosphorus released from corroding iron are significant relative to that necessary to sustain high levels of biofilm bacteria. Consequently, it may not be possible to control regrowth on iron surfaces by limiting phosphorus in the bulk water.
Morton
Siyuan C
SC
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 407 Durham Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0246, USA.
Zhang
Yan
Y
Edwards
Marc A
MA
D001419:Bacteria / Q000254:growth & development; D018441:Biofilms / Q000254:growth & development; D002713:Chlorine / Q000737:chemistry; D003343:Corrosion; D007501:Iron / Q000737:chemistry*; D010710:Phosphates / Q000737:chemistry; D017905:Phosphites / Q000737:chemistry; D010758:Phosphorus / Q000737:chemistry*; D014871:Water Microbiology; D014881:Water Supply
D010710:Phosphates; D017905:Phosphites; D010758:Phosphorus; D002713:Chlorine; D007501:Iron