engleski

Modified analytical procedure for water pipes in "sick buildings"

During 2006 and 2007, an increased number of complaints related to uncharacteristic, intensive, aromatic compound smell of water from local waterworks were received from particular residential buildings. Water surveillance revealed elevated levels of total hydrocarbons (occasionally even exceeding 3000  g/L). The water pipes fitted in the buildings were analyzed according to a modified procedure, using identical but brand-new pipes as blank test. The procedure included analysis of model solution extracts over 24, 48 and 72 hours. The procedure was repeated upon pipe rinsing with tap water and detergents. Extracts were analyzed for the presence of total hydrocarbons, BTX, heavy metals and PAH. The results obtained showed hydrocarbon levels to exceed MAC several dozen times. The levels of total hydrocarbons decreased with each 24-h extraction to fall below MAC upon thorough wash. Contamination was not recorded in blank test samples. The techniques of IR, GC-MS, AAS and HPLC were employed. All water samples collected at hydrants before connection to the "sick building" waterworks system were found to be safe. The study demonstrated that there was no primary pipe contamination with hydrocarbons and that this contamination could generally be eliminated by proper pipe washing with water and detergents. However, as pipe washing could not be performed because of the complex waterworks system, exchange of waterworks fittings in "sick buildings" was suggested. The cause of contamination remained in part obscure ; however, the study revealed a number of technical faults due to construction.

water pipes analysis

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