AWWA JAW54589

Copper (Cu) is widely accepted as a durable, corrosion-resistant conduit for potable water. However, over the past decade, the corrosion of Cu in potable waters has been critically assessed, triggered by tighter regulatory standards for potable water and wastewater, higher consumer expectations, and the recognition of a possible microbiological role in corrosion failures. At least two unusual types of pitting corrosion in hot and cold water systems and several anomalous cases of excessive Cu corrosion byproduct release ("blue water") have features consistent with microbially influenced corrosion (MIC). Cu corrosion byproduct release has traditionally been considered controlled by inorganic water chemistry. However, recent work has demonstrated that MIC can potentially produce excessive Cu concentrations under optimized water treatment conditions. This article discusses recent developments in understanding the influence of biofilms (microorganisms attached to and growing on a surface) on Cu corrosion. Includes 63 references, figures.