Biocorrosion of copper in potable water

Copper (Cu) is widely accepted as a durable, corrosion-resistant conduit fo r potable water. However, over the past decade, the corrosion of Cu in pota ble waters has been critically assessed, triggered by tighter regulatory st andards 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 syste ms and several anomalous cases of excessive Cu corrosion by-product release ("blue water") have features consistent with microbially influenced corros ion (MIC). Cu corrosion by-product release has traditionally been considere d controlled by inorganic water chemistry, However, recent work has demonst rated that MIC can potentially produce excessive Cu concentrations under op timized water treatment conditions. This article discusses recent developme nts in understanding the influence of biofilms (microorganisms attached to and growing on a surface) on Cu corrosion.