Comprehensive Corrosion Control Strategies for Various Water Infrastructure Materials

With the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) requiring full lead service line replacement within 10 years, there is a growing need to explore more sustainable corrosion control strategies. This project addresses the limitations of orthophosphate-based treatments in drinking water systems, particularly their environmental impacts and effects on the water microbiome. The study will evaluate existing corrosion control treatment (CCT) strategies and their effectiveness across various materials through a combination of meta-analysis, bench- and pilot-scale testing, and assessments of water quality impacts such as disinfection byproducts and pathogen presence. A decision support system (DSS) will be developed to help utilities identify the most suitable CCTs based on their specific conditions. Ultimately, this project will deliver adaptable, science-based guidance to improve corrosion control while minimizing environmental risks.