Corrosion and scaling potential of the potable water in villages based on langelier saturation index, ryznar stability index, larson ratio, and saturation level

Abstract Background: corrosion and scaling are of the most important characteristics of drinking water, affecting public health and water industry economy. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the corrosion and scaling potential of potable water supplied by Saqqez Rural Water and Wastewater Company. Materials and Methods: this was a descriptive study conducted on 142 samples taken from different parts of the distribution network during 2011-2012. All samples were analyzed for required physical and chemical parameters. The obtained results were compared with water quality standards and then, corrosion and scaling indices including Langelier Saturation Index (LSI), Ryznar Stability Index (RSI), Larson Ratio (LR), and Saturation Level (SL) were calculated. Results: all parameters were below the allowable limits determined by national and international qualitative drinking water standards. Biennial average of 0.73, 6.51, 0.74, and 1.96 were calculated for LSI, RSI, LR, and SL, respectively. Accordingly, potable water of the surveyed region was evaluated to be scaling based on LSI and SL, stable based on RSI, and corrosive based on LR. Finally, frequency distribution of indices during the surveyed period was reported. Conclusion: potable water of the region was in an acceptable level in terms of corrosion and scaling potential. However, considering significant differences between values of indices in a year to another year, annual survey of corrosion and scaling potential of regional potable water is strongly recommended.