Real-Time Detection of Intentional Chemical Contamination in the Distribution System

摘要

Currently, the first casualties after an intentional contamination event will be identified by physicians or other health care providers due to the onset of symptoms well after exposure. One approach to mitigating this potential disaster includes on-line monitoring of drinking water distribution systems. Four credible threat drinking water contaminants (aldicarb, sodium arsenate, sodium cyanide, and sodium fluoroacetate) were added to tap water and analyzed at different concentrations to determine their detectability in a drinking water distribution system. Bench top analysis and on-line monitoring equipment was used to measure pH, chlorine residual, turbidity, and total organic carbon values before and after introduction of these contaminants. Results indicate that all four contaminants can be detected at relatively low concentrations. Three of the four contaminants were detected below a concentration that will cause significant health impact.