So simple; lead is unhealthy, but the water from lead pipes, is that also unhealthy?
Answer
Bye Sonja
You’re right, lead is unhealthy. And in the past (already with the Romans) people have certainly become ill by using lead cups, for example.
Nowadays lead pipes are no longer used, I think it is no longer allowed.
But the existing pipes should therefore not be harmful. Water always has a certain hardness, if that hardness is too high it causes problems: coffee maker, washing machine, boiler, …
The hardness of the water creates a layer of lime on the lead pipes, so the water no longer comes into contact with the lead.
But the water will never be completely softened, then it will become too aggressive: the lime layer will dissolve and the lead can also dissolve (a little).
Hopefully this gives you enough information.
Answered by
Dr Marina Vanhecke
analytical chemistry toxicology soil remediation
UC Leuven Andreas Vesaliusstraat 13 | 3000 Leuven Hertogstraat 178 | 3001 Heverlee UC Limburg Campus Diepenbeek, Agoralaan Building B bus 1 3590 Diepenbeek
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