Does the use of monochloramine affect lead and copper corrosion?
Use of chloramine can indirectly affect corrosion of lead and copper in two ways: • When chloramine is used in water treatment as a residual disinfectant, it can change the chemical properties of the water, and can then, if not adjusted for, leach lead and copper from household plumbing. Certain conditions related to pH, alkalinity, and dissolved inorganic carbonate levels in the water can cause this situation. • Monochloramination, if not properly optimized, can result in nitrification (conversion of ammonia into nitrite and then nitrate) in the presence of bacteria. Nitrification can lower the pH of the water, which can increase corrosion of lead and copper.
