Trace metals in Riyadh public water supplies

Abstract EN

Trace metal concentrations in the Riyadh water supplies were assessed.

Samples were collected from groundwater wells, product waters of treatment plants, and the distribution network.

These samples were analyzed for 10 trace metals.

Trace metal concentrations in the product waters were within the drinking water standard limits.

Aluminum concentration increase was due to the use of chemicals in the softening process.

Iron in 2%, and Cu and Ni in 1% of the water samples from the distribution network exceeded the standard limits.

Metal concentrations were higher in water samples from the distribution network as compared to those from different treatment plants.

The water scheduling or water rationing adopted in Riyadh seems to affect the trace element levels with, ?b, Al, and Zn being most affected.

Detailed research work is needed to assess the impact of water scheduling and other factors on trace element levels.