SYSTEMATIC INVESTIGATIONS ON THE HEAVY-METAL POLLUTION (CD, PB, CU, ZN, CR, BA) OF DRINKING-WATER USING ATOMIC-ABSORPTION SPECTROMETRIC METHODS

Systematic investigations were carried out on the heavy metal (Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, Cr, Ba) pollution of drinking water. The samples were analysed by electrothermal AAS directly and after ATMDTCMIBK chelation extraction preconcentration. Results of both methods were in good agreement. Filterable residue of tap water and sediment of reservoirs in the distribution system were analysed by flame AAS after digestion in acidic medium. Final conclusions as follows: I. At present there is no significant heavy metal pollution originating from surface water. II. Because of the non-aggressive property of the Danube water, no significant dissolution of heavy metals occurs from piping materials, only the zinc content is elevated in some parts of the town. III. Heavy metals are adsorbed on the surface of residue materials and become concentrated in the sediments of the reservoirs. IV. It is desirable from the point of public health that the concentration of filterable residue of tap water is kept under a certain limit. © 1979 Springer-Verlag.