Recent news reports indicate that thousands of homes and schools across the US still contain dangerous levels of lead. A resident can request a Lead Inspection Risk Assessment (LIRA) which tests lead levels in both paint and water. Paint samples can be tested using a handheld x-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF) on-site. However, water samples cannot be read on-site, but must be transported back to the laboratory adding cost and time. To reduce the cost of testing water samples, we previously developed an XRF-based method which captures and pre-concentrates the lead on activated carbon felt (ACF) filters [Tighe et al, 2020, Analytical Chemistry]. This method reduced the cost to $0.20 per test; however, testing was not possible on-site due to the need to dry the ACF filter.<br/>Here, we develop and validate a drying method that enables water testing to be carried out during a LIRA on-site. Furthermore, we systematically vary water quality parameters such as pH, water hardness, chlorine content, and presence of humic substances to see how they affect the adsorption of lead onto the ACF.<br/>Having a semi-quantitative, on-site, low-cost screening method for lead allows for multiple water samples to be tested from different faucets in a home. Sampling could also be carried out over longer time spans or during periods when municipal water supply lines undergo repair work that can release lead from passivation layers in the pipes. Widespread testing would identify which parts of the home and water supply line have lead plumbing. Knowlege of lead plumbing would prompt focussed remedial action which would reduce the number of persons being lead poisoned through water.

Low-cost screening test for lead in water based on activated carbon felt (ACF) capture and x-ray fluorescence (XRF) detection: introducing on-site drying method and investigating accuracy of test among different water types

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.