Mitigating Pipe Corrosion in Water Distribution Systems: Strategies for Sustainability and Resilience

The corrosion of metallic pipes in water distribution systems is a critical issue that impacts the integrity and efficiency of water supply networks. As global temperatures rise and precipitation patterns shift, the chemical composition of water and soil environments surrounding the pipes is altered, influencing corrosion processes. This research, as part of a larger initiative at the National Research Council Canada, aims to summarize recent findings and best practices from literature publications to enhance maintenance strategies for water distribution systems. By examining the latest advancements in corrosion prevention, monitoring technologies, and maintenance protocols, the broader research seeks to develop a comprehensive framework that municipalities and water management authorities can adopt to mitigate the adverse effects of environmental changes on corrosion. Additionally, these efforts aim to lower the carbon footprint of water distribution systems by reducing the need for energy-intensive repairs and replacements, promoting sustainability. This paper specifically focuses on identifying gaps in the study of corrosion in buried water pipes, particularly regarding laboratory experimentation, contributing to the overall goals of the broader research initiative. The most significant gaps in the lab experiments are their short duration and the lack of studies focusing on the combined effects of factors like pH and moisture content under controlled laboratory conditions that mimic real-world scenarios.