Acidic deposition and cistern drinking water supplies

Sources of Pollution in Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting Systems and Their Control

“…Acidic pH facilitates the leaching of various substances, especially metals, from the collection surfaces, which deteriorates the quality of harvested rainwater Soni, 1983, 1984;Olem and Berthouex, 1989). Rainfall acidity also has the potential of enhancing the toxicity of certain metals (Abbasi et al, 2009).…”

“…The longer the dry period in between rainfall events, the greater is the amount of pollutants deposited on the roof surfaces. Yaziz et al, 1989 a tank, particularly one made of concrete or mortar, significantly raises the pH of the water as the soft, acidic, rainwater reacts with the cement and absorbs calcium making the stored water more alkaline in the range of pH 6-10 (Ariyananda, 2005;Fujioka et al, 1991;Handia, 2005aHandia, , 2005bOlem and Berthouex, 1989;Thurman, 1995). If the material of the tank wall has cracks and large porosity, the dissolution by acidic water is accelerated (Okochi et al, 2000).…”

“…This oxidized coating may break down slowly and be washed into rainwater tanks, thus coloring the water. The coating has been found to be nontoxic and, if (Förster, 1999;He et al, 2002;Olem and Berthouex, 1989). Leaching from metal roofs and flashing tends to raise the levels of zinc, copper, and sometimes lead (Al-Khashman, 2009;Baez et al, 2007;Hao et al, 2006).…”

“…But the metals may be removed to a significant level during the stages of collection, conveyance, and storage of the rainwater (Gumbs and Dierberg, 1985;Olem and Berthouex, 1989;Sharp and Young, 1982;Thomas and Martinson, 2007). Precipitation and sedimentation occurring during storage is a particularly effective mechanism.…”

Adaptation of climate variability/extreme in arid environment of the Arabian peninsula by rainwater harvesting and management

“…The usage of such systems is growing (Amin and Han 2007;Han 2007) and is receiving an increased attention worldwide as an alternative source of potable (Dillaha and Zolan 1985;Handia et al 2003;Heyworth et al 2006;Pinfold et al 1993) as well as non-potable water supplies (Hatibu et al 2006;Ghisi and Ferreira 2007;Meera and Ahammed 2006;Olem and Berthouex 1989;Simmons et al 2001). The use of rainwater in domestic hot water systems can produce optimal environmental and economic results for urban water cycle management (Spinks et al 2006;Sturm et al 2009).…”