Water systems

Among the infrastructure which might have a negative impact on the environment are the various water systems such as the water supply system, wastewater systems, rainwater pipes, lead service pipes and the facilities and equipment used in the operation of these systems.

They age and suffer a lot of wear and tear which can result in:

• leaks
• corrosion
• risk of contaminating the natural environment
• incidents which adversely affect water quality

In 2003 two major projects were developed by research teams from Veolia Water to ensure that the water supply met the highest standards in hygiene, and that there was no change to the taste of the water.

Various solutions have been devised to study corrosion and the development of biofilm.

Reactors, designed to promote biofilm growth and located at those stages of the water system which are at risk, have been adapted and used in the water supply systems of Toulouse, Bergerac, Lunéville, as well at a pilot site at Maisons-Laffitte, just outside Paris.

A two-year study was begun at Maisons-Laffitte, just outside Paris, at the end of 2003.

Its aim was twofold:

• studying the impact of remineralization treatments
• adding a corrosion inhibitor

The results led to the creation of a whole range of operating solutions aimed at preserving the life of the water supply system.