New research shows plastic pipes leach microplastics into drinking water • CuSP (2024)

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New research shows plastic pipes leach microplastics into drinking water • CuSP? ›

New research shows plastic pipes leach microplastics into drinking water. The latest report from CuSP member, Safe Piping Matters, covers upcoming research showing commonly used plastic pipe materials can release significant amounts of microplastics and nanoplastics into plumbing systems.

Academic research identifies plastic pipes as a significant source of microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP) in potable water systems.

Vinyl chloride may be released into drinking water from PVC and CPVC pipes at levels below EPA's legal safe drinking water limit, but at levels of potential health concern. Researchers have documented vinyl chloride in tap water at low, but not insignificant, levels.

The Real Science on PVC

The evidence shows it neither leaches chemicals like lead, cadmium, BPA or plasticizers, nor does it release harmful organotins, nor pose major hazards in its manufacture, use and disposal, nor create a dangerous bio-film, nor form dioxins as water passes through, etc.

PVC pipe is sensitive to ambient temperatures (in low temperatures, PVC becomes increasingly brittle and can break more easily, while in warmer environments PVC becomes weaker).

Just as the chemicals in food packaging can leach into food, the chemicals in PVC pipes can leach into drinking water, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can harm children and developing fetuses at very low levels.

Potable water systems and fittings utilizing CPVC tend to degradate and often fail after only a few years of service. Inconspicuous chemicals are leading causes of failure.

Copper pipes with lead-free joint materials are the best choice for water pipes. They are long-lasting and won't leach chemicals into your drinking water.

Is PEX safe for drinking water? Yes, our PEX-a and PEX-b are both safe for drinking water. Our piping system solutions are all third-party tested through IAPMO or NSF to the following standards: NSF/ANSI 61 drinking water systems components - health effects.

In summary, PEX piping contaminates water and there is huge variation between brands and even within brands based on batch. It does seem worse at the beginning, as new piping must be flushed for some length of time to “remove” the contaminants and off-gassing.

Does PVC pipe emit toxins? ›

The following two products of PVC combustion are of particular concern: hydrogen chloride, which is a corrosive, highly toxic gas that can burn skin and cause severe, permanent respiratory damage; and. dioxin, the most dangerous known man-made carcinogen, which will persist in the environment for a long period of time.

PVC pipes can shed microplastics, and may leach vinyl chloride and chemicals — such as phthalates and organotins — that interfere with human hormones. Such hormone-disrupting chemicals can pose health risks even in miniscule quantities.

Many children's school supplies, such as lunchboxes, backpacks and binders, can be made out of PVC-a toxic plastic that is dangerous to our health and the environment. PVC contains dangerous chemical additives including phthalates, lead, cadmium, and/or organotins, which can be toxic to your child's health.

PVC starts its life in a highly energy-intensive process used to make chlorine gas – a toxic and volatile chemical. The process requires highly hazardous PFAS, asbestos, or mercury to work.