Corrosion threatens our drinking water. Could the solution be a 200-year-old technique, cathodic corrosion protection, instead of expensive repairs and replacements?

Our life-giving water is at risk of literally slipping through our fingers. Recent reports paints a grim picture – ff the current pace of replacing old water pipelines continues, it would take hundreds of years to complete the task, a scenario that is not unique to any one country but is a global concern.. Meanwhile, millions of liters of water are lost every day through water leaks, much of it due to corrosion in older pipes. This crisis requires innovative, efficient, and quick solutions—one such solution is cathodic corrosion protection.

Corrosion: A silent disaster in water and sewage management

Water leaks from corroded metal pipes (steel, ductile iron, and cast iron) turn vital water into an invisible river. The financial implications are immense, with the cost of repairs and replacements running into billions of dollars annually. Despite its pervasive threat, corrosion remains under-addressed in policy and practice, necessitating a shift towards more proactive and preventive measures. Innovative solutions like cathodic protection offer hope, yet their widespread adoption hinges on increased awareness and supportive legislation.

Cathodic corrosion protection: A proven defense

Cathodic corrosion protection, a technique that protects metal structures from corrosion, has been a proven solution for over two centuries. Despite its success in extending the lifespan of infrastructure in other sectors, such as the gas industry where it is mandated by law, it has not yet been implemented to a similar extent in the water supply sector.

The importance of knowledge and legislation

One of the barriers to wider implementation of cathodic corrosion protection appears to be a lack of knowledge about its potential. By increasing awareness of this technology among the general public, technical consultants, engineers, and politicians, we can take significant steps towards protecting our water supply. There is also an urgent need to consider legislation for the use of cathodic corrosion protection, similar to that which exists for the gas industry.

Conclusion

Water is the source of life, but every day, several million liters leak away due to corroded pipes. We can no longer afford to ignore the potential of cathodic corrosion protection. This proven technology offers an effective way to extend the lifespan of our water pipes and reduce extensive leakage. This knowledge must be spread, and necessary legislation should be introduced to ensure its use. Now is the time for all of us to act to protect our most valuable resource, our water.