ROLE OF I.R.B. IN CORROSION OF HANDPUMPS

Abstract

Iron related bacteria (IRB) are found in most iron bearing water, industrial waters, streams, lakes, wells, shallow aquifers and potable water supplies. Occurence of IRB have been observed for well over 100 years. Contamination with IRB are more annoying than harmful. IRB have the ability to transform or deposit significant amounts of iron, usually in the form of objectionable slimes. Iron bacteria may cause odour, taste, forthing, colour and turbidity in water. A study on the occurrence of 1RB in the water samples from the handpumps of Dehradun area reveals that IRB occur and thrive in the water drawn from the handpumps. A few handpumps yield red water, having odour, taste and turbidity. Genus Crenothrix, Clonothrix, Sphaerotilus and Leptothrix from filamentous group are predominant in water samples. Genus Gallionella is also seen in some of the water samples.