Renovation of aged water pipes is a topical issue in many European countries. Lining the insides of water pipes is a cost-efficient alternative to extensive renovation. In addition to sewage pipes, lining has been recently applied to household water pipes. Commonly used lining materials in households include organic materials such as epoxy resins and polyurethane. The impact of lining materials to the chemical burden of water, however, has not been studied thoroughly. Organic chemicals such as endocrine disrupting chemicals bisphenol A and F and their derivatives, are known to leach from lining material to water. Others, such as volatile organic compounds, amines, amides, isocyanates, and organotins can also leach from different lining materials. Several factors, such as properties of water, flowing rate, and temperature can affect the leaching rate of chemicals. Leaching is greatest shortly after lining, but high rates of leaching has been detected also when the curing time of lining material has not been sufficient. Long-term effects of lining materials to the water quality are also not well known. Target of this project is to study the impact of organic lining materials to the quality of water in detail. Different lining materials and chemicals as well as factors influencing the leaching pattern and time scale will be studied. The possible risk of chemicals in different lining materials to humans and the environment will be assessed. If possible, suggestions to minimize the chemical burden of water by lining materials will be given.

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