Evaluation of organic migration and biomass formation on polymeric components in a point-of-use water dispenser

Abstract

To minimize the aesthetic and hygienic concerns regarding tap water (e.g., odor, taste, suspended solids, and microorganisms), point-of-use (POU) water dispensers and filters are used in households worldwide. However, the POU water dispenser itself can adversely impact water quality. This study investigated the bacterial growth through a POU water dispenser fed with chlorinated tap water; specifically, the heterotrophic plate count increased from 0.01 to 20.01 × 103 of colony-forming units per ml. The BioMig test, which evaluates the biostability of polymeric materials based on the migration potential and the biofilm formation potential, was firstly applied for the water dispenser system. Organic migration and biofilm formation varied by the polymer type used in the water dispenser components (e.g., tubing, fittings, and reservoir). Assimilable organic carbon migration in cold water (23 ± 2 °C) was better correlated with the biofilm formation potential (R = 0.93) than that of warm water (60 ± 2 °C) migration (R = 0.62). The most problematic test material was silicone based on assimilable organic carbon migration and biofilm formation, whereas approved materials such as polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride were relatively stable. Polymeric component examination of an actual POU water dispenser revealed highly accumulated biofilms on the silicone tube used in the device (118 × 103 CFU cm−2). The use of polymers with high biofilm formation should be minimized in water dispensers, whereas approved polymeric components contribute to biological stability in the dispensed drinking water.