Determinación de hierro y manganeso a nivel de las redes de distribución y en agua procedente de las captaciones de la planta de agua potable EMAPAL (Uchupucún, Azogues)

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to establish iron and manganese concentrations in domestic waters submitted by EMAPAL water plant (Azogues, Cañar); during May –August, 2017. The present research contributed to ensure water quality and environmental sanitation for the users of this public service. A descriptive, transversal study was developed. 330 samples from urban and rural users of EMAPAL were gathered, plus 40 samples from the water sources. Metals quantification was performed by means of ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. Data analysis included several comparisons between iron and manganese concentration means and reference values. Besides, possible differences between the parameters obtained for local and rural locations were investigated. The reference parameters do not appear in the current norm INEN 1108-2014. For this reason, we referred to the norm INEN 1108-2006. No significant differences were found in the comparison between experimental and references values (0.30 ppm for iron and 0.10 ppm for manganese). The concentrations from the metals under study are higher in rural zones. The infrastructure quality of the distribution networks may influence in the results obtained, affecting the organoleptic qualities of water. The results obtained in the study generate valid information to aid EMAPAL in decision making to ensure water safety in Cañar province.