Major inorganic elements in tap water samples in Peninsular Malaysia.

INTRODUCTION

Quality drinking water should be free from harmful levels of impurities such as heavy metals and other inorganic elements.

METHODS

Samples of tap water collected from 24 locations in Peninsular Malaysia were determined for inorganic element content. Minerals and heavy metals were analysed by spectroscopy methods, while non-metal elements were analysed using test kits.

RESULTS

Minerals and heavy metals determined were sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, chromium, manganese, iron, nickel, copper, zinc, arsenic, cadmium and lead while the non-metal elements were fluoride, chloride, nitrate and sulphate. Most of the inorganic elements found in the samples were below the maximum permitted levels recommended by inter-national drinking water standard limits, except for iron and manganese. Iron concentration of tap water from one of the locations was higher than the standard limit.

CONCLUSION

In general, tap water from different parts of Peninsular Malaysia had low concentrations of heavy metals and inorganic elements.