oEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency Personal Lead Exposure Assessment Device (L.E.A.D.) Inventors: Darren Lvtle, Michael Schock US Patent 10.968.113 TRL 2 Context FIG. Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act and EPA's Lead and Copper Rule (40 CFR §141) substantially increased the safety of drinking water and reduced exposure to lead in drinking water. Unfortunately, lead is colorless, scentless, and tasteless when dissolved in drinking water. Even without a lead service line, homeowners may still be exposed to lead in their drinking water through brass or chrome-plated brass faucets, galvanized iron pipes or other plumbing soldered with lead. Because changes in water quality and source can change how much lead enters drinking water, and because drinking water can make up 20 percent or more of a person's total exposure to lead, it is important for homeowners to accurately know their personal exposure profile. Summary EPA Researchers Lytle and Shock have invented a personal lead assessment device, L.E.A.D. The device is designed for point of use systems in homes and personal systems. L.E.A.D. has sampling media designed to trap dissolved lead and a flow meter designed to track the amount of water flowing through the device while sampling. After sampling the average concentration of dissolved lead is derived and a user can determine the exposure profile of the faucet being sampled. L.E.A.D. is designed for consumer use, is easy to install, and will inform users of comparative dissolved lead conditions in their home or other locations for better peace of mind. Potential Applications • DIY • Municipal Water Services • Property Managers and Building Owners Contact Meghan Sheehan. JD. CLP Federal Technology Transfer Act (FTTA) Specialist https://www.epa.gov/ftta FTTA Home Page U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development ------- |