Salinity/Aggressivity Assessments

What is Salinity/Aggressivity Assessments?

Salinity/aggressivity assessment is a process that is used to measure the amount of dissolved salts and minerals in water, and to determine how these levels might affect the quality of the water and any infrastructure that comes into contact with it.

Salinity refers to the concentration of salt in water, and is typically measured in parts per thousand (ppt) or in electrical conductivity (EC). High levels of salinity can have negative impacts on water quality, including reducing the ability of plants to grow, changing the taste and odour of water, and causing corrosion in pipes and other infrastructure.

Aggressivity refers to the corrosive potential of water, which can be influenced by the types and levels of minerals present in the water. The aggressivity of water can be assessed by measuring the pH and alkalinity of the water, as well as the levels of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. If the water is too aggressive, it can cause corrosion in pipes and other infrastructure, leading to leaks, contamination, and other issues.

Overall, salinity/aggressivity assessment is an important tool for ensuring that water is safe and reliable for use in a variety of applications, including drinking water, irrigation, and industrial processes. By understanding the salinity and aggressivity of water, it is possible to identify potential issues and take steps to prevent or mitigate them, ensuring that water remains safe and healthy for people and the environment.

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    Have Questions? Let’s Clear Them Up

    • A salinity assessment is used to determine whether the salt in soil could have an impact on the proposed developments.

    • High salinity may cause corrosion within any steel used for construction; therefore, tests must be undertaken to ensure that salinity will not affect the steel materials.

    • Factors that indicate salinity could include the following:

      • Areas of bare soil;
      • Increase in salt-tolerant plants in the area;
      • Rising damp in buildings;
      • Deterioration in the quality of groundwater/surface water.
    • Salinity can be prevented by implementing the following:

      • Monitoring groundwater levels and the amount of salt in land/water;
      • Retain and regenerate native vegetation;
      • Maintain good pasture cover through conservative stocking rates; and
      • Adopt cropping practices that minimise deep drainage.

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