Figure 6.

Conceptual corrosion model in copper pipes under flow. Abiotic conditions: (a) The cuprite layer growths thinner under permanent flow conditions, due to Cu(I) species flushing or shear stress; and (b) the flow produce the detachment of nanoparticles, probably malachite, increasing copper concentration. Biotic conditions: (c) Under permanent flow conditions there are more nutrients for the bacteria allowing them to grow faster; and (d) when the biofilm is developed, and a flow is imposed, the copper released is increased due to desorption of copper species and particle detachment.