What is the term for the process when organic compounds seep through plastic pipes?

The term for the process when organic compounds seep through plastic pipes is permeation. This process refers to the movement of specific substances through a barrier, like a plastic pipe, due to differences in concentration or pressure. In the context of water distribution, permeation can lead to the leaching of contaminants from the surrounding environment into the water that flows through the pipes, which raises concerns about water quality and safety.

Understanding permeation is crucial for assessing the integrity and suitability of materials used in water distribution systems. It directly impacts the effectiveness of the pipes and the quality of the drinking water. The other terms—diffusion, absorption, and adsorption—describe different processes. Diffusion refers to the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration, which can occur but does not specifically relate to the mechanism of seepage through a material. Absorption involves one substance being taken up into the bulk of another, which is not how contaminants would typically interact with pipe materials. Adsorption occurs when molecules adhere to the surface of a solid or liquid, rather than penetrating through it. Therefore, permeation is the most accurate term for the described phenomenon.