Technical Support Document for the 2004 

Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 
Technical Support Document for the 2004 

Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 

EPA-821-R-04-014 

Mike Leavitt

Administrator

Ben Grumbles 

Assistant Administrator, Office of Water 

Geoffrey H. Grubbs 

Director, Office of Science and Technology 

Mary Smith

Director, Engineering and Analysis Division

Tom Wall 

Chief, Chemical Engineering Branch 

Jan Goodwin 

Technical Coordinator 

Carey Johnston 

Jan Matuszko

Project Managers 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Office of Water (4303T)

Engineering and Analysis Division

Office of Science and Technology 

Washington, DC 20460 

August 2004 
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

This report has been reviewed and approved for publication by the Engineering and Analysis 

Division, Office of Science and Technology. This report was prepared with the support of 

Eastern Research Group, Inc., under the direction and review of the Office of Science and 

Technology. 

Neither the United States government nor any of its employees, contractors, subcontractors, or 

other employees makes any warranty, expressed or implied, or assumes any legal liability or 

responsibility for any third party’s use of, or the results of such use of, any information, 

apparatus, product, or process discussed in this report, or represents that its use by such a third 

party would not infringe on privately owned rights. 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 

SECTION 1 BACKGROUND .................................................. 1-1

1.1 EPA’s Clean Water Act Program ............................. 1-1

1.2 The Effluent Guidelines Program ............................. 1-1

1.2.1 Best Practicable Control Technology Currently Available

(BPT) – CWA Sections 301(b)(1)(A) & 304(b)(1) ......... 1-3

1.2.2 Best Conventional Pollutant Control Technology (BCT) –

CWA Sections 301(b)(2)(E) & 304(b)(4) ................. 1-3

1.2.3 Best Available Technology Economically Achievable (BAT) –

CWA Sections 301(b)(2)(A) & 304(b)(2) ................. 1-3

1.2.4 New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) – CWA

Section 306 ........................................ 1-4

1.2.5 Pretreatment Standards for Existing Sources (PSES) – CWA

Section 307(b) ...................................... 1-4

1.2.6 Pretreatment Standards for New Sources (PSNS) – CWA

Section 307(c) ...................................... 1-4

1.3 Requirements Applicable to Effluent Guidelines Program Planning

Efforts .................................................. 1-4

SECTION 2 PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE PRELIMINARY EFFLUENT GUIDELINES

PROGRAM PLAN FOR 2004/2005 ..................................... 2-1

SECTION 3 ANNUAL REVIEW OF EFFLUENT GUIDELINES PROMULGATED

UNDER SECTION 304(b) ........................................... 3-1

3.1 Results of 2003 Annual Review .............................. 3-1

3.2 2004 Annual Review ....................................... 3-1

SECTION 4 DATA SOURCES AND LIMITATIONS .................................. 4-1

4.1 Industry Identification ...................................... 4-1

4.1.1 SIC Codes ......................................... 4-1

4.1.2 Relationship Between SIC Codes and Point Source

Categories ......................................... 4-1

4.1.3 Economic Census .................................... 4-2

4.2 Pollutant Loadings Estimates ................................. 4-2

4.2.1 Data from TRI ...................................... 4-2

4.2.1.1 Utility of TRI ................................. 4-4

4.2.1.2 Limitations of TRI ............................. 4-4

4.2.2 Data from PCS ..................................... 4-6

4.2.2.1 Utility of PCS ................................. 4-7

4.2.2.2 Limitations of PCS ............................. 4-8

4.2.3 Toxic Weighting Factors .............................. 4-9

4.2.4 Calculation of TWPE ................................ 4-10

4.2.4.1 Methodology and Assumptions Used to Calculate

TWPE ...................................... 4-10

i 
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

Page 

4.2.4.2 Dioxins and Dioxin-Like Compounds ............. 4-11

4.2.4.3 Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds (PACs) .......... 4-15

4.3 Impaired Waters Analysis .................................. 4-17

4.3.1 Data Gaps and Limitations in Estimating Impairment

Analysis .......................................... 4-19

4.4 Nutrients Analysis ........................................ 4-19

4.5 References .............................................. 4-20

SECTION 5 EXISTING INDUSTRY REVIEW ....................................... 5-1

5.1 Organization of this Section ................................. 5-1

5.2 Group I Industries ......................................... 5-4

5.3 Group II Industries ......................................... 5-4

5.3.1 Inorganic Chemicals (Part 415) ......................... 5-4

5.3.1.1 Industry Description ........................... 5-5

5.3.1.2 Regulatory Background ......................... 5-7

5.3.1.3 Wastewater Characterization ..................... 5-9

5.3.1.4 Treatment Technologies ....................... 5-13

5.3.1.5 Conclusions ................................. 5-15

5.3.1.6 References .................................. 5-16

5.3.2 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing (Part 421) ............. 5-16

5.3.2.1 Industry Description .......................... 5-17

5.3.2.2 Regulatory Background ........................ 5-20

5.3.2.3 Wastewater Characterization .................... 5-21

5.3.2.4 Treatment Technologies ....................... 5-24

5.3.2.5 Conclusions ................................. 5-26

5.3.2.6 References .................................. 5-27

5.4 Group III Industries ....................................... 5-27

5.4.1 Fertilizer and Phosphate Manufacturing (Parts 418 and

422) ............................................. 5-27

5.4.1.1 Industry Description .......................... 5-28

5.4.1.2 Regulatory Background ........................ 5-33

5.4.1.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . . 5-36

5.4.1.4 Pollutant Prevention and Treatment Technology .... 5-38

5.4.1.5 Industry Trends .............................. 5-39

5.4.1.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............. 5-39

5.4.1.7 Conclusions ................................. 5-40

5.4.1.8 References .................................. 5-40

5.4.2 Ore Mining and Dressing ............................. 5-41

5.4.2.1 Industry Description .......................... 5-41

5.4.2.2 Regulatory Background ........................ 5-43

5.4.2.3 Wastewater Characteristics ..................... 5-45

5.4.2.4 Pollution Prevention and Treatment Technology .... 5-54

5.4.2.5 Industry Trends .............................. 5-55

ii 
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

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5.4.2.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............. 5-55

5.4.2.7 Conclusions ................................. 5-56

5.4.2.8 References .................................. 5-56

5.4.3 Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Phase II ................... 5-57

5.4.3.1 Industry Description .......................... 5-57

5.4.3.2 Regulatory Background ........................ 5-61

5.4.3.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . . 5-63

5.4.3.4 Pollution Prevention and Treatment Technology .... 5-71

5.4.3.5 Industry Trends .............................. 5-72

5.4.3.6 Stakeholder and Regional EPA Issues ............. 5-72

5.4.3.7 Conclusions ................................. 5-72

5.4.3.8 References .................................. 5-73

5.4.4 Steam Electric ..................................... 5-73

5.4.4.1 Industry Description .......................... 5-73

5.4.4.2 Regulatory Background ........................ 5-74

5.4.4.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . . 5-77

5.4.4.4 Pollutant Prevention and Treatment Technology .... 5-83

5.4.4.5 Industry Trends .............................. 5-84

5.4.4.6 Stakeholder and Regional EPA Issues ............. 5-85

5.4.4.7 Conclusions ................................. 5-86

5.4.4.8 References .................................. 5-87

5.4.5 Textile Mills ....................................... 5-87

5.4.5.1 Industry Description .......................... 5-87

5.4.5.2 Regulatory Background ........................ 5-90

5.4.5.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . . 5-92

5.4.5.4 Pollutant Prevention and Treatment Technology . . . 5-100

5.4.5.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-102

5.4.5.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-103

5.4.5.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-103

5.4.5.8 References ................................. 5-104

5.4.6 Timber Products Processing Point Source Category ....... 5-105

5.4.6.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-105

5.4.6.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-107

5.4.6.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-112

5.4.6.4 Pollution Prevention and Treatment Technology . . . 5-120

5.4.6.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-121

5.4.6.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-121

5.4.6.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-123

5.4.6.8 References ................................. 5-124

5.5 Group IV Industries ...................................... 5-125

5.5.1 Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing

(Part 407) ........................................ 5-125

5.5.1.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-125

iii 
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

Page 

5.5.1.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-126

5.5.1.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-127

5.5.1.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-131

5.5.1.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-131

5.5.1.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-132

5.5.1.7 Potential Additional Subcategories .............. 5-134

5.5.1.8 Conclusions ................................ 5-138

5.5.1.9 References ................................. 5-138

5.5.2 Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing (Part 408) ..... 5-138

5.5.2.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-138

5.5.2.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-139

5.5.2.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-140

5.5.2.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-144

5.5.2.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-144

5.5.2.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-145

5.5.2.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-147

5.5.2.8 References ................................. 5-147

5.5.3 Coal Mining (Part 434) ............................. 5-147

5.5.3.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-148

5.5.3.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-149

5.5.3.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-151

5.5.3.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-154

5.5.3.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-154

5.5.3.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-156

5.5.3.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-157

5.5.4 Coil Coating (Part 465) ............................. 5-157

5.5.4.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-157

5.5.4.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-158

5.5.4.3 Wastewater Characterization and Pollutant Sources . 5-161

5.5.4.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-163

5.5.4.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-164

5.5.4.6 Stakeholder and Regional Issues ................ 5-165

5.5.4.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-166

5.5.5 Dairy Products Processing (Part 405) .................. 5-167

5.5.5.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-167

5.5.5.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-168

5.5.5.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-170

5.5.5.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-173

5.5.5.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-174

5.5.5.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-175

5.5.5.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-176

5.5.5.8 References ................................. 5-176

5.5.6 Electrical and Electronic Components (Part 469) ......... 5-176

iv 
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

Page 

5.5.6.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-177

5.5.6.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-178

5.5.6.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-181

5.5.6.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-185

5.5.6.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-185

5.5.6.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-186

5.5.6.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-187

5.5.6.8 References ................................. 5-187

5.5.7 Metal Molding and Casting (Part 464) ................. 5-189

5.5.7.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-189

5.5.7.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-189

5.5.7.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-191

5.5.7.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-195

5.5.7.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-195

5.5.7.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-196

5.5.7.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-199

5.5.8 Mineral Mining and Processing (Part 436) .............. 5-199

5.5.8.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-200

5.5.8.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-203

5.5.8.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-206

5.5.8.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention . . . 5-209

5.5.8.5 Industry Trends ............................. 5-210

5.5.8.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues ............ 5-212

5.5.8.7 Conclusions ................................ 5-213

5.5.9 Oil and Gas Extraction (40 CFR Part 435) .............. 5-213

5.5.9.1 Industry Description ......................... 5-213

5.5.9.2 Regulatory Background ....................... 5-216

5.5.9.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources . . 5-218

5.5.9.4 Pollutants of Concern Identified ................ 5-219

5.5.9.5 Offshore Subcategory (Subpart A) .............. 5-220

5.5.9.6 Coastal Subcategory (Subpart D) ............... 5-225

5.5.9.7 Coal Bed Methane Extraction .................. 5-232

5.5.9.8 References ................................. 5-245

5.6 Group V Industries ....................................... 5-245

5.6.1 Metal Products and Machinery, Metal Finishing, and

Electroplating (Parts 438, 413, and 433) ................ 5-249

5.6.1.1 Background ................................ 5-249

5.6.1.2 Public Comments ............................ 5-250

5.6.1.3 EPA Review of Available Data ................. 5-250

5.6.1.4 Conclusions ................................ 5-248

5.6.2 Pulp and Paperboard (Part 430) ....................... 5-252

5.6.2.1 Technology Basis for Phase I .................. 5-252

5.7 Group VI Industries ...................................... 5-253

v 
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

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SECTION 6 ORGANIC CHEMICALS, PLASTICS, AND SYNTHETIC FIBERS

DETAILED REVIEW ............................................... 6-1

6.1 Introduction .............................................. 6-1

6.2 Data Sources ............................................. 6-2

6.2.1 Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) ......................... 6-2

6.2.1.1 Facility-Specific Verification of TRI Data .......... 6-4

6.2.1.2 Data Submitted with Comments .................. 6-4

6.2.1.3 Correction for PCBs and Pesticides ................ 6-4

6.2.2 Permit Compliance System (PCS) ....................... 6-5

6.2.2.1 Data Submitted with Comments .................. 6-5

6.2.2.2 Correction for PCBs and Pesticides ................ 6-6

6.2.3 Economic Census .................................... 6-6

6.2.4 The Chlorine Chemistry Council ........................ 6-6

6.2.5 The Vinyl Institute ................................... 6-7

6.2.6 Office of Solid Waste Chlorinated Aliphatics Rule .......... 6-7

6.2.7 Office of Air and Radiation NESHAPs Rule for Mercury

Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants ............................... 6-8

6.2.8 Other Data Sources .................................. 6-8

6.3 General Industry Profile and Identification of Focus Industries ...... 6-9

6.3.1 General Overview of the OCPSF Category ................ 6-9

6.3.2 OCPSF Manufacturing Processes ...................... 6-12

6.3.3 General Wastewater Characteristics and Treatment ........ 6-13

6.3.3.1 General Wastewater Characteristics .............. 6-13

6.3.3.2 General Wastewater Treatment .................. 6-16

6.3.4 Focus Industry Identification and SIC Code Analysis ....... 6-17

6.3.4.1 Focus Industry Identification .................... 6-17

6.3.4.2 No Further Consideration of SIC Codes 2823 and

2824: Fiber Manufacturers ...................... 6-18

6.3.4.3 Decision for No Further Investigation ............. 6-22

6.4 Current Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards ........... 6-22

6.5 Other Regulations Affecting OCPSF Facilities .................. 6-24

6.5.1 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) ........ 6-24

6.5.2 Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation,

and Liability Act (CERCLA) .......................... 6-25

6.5.3 Clean Air Act (CAA) ................................ 6-25

6.5.3.1 NESHAPs Program ........................... 6-26

6.5.3.2 NSPS ...................................... 6-27

6.5.3.3 Consolidated Air Rule (CAR) ................... 6-27

6.5.3.4 State Implementation Plans (SIP) ................ 6-27

6.5.3.5 New Source Review ........................... 6-27

6.5.3.6 Title VI Stratospheric Ozone Protection ........... 6-28

6.5.4 Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) .................. 6-28

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6.5.5 Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act

(EPCRA) ......................................... 6-29

6.5.6 Pending and Proposed Regulatory Requirements .......... 6-29

6.6 Focus Group 1: Coal Tar Refiners ........................... 6-29

6.6.1 Facilities .......................................... 6-29

6.6.2 Process Description and Wastewater Sources ............. 6-30

6.6.3 Pollutants of Concern ................................ 6-32

6.6.3.1 TRI Data .................................... 6-32

6.6.3.2 PCS Data ................................... 6-33

6.6.4 Wastewater Treatment ............................... 6-35

6.6.5 Industry Trends .................................... 6-35

6.6.6 Conclusions ....................................... 6-36

6.7 Focus Group 2 - Aniline Dischargers ......................... 6-36

6.7.1 Facilities .......................................... 6-36

6.7.2 Process Description and Wastewater Sources ............. 6-38

6.7.2.1 Aniline Production ............................ 6-38

6.7.2.2 Azo Dye Manufacturing ....................... 6-41

6.7.3 Pollutants of Concern ................................ 6-43

6.7.4 Wastewater Treatment ............................... 6-44

6.7.5 Conclusions ....................................... 6-46

6.8 Focus Group 3: Dioxin Dischargers .......................... 6-46

6.8.1 Facilities .......................................... 6-47

6.8.2 Process Descriptions ................................ 6-51

6.8.2.1 Chlor-Alkali ................................. 6-51

6.8.2.2 Ethylene Dichloride and Vinyl Chloride Monomer . . 6-55

6.8.2.3 Polyvinyl Chloride ............................ 6-57

6.8.3 Wastewater Sources ................................. 6-58

6.8.4 Pollutants of Concern ................................ 6-60

6.8.4.1 Pollutants of Concern by Product Group ........... 6-60

6.8.4.2 Dioxin as a Pollutant of Concern ................. 6-63

6.8.5 Comparison of Dioxin Release Data for OCPSF Focus

Group 3 .......................................... 6-71

6.8.6 Wastewater Treatment in Place ........................ 6-72

6.8.6.1 Chlor-Alkali ................................. 6-78

6.8.6.2 Integrated Chlor-Alkali/EDC/VCM .............. 6-78

6.8.6.3 EDC/VCM .................................. 6-78

6.8.7 Industry Trends .................................... 6-78

6.8.7.1 Dioxin Discharge Trends ....................... 6-78

6.8.7.2 Chlorine Industry Trends ....................... 6-80

6.8.8 Conclusions ....................................... 6-80

6.9 Control of Dioxin in Wastewater ............................. 6-83

6.9.1 Treatment Technologies for Control of Dioxin in

Wastewater ........................................ 6-83

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6.9.1.1 Pollution Prevention .......................... 6-83

6.9.1.2 In-Process Wastewater Treatment ................ 6-83

6.9.1.3 End-of-Pipe Wastewater Treatment ............... 6-84

6.9.2 Summary of Available Treatment Cost Data and

Justification for Not Estimating Costs ................... 6-84

6.10 Chemical Formulators, Packagers, and Repackagers ............. 6-85

6.10.1 CFPR Industry Description ........................... 6-85

6.10.2 Process Descriptions and Wastewater Sources ............ 6-87

6.10.2.1 CFPR Processes ............................. 6-87

6.10.2.2 CFPR Process Wastewater ..................... 6-88

6.10.3 Pollutants of Concern ................................ 6-89

6.10.3.1 PCS and TRI Data for the CFPR Industry ......... 6-89

6.10.3.2 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2842 ......... 6-91

6.10.3.3 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2844 ......... 6-91

6.10.3.4 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2891 ......... 6-91

6.10.3.5 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2899 ......... 6-92

6.10.3.6 Total TWPE for CFPR Operations .............. 6-92

6.10.4 Wastewater Treatment/Best Management Practices ........ 6-93

6.10.4.1 CFPR Wastewater Treatment .................. 6-93

6.10.4.2 Permit Review Summary ...................... 6-94

6.10.5 Conclusions ....................................... 6-95

6.11 References .............................................. 6-95

SECTION 7 PETROLEUM REFINING ............................................ 7-1

7.1 Introduction .............................................. 7-1

7.2 Data Sources ............................................. 7-2

7.2.1 Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) ......................... 7-2

7.2.1.1 Identification of Petroleum Refineries Operating in

2000 ........................................ 7-4

7.2.1.2 Refinery-Specific Verification of TRI Data ......... 7-4

7.2.1.3 Meetings with Representatives from Refinery and

Trade Associations ............................. 7-6

7.2.1.4 Comments Received in Response to the Federal

Register Notice of the 2004/2005 Preliminary

Effluent Guidelines Program Plan ................. 7-6

7.2.2 Permit Compliance System (PCS) ...................... 7-7

7.2.3 The U.S. Economic Census ........................... 7-8

7.2.4 Data Sources Specific to the Petroleum Refining Industry .... 7-8

7.3 Industry Description ....................................... 7-9

7.3.1 Number of Refineries ................................. 7-9

7.3.2 Discharge Status for Petroleum Refineries ............... 7-10

7.3.3 Overview of Refinery Operations ...................... 7-10

7.3.3.1 Crude Petroleum Processing .................... 7-11

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7.3.3.2 Refining of Petroleum Fractions - Cracking, Coking,

Hydrotreating/Hydroprocessing, Alkylation,

Polymerization, and Isomerization ............... 7-11

7.3.3.3 Refining of Petroleum Fractions - Catalytic

Reforming and Reformer Catalyst Regeneration ..... 7-13

7.3.3.4 Refining of Petroleum Product Properties .......... 7-17

7.3.3.5 Supporting Operations at Petroleum Refineries ..... 7-17

7.4 Regulatory Background .................................... 7-18

7.4.1 Effluent Guidelines History ........................... 7-18

7.4.2 Subcategorization and Applicability .................... 7-18

7.4.3 Technical Basis of Regulation ......................... 7-20

7.4.4 Regulated Pollutants ................................ 7-20

7.4.5 Other Regulations Affecting Petroleum Refineries ......... 7-21

7.4.5.1 RCRA ...................................... 7-21

7.4.5.2 CAA National Emission Standards for Hazardous

Air Pollutants (NESHAPs) ..................... 7-22

7.4.5.3 Other CWA Requirements ...................... 7-22

7.5 Wastewater Characterization ................................ 7-23

7.5.1 Wastewater Sources ................................. 7-23

7.5.2 Discharge Volumes ................................. 7-25

7.5.2.1 Discharge Volumes from the 1996 Preliminary Data

Summary ................................... 7-25

7.5.2.2 Discharge Volumes from All Refineries Reported to

2000 PCS ................................... 7-25

7.5.3 Pollutant Loadings .................................. 7-25

7.5.3.1 Pollutant Loadings Calculated Using TRI Data ..... 7-26

7.5.3.2 Pollutant Loadings Calculated Using PCS Data ..... 7-27

7.5.4 Treatment In Place .................................. 7-28

7.6 Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds ............................ 7-29

7.6.1 Identification and Description of PACs ................. 7-30

7.6.2 Estimation of TWPE ................................ 7-31

7.6.3 Sources at Petroleum Refineries ....................... 7-31

7.6.4 Reported PAC Discharges ............................ 7-33

7.6.4.1 TRI Discharges .............................. 7-33

7.6.4.2 PCS Discharges .............................. 7-33

7.6.4.3 Data Provided in Comments Regarding Preliminary

Plan ....................................... 7-36

7.6.5 Further Analysis of PACs ............................ 7-37

7.6.6 PAC Control Technologies ........................... 7-40

7.6.7 Detailed Study Findings on PACs ..................... 7-42

7.7 Dioxins ................................................. 7-43

7.7.1 Identification and Description of Dioxins ................ 7-43

7.7.2 Estimation of TWPE ................................ 7-44

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7.7.3 Dioxin Sources at Petroleum Refineries ................. 7-45

7.7.4 Reported Dioxin Discharges .......................... 7-45

7.7.4.1 TRI Discharges .............................. 7-45

7.7.4.2 PCS Discharges .............................. 7-47

7.7.4.3 In-Plant Monitoring ........................... 7-47

7.7.4.4 Industry Comments About Dioxins ............... 7-50

7.7.5 Compilation and Discussion of Measured Effluent Dioxin

Concentrations ..................................... 7-50

7.7.6 Dioxin Control Technologies .......................... 7-58

7.7.7 Detailed Study Findings for Dioxins ................... 7-59

7.8 Metals .................................................. 7-63

7.8.1 Identification and Description of the Metals Discharged in

Petroleum Refinery Wastewater ....................... 7-63

7.8.2 Sources of Metals at the Petroleum Refinery ............. 7-63

7.8.3 Reported Metal Discharges ........................... 7-64

7.8.3.1 Mass Discharges: TRI and PCS .................. 7-64

7.8.3.2 Additional Metals Data (Concentrations) .......... 7-66

7.8.4 Metals Control Technologies .......................... 7-70

7.8.5 Detailed Study Findings for Metals ..................... 7-70

7.9 Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutants .................. 7-72

7.9.1 Reported Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutant

Discharges ........................................ 7-72

7.9.1.1 Mass Discharges: PCS ......................... 7-72

7.9.1.2 Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutant

Concentrations ............................... 7-73

7.9.2 Detailed Study Findings for Conventional and Other

Nonconventional Pollutants ........................... 7-76

7.10 Pollution Control ......................................... 7-77

7.11 Petroleum Refining References .............................. 7-78

7.12 Petroleum Bulk Stations and Terminals ....................... 7-81

7.12.1 Introduction ....................................... 7-81

7.12.2 Data Sources ...................................... 7-82

7.12.2.1 Toxic Release Inventory ................. 7-82

7.12.2.2 Permit Compliance System ............... 7-84

7.12.2.3 Other Data Sources ..................... 7-85

7.12.3 Industry Description ................................ 7-86

7.12.3.1 Industry Groups ........................ 7-86

7.12.3.2 Industry Statistics ....................... 7-87

7.12.3.3 Discharge Status ....................... 7-88

7.12.3.4 Overview of Operations and Potential

Wastewater Sources ..................... 7-89

7.12.4 Regulatory Background .............................. 7-96

7.12.4.1 Clean Water Act ........................ 7-97

x 
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

Page 

7.12.4.2 Clean Air Act .......................... 7-98

7.12.4.3 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act . . . 7-99

7.12.4.4 Emergency Planning and Community

Right-to-Know Act .................... 7-102

7.12.4.5 Safe Drinking Water Act ................ 7-103

7.12.4.6 Regional and State Programs ............. 7-103

7.12.5 Wastewater Characterization ......................... 7-111

7.12.5.1 TRI Data ............................. 7-111

7.12.5.2 PCS Data ............................ 7-111

7.12.5.3 Stormwater Contributions to TRI and PCS

Data ................................ 7-112

7.12.5.4 Wastewater Handling ................... 7-113

7.12.6 Pollution Prevention Practices ........................ 7-114

7.12.6.1 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Practices . . 7-115

7.12.6.2 Minimizing Generation of Wastewater ..... 7-117

7.12.6.3 Pollution Prevention Practices for Reducing

Other Sources of Wastewater ............. 7-124

7.12.6.4 Conclusions .......................... 7-125

7.12.7 PBST References .................................. 7-126

SECTION 8 NUTRIENT ANALYSIS ............................................. 8-1

8.1 Introduction .............................................. 8-1

8.2 Reference Conditions ....................................... 8-1

8.3 Decay Coefficients ........................................ 8-2

8.4 Methodology for Developing Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorous

Loads ................................................... 8-3

8.4.1 Total Nitrogen Load .................................. 8-3

8.4.2 Total Phosphorus Load ............................... 8-5

8.5 Stream Dilution Modeling ................................... 8-6

8.6 Results .................................................. 8-7

8.6.1 Petroleum Refining .................................. 8-7

8.6.2 OCPSF ............................................ 8-8

8.7 References ............................................... 8-9

SECTION 9 INDUSTRIES IDENTIFIED AS NEW BY COMMENTERS ..................... 9-1

9.1 Airport Deicing Operations .................................. 9-1

9.2 Drinking Water Supply & Treatment .......................... 9-2

xi 
LIST OF TABLES 

Page 

2-1 Comments on Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 

2004/2005 EPA Docket Number: OW-2003-0074 ...................... 2-1

4-1 Dioxins and Their Toxic Equivalency Factors ........................ 4-13

4-2 Dioxins and Their Toxic Weighting Factors .......................... 4-14

4-3 Definition of Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds ....................... 4-15

5-1 Industries Covered by National Clean Water Industrial Regulations ........ 5-2

5-2 Number of Facilities in Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Industry ....... 5-6

5-3 Number of Facilities by Discharge Type and SIC Code .................. 5-6

5-4 Reserved Subparts in 40 CFR Part 415 ............................... 5-8

5-5 Subparts in 40 CFR Part 415 Requiring No Discharge at BPT ............. 5-8

5-6 Regulated Pollutants/Parameters by Subpart in 40 CFR Part 415 ........... 5-9

5-7 2000 TRI Top Pollutants Discharged by the Inorganic Chemicals

Manufacturing Industry .......................................... 5-10

5-8 2000 PCS Top Pollutants Discharged by the Inorganic Chemicals

Manufacturing Industry .......................................... 5-11

5-9 1992 and 2000 Wastewater Flows by SIC Code ....................... 5-12

5-10 Pollutants of Concern from 2000 TRI Data (Direct and Indirect

Dischargers) ................................................... 5-12

5-11 Pollutants of Concern from 2000 PCS Data (Direct Dischargers) ......... 5-13

5-12 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Inorganic Chemicals

Manufacturing Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 .................... 5-14

5-13 SIC Codes and Subcategories in Part 421 ............................ 5-17

5-14 Number of Operating Facilities, By Year and Data Source .............. 5-19

5-15 Wastewater Discharge Status Reported in TRIReleases2000 ............. 5-20

xii 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-16 Top Pollutants Discharged by the NFM Manufacturing Industry .......... 5-22

5-17 Pollutants of Concern Identified in TRIReleases2000 (Direct and Indirect

Dischargers) ................................................... 5-23

5-18 Pollutants of Concern Identified in PCS Database (Direct Dischargers) .... 5-24

5-19 NFM Manufacturing Category Pollutant Reductions ................... 5-25

5-20 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By NFM Manufacturing

Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 ................................ 5-25

5-21 Subcategories in the Fertilizer Manufacturing Point Source

Category (Part 418) ............................................. 5-28

5-22 Subcategories in the Phosphate Manufacturing Point Source

Category (Part 422) ............................................. 5-29

5-23 Review of Top Fertilizer and Phosphate Dischargers Reporting SIC 2874

as Primary SIC Code ............................................ 5-30

5-24 Number of Fertilizer and Phosphate Facilities ........................ 5-33

5-25 Pollutants Regulated by Existing Fertilizer and Phosphate ELGS ......... 5-34

5-26 2000 Wastewater Flows for Fertilizer and Phosphate Facilities ........... 5-36

5-27 Fertilizer and Phosphate Pollutant Discharges Reported by Major Facilities

to PCS for 2000 ................................................ 5-37

5-28 Fertilizer and Phosphate Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to

TRI for 2000 .................................................. 5-37

5-29 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Fertilizer and Phosphate

Manufacturing Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 .................... 5-38

5-30 Number of Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities ........................ 5-42

5-31 Number of Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities by Discharge Type

(TRI 2000) .................................................... 5-43

5-32 Ore Mining and Dressing Pollutants Regulated by Existing Effluent

Limitations Guidelines and Standards ............................... 5-44

xiii 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-33 2000 Wastewater Flows for Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities .......... 5-45

5-34 Ore Mining and Dressing Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported

to TRI for 2000 ................................................ 5-46

5-35 Ore Mining and Dressing Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS for 2000 . . 5-47

5-36 Ore Mining and Dressing Top Pollutants Reported to TRI and PCS for

2000 That Are Not Regulated Under 40 CFR Part 440 .................. 5-50

5-37 Toxic Metals in Ore Mining Wastewater ............................ 5-51

5-38 Ore Mining and Dressing Stormwater Discharges Reported to TRI

for 2000 ...................................................... 5-52

5-39 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Ore Mining and Dressing

Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 ................................ 5-54

5-40 Comparison of Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities in 1982 and 2000 ...... 5-55

5-41 Number of Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Establishments ................ 5-59

5-42 Pulp and Paper Mills Reporting to TRI for Reporting Year 2000 .......... 5-60

5-43 Pulp and Paper Mills with Data in PCS .............................. 5-60

5-44 Phase II Mills .................................................. 5-61

5-45 ELGS for Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Phase II Subcategories (Part 430) . . . 5-62

5-46 2000 Wastewater Flows for Phase II Mills (All SIC Codes) .............. 5-63

5-47 Pulp and Paper Phase II Chemical Releases Reported to TRI for 2000 ..... 5-65

5-48 Pulp and Paper Phase II Chemical Releases Reported to TRI for 2000

Without PACs or Dioxins ........................................ 5-65

5-49 Pulp and Paper Phase II PCS Pollutant Discharges Reported for

PCS for 2000 .................................................. 5-66

5-50 Comparison of Analytes Detected in Treated Wastewater (Final Effluent) . . 5-67

5-51 Phase II Mills Reporting Releases of PACs for TRI Reporting Year 2000 . . 5-68

xiv 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-52 Phase II Mills Reporting Releases of Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds 

to TRI for Reporting Year 2000 ................................... 5-70

5-53 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported by Phase II Mills, TRI

Reporting Year 2000 ............................................ 5-71

5-54 Trends in U.S. Papermaking Industry (Pulp, Paper, and Converted

Products) ..................................................... 5-72

5-55 Number of Steam Electric Facilities ................................ 5-74

5-56 Steam Electric Pollutants Regulated by ELGS ........................ 5-76

5-57 Sources of Process Wastewater in Steam Electric Facilities .............. 5-77

5-58 2000 Wastewater Flows for Steam Electric Facilities ................... 5-78

5-59 Steam Electric Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to

TRI for 2000 .................................................. 5-79

5-60 Pollutant Discharges Reported by Major Steam Electric Facilities

to PCS for 2000 ................................................ 5-80

5-61 Five Highest Parameter Loadings (as Measured by TWPE) Reported to

PCS in 1992 and 2000 ........................................... 5-82

5-62 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Steam Electric Facilities,

TRI Reporting Year 2000 ........................................ 5-84

5-63 Comparison of Industry Statistics .................................. 5-85

5-64 Textile Mills Subcategories ....................................... 5-87

5-65 Number of Textile Mills ......................................... 5-88

5-66 Number of Textile Mills by Discharge Type (TRI 2000) ................ 5-89

5-67 Pollutants Regulated by Existing Textile Mill ELGS ................... 5-92

5-68 2000 Wastewater Flows for Textile Mills ............................ 5-93

5-69 Textile Mill Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to TRI

for 2000 ...................................................... 5-95

xv 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-70 Textile Mill Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS for 2000 ............. 5-96

5-71 Textile Mill Pollutant Discharges Reported in 1996 Preliminary Study ..... 5-96

5-72 Eight Highest Chemical Releases Reported to TRI in 1992 and 2000 ...... 5-97

5-73 Five Highest Parameter Loadings Reported to PCS in 1994 and 2000 ...... 5-98

5-74 Sources of Process Wastewater in Textile Manufacturing ............... 5-99

5-75 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Textile Mills, TRI

Reporting Year 2000 ........................................... 5-101

5-76 Comparison of Industry Statistics ................................. 5-103

5-77 Timber Products Processing SIC Code Descriptions .................. 5-105

5-78 Number of Facilities in Timber Products Processing SIC Codes ......... 5-106

5-79 Number of Timber Products Processing Facilities by Discharge

Type (TRI 2000) .............................................. 5-107

5-80 Pollutants Regulated by Existing Timber Products Processing ELGS ..... 5-108

5-81 Summary of Technology Basis of Existing Timber Products ELGS ...... 5-110

5-82 Timber Products Wastewater Flows Reported to PCS for 2000 .......... 5-113

5-83 Timber Products Processing Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS

for 2000 ..................................................... 5-114

5-84 Timber Products Processing Pollutant Releases to Surface Water

Reported to TRI for 2000 ........................................ 5-116

5-85 Stormwater Discharges of Pollutants Accounting for 90 Percent of

Unweighted Pounds of Wood Preserving Pollutant Loads .............. 5-118

5-86 Stormwater Discharges of Pollutant Accounting for 90 Percent of Wood

Preserving TWPE .............................................. 5-118

5-87 Nonstormwater Discharges of Pollutants from Wood Preserving

Facilities ..................................................... 5-119

xvi 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-88 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Timber Products 

Processing Facilities TRI Reporting Year 2000 ...................... 5-120

5-89 Number of Facilities in Fruits and Vegetable Processing SIC Codes ...... 5-126

5-90 Effluent Guidelines for Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables

Processing, Part 407 ............................................ 5-127

5-91 Wastewater Flows in the Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables

Processing Industry ............................................ 5-127

5-92 Sources of Process Wastewater in Canned and Preserved Fruits and

Vegetables Processing Industry ................................... 5-128

5-93 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI ...................... 5-129

5-94 Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing TWPE Reported

to PCS Compared to Industries Reporting Highest Discharge ........... 5-130

5-95 Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing TWPE Reported

to TRI Compared to Industries Reporting Highest Discharges ........... 5-130

5-96 Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives ............. 5-131

5-97 Comparison of 1992 and 1997 Census Data ......................... 5-132

5-98 Comparison of 1997 and 2002 U.S. Economic Census Data ............ 5-132

5-99 Number of Facilities in the Canned and Preserved Seafood

Processing Category ........................................... 5-139

5-100 Effluent Guidelines for Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing

Part 408 ..................................................... 5-141

5-101 Wastewater Flows ............................................. 5-140

5-102 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI in 2000 ................ 5-142

5-103 Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing TWPE Reported to PCS

Compared to Industries Reporting 10 Highest Discharges .............. 5-143

5-104 Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing TWPE Reported to TRI

Compared to Industries Reporting 10 Highest Dischargers ............. 5-143

xvii 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-105 Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives ............. 5-144

5-106 1992 and 1997 Census Data ...................................... 5-145

5-107 1997 and 2002 Census Data ...................................... 5-145

5-108 Number of Facilities in the Coal Mining Category .................... 5-149

5-109 Effluent Guidelines for Coal Mining Part 434 ........................ 5-150

5-110 Catastrophic Precipitation Event Exemption ......................... 5-150

5-111 Wastewater Flows for Coal Mining Facilities ........................ 5-151

5-112 Sources of Process Wastewater in Coal Mining ...................... 5-151

5-113 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI in 2000 ................ 5-152

5-114 Coal Mining TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to Industries Reporting

10 Highest Discharges .......................................... 5-153

5-115 Coal Mining TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to Industries Reporting

10 Highest Discharges .......................................... 5-153

5-116 1992 and 1997 Census Data ...................................... 5-155

5-117 Number of U.S. Coal Mining Operations from 1997 to 2002 ............ 5-155

5-118 U.S. Coal Production from 1997 to 2000 (in millions of short tons) ...... 5-155

5-119 Number of Facilities ........................................... 5-158

5-120 Effluent Guidelines for Coil Coating and Canmaking .................. 5-160

5-121 Sources of Process Wastewater in Coil Coating and Canmaking ......... 5-161

5-122 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI ...................... 5-162

5-123 Coil Coating TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to Industries Reporting

10 Highest Discharges .......................................... 5-162

5-124 Coil Coating TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to Industries Reporting

10 Highest Discharges .......................................... 5-163

xviii 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-125 Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives ............. 5-164

5-126 1992 and 1997 Census Data ...................................... 5-165

5-127 1997 and 2002 Census Data ...................................... 5-165

5-128 Can Shipments by Category ...................................... 5-165

5-129 Number of Facilities in the Dairy Products Processing Category ......... 5-168

5-130 Effluent Guidelines for Dairy Products Processing Part 405 ............ 5-169

5-131 Wastewater Flows ............................................. 5-170

5-132 Sources of Process Wastewater in Dairy Products Processing ........... 5-170

5-133 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI ...................... 5-171

5-134 Dairy Products Processing TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges ........................... 5-172

5-135 Dairy Products Processing TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges ........................... 5-172

5-136 Pollution Prevention Alternatives for Dairy Products Processing ......... 5-174

5-137 1992 and 1997 Census Data ...................................... 5-175

5-138 1997 and 2002 Census Data ...................................... 5-175

5-139 Number of Facilities in the Electrical and Electronic Components

Category ..................................................... 5-177

5-140 Effluent Guidelines for Semiconductors and Electronic Crystals

Manufacturing (Concentration-Based) ............................. 5-179

5-141 Effluent Limitations and Standards for Cathode Ray Tubes and

Luminescent Materials Manufacturing (Concentration-Based) .......... 5-180

5-142 Wastewater Flows ............................................. 5-181

5-143 Sources of Process Wastewater in Electrical and Electronic

Components Category .......................................... 5-182

xix 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-144 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI ...................... 5-183

5-145 Electrical and Electronic Components TWPE Reported to PCS Compared

to Industries with the 10 Highest Discharges ........................ 5-184

5-146 Electrical and Electronic Components TWPE Reported to TRI Compared

to Industries with the 10 Highest Discharges ........................ 5-184

5-147 Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives for the

Electrical and Electronic Components Category ...................... 5-185

5-148 1992 and 1997 Census Data ...................................... 5-186

5-149 1997 and 2002 Census Data ...................................... 5-186

5-150 Copper Discharges Reported to TRI by Electrical and Electronic

Component Manufacturing Facilities .............................. 5-187

5-151 Copper1

 Discharge Data in PCS for Electrical and Electronic Component

Manufacturing Facilities ........................................ 5-187

5-152 Number of Facilities in the Metal Molding and Casting Category ........ 5-189

5-153 Effluent Guidelines for Metal Molding and Casting – Continuous Direct

Dischargers (kg/kkg) ........................................... 5-191

5-154 Wastewater Flows in Metal Molding and Casting ..................... 5-192

5-155 Sources of Process Wastewater in Metal Molding and Casting .......... 5-192

5-156 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI ...................... 5-193

5-157 Metal Molding and Casting TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges ........................... 5-194

5-158 Metal Molding and Casting TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges ........................... 5-194

5-159 Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives for the Metal

Molding and Casting Category ................................... 5-195

5-160 1992 and 1997 Census Data ...................................... 5-196

xx 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-161 1997 and 2002 Census Data ...................................... 5-196

5-162 Number of Facilities ........................................... 5-203

5-163 Effluent Guidelines for Crushed Stone, Construction Sand and Gravel, and

Industrial Sand Subcategories of Part 436 ........................... 5-205

5-164 Effluent Guidelines for Other Subcategories of Part 436 ............... 5-205

5-165 Normalized Effluent Guidelines for Subcategories of Part 436 .......... 5-206

5-166 Wastewater Flows ............................................. 5-206

5-167 Process Sources of Wastewater ................................... 5-207

5-168 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI ...................... 5-208

5-169 Mineral Mining TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to Industries

Reporting Highest Discharges .................................... 5-208

5-170 Mineral Mining TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to Industries

Reporting Highest Discharges .................................... 5-209

5-171 Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives ............. 5-210

5-172 1992 and 1997 Census Data ...................................... 5-211

5-173 1997 and 2002 Census Data ...................................... 5-211

5-174 Number of Facilities in the Oil and Gas Extraction Category ............ 5-214

5-175 Number of Wells Drilled Annually, 1995 - 1997, by Geographic Area .... 5-215

5-176 Identification of Oil and Gas Extraction Fixed Facilities in the Gulf of

Mexico Outer Continental Study .................................. 5-215

5-177 Process Wastewater Sources for the Oil and Gas Extraction Industry ..... 5-219

5-178 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI for 2000 ............... 5-220

5-179 2000 Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR) Data for the Union Oil

Company of California. ......................................... 5-221

xxi 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

5-180 Estimated TWPE from Oil and Gas Extraction Facilities in Cook 

Inlet, AK .................................................... 5-226

5-181 Current Sources of CBM Production ............................... 5-233

5-182 Estimated CBM Industry Pollutant Loadings ........................ 5-234

5-183 Effluent Guidelines Recently Established, Revised, or Reviewed ........ 5-246

5-184 Low Ranked Industries Not Identified by Stakeholders ................ 5-254

6-1 OCPSF Subcategories for BPT (40 CFR Part 414) ..................... 6-10

6-2 Examples of Chemicals Produced by OCPSF Facilities ................. 6-10

6-3 SIC Codes in OCPSF ............................................ 6-12

6-4 Examples of Generic OCPSF Processes Identified in the 1987 TDD ....... 6-12

6-5 Examples of Feedstock and End Products Identified in the 1987 TDD ..... 6-13

6-6 Untreated Wastewater Characteristics for Direct and Indirect

Dischargers in the OCPSF Category ................................ 6-14

6-7 Examples of Pollutants Discharged from the Manufacturing of

Certain Products ................................................ 6-14

6-8 OCPSF Pollutant Load Discharged to Surface Water in 2000 by SIC Code . 6-15

6-9 OCPSF Annual Wastewater Flows by SIC Code as Reported to

PCS in 2000 ................................................... 6-15

6-10 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported by OCPSF Facilities

TRI Reporting Year 2000 ........................................ 6-16

6-11 Top Pollutants Reported Discharged in 2000 for the OCPSF Category ..... 6-17

6-12 Facilities in SIC Codes 2823 and 2824 in the 2000 TRI and/or PCS 2000 . . . 6-19

6-13 Facilities with Primary SIC Code 2824 in PCS and 2821 in TRI .......... 6-20

6-14 Facilities with Primary SIC Code 2824 in TRI and Other in PCS ......... 6-20

xxii 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

6-15 Pollutants with Highest TWPE Based on 2000 TRI Data ................ 6-21

6-16 Pollutants with Highest TWPE Based on PCS 2000 Data ................ 6-22

6-17 Summary of Existing Effluent Limitations Guidelines and

Pretreatment Standards (40 CFR Part 414) ........................... 6-23

6-18 Coal Tar Refiners in the United States .............................. 6-30

6-19 PACs Water Discharges Reported to TRI for 2000 and 2001 ............. 6-32

6-20 PACs Wastewater Discharges Reported to PCS in 2000 ................ 6-33

6-21 Concentrations of PACs Reported to PCS ............................ 6-34

6-22 Pollutants of Concern for Coal Tar Refiners .......................... 6-34

6-23 Production Trend for Cokemaking and Coal Tar Pitch .................. 6-35

6-24 OCPSF Aniline Dischargers in the United States ...................... 6-37

6-25 Aniline Discharges Reported to TRI and PCS in 2000 for SIC Code 2865 . . 6-43

6-26 Aniline Discharges Reported to TRI ................................ 6-44

6-27 Pollutants of Concern for Aniline Dischargers ........................ 6-44

6-28 Facilities That Discharge Indirectly and Their Respective POTWs ........ 6-45

6-29 OCPSF Dioxin Dischargers in the United States ....................... 6-48

6-30 Facilities Reporting Dioxin Discharges to TRI that Manufacture Other

Organic Chemicals in the United States ............................. 6-50

6-31 Pollutants of Concern for 24 Stand-Alone Chlor-Alkali Manufacturers ..... 6-60

6-32 Pollutants of Concern for Stand-Alone EDC/VCM Manufacturers (No

Chlor Alkali) .................................................. 6-61

6-33 Pollutants of Concern for Integrated Chlor-Alkali and Vinyl Facilities

(Manufacturers of Chlor-Alkali and EDC/VCM, May Also Produce PVC) . . 6-62

xxiii 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

6-34 Pollutants of Concern for Stand-Alone Manufacturers of Polyvinyl 

Chloride ..................................................... 6-62

6-35 Dioxin Releases Reported by OCPSF Facilities to TRI for 2000 and 2001,

Adjusted for POTW Removals .................................... 6-65

6-36 Dioxin Loads Reported by OCPSF Facilities to PCS for 2000 ............ 6-66

6-37 Wastewater Emission Factors and Estimated Releases for PVC-Only and

EDC/VCM/PVC Manufacturing Facilities ........................... 6-67

6-38 CCC Data for Dioxin Discharges from Facilities Manufacturing Chlorine

or Chlorine-Related Products for 2000 .............................. 6-68

6-39 Dioxin Congeners Detected in Raw Wastewater from EDC/VCM

Operations .................................................... 6-69

6-40 Focus Group 3 Industry Analytical Data on Dioxin in Wastewater ........ 6-70

6-41 Wastewater Dioxin Discharges from Focus Group 3 Based On

Industry Data .................................................. 6-71

6-42 Comparison of Wastewater Dioxin Discharges from Focus Group 3 ....... 6-72

6-43 List of Facilities Manufacturing Chlor Alkali, EDC, VCM, and PVC ...... 6-73

6-44 Vinyl Manufacturing and Chlor-Alkali Facility Dioxins in Wastewater .... 6-79

6-45 Chlorine Production in the United States ............................ 6-80

6-46 Counts of CFPR Facilities ........................................ 6-87

6-47 Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to TRI for 2000 ........... 6-89

6-48 Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS for 2000 ....................... 6-90

6-49 PCS and TRI TWPEs by SIC Code for CFPR Sectors .................. 6-93

6-50 Wastewater Treatment Practices at CFPR Facilities .................... 6-93

7-1 Facilities Reporting to TRI and PCS Under SIC Code 2911 that are

Not Operating Refineries .......................................... 7-5

xxiv 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

7-2 2000 Discharge Status for Petroleum Refineries ....................... 7-10

7-3 Reformer Catalyst Regeneration Processes in 2000 .................... 7-14

7-4 Process Wastewater at Petroleum Refineries .......................... 7-24

7-5 Discharges Reported to the 2000 TRI for the Petroleum Refining Industry -

Pollutants Comprising Approximately 90 Percent of the TWPE .......... 7-26

7-6 Stormwater Discharges Reported to the 2000 TRI ..................... 7-27

7-7 Discharges Reported to the 2000 PCS for the Petroleum Refining

Industry - Top 10 Pollutants Composing 91 Percent of the TWPE ......... 7-27

7-8 Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Petroleum Refineries,

TRI Reporting Year 2000 ........................................ 7-29

7-9 Individual Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds .......................... 7-30

7-10 Individual PACs and Petroleum Refinery Sources ..................... 7-32

7-11 Petroleum Refineries Reporting Releases of PACs to the 2000 TRI ....... 7-34

7-12 California Refineries Reporting PAH Discharges ...................... 7-35

7-13 Individual PACs Reported in 2000 PCS ............................. 7-35

7-14 PAC Measurement Data from Activated Sludge Units at 10 Refineries ..... 7-36

7-15 NPRA and API Comments on PAC Discharge Estimates Reported to the

2000 TRI ..................................................... 7-38

7-16 Estimated Concentration of PACs in Petroleum Refining Effluent ......... 7-41

7-17 Individual Dioxin Congeners ..................................... 7-44

7-18 Petroleum Refineries Reporting Releases of Dioxins to 2000 TRI ......... 7-46

7-19 Petroleum Refineries Reporting 2,3,7,8-TCDD to the 2000 PCS .......... 7-47

7-20 Dioxin Sampling Data from Washington State Refineries (2000-2003) ..... 7-48

7-21 TCDD Equivalents in Petroleum Refinery Wastes ..................... 7-49

xxv 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

7-22 NPRA and API Comments on Dioxin Discharge Estimates 

Reported to the 2000 TRI ........................................ 7-51

7-23 Dioxin Concentrations Measured in U.S. Petroleum Refinery Final

Effluent ...................................................... 7-53

7-24 Treated Effluent Dioxin/Furan Sample Results, pg/L ................... 7-56

7-25 Metals in Petroleum Refining Wastewater ........................... 7-63

7-26 Metals Discharges as Percentage of Total TWPE ...................... 7-64

7-27 Top Five Metals as Percentage of Total Metal TWPE .................. 7-65

7-28 Five Metals with Highest Estimated TWPE (TRI) ..................... 7-65

7-29 Five Metals with Highest Estimated TWPE (PCS) ..................... 7-66

7-30 Pollutant Discharge Concentrations for Metals at Petroleum Refineries .... 7-68

7-31 Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutant Discharges in PCS ......... 7-72

7-32 Conventional Pollutants with Highest Estimated Pounds Discharged (PCS) . 7-73

7-33 Nonconventional Pollutants with Highest Estimated TWPE (PCS) ........ 7-73

7-34 Pollutant Discharge Concentrations for Conventional and

Nonconventional Pollutants at Petroleum Refineries ................... 7-74

7-35 Geographic Distribution of PBSTs, per 1997 Economic Census .......... 7-88

7-36 Facilities Reporting to TRI and PCS in 2000 and Their Discharge Status . . . 7-89

7-37 Concentrations That Would Render Tank Bottoms Water a RCRA

Hazardous Waste .............................................. 7-101

7-38 Sample Limits in North Carolina’s Stormwater General Permit .......... 7-104

7-39 Parameters Considered by Ohio While Developing Permits ............. 7-106

7-40 Limitations by Discharge Type ................................... 7-107

7-41 Arkansas Limits by Outfall Type .................................. 7-108

xxvi 
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) 

Page 

7-42 Texas General Permit Limits ..................................... 7-109

7-43 Oregon Stormwater Pollution Control Plan benchmarks ............... 7-110

7-44 TWPE Discharges of Individual Pollutants Based on 2000 TRI Data ..... 7-111

7-45 TWPE Discharges of Individual Pollutants Based on 2000 PCS Data ..... 7-112

7-46 Percent Discharges to Surface Waters Due to Stormwater for 2000

TRI Reporters ................................................ 7-112

8-1 Decay Coefficients for Nitrogen and Phosphorus, Segregated by

Stream Flowrate ................................................. 8-3

8-2 Nitrogen Compounds Reported to TRI and PCS by OCPSF and

Petroleum Refining Facilities ...................................... 8-4

8-3 Phosphorus Parameters Reported to PCS by OCPSF and Petroleum

Refining Facilities ............................................... 8-5

8-4 Summary of Screening-level Nutrient Analysis for Petroleum

Refining Direct Discharge Facilities ................................. 8-8

8-5 Summary of Screening-level Nutrient Analysis for OCPSF Direct

Discharge Facilities .............................................. 8-9

xxvii 
LIST OF FIGURES

Page

6-1 Coal Tar Refining Process Flow Diagram ............................ 6-31

6-2 Vapor-Phase Aniline Manufacturing Process ......................... 6-39

6-3 Dupont/KBR Liquid-Phase Aniline Process .......................... 6-40

6-4 Azo Dye Manufacturing Process ................................... 6-42

6-5 Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Process ................................. 6-53

6-6 Membrane or Diaphragm Cell Chlor-Alkali Process ................... 6-54

6-7 Flow Diagram for EDC/VCM Balanced Process ...................... 6-56

6-8 Process Flow Diagram for Suspension PVC Productions ................ 6-59

7-1 Semi-Regenerative Catalytic Reforming Process ...................... 7-15

7-2 Cyclic Catalytic Reforming Process ................................ 7-16

7-3 Continuous Catalytic Reforming Process ............................ 7-16

xxviii 
LIST OF ACRONYMS 

BAT Best Available Technology Economically Achievable 

BCT Best Control Technology for Conventional Pollutants 

BMP Best Management Practice 

BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand 

BPJ Best Professional Judgment 

BPT Best Practicable Control Technology Currently Available 

CAA Clean Air Act 

CDD Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxin 

CDF Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans 

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability 

Act 

CFC Chlorofluorocarbons 

COD Chemical Oxygen Demand 

CWA Clean Water Act 

ELGS Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards 

EPA Environmental Protection Agency 

EPCRA Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act 

FIFRA Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act 

NESHAP National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants 

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 

NSPS New Source Performance Standards 

OCPSF Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers 

PAC Polycyclic Aromatic Compound 

PCS Permit Compliance System 

POTW Publicly-Owned Treatment Works 

PSES Pretreatment Standards for Existing Sources 

PSNS Pretreatment Standards for New Sources 

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

SIC Standard Industrial Classification 

TCDD Tetrachlorodibenzo(p)dioxin 

TCDF Tetrachlorodibenzofuran 

TEF Toxic Equivalency Factor 

TEQ Toxic Equivalent 

TOC Total Organic Carbon 

TRI Toxic Release Inventory 

TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act 

TSDF Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities 

TSS Total Suspended Solids 

TWF Toxicity Weighting Factor 

TWPE Toxic-Weighted Pound Equivalent 

VOC Volatile Organic Compound 

xxix 
Section 1 - Background 

SECTION 1 BACKGROUND 

The Effluent Guidelines Program is one part of EPA’s Clean Water Act Program. 

This section explains how the Effluent Guidelines Program fits into the Clean Water Act 

Program, describes the general and legal background of the Effluent Guidelines Program, and 

describes EPA’s process for making effluent guidelines revision and development decisions. 

1.1 EPA’s Clean Water Act Program 

EPA’s Office of Water is responsible for implementing the Clean Water Act (or 

“CWA”), which provides EPA and the states with a variety of programs and tools to protect and 

restore the Nation’s waters. These programs and tools generally rely either on water-qualitybased controls, such as water quality standards and water-quality-based permit limitations, or 

technology-based controls such as effluent guidelines and technology-based permit limitations. 

Permits developed using the technology-based industrial regulations have been a critical element 

of the Nation’s clean water program for the past 30 years, helping EPA and the states 

substantially reduce industrial water pollution. 

The CWA gives states the primary responsibility for establishing, reviewing, and 

revising water quality standards. These consist of designated uses for each water body (e.g., 

fishing, swimming, supporting aquatic life), numeric pollutant concentration limits (“criteria”) to 

protect those uses, and an antidegradation policy. EPA develops national criteria for many 

pollutants, which states may adopt or modify as appropriate to reflect local conditions. While 

technology-based permits may, in fact, result in meeting state water quality standards, the 

effluent guidelines program is not specifically designed to ensure that the discharge from each 

facility meets the water quality standards for that particular water body. For this reason, the 

CWA also requires states to establish water quality-based permit limitations, where necessary to 

attain and maintain water quality standards, that require industrial facilities to meet requirements 

that are more stringent than those in a national effluent guideline regulation. Consequently, in 

the overall context of the CWA, effluent guidelines must be viewed as one tool in the broad 

arsenal of tools Congress provided to EPA and the states to protect and restore the Nation’s 

water quality. 

1.2 The Effluent Guidelines Program 

The Effluent Guidelines Program is one component of the Nation’s clean water 

program, established by the 1972 CWA. The national clean water industrial regulatory program 

is authorized under sections 301, 304, 306 and 307 of the CWA and is founded on six core 

concepts. 

First, the program is designed to address specific industrial categories. To date, 

EPA has promulgated effluent guidelines that address 56 categories — ranging from 

manufacturing industries such as petroleum refining to service industries such as centralized 

waste treatment. These regulations apply to between 35,000 and 45,000 facilities that discharge 

1-1
Section 1 - Background 

directly to the Nation’s waters, as well as another 12,000 facilities that discharge into publicly 

owned treatment works (POTWs). 

Second, national effluent guideline regulations typically specify the maximum 

allowable levels of pollutants that may be discharged by facilities within an industrial category 

or subcategory. While the limits are based on the performance of specific technologies, they do 

not generally require the industry to use these technologies, but rather allow the industry to use 

any effective alternatives to meet the numerical pollutant limits. 

Third, each facility within an industrial category or subcategory must generally 

comply with the applicable discharge limits — regardless of its location within the country or on 

a particular water body. See CWA section 307(b) and (c); and CWA section 402(a)(1). The 

regulations, therefore, constitute a single, standard, pollution control obligation for all facilities 

within an industrial category or subcategory. 

Fourth, in establishing national effluent guidelines for pollutants, EPA considers 

various factors, including: (1) the performance of the best pollution control technologies or 

pollution prevention practices that are available for an industrial category or subcategory as a 

whole; and (2) the economic achievability of that technology, which can include consideration of 

costs, benefits, and affordability of achieving the reduction in pollutant discharge. 

Fifth, national 

regulations apply to three types of 

facilities within an industrial category: 

existing facilities that discharge 

directly to surface waters (i.e., direct 

dischargers); existing facilities that 

discharge to POTWs (indirect 

dischargers); and newly constructed 

facilities (new sources) that discharge 

to surface waters either directly or 

indirectly. 

Finally, the CWA section 304(b) requires EPA to conduct an annual review of 

existing effluent guidelines and, if appropriate, to revise these regulations to reflect changes in 

the industry and/or changes in available pollution control technologies. 

The CWA directs EPA to promulgate effluent limitations guidelines and 

standards that reflect pollutant reductions that can be achieved by categories or subcategories of 

industrial point sources using specific technologies. See CWA sections 301(b)(2), 304(b), 306, 

307(b), and 307(c). For point sources that discharge pollutants directly into the waters of the 

United States (direct dischargers), the limitations and standards promulgated by EPA are 

implemented through National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. See 

CWA sections 301(a), 301(b), and 402. For sources that discharge to POTWs (indirect dischargers), 

1-2
Section 1 - Background 

EPA promulagates pretreatment standards that apply directly to those sources and are enforced by 

POTWs and state and federal authorities. See CWA sections 307(b) and (c). 

1.2.1 Best Practicable Control Technology Currently Available (BPT) – CWA 

Sections 301(b)(1)(A) & 304(b)(1) 

EPA defines BPT effluent limitations for conventional, toxic, and 

nonconventional pollutants. Section 304(a)(4) designates the following as conventional 

pollutants: biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), total suspended solids, fecal coliform, pH, and 

any additional pollutants defined by the Administrator as conventional. The Administrator 

designated oil and grease as an additional conventional pollutant on July 30, 1979. See 44 FR 

44501 (July 30, 1979). EPA has identified 65 pollutants and classes of pollutants as toxic 

pollutants, of which 126 specific substances have been designated priority toxic pollutants. See 

Appendix A to part 423, reprinted after 40 CFR Part 423.17. All other pollutants are considered 

to be nonconventional. 

In specifying BPT, EPA looks at a number of factors. EPA first considers the 

total cost of applying the control technology in relation to the effluent reduction benefits. The 

Agency also considers the age of the equipment and facilities, the processes employed and any 

required process changes, engineering aspects of the control technologies, non-water-quality 

environmental impacts (including energy requirements), and such other factors as the EPA 

Administrator deems appropriate. See CWA Section 304(b)(1)(B). Traditionally, EPA 

establishes BPT effluent limitations based on the average of the best performances of facilities 

within the industry of various ages, sizes, processes or other common characteristics. Where 

existing performance is uniformly inadequate, BPT may reflect higher levels of control than 

currently in place in an industrial category if the Agency determines that the technology can be 

practically applied. 

1.2.2 Best Conventional Pollutant Control Technology (BCT) – CWA Sections 

301(b)(2)(E) & 304(b)(4) 

The 1977 amendments to the CWA required EPA to identify effluent reduction 

levels for conventional pollutants associated with BCT for discharges from existing industrial 

point sources. In addition to the other factors specified in Section 304(b)(4)(B), the CWA 

requires that EPA establish BCT limitations after consideration of a two part 

“cost-reasonableness” test. EPA explained its methodology for the development of BCT 

limitations in 1986. See 51 FR 24974 (July 9, 1986). 

1.2.3 Best Available Technology Economically Achievable (BAT) – CWA Sections 

301(b)(2)(A) & 304(b)(2) 

For toxic pollutants and nonconventional pollutants, EPA promulgates effluent 

guidelines based on the BAT. See CWA Section 301(b)(2)(C), (D) & (F). The factors 

considered in assessing BAT include the cost of achieving BAT effluent reductions, the age of 

1-3
Section 1 - Background 

equipment and facilities involved, the process employed, potential process changes, non-waterquality environmental impacts, including energy requirements, and other such factors as the EPA 

Administrator deems appropriate. See CWA Section 304(b)(2)(B). The technology must also be 

economically achievable. See CWA Section 301(b)(2)(A). The Agency retains considerable 

discretion in assigning the weight it accords to these factors. BAT limitations may be based on 

effluent reductions attainable through changes in a facility's processes and operations. Where 

existing performance is uniformly inadequate, BAT may reflect a higher level of performance 

than is currently being achieved within a particular subcategory based on technology transferred 

from a different subcategory or category. BAT may be based upon process changes or internal 

controls, even when these technologies are not common industry practice. 

1.2.4 New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) – CWA Section 306 

NSPS reflect effluent reductions that are achievable based on the best available 

demonstrated control technology. New sources have the opportunity to install the best and most 

efficient production processes and wastewater treatment technologies. As a result, NSPS should 

represent the most stringent controls attainable through the application of the best available 

demonstrated control technology for all pollutants (i.e., conventional, nonconventional, and 

priority pollutants). In establishing NSPS, EPA is directed to take into consideration the cost of 

achieving the effluent reduction and any non-water-quality environmental impacts and energy 

requirements. 

1.2.5 Pretreatment Standards for Existing Sources (PSES) – CWA Section 307(b) 

PSES are designed to prevent the discharge of pollutants that pass through, 

interfere with, or are otherwise incompatible with the operation of POTWs, including sludge 

disposal methods at POTWs. Pretreatment standards for existing sources are technology-based 

and are analogous to BAT effluent limitations guidelines. 

The General Pretreatment Regulations, which set forth the framework for 

implementing national pretreatment standards, are found at 40 CFR Part 403. 

1.2.6 Pretreatment Standards for New Sources (PSNS) – CWA Section 307(c) 

Like PSES, PSNS are designed to prevent the discharges of pollutants that pass 

through, interfere with, or are otherwise incompatible with the operation of POTWs. PSNS are 

to be issued at the same time as NSPS. New indirect dischargers have the opportunity to 

incorporate into their plants the best available demonstrated technologies. The Agency considers 

the same factors in promulgating PSNS as it considers in promulgating NSPS. 

1.3 Requirements Applicable to Effluent Guidelines Program Planning Efforts 

Section 304(b) of the CWA requires EPA to review effluent guidelines for 

existing direct dischargers each year and to revise such regulations as appropriate. Section 

1-4
Section 1 - Background 

304(b) also specifies factors that EPA must consider when deciding whether revising an effluent 

guideline is appropriate. See Section IV.A. of the December 31, 2003 Preliminary Effluent 

Guidelines Program Plan FRN [FRL-7604-7]. Section 304(m) supplements the core requirement 

of section 304(b) by requiring EPA to publish a plan every two years announcing its schedule for 

performing this annual review and for revising any effluent guideline it selects for possible 

revision as a result of that annual review. Section 304(m) also requires the plan to identify 

categories of sources discharging nontrivial amounts of toxic or nonconventional pollutants for 

which EPA has not published effluent limitations guidelines under section 304(b)(2) or NSPS 

under section 306. See CWA section 304(m)(1)(B); S. Rep. No. 50, 99th Cong., 1st Sess. (1985); 

WQA87 Leg. Hist. 31. Finally, under section 304(m), EPA must establish a schedule for 

promulgating effluent guidelines for industrial categories for which it has not already established 

such guidelines, with final action on such rulemaking required not later than three years after the 

industrial category is identified in a final Effluent Guidelines Program Plan. See CWA section 

304(m)(1)(C). EPA is required to publish its Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for public 

comment prior to taking final action on the plan. See CWA section 304(m)(2). 

In addition, CWA section 301(d) requires EPA to review the effluent limitations 

required by CWA section 301(b)(2) every five years and to revise them if appropriate pursuant 

to the procedures specified in that section. Section 301(b)(2), in turn, requires point sources to 

achieve effluent limitations reflecting the application of BAT (for toxic pollutants and 

nonconventional pollutants) and BCT (for conventional pollutants), as determined by EPA under 

sections 304(b)(2) and 304(b)(4), respectively. For nearly three decades, EPA has implemented 

sections 301 and 304 through the promulgation of effluent limitations guidelines. See E.I. du 

Pont de Nemours & Co. v. Train, 430 U.S. 113 (1977). Consequently, as part of its annual 

review of effluent limitations guidelines under section 304(b), EPA is also reviewing the effluent 

limitations they contain, thereby fulfilling its obligations under section 301(d) and 304(b) 

simultaneously. 

1-5
Section 2 - Public Comments on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

SECTION 2 PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE PRELIMINARY EFFLUENT GUIDELINES 

PROGRAM PLAN FOR 2004/2005 

EPA published its preliminary 2004/2005 Effluent Guidelines Program Plan on 

December 31, 2003 (68 FR 75515-75531). Comments EPA received on this preliminary plan are 

located in EPA Docket Number OW-2003-0074. This section provides background information 

on the list of commenters to and issues raised on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program 

Plan. 

The Agency received 59 comments from a variety of commenters including 

industry and industry trade associations, municipalities and sewerage agencies, environmental 

groups, other advocacy groups, two tribal governments, a private citizen, a federal agency, and a 

state government agency. Stakeholders’ suggestions played a significant role in the 2004 annual 

review. Examples of industrial sectors identified by commenters include OCPSF, petroleum 

refining, metal finishing, coastal oil and gas extraction, and coalbed methane extraction. Table 

2-1 lists all commenters on the Preliminary Plan as well as a synopsis of the comments. 

Table 2-1. Comments on Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

EPA Docket Number: OW-2003-0074 

No. Commenter Name 

EPA 

E-Docket 

No.1 Comment Synopsis 

Environmental Groups 

1 Chesapeake Bay 

Foundation 

0685 Plan should focus on industries discharging excess nutrients, 

including meats, paper, chemicals, and textiles. There is lowcost technology available for control of Total N and Total P. 

2 Natural Resources 

Defense Council 

0733 "(USEPA) to announce a schedule for revising inadequate 

guidelines and promulgating new guidelines for industries not 

already subject to technology standards." 

3 Cook Inlet Keeper 0735 "Keeper supports revision of the 1982 Effluent Guidelines for 

petroleum refining, and including petroleum bulk stations and 

terminals in this revision." 

4 Environmental 

Advocates 

0706 "EGP as proposed violates CWA section 304(m)(1)2 and CWA 

Section 301(d)3 in four key respects." 

Municipalities and POTWs 

5 Metropolitan Council 

Environmental Services, 

Minnesota 

0670 Responds to EPA's request for information on Pretreatment 

Program. Generally supports guidance rather than regs. 

Industry information on Airport Deicing (strongly disappointed 

that EPA did not regulate), Dental Clinics (supports guidance), 

Groundwater Remediation (standards may be helpful), Drinking 

Water (adequately covered), Food Service (seem to be 

adequately covered), Stand-Alone Labs (adequately handled), 

Industrial Laundries (time to regulate has passed), Printing & 

Publishing (regs would be burdensome). 

2-1
Section 2 - Public Comments on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

Table 2-1 (Continued) 

No. Commenter Name 

EPA 

E-Docket 

No.1 Comment Synopsis 

6 Clean Water Services, 

Oregon 

0681 Requests that EPA consider revising Metal Finishing since it 

unnecessarily classifies iron phosphaters as Metal Finishers; 

also believes "the regulation needlessly ignores an opportunity 

to encourage certain pollution prevention practices associated 

with some chemical conversion coating operations." 

7 County Sanitation 

Districts of Los Angeles 

County, California 

0684 Supports risk analysis and encourages better use of 303d list. 

Requests replacing production-based limits with concentrationbased limits. Provides data for OCPSF (dioxin and PACs not 

detected; sodium nitrite use), CFPR (types of operations and 

limits development), Petroleum Refining (PACs, dioxin, 

vanadium), PBST (water sources). Provides effluent data for 

several industries, pollutant sources, technologies. Supports 

strategy, evaluation of risk, provision of permit-based support to 

states. Provides information on implementation issues. 

8 Narragansett Bay 

Commission, Rhode 

Island 

0692 "The Narragansett Bay Commission (NBC) does not 

recommend any revision to the two categories outlined in the 

plan." 

9 Hampton Roads 

Sanitation District, 

Virginia 

0716 "HRSD continues to recommend that EPA focus more of its 

attention on revising and updating the existing pretreatment 

standards." 

10 Metropolitan St. Louis 

Sewer District, Missouri 

0480 Provides comments/recommendations and information on CFPR 

and PBST. Includes about 200 pages of attachments. 

11 City of Canby, Oregon 0663 Requests that EPA consider revising Metal Finishing that 

unnecessarily classifies iron phosphaters as Metal Finishers. 

Excluding them might encourage some dischargers to consider 

switching from a phosphating process that contains zinc or 

manganese to one that contains iron, thus promoting a pollution 

prevention alternative. Suggests that this revision also 

encourage pollution prevention practices associated with some 

chemical conversion coating operations. 

12 King County 

Wastewater Treatment 

Division, Washington 

0704 The guidelines program should "be used as an opportunity to 

introduce monitoring flexibility so as to reduce the monitoring 

burden placed on POTWs." 

13 Metropolitan Sewer 

District of Greater 

Cincinnati, Ohio 

0741 "The District recommends that the USEPA evaluate the need for 

an effluent limit guideline for the drum reconditioning and tote 

recycling industry." 

14 City of Troutdale, 

Oregon 

0441 Recommends that the EPA draft an exemption for the iron 

phosphate process from Metal Finishing. The ability to exempt 

this industrial waste stream will save the City of Troutdale a 

considerable amount of resources while not risking water 

quality. 

2-2
Section 2 - Public Comments on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

Table 2-1 (Continued) 

No. Commenter Name 

EPA 

E-Docket 

No.1 Comment Synopsis 

15 City of Corvallis, 

Oregon 

0664 Requests that EPA consider revising Metal Finishing that 

unnecessarily classifies iron phosphaters as Metal Finishers. 

Excluding them might encourage some dischargers to consider 

switching from a phosphating process that contains zinc or 

manganese to one that contains iron, thus promoting a pollution 

prevention alternative. Suggests that this revision also 

encourage pollution prevention practices associated with some 

chemical conversion coating operations. 

16 Hazel Dell Sewer 

District (Clark County 

Washington) 

0668 Requests that EPA consider revising Metal Finishing since it 

unnecessarily classifies iron phosphaters as Metal Finishers, a 

process that contributes little or no metals to the waste stream. 

Suggests excluding them, and asserts that the regulation 

needlessly ignores an opportunity to encourage certain pollution 

prevention practices associated with some chemical conversion 

coating operations. 

17 City of Gresham, 

Oregon 

0679 Requests that EPA consider revising Metal Finishing since it 

unnecessarily classifies iron phosphaters as Metal Finishers; 

also believes "the regulation needlessly ignores an opportunity 

to encourage certain pollution prevention practices associated 

with some chemical conversion coating operations." 

18 Gulf Coast Waste 

Disposal Authority 

0680 Provides data showing no detectable PACs in refinery effluent 

to POTW, and POTW removal efficiency of >99%. EPA 

deviated from the draft Strategy in assessing industries and did 

not address risk. Issues with stakeholder comments on OCPSF. 

Federal Agencies 

19 Department of Defense 0687 There is no need to create an additional regulation for Petroleum 

Bulk Stations and Terminals. 

Industry and Related Trade Associations 

20 American Chemistry 

Council 

0697 "U.S. EPA's Preliminary Plan has prematurely identified target 

industries without demonstrating a compelling reason to pursue 

detailed study of these industries." 

21 Chlorine Chemistry 

Council 

0712 "The Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers 

(OCPSF) industrial category should not be identified for 

possible effluent guidelines rulemakings." 

22 Vinyl Institute, Inc. 0731 "We agree that permit writing support to the States makes more 

sense in this case than revising an effluent guideline for an 

entire industry category." 

23 Dow Chemical 

Company 

0709 "USEPA's (USEPA) effluent guidelines plan and screening 

activities should be based on identified water quality impacts." 

24 DuPont 0737 "DuPont encourages USEPA as it moves forward to involve the 

regulated community in any further data gathering efforts for 

specific industrial categories." 

2-3
Section 2 - Public Comments on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

Table 2-1 (Continued) 

No. Commenter Name 

EPA 

E-Docket 

No.1 Comment Synopsis 

25 General Electric 

Company 

0740 "General Electric (GE) congratulates the Agency on its 

regulatory improvement efforts." 

26 National Paint and 

Coatings Association 

0683 Agrees that EPA's former studies of adhesives and sealants and 

CFPR do not warrant ELG development. EPA gathered data 

during development of the Miscellaneous Coatings 

Manufacturing (MCM) MACT Standard that shows lack of 

wastewater generation at adhesives and sealants plants. 

27 The Adhesive and 

Sealant Council, Inc. 

0698 "EPA cannot include these industries under the OCPSF category 

since the processes, wastewater, pollution prevention and 

treatment options are significantly different." 

28 American Forest & 

Paper Association 

0715 "American Forest & Paper Association supports USEPA's 

(USEPA) decision not to review the effluent guidelines issued 

for the Phase I mills." 

29 Buckeye 0678 Requests that EPA withdraw the 1993 proposed rules for 

dissolving kraft pulp mills and strongly urges EPA to complete 

the promulgation of revised Pulp Phase III rules for which 

Buckeye provided data and support. 

30 Rayonier 0690 "The definition of bleach plant should include extraction stages 

that precede the first application bleaching chemicals." 

31 Treated Wood Council 

(TWC) 

0752 "The Treated Wood Council (TWC) does not agree with the 

listing of Timber Products Processing, including Wood 

Preserving, as a category in need of additional Investigation." 

32 Utility Water Act Group 0726 "UWAG strongly supports USEPA's (USEPA) preliminary 

decision not to revise the steam electric effluent guidelines in 

2004-2005." 

33 American Petroleum 

Institute 

0666, 

0729, 

0750 

Asserts that revising Petroleum Refining effluent guidelines 

would be costly and time-consuming process for both the 

industry and EPA. Asserts that there is no justification for 

revising the ELG: no evidence of adverse effects from 

discharges, and no new cost-effective treatment technologies. 

"There would be little or no environmental benefit to be gained 

by reopening this regulation for review." 

"Development of effluent limitations guidelines and standards 

for the petroleum bulk storage terminal (PBST) category would 

waste Agency and industry resources." 

34 National Petrochemical 

& Refiners Association 

0747 "USEPA has not demonstrated a need for revising the current 

guidelines through this notice." 

35 ConocoPhillips 0686 "ConocoPhillips recommends that USEPA utilize their four 

factor analysis to assess and screen industries for guidelines 

review utilizing monitoring data available from the States." 

2-4
Section 2 - Public Comments on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

Table 2-1 (Continued) 

No. Commenter Name 

EPA 

E-Docket 

No.1 Comment Synopsis 

36 Amerada Hess 0693 "Amerada Hess does not support the development of effluent 

guidelines for petroleum bulk stations and terminals." 

37 ChevronTexaco 0714 "USEPA's (USEPA) proposal leaves many individual sectors 

without any effluent guidelines." 

38 Petroleum Marketers 

Association of America 

0689 Comment focusing on the questions asked in the Federal 

Register about discharge of wastewater from bulk plants. 

39 Independent Liquid 

Terminals Association 

0702 "USEPA should not add petroleum bulk stations and terminals 

(PBSTs) as a new subcategory of the Petroleum Refining 

category." 

40 Independent Fuel 

Terminal Operators 

Association 

0708 "The Independent Fuel Terminal Operators Association strongly 

recommends that USEPA refrain from initiating a rulemaking 

for this subcategory of facilities" [Petroleum bulk stations and 

terminals]. 

41 New England Fuel 

Institute 

0713 "EPA should not establish Effluent Guidelines for petroleum 

bulk stations and terminals." 

42 Alyeska Pipeline Service 

Company 

0719 "Alyeska does not support USEPA developing effluent 

limitations guidelines for terminals and bulk plants." 

43 FCC Commercial 

Furniture 

0667 Urges EPA to revise Metal Finishing to exclude iron 

phosphating from subject operations; suggests this exclusion 

would encourage other sources to switch from zinc, nickel, or 

manganese phosphating operations to iron phosphating, 

resulting in environmental benefit. Argues that the Metal 

Finishing regulation should be consistent with the MP&M 

ELGs. Discharges to Roseburg Urban Sanitary Authority (see 

0408). 

44 Operations Management 

International, Inc. 

0408 Requests that the iron phosphate coating process be exempt 

from Metal Finishing due to a lack of metals in the effluent 

wastestream. 

45 Pharmaceutical Research 

and Manufacturers of 

America 

0703 Urges "USEPA to revise the proposed plan by rescheduling its 

evaluation effort to provide the time and resources required to 

properly implement the draft strategy." 

46 Porcelain Enamel 

Institute 

0718 Comment refers to several general flaws in EPA’s techniques 

and data used to evaluate the Porcelain Enamel industry. 

47 Edgewater Support 

Services Inc. 

0721 Comment focuses on "an industry sector currently not regulated 

by effluent guidelines identified during outreach, in particular, 

airport industrial discharges." 

48 National Stone, Sand & 

Gravel Association 

0688 Existing effluent guidelines established by EPA for the 

aggregates industry under 40 CFR Parts 436.20 and 436.30 are 

adequate. 

2-5
Section 2 - Public Comments on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

Table 2-1 (Continued) 

No. Commenter Name 

EPA 

E-Docket 

No.1 Comment Synopsis 

49 Association of American 

Railroads 

0696 "A national effluent limitation guidelines regulation should be 

initiated only if a significant number of impaired waters would 

truly benefit." 

50 Uniform & Textile 

Service Association 

0720 "UTSA supports USEPA's (USEPA) current methodology that 

considers industries that are 100% populated with indirect 

discharges (facilities that discharge directly to the sanitary 

sewer) as 'trivial'." 

51 Barnes & Thornburg 0723 "USEPA's (USEPA) Effluent Guidelines Plan should be based 

on sound science and collaborative efforts." 

Other Advocacy Group 

52 League of Women 

Voters of Westchester, 

NY 

0691 "Opposition to the proposed guidelines which would lead to the 

relaxation of current sewage treatment requirements under the 

Clean Water Act." 

53 Prince William Sound 

Regional Citizens’ 

Advisory Council 

0669 Agrees with EPA’s focus on OCPSF and Petroleum Refining, 

including PBST (esp. terminals such as the Valdez Marine 

Terminal (VMT)). Urges EPA to consider cross-media transfer 

of pollutants from water to air (e.g., via air stripping) driven by 

tight water quality regulations. Recommends EPA include both 

concentration-based AND mass-based limits, since 

concentration-based limits alone may allow considerable 

quantities of pollutants to be discharged at low concentrations in 

very large volumes of effluents such as those at the VMT. 

Notes that refineries in California have greatly reduced 

pollutants entering the environment by using better technologies 

for dissolved air floatation and biological rendering. 

54 Virginia Association of 

Wastewater Treatment 

Agencies, Inc. 

0710 "The regulation overlooks an opportunity to encourage certain 

pollution prevention practices associated with some chemical 

conversion coating operations." 

55 Association of 

Metropolitan Sewerage 

Agencies 

0700 "Before USEPA considers updating or revising any specific 

existing effluent guidelines it must update the 50 POTW Study." 

Tribal Governments 

56 Native Village or Port 

Graham 

0738 "Changes since permit issuance in 1999 warrant a new effluent 

guidelines analysis for coastal oil and gas facilities and a zero 

discharge decision by USEPA." 

57 Native Village of 

Eklutna (Marc 

Lamoreaux) 

0751 "Information on Cook Inlet historic ice cover, to see if 

conditions have changed to allow barging of platform 

discharges for disposal." 

Private Citizen 

58 Jett, George M. 0722 "A number of areas that need EAD attention." 

2-6
Section 2 - Public Comments on the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005 

Table 2-1 (Continued) 

No. Commenter Name 

EPA 

E-Docket 

No.1 Comment Synopsis 

State Government 

59 Arkansas DEQ (Gilliam, 0705 "It's (it is) this state coordinator's view that small to medium 

Allen) sized POTWs nationwide are not aware of the rulemaking 

process, from plan to promulgation." 

1

 Use EPA’s E-Docket’s web site (http://epa.gov/edockets), the Docket Number (OW-2003-0074), and the document 

number in this column to access these comments. 

2-7
Section 3 - Annual Review of Effluent Guidelines Promulgated Under Section 304(b) 

SECTION 3 ANNUAL REVIEW OF EFFLUENT GUIDELINES PROMULGATED 

UNDER SECTION 304(b) 

CWA Section 304(b) requires EPA to conduct an annual review of promulgated 

effluent guidelines. This section describes the results of the 2003 and 2004 reviews. 

3.1 Results of 2003 Annual Review 

As a result of its 2003 annual review, EPA identified two industrial categories for 

detailed investigation in its 2004 annual review: Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic 

Fibers (OCPSF) (Part 414); and Petroleum Refining (Part 419). These categories are referred to 

as Group I Industry Categories (see Section 5.2). In its review of the OCPSF effluent guidelines, 

EPA identified a potential new subcategory for more detailed review: chemical formulating, 

packaging, and repackaging (including adhesives and sealants) operations. EPA also identified a 

potential new subcategory of the Petroleum Refining category: petroleum bulk stations and 

terminals. 

In addition, EPA identified potentially high risks or hazards associated with 

discharges from two other industrial categories: Inorganic Chemicals (Part 415) and Nonferrous 

Metals Manufacturing (Part 421). These categories are referred to as Group II Industry 

Categories (see Section 5.3). Finally, EPA identified seven other industrial point source 

categories with relatively high estimates of potential hazard or risk, referred to as Group III 

Industry Categories (see Section 5.4). EPA’s 2003 annual review, including stakeholder 

comments received as of December 31, 2003, is discussed in the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines 

Program Plan (FRN [FRL-7604-7]). EPA used the results of the 2003 annual review to inform 

its 2004 annual review. 

3.2 2004 Annual Review 

The first component of EPA’s 2004 annual review consisted of a screening-level 

review of all promulgated effluent guidelines. As a starting point for this review, EPA examined 

screening-level data from its 2003 annual review. EPA reexamined categories listed in the 2003 

screening review where: 

C Stakeholder comments identified existing effluent guidelines for revision; 

or 

C Additional information or data were available (e.g., from comments on the 

Preliminary Plan, or contacts with facilities, industry representatives, etc.) 

to revise pollutant discharge estimates. 

EPA focused its 2004 screening-level review on analyzing any new data provided 

by stakeholders to identify industrial categories whose pollutant discharges potentially pose the 

greatest hazards or risks to human health and the environment because of their toxicity. EPA 

3-1
Section 3 - Annual Review of Effluent Guidelines Promulgated Under Section 304(b) 

also considered efficiency and implementation issues raised by stakeholders and commenters on 

the Preliminary Plan. By using this multi-layered screening approach, the Agency concentrated 

its resources on those point source categories with the highest estimates of toxic-weighted 

pollutant discharges (based on best available data), while assigning a lower priority to categories 

that the Agency believes are not good candidates for effluent guidelines revision at this time. 

EPA identified the Group I, II, and III in the 2003 annual review (see the 

December 31, 2003 Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, FRN [FRL-7604-7]). 

Based on stakeholder comments, EPA included nine industries (Group IV) in the 

2004 annual review (see Section 5.5). Group V industries consist of four industries where EPA 

has promulgated new or revised effluent guidelines within the past seven years, but were still 

identified by stakeholders as having discharges of concern (see Section 5.6). EPA evaluated 

implementation and efficiency considerations and potential risks to human health and the 

environment based on available discharge data from these Group IV and V industries. 

Group VI industries (see Section 5.7) ranked low in terms of toxic discharges 

and were not identified by stakeholders. EPA did not conduct any additional analysis with 

respect to these Group VI industries in its 2004 annual review 

3-2
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

SECTION 4 DATA SOURCES AND LIMITATIONS 

This section describes data sources that EPA used in conducting its 2004 annual 

review of all industrial categories and sectors . In addition, this section discusses some of the 

limitations of these data sources. Industrial sector discussions (Sections 5 - 7) contain additional 

information on data sources that are specific to an industry. 

4.1 Industry Identification 

During its annual review, EPA conducted a screening-level analysis and further 

category review using readily available, facility-level data. To use these data to evaluate 

category and industry pollutant discharges, EPA had to identify the industry to which each 

facility belonged. This subsection discusses issues related to industry identification. 

4.1.1 SIC Codes 

The three main sources of information EPA used in the screening-level analysis 

and further category review were the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, and two EPA databases, TRI 

and PCS (discussed in detail in Sections 4.2.1 and 4.2.2). In each database and in the economic 

census, information is organized by SIC code. The SIC system is the statistical classification 

standard underlying all establishment-based federal economic statistics classified by industry (3). 

Although it was developed by the Office of Management and Budget, the SIC system is used by 

other government agencies, including EPA, to promote data comparability. In the SIC system, 

each establishment is classified according to its primary economic activity, which is determined 

by its principal product or group of products. An establishment may have activities in more than 

one SIC code. Some data collection organizations assign one SIC code per establishment (e.g., 

the economic census). TRI allows reporting facilities to identify their primary SIC code and up 

to five additional SIC codes. PCS includes one four-digit code, reflecting the principal activity 

causing the discharge at each facility. For a given facility, the SIC code in PCS may differ from 

the primary SIC code identified in TRI. 

4.1.2 Relationship Between SIC Codes and Point Source Categories 

EPA’s effluent limitations guidelines and standards (ELGS) are developed for 

specific categories of industrial dischargers. EPA has developed guidelines and standards for 56 

point source categories. The categories, which may be divided into subcategories, are generally 

defined in terms of combinations of products made and the processes used to make these 

products. Regulations for an individual point source category may apply to one SIC code, 

multiple SIC codes, or a portion of the facilities in an SIC code. Thus, to use databases that 

identify facilities by SIC code, EPA linked each 4-digit SIC code to an appropriate point source 

category. For facilities discharging significant amounts of toxic pollutants, EPA reviewed 

readily available information to confirm that the appropriate point source category had been 

identified for the facility (1,2). 

4-1
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

There are some SIC codes for which EPA has not established national ELGS. 

EPA’s evaluation of industrial sectors not regulated by existing guidelines is presented in 

Section 9 of this document and in the memorandum, Commenter - Identified Industrial Sectors 

Not Meeting (304)(m)(1)(B) Criteria. During its screening-level review, EPA grouped SIC 

codes into two-digit major industrial groups. For example, SIC code 8221 (colleges and 

universities) and SIC code 8299 (schools and educational services) were combined as SIC Major 

Group 82, educational services. See Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs (1) Attachment C and 

Supplemental Figures and Tables for the 2004 Effluent Guidelines Program Plan Technical 

Support Document for a table presenting the SIC/point source category crosswalk. 

4.1.3 Economic Census 

EPA used information from the 1997 U.S. Economic Census to estimate the total 

number of facilities in each industrial category. EPA used 1997 data because they were the most 

recent available at the time of this review. The economic census, conducted by the U.S. 

Department of Commerce, is the systematic measurement of almost all national economic 

activity in the United States. The 1997 Economic Census covered approximately 97 percent of 

the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This census asked questions about the number of 

manufacturing establishments and the kind, quantity, and value of goods manufactured. 

Although the census provides data on the number of establishments by SIC code, it does not 

publish lists of facilities. New facilities might have started operation since the census was taken, 

and facilities that were counted in the census might have been shut down or were no longer 

operating by 2000. Nonproduction facilities such as sales offices, distribution warehouses, etc., 

are also counted as establishments in the census. 

4.2 Pollutant Loadings Estimates 

Section III of the December 31, 2003 Federal Register notice containing the 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan FRN [FRL-7604-7] describes how EPA estimated 

pollutant loadings for each industry in its screening-level analyses. The primary data sources for 

these analyses are EPA’s TRI and PCS databases. 

4.2.1 Data from TRI 

TRI is the common name for Section 313 of the Emergency Planning and 

Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). Each year, facilities that meet certain thresholds 

must report their releases and other waste management activities for listed toxic chemicals. That 

is, facilities must report the quantities of toxic chemicals recycled, collected and combusted for 

energy recovery, treated for destruction, or disposed of. A separate report must be filed for each 

chemical that exceeds the reporting threshold. The TRI list of chemicals for reporting year 2000 

includes more than 600 chemicals and chemical categories. For this review, EPA used data for 

reporting year 2000, because they were the most recent available at the time the review began. 

4-2
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

A facility must meet the following three criteria to be required to submit a TRI 

report for that reporting year: 

(1) SIC Code Determination: Facilities in SIC codes 20 through 39, seven 

additional SIC codes outside this range, and federal facilities are 

potentially subject to TRI reporting. EPA generally relies on facility 

claims regarding the SIC code identification. The primary SIC code 

determines TRI reporting. 

(2) Number of Employees: Facilities must have 10 or more full-time 

employees or their equivalent. EPA defines a “full-time equivalent” as a 

person that works 2,000 hours in the reporting year (there are several 

exceptions and special circumstances that are well-defined in the TRI 

reporting instructions). 

(3) Activity Thresholds: If the facility is in a covered SIC code and has 10 or 

more full-time employee equivalents, it must conduct an activity threshold 

analysis for every chemical and chemical category on the current TRI list. 

The facility must determine whether it manufactures, processes, OR 

otherwise uses each chemical at or above the appropriate activity 

threshold. Reporting thresholds are not based on the amount of release. 

All TRI thresholds are based on mass, not concentration. Different 

thresholds apply for persistent bioaccumulative toxic (PBT) chemicals 

than for nonPBT chemicals. 

In TRI, facilities report annual loads released to the environment of each toxic 

chemical or chemical category that meets reporting requirements. They must report on-site 

releases to air, receiving streams, disposal to land, underground wells, and several other 

categories. They must also report the amount of toxic chemicals in wastes transferred to off-site 

locations, including discharges to POTWs and other off-site locations, such as commercial waste 

disposal facilities. 

For this review, EPA focused on the amount of chemicals facilities reported either 

discharging directly to a receiving stream or transferring to a POTW. For facilities discharging 

directly to a stream, EPA took the annual loads directly from the reported TRI data for calendar 

year 2000. For facilities that transfer toxic chemicals to POTWs, EPA first adjusted the TRI 

pollutant loads reported to be transferred to POTWs to account for pollutant removal that occurs 

at the POTW prior to discharge to the receiving stream. The Agency made this adjustment using 

POTW removal efficiencies from EPA’s Risk Screening Environmental Indicators (RSEI) model 

(see Section 2.1.1 of the Water Docket for more information on TRI and the RSEI model). 

Facilities reporting to TRI are not required to sample and analyze wastestreams to 

determine the quantities of toxic chemicals released. They may estimate releases based on mass 

4-3
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

balance calculations, published emission factors, site-specific emission factors, or other 

approaches. Facilities are required to indicate, by a reporting code, the basis of their release 

estimate. TRI’s reporting guidance is that, for chemicals reasonably expected to be present but 

measured below the detection limit, facilities should use one-half the detection limit to estimate 

the mass released. The guidance is slightly different for dioxins and dioxin-like compounds in 

that it allows nondetects to be treated as zero. 

TRI allows facilities to report releases as specific numbers or as ranges, if 

appropriate. Specific estimates are encouraged if data are available to ensure the accuracy; 

however, EPA allows facilities to report releases in the following ranges: 1 to 10 pounds, 11 to 

499 pounds, and 500 to 999 pounds. For this review, EPA used the mid-point of each reported 

range to represent a facility’s releases. 

EPA weighted the direct and indirect pollutant releases to surface waters using 

toxic weighting factors (TWFs) developed by Office of Water/Engineering and Analysis 

Division (EAD), to calculate TWPE for each reported release. See 4.2.3 and 4.2.4 for more 

discussion of TWFs and calculation of TWPE. EPA compiled data taken from TRI, the adjusted 

releases from POTWs to surface waters, the calculated TWPE, and the relationship between SIC 

codes and point source category into a Microsoft AccessTM database named TRIReleases2000. 

The Agency made some corrections to this database as it conducted further study on the TRI 

data. 

4.2.1.1 Utility of TRI 

The data collected in TRI are particularly useful for the304(m) review process for 

the following reasons: 

C TRI is national in scope, including data from all 50 states and U.S. 

territories; 

C TRI includes releases to POTWs, not just direct discharges; 

C TRI includes discharge data from manufacturing SIC codes and some 

other industrial categories; and 

C TRI includes releases of many toxic chemicals, not just those already 

identified as problems and limited in facility discharge permits. 

4.2.1.2 Limitations of TRI 

For purposes of the 304(m) analyses, limitations of the data collected in TRI 

include the following: 

4-4
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

C Small establishments (less than 10 employees) are not required to report, 

nor are facilities that don’t meet the reporting thresholds. Thus, facilities 

reporting to TRI may be a very small subset of an industry. 

C Release reports are, in part, based on estimates, not measurements, and, 

due to TRI guidance, may overstate releases, especially at facilities with 

large wastewater flows. 

C Certain chemicals (PACs, dioxin and dioxin-like compounds, metal 

compounds) are reported as a class, not as individual compounds. 

Because the individual compounds in the class have widely varying toxic 

effects, the potential toxicity of chemical releases can be inaccurately 

estimated. 

C Facilities are identified by SIC code, not point source category. For some 

SIC codes, it may be difficult or impossible to identify the point source 

category that is the source of the toxic wastewater releases. 

Despite these limitations, EPA determined that the data summarized in 

TRIReleases2000 were usable for an initial screening-level review and prioritization of the toxicweighted pollutant loadings discharged by industrial categories. EPA checked for and corrected 

apparent errors in TRIReleases2000 (see Section 4.0 of reference (1)). However, the 

TRIReleases2000 database developed from TRI is only one of the tools EPA used for its 

screening-level review. In a second level of review, EPA further evaluated TRI data for 

prioritized categories. 

EPA received many comments relating to using information in TRI to estimate 

pollutant loadings. These commenters noted additional limitations to the information in the TRI 

database: 

C In some instances, TRI information is based on estimates, not actual 

monitored data. 

C TRI encourages facilities to report some compounds as present at one-half 

the detection level if a facility suspects that the compound has the 

potential to be present, even if measured data show the compound is 

below its detection level. As a result, many companies are conservative 

and adopt this approach. For facilities with large flows, this can result in 

large estimates of pounds or toxic pounds of pollutant released with no 

data to support the compound was ever present. 

C The list of chemicals covered by TRI is not all inclusive and changes over 

time. 

4-5
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

C Numerous sources of water pollutant discharges are not subject to TRI 

reporting requirements. 

C Many chemicals have high reporting thresholds, in which cases, a facility 

is not required to report releases of these chemicals to TRI unless they 

exceed a certain quantity. 

C Information in TRI does not represent national estimates because all 

facilities are not required to report to TRI. 

EPA agrees that the issues raised by commenters are valid and identify data gaps 

that may lead to overestimates or underestimates when using TRI information as a screening 

tool. It should be noted that all estimates of toxic and nonconventional pollutant discharges 

(e.g., TRI reported discharges) in this docket are based on reported data and are not scaled to a 

national estimate. 

4.2.2 Data from PCS 

PCS is a computerized management information system maintained by EPA’s 

Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA). It was created to track permit, 

compliance, and enforcement status of facilities regulated by the NPDES program under the 

CWA. 

More than 65,000 industrial facilities and water treatment plants have obtained 

permits for water discharges of regulated pollutants. To provide an initial framework for setting 

permit issuance priorities, EPA developed a major/minor classification system for industrial and 

municipal wastewater discharges. Major discharges almost always have the capability to impact 

receiving waters if not controlled and, therefore, have received more regulatory attention than 

minor discharges. There are approximately 6,400 facilities (including sewerage systems) with 

major discharges for which PCS has extensive records. Permitting authorities classify 

discharges as major based on an assessment of six characteristics: 

(1) Toxic pollutant potential; 

(2) Discharge flow:stream flow ratio; 

(3) Conventional pollutant loading; 

(4) Public health impact; 

(5) Water-quality factors; and 

(6) Proximity to coastal waters. 

Facilities with major discharges must report compliance with NPDES permit 

limits via monthly Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) submitted to the permitting authority. 

The permitting authority enters the reported DMR data into PCS, including the type of violation 

(if any), concentration and quantity values, and the Quarterly Non-Compliance Report (QNCR) 

indicators. Minor discharges may, or may not, adversely impact receiving water if not 

controlled. 

4-6
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

Therefore, EPA does not require DMRs for facilities with minor discharges. For this reason, the 

PCS database includes data only for a limited set of minor dischargers when the states choose to 

include these data. 

Parameters in PCS include water quality parameters (such as pH and 

temperature), specific chemicals, bulk parameters (such as BOD5 and total suspended solids 

(TSS)), and flow rates. Although other pollutants may be discharged, PCS contains only data for 

the parameters identified in the facility’s NPDES permit. Facilities typically report monthly 

average pounds per day discharged, but also report daily maxima and pollutant concentrations. 

For this review, EPA used data for reporting year 2000, to correspond to the data 

obtained from TRI. EPA used its Effluent Data Statistics (EDS) system program to calculate 

annual pollutant discharges using the monthly reports in PCS. Because units of measure vary 

widely in PCS, EPA developed the EDS system to estimate mass loadings based on data stored 

in PCS. The EDS system uses existing PCS reported mass loading values or multiplies reported 

discharge flows and effluent concentrations to estimate loadings for each outfall (discharge 

pipe), taking into account the various units of concentration and flow rates. Where 

concentrations were reported as below detection limit (BDL), EPA assumed the parameter 

concentration was equal to zero for parameters never detected by the facility in 2000. For 

parameters sometimes detected and sometimes not, the “BDL” concentration was set equal to 

half of the detection limit. The EDS system program sums the monthly loads to calculate annual 

discharges, interpolating (using average reported loads) for months with missing reports. 

EPA weighted the calculated annual pollutant discharges using EAD’s TWFs to 

calculate TWPE for each reported discharge, as it did for the reported TRI releases. See Sections 

4.2.3 and 4.2.4 for more discussion of TWFs and calculation of TWPE. EPA compiled data 

taken from PCS, the calculated TWPE, and the relationship between SIC codes and point source 

category into a Microsoft AccessTM database named PCSLoads2000. EPA made necessary 

corrections to the data taken from PCS as it conducted further study. 

4.2.2.1 Utility of PCS 

The data collected in PCS are particularly useful for the 304(m) review process 

for the following reasons: 

C PCS is national in scope, including data from all 50 states and U.S. 

territories; 

C Discharge reports included in PCS are based on effluent chemical analysis 

and metered flows; 

C PCS includes facilities in all SIC codes; and 

4-7 
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

C PCS includes data on conventional pollutants for most facilities and for 

the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus for many facilities. 

4.2.2.2 Limitations of PCS 

Limitations of the data collected in PCS include the following: 

C PCS includes only discharges of pollutants identified as problems and 

currently limited in facility discharge permits; 

C Some states do not submit all DMR data to PCS, or do not submit the data 

in a timely fashion; 

C PCS does not include discharge monitoring data from minor dischargers; 

C PCS does not include data characterizing indirect discharges from 

industrial facilities to POTWs; 

C Many of the pollutant parameters included in PCS are not chemical 

compounds (e.g., “total Kjedahl Nitrogen,” “oil and grease”) and cannot 

have TWFs; 

C In some cases, the PCS database identifies the type of wastewater being 

discharged; however, most reported flow rates do not indicate the type of 

wastewater and therefore, total flow rates reported to PCS may include 

stormwater and noncontact cooling water, as well as process wastewater. 

C Facilities are identified by SIC code, not point source category. For some 

SIC codes, it may be difficult or impossible to identify the point source 

category that is the source of the toxic wastewater releases. 

Despite these limitations, EPA determined that the data summarized in 

PCSLoads2000 were usable for an initial screening-level review and prioritization of the toxicweighted pollutant loadings discharged by industrial categories. EPA checked for and corrected 

apparent errors in PCSLoads2000 (see Section 3.2 of reference (2)). However, the 

PCSLoads2000 database is only one of the tools EPA used for its screening-level review. In a 

second level of review, EPA further evaluated PCS data for prioritized categories. 

As was the case with TRI, commenters noted additional limitations with the PCS 

database. They include: 

C PCS in not representative of all discharges. 

4-8 
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

C PCS data is entered into the database manually, which leads to data-entry 

errors. 

C Some facilities in PCS do not provide information on applicable SIC 

codes. 

C Facilities only provide SIC code information for the primary operations. 

Therefore, data may represent other operations as well. 

C Some states have not provided data to the PCS system. 

EPA agrees that the issues raised by commenters are valid and represent data gaps 

that may lead to overestimates or underestimates when using PCS information as a screening 

tool. It should be noted that all estimates of toxic and nonconventional pollutant discharges (e.g., 

PCS reported discharges) in this docket are based on reported data and are not scaled to a 

national estimate. 

4.2.3 Toxic Weighting Factors 

In the 30 years since Congress passed the 1972 Clean Water Act, EPA has 

promulgated effluent guidelines that address 56 categories, and in the process has developed a 

variety of tools and methodologies to evaluate effluent discharges. EAD maintains a Toxics Data 

Base containing aquatic life and human health toxicity data, as well as physical/chemical 

property data, for more than 1,900 pollutants compiled from over 100 references. The pollutants 

in this database are identified by a unique Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number. TWFs 

calculated from these data account for differences in toxicity among the pollutants of concern 

and provide the means to compare mass loadings of different pollutants on the basis of their 

toxic potential. For example, a mass loading of a pollutant in pounds per year (lb/yr) may be 

multiplied by a pollutant-specific weighting factor to derive a "toxic-equivalent" loading 

(lb-equivalent/yr). 

TWFs are derived from chronic aquatic life criteria (or toxic effect levels) and 

human health criteria (or toxic effect levels) established for the consumption of fish. For 

carcinogenic substances, EPA sets the human health risk level at 10-5 (i.e., protective to a level 

allowing 1 in 100,000 excess lifetime cancer cases over background). In the TWF method for 

assessing water-based effects, these toxicity levels of pollutants of concern are compared to a 

benchmark value that represents the toxicity level of a specified pollutant. EPA selected copper, 

a toxic metal commonly detected and removed from industrial effluent, as the benchmark 

pollutant. EPA has used copper in previous TWF calculations for the cost-effectiveness analysis 

of effluent guidelines. Although EPA revised the water quality criterion for copper in 1998 (to 

9.0 micrograms per liter [μg/L]), the TWF method uses the former criterion (5.6 μg/L) to 

facilitate comparisons with cost-effectiveness values calculated for other regulations. The 

former criterion for copper (5.6 μg/L) was reported in the 1980 Ambient Water Quality Criteria 

for Copper document (U.S. EPA, 1980). 

4-9
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

To calculate TWF values, EPA adds TWFs for aquatic life effects and for human 

health effects for each pollutant of concern. EPA uses chronic effects on aquatic life and human 

health effects from ingesting contaminated organisms (HHOO) as the basis for TWFs. The TWF 

is calculated by dividing aquatic life and human health criteria (or toxic effect levels) for each 

pollutant, expressed as a concentration in micrograms per liter (μg/L), into the former copper 

criterion of 5.6 μg/L: 

TWF = 5.6 

AQ

 + 

5.6 

HHOO 

where: 

TWF = toxic weighting factor 

AQ = chronic aquatic life value (μg/L) 

HHOO = human health (ingesting organisms only) value (μg/L) 

For more details on how EAD determines TWFs, see Revisions to EAD’s Toxic Weighting 

Factor Methodology Parameters, OW-2003-0074-0372. 

The TRI reportable chemicals list includes 612 chemicals and compound 

categories; however, reported direct or indirect discharges to surface water in the 2000 TRI 

database included a total of 329 TRI chemicals and compound categories. EPA has not 

developed EAD TWFs for 56 of these chemicals, resulting in a calculated toxicity-weighted 

discharge of zero for these compounds. Large amounts of two chemical compounds without 

TWFs, coal tar creosote and nitrite-nitrogen, were reported discharged. The lack of TWFs for 

these chemicals results in an underestimate of the toxicity-weighted releases from some 

categories. 

4.2.4 Calculation of TWPE 

EPA weighted the annual pollutant discharges calculated by TRIReleases2000 

and PCSLoads2000 using EAD’s TWFs to calculate TWPE for each reported discharge. EPA 

summed the estimated TWPE discharged by each facility in a point source category to 

understand the potential hazard of the discharges from each category. The following subsections 

discuss the calculation of TWPE. 

4.2.4.1 Methodology and Assumptions Used to Calculate TWPE 

Because certain chemicals may have more than one name, chemicals in EPA’s 

TWF database are identified by CAS number. The first step in calculating the TWPE was to 

associate EPA’s TWF with the reported pollutant. EPA identified CAS numbers for chemicals 

reported in PCS by making the following assumptions: 

4-10
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

C All forms of the chemical were assigned the same CAS number (e.g., 

nitrogen-organic, nitrogen-inorganic, and nitrogen-total were all assigned 

the CAS number for nitrogen); and 

C Chemicals that were reported in different ways were assigned only one 

CAS number (e.g., nitrate (as NO3) and nitrate (as N) were both assigned 

the CAS number for nitrate). 

EPA estimated TWFs for some parameters reported in PCS. For example, the 

Agency calculated TWF for the parameter “aldrin plus diedrin” by averaging the TWF for the 

two individual compounds. EPA did not assign TWFs to all parameters reported in PCS, 

primarily because EPA did not identify CAS numbers for chemicals infrequently reported. In 

addition, there are no CAS numbers for bulk parameters (such as BOD5) reported in PCS that are 

not specific chemical compounds. 

Most pollutants reported to TRI are individual chemicals identified by a CAS 

number. However, in addition to individual chemicals, the TRI reportable chemicals list 

includes 30 compound categories. EPA identified representative chemicals to use to calculate 

the TWPE of the compound category. For example, EPA used the TWF for a parent metal for 

the metal compound category (e.g., the TWF for lead was used for lead compounds). See Table 

B-1 in the report Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs (1), for a complete list of TWFs used to 

represent TRI chemical compound categories. 

Two compound categories are particularly important, due to their relatively high 

TWFs. These categories are polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) and dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds. For the screening-level analysis, EPA assumed that all mass-reported as PACs was 

benzo(a)pyrene and used the TWF for benzo(a)pyrene to calculate the TWPE of reported PACs. 

This assumption was later modified for some categories, as discussed further in 4.2.4.3. For 

dioxin and dioxin-like compounds, a category comprising 17 dioxin congeners, EPA used the 

TWF for 1,2,3,6,7,8 -hexachlorodibenzofuran to calculate the TWPE of reported dioxins for the 

screening-level analysis. EPA chose this TWF because it is the median of the TWFs for the17 

dioxin congeners. EPA later modified this assumption for some categories, as discussed in 

4.2.4.2. As a result of the assumptions used, PACs and dioxin and dioxin-like compounds, 

which represent less than 0.005 percent of the TRI-reported pounds discharged to water, 

accounted for approximately 93 percent of the total estimated TWPE for TRI releases calculated 

during EPA’s screening-level analysis. 

4.2.4.2 Dioxins and Dioxin-Like Compounds 

The term ‘dioxins’ refers to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (CDDs) and 

polychlorinated dibenzofurans (CDFs), which constitute a group of PBT chemicals. There are 

17 CDDs and CDFs congeners with chlorine substitution of hydrogen atoms at the 2, 3, 7, and 8 

positions on the benzene rings, the most toxic of which is 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 

(TCDD). Table 4-1 lists these compounds, their chemical name, and common abbreviated name. 

4-11
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

The 17 compounds (called congeners) are referred to as ‘dioxin-like,’ because they have similar 

chemical structure, similar physical-chemical properties, and invoke a common battery of toxic 

responses (4), though the toxicity of the congeners varies greatly. In this report, EPA uses the 

term “dioxins” to refer to all 17 of the 2,3,7,8-substituted CDDs and CDFs.

 Dioxins are associated with a range of adverse human health effects, including 

cancer. EPA’s human health-based water quality criterion (water + organism) for the most toxic 

dioxin isomer, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (dioxin), is 0.005 pg/L (5x10-9 ug/L) (6). 

EPA has recommended that this water quality criterion be used in conjunction 

with the 1998 World Health Organization (WHO) toxicity equivalency factors to account for the 

toxic effects of other dioxin-like compounds. The TEF for 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran 

(furan) is 0.1; thus the calculated water quality criterion for furan is 0.05 pg/L. 

Dioxins have very low water solubility, and most dioxins discharged to surface 

waters will adhere to sediments and suspended silts. Dioxins are long-lasting substances that can 

build up in the food chain to levels that are harmful to human and ecosystem health. Because of 

their persistence and bioaccumulative properties, they do not break down easily in wastewater 

treatment systems or in the environment and thus present long-term risks to human health, 

aquatic life, and wildlife. 

EPA’s analytical method for dioxins and furans (Method 1613B) establishes the 

minimum concentration at which these compounds can be reliably quantified. The minimum 

level (ML) for 2,3,7,8-TCDD and 2,3,7,8-TCDF is 10 pg/L, 2,000 times higher than the water 

quality criterion for TCDD and 2,000 times higher then the calculated criterion for TCDF. Thus, 

even if the amount of TCDD or TCDF in a facility’s effluent is below 10 pg/L (e.g., below 

detection limits), measured at the final effluent, the discharge could still result in pollutant 

loadings that are far greater than the quantities the water quality criterion deems acceptable to 

the environment. 

Due to their toxicity and ability to bioaccumulate, the various congeners of dioxin 

have high toxic weighting factors (TWFs). Consequently, even small mass amounts of dioxin 

discharges translate into high toxic weighted pounds equivalents (TWPEs). 

Toxic Equivalency Factors (TEFs) are used to simplify risk assessment and 

regulatory control of exposures to dioxins and still account for the relative toxicities of the 17 

compounds. As defined by Van den Berg, et al., (6), a TEF is a relative potency value that is 

based on the results of several in vivo and in vitro studies. TEFs are order of magnitude 

estimates of the toxicity of a compound relative to 2,3,7,8-TCDD. TEFs along with the 

measured concentration of dioxin congeners are used to calculate toxic equivalent (TEQ) 

concentrations. Table 4-1 lists the TEFs for the 17 dioxin and dioxin-like compounds. 

4-12
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

Table 4-1. Dioxins and Their Toxic Equivalency Factors 

CAS 

Number Chemical Name Abbreviated Name 

Toxic Equivalency 

Factor1 

CDDs 

1746-01-6 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 2,3,7,8-TCDD 1 

40321-76-4 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD 1 

39227-28-6 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD 0.1 

57653-85-7 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD 0.1 

19408-74-3 1,2,3,7,8,9-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD 0.1 

35822-46-9 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD 0.01 

3268-87-9 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDD 0.0001 

CDFs 

51207-31-9 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,7,8-TCDF 0.1 

57117-41-6 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF 0.05 

57117-31-4 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF 0.5 

70648-26-9 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF 0.1 

57117-44-9 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF 0.1 

72918-21-9 1,2,3,7,8,9-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF 0.1 

60851-34-5 2,3,4,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF 0.1 

67562-39-4 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF 0.01 

55673-89-7 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-heptachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF 0.01 

39001-02-0 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-octachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDF 0.0001 

1

From reference (6). 

Beginning with reporting year 2000, facilities meeting certain reporting criteria 

were required to report to TRI the total mass of the 17 dioxin and dioxin-like compounds 

released to the environment every year. The combined mass of the 17 compounds is referred to 

as TM-17. This reporting method does not account for the relative toxicities of the 17 

compounds. However, reporting facilities are given the opportunity to report a facility-specific 

congener distribution. Yet even if dioxins are released to more than one medium, the facility can 

report only one distribution. The single dioxin congener distribution reported by a facility may 

not accurately reflect the distribution in each medium in which dioxins are released. 

EPA has developed TWFs for each of the 17 dioxin congeners, ranging from 

421,600,000 for 2,3,7,8-TCDD to 67,367 for OCDF (8). Table 4-2 presents the TWFs used in 

the screening-level analysis. 

4-13
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

Table 4-2. Dioxins and Their Toxic Weighting Factors 

CAS 

Number Chemical Name Abbreviated Name 

Toxic Weighting 

Factor1 

CDDs 

1746-01-6 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 2,3,7,8-TCDD 421,600,000 

40321-76-4 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD 215,384,615 

39227-28-6 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD 43,076,923 

57653-85-7 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD 41,791,045 

19408-74-3 1,2,3,7,8,9-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD 43,076,923 

35822-46-9 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD 4,179,104 

3268-87-9 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDD 423,510 

CDFs 

51207-31-9 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,7,8-TCDF 6,696,140 

57117-41-6 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF 3,294,118 

57117-31-4 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF 32,941,176 

70648-26-9 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF 6,658,740 

57117-44-9 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF 6,666,667 

72918-21-9 1,2,3,7,8,9-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF 6,666,667 

60851-34-5 2,3,4,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF 6,658,740 

67562-39-4 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF 665,874 

55673-89-7 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-heptachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF 666,667 

39001-02-0 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-octachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDF 67,367 

1

From reference (8). 

EPA completed the revision of TWFs for dioxin and its congeners as described in 

a August 2004 memorandum. These revisions and the resulting TWFs are presented in (8). 

The revised TWFs were used to recalculate the toxicity-weighted dioxin discharges for two 

categories for which EPA conducted detailed reviews. The recalculated toxic weighted pound 

equivalents (TWPE) for these two categories, Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers 

(OCPSF, including chlor-alkali chlorine manufacture) and Petroleum Refining, are also 

presented in (8). 

As noted in 4.2.4.1, because facilities do not report the mass of individual dioxin 

congeners released to TRI, EPA did not use the congener-specific TWFs to calculate dioxin 

TWPE during its screening-level analysis of TRI data. Instead, EPA used the TWF for 

1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF because its TWF (6,666,667) is the median of the TWFs for the17 dioxin 

congeners. 

4-14
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

Facilities with NPDES permit requirements to monitor for dioxin are typically 

required to monitor and report 2,3,7,8-TCDD discharges. When the specific congener was 

identified in PCS, EPA used the TWF for the congener. In some cases, facilities used TEFs and 

reported their dioxin discharges as TEQs. EPA used the TWF for 2,3,7,8-TCDD to calculate the 

TWPE of dioxin discharges reported as TEQ (TCDD-equivalent). 

EPA used a different approach to calculate TWPE during its further review of 

prioritized categories where dioxin was released. These categories include OCPSF, Inorganic 

Chemicals, Petroleum Refining, Timber Products Processing, and Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard, 

Phase II. In its further review of these categories, EPA calculated dioxin TWPE using the TRIreported congener distribution to estimate the mass of each congener in the facility’s reported 

releases to surface waters or transfers to POTWs. If a facility did not report a congener 

distribution, EPA used an industry-average distribution to calculate the mass of each congener 

released. After estimating the mass of each dioxin congener released by each dioxin-reporting 

facility, EPA calculated dioxin TWPE by multiplying the estimated mass of each congener by its 

TWF. 

4.2.4.3 Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds (PACs) 

PACs, sometimes known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are a class 

of organic compounds consisting of two or more fused aromatic rings. Table 4-3 lists the 21 

individual compounds in the PAC category for TRI reporting, Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) 

number, and EAD TWF. EAD has TWFs for only eight of the 21 PACs. 

Table 4-3. Definition of Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds 

PAC Compound CAS Number 

Toxic Weighting 

Factor Priority Pollutant? 

Benzo(a)anthracene 56-55-3 180.9752 T

Benzo(a)phenanthrene (chrysene) 218-01-9 2.1038 T

Benzo(a)pyrene 50-32-8 4283.5600 T

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 205-99-2 421.3560 T

Benzo(j)fluoranthene 205-82-3 

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 207-08-9 42.1356 T

Benzo(j,k)fluorene (fluoranthene) 206-44-0 0.8030 T

Benzo(r,s,t)pentaphene 189-55-9 

Dibenz(a,h)acridine 226-36-8 

Dibenz(a,j)acridine 224-42-0 

Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 53-70-3 1693.0160 T

Dibenzo(a,e)fluoranthene 5385-75-1 

Dibenzo(a,e)pyrene 192-65-4 

4-15
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

Table 4-3 (Continued) 

PAC Compound CAS Number 

Toxic Weighting 

Factor Priority Pollutant? 

Dibenzo(a,h)pyrene 189-64-0 

Dibenzo(a,l)pyrene 191-30-0 

7H-Dibenzo(e,g)carbazole 194-59-2 

7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene 57-97-6 

Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 193-39-5 1.1388 T

3-Methylcholanthrene 56-49-5 

5-Methylchrysene 3697-24-3 

1-Nitropyrene 5522-43-0 

PACs are classified as PBT pollutants. They are likely present in petroleum 

products such as crude oil, fuel oil, diesel fuel, gasoline, and paving asphalt (bituminous 

concrete) and refining by-products such as heavy oils, crude tars, and other residues. PAHs form 

as the result of incomplete combustion of organic compounds. PACs and closely related 

compounds are major constituents of creosote, a commonly used wood preservative. 

For TRI, facilities must report the combined mass of PACs released; they do not 

report releases of individual compounds. In the screening-level review of the 2000 TRI 

database, EPA assumed that benzo(a)pyrene was the only PAC discharged. Thus, EPA used the 

TWF for benzo(a)pyrene (4,283) to estimate the TWPE of PACs. Because the TWF for 

benzo(a)pyrene is higher than any other PAC, this represents a worst-case scenario. 

EPA used a different approach to calculate TWPE during its further review of the 

Petroleum Refining and Timber Products Processing Categories. For refineries, EPA developed 

a refinery-specific TWF for PACs, based on the concentration of individual PACs in petroleum 

products and the relative amount of each product processed by the refining industry. The 

calculated petroleum refinery PAC TWF equals 230.43. See Memorandum: Toxic Weighting 

Factor for Petroleum Refining Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 12/11/2003, DCN 00646 for 

further details. 

EPA assumed that composition of PACs released by timber product facilities is 

proportional to the PACs composition of creosote. EPA weighted the TWFs for the individual 

PACs present in creosote by the percentage of total PACs in creosote represented by each 

compound to calculate a creosote PAC TWF of 65.78. 

4-16
4.3 

Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

Impaired Waters Analysis 

Under section 303(d)(1) of the CWA, states, territories, and authorized tribes 

must identify water bodies for which technology-based controls required by the Act are not 

sufficient to implement applicable water quality standards (i.e., are impaired), and prioritize such 

water bodies for TMDL establishment. To incorporate the Agency’s goal of reducing the 

number of impaired water bodies into effluent guidelines planning, EPA attempted to quantify 

the number of facilities in an industrial point source category that discharge the same pollutant 

(or class of pollutants) that is causing the impairment of the receiving water body. The CWA 

requires states to identify waters not meeting water quality standards to develop Total Maximum 

Daily Loads (TMDLs) for those waters (section 303(d) of the CWA). A TMDL is designed to 

restore the health of the polluted water body by specifying the amount of pollutants that may be 

present in the water and still have the water body meet water-quality standards. More than 

20,000 water bodies across America have been identified as impaired. These waters include 

more than 300,000 river and shoreline miles and five million acres of lakes. EPA estimates that 

more than 40,000 TMDLs must be established. The CWA established both TMDLs and effluent 

guidelines as complementary regulatory programs, as both are necessary for restoring the quality 

of the Nation’s waters and for striving towards the national goal of eliminating the discharge of 

all pollutants. 

PCS facilities were matched to water bodies identified by states, under CWA 

Section 303(d), as impaired waters if at least one PCS pollutant limit matched at least one of the 

reasons for impairment. For example, if a PCS facility has a discharge limit for mercury 

and it is located in a water body that is impaired for mercury, then they were matched. 

The current impairment analyses only identify spatial relationships between point source 

dischargers and impaired water bodies, and do not suggest the actual correclations/causal 

relationships between them. EPA will need to conduct more analyses before determining 

whether there is any actual causal relationship between industrial point sources and impaired 

waters. 

Other limitations to the data presented in impaired waters analysis include: 

C Under-counting of Facilities Because of Missing SICs: 26 percent of 

PCS facilities (45,000 of 168,517) are excluded from the impaired waters 

analysis because they do not have SIC codes in PCS. 

C Under-estimating of Facility Loads: A potential next step in the 

impaired waters analysis would be to determine discharge loads for PCS 

facilities matched to impaired waters. However, both concentration and 

discharge flow information are necessary to calculate load estimates for 

PCS facilities. Consequently, EPA has calculated load estimates primarily 

for majors because most minors do not have flow information in PCS. 

4-17 
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

C Under-counting of Facilities Because They Are Not Indexed to 

Reaches1

: 77 percent of PCS facilities are excluded from the impaired 

waters analysis because they have not been indexed to reaches, including 

5 percent of majors (340 of 6,833) and 80 percent of minors (129,350 of 

161,684). Twenty-three percent (74, 480) of PCS facilities have been 

indexed to the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD) reaches. There are a 

total of 22,347 impaired waters of which 19,674 have been indexed to the 

NHD, which consists of some 3 million reaches. 

C Nationally, 9,741 indexed PCS facilities (1,928 majors and 7,813 minors) 

have been matched to 3,493 impaired waters. EPA used PCS limits to 

match major facilities to impaired waters. The Agency used Typical 

Pollutant Concentrations (TPCs) (average pollutant discharge 

concentrations by SIC) to match minors to impaired waters, because 

minors have little or no limit information in PCS. 

C Over-counting of Facilities When Matches Are Based on Typical 

Pollutant Concentration (TPCs): Facilities might discharge pollutants 

for which there are no limits in their permits. 

C Under-counting of Facilities When Matches Are Based on PCS 

Limits: Facilities might discharge pollutants for which there are no limits 

in their permits. 

C Limitations in the Locational Data Quality: 69 percent of the outfalls 

in the PCS database had location data considered to be of low quality. For 

many facilities, particularly minors, facility locations are used as a 

surrogate for the outfall location. 

C NHD data are not available for Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. 

Virgin Islands. 

C States report only 303(d) impairments for assessed water bodies and most 

water bodies are unassessed. 

C SIC codes are not precise, facilities self-identify their SIC codes, and a 

single facility may have multiple industrial operations at a single site. 

1

A reach is a linear or longitudinal section of a stream or river (or other water body) defined by the upstream and 

downstream locations of lower stream order tributaries flowing into a higher stream. 

4-18 
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

4.3.1 Data Gaps and Limitations in Estimating Impairment Analysis 

EPA’s effort to match facility discharges to impaired waters was limited by data 

gaps in industry monitoring/reporting of discharges and in the ambient monitoring used by states 

to develop their lists of impaired waters. Further, when EPA did match a facility discharge to an 

impaired water body, the Agency could not determine whether the discharge is an insignificant 

or significant contributor to the water quality problem. EPA is exploring ways to expand its 

impairments analyses in future annual review cycles (see DCN 557, Section 2.1.3). 

4.4 Nutrients Analysis 

Nutrients entering surface waters can cause many problems for stream health and 

aquatic life. Excess nutrients can lead to eutrophication resulting in algal blooms, depleted 

oxygen levels, fish kills, and reduced biodiversity. EPA examined the potential water quality 

impacts of nutrient discharges from petroleum refining and OCPSF facilities to surface waters. 

This analysis used EPA’s recommended Section 304(a) ecoregional nutrient criteria and decay 

coefficients in conjunction with a screening-level stream dilution model. For more information 

regarding this analysis, see Section 8 of this document. 

Data limitations and gaps used in this approach include using the 14 nutrient 

ecoregions instead of the 84 Level III subecoregions. Due to lack of precise geographical data 

for the facility location outfalls, EPA used the nutrient criteria for the aggregate ecoregions for 

the analysis. However, nutrient ecoregions are aggregations of Level III subecoregions where 

the characteristics affecting nutrient levels are expected to be similar. 

In performing the in-stream analysis using the screening-level simple dilution 

model, EPA assumed the following: 

C Background concentrations of each pollutant in the receiving stream are 

equal to zero; therefore, the analysis evaluates only the impacts of 

discharging facilities. 

C EPA used an exposure duration of 365 days to determine the likelihood of 

actual excursions of human health criteria or toxic effect levels. 

C Each facility obtains the intake process water from a source other than the 

receiving stream. 

C The pollutant load to the receiving stream is continuous and represents 

long-term facility operations. These assumptions may overestimate risks 

to human health and aquatic life, but may underestimate potential shortterm effects. 

4-19
C

Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

EPA used 1Q10 and 7Q10 receiving stream flow rates to estimate aquatic 

life impacts; harmonic mean flow rates are used to estimate human health 

impacts. EPA estimated 1Q10 low flows using the results of a regression 

analysis of 1Q10 and 7Q10 flows from representative U.S. rivers and 

stream (Versar, 1992). The Agency estimated harmonic mean flows from 

the mean and 7Q10 flows as recommended in the Technical Support 

Document for Water Quality-based Toxics Control (EPA, 1991). These 

flows may not be the same as those used by specific states to assess 

impacts. 

C In performing the analysis, EPA did not consider all pollutant fate 

processes such as volatilization and hydrolysis. This omission may result 

in estimated in-stream concentrations that are environmentally 

conservative (higher). 

4.5 References 

1. Eastern Research Group, Inc. Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs. Prepared for U.S. 

EPA, Engineering and Analysis Division. December 12, 2003. Docket Section 

2.1.1, DCN 00618. 

2. Eastern Research Group, Inc. Development of PCSLoads2000. Prepared for U.S. 

EPA, Engineering and Analysis Division. December 12, 2003. Docket Section 

2.1.2, DCN 00620. 

3. Office of Management and Budget. Standard Industrial Classification Manual. 

1987. 

4. U.S. EPA. EPCRA Section 313 Guidance for Reporting Toxic Chemicals Within 

the Dioxins and Dioxin-Like Compounds Category. EPA-745-B-00-021. 

Washington, D.C. December 2000. 

5. U.S. EPA. Technical Support Document for Water Quality-Based Toxics 

Control. EPA-505/2-90-001, PB91-127415. Washington, D.C. 1991. 

6. Van den Berg, et al. “Toxic Equivalency Factors (TEFs) for PCBs, PCDDs, 

PCDFs, for Humans and Wildlife.” Environ. Health Perspect. 106:775-792. 

1998. 

7. Versar, Inc. Upgrade of Flow Statistics Used to Estimate Surface Water 

Chemical Concentrations for Aquatic and Human Exposure Assessment. 

Prepared for the U.S. EPA. 1992. 

4-20
Section 4 - Data Sources and Limitations 

8. Zipf, Lynn. Memorandum to 304(m) Docket, Revisions to TWFs for Dioxin and 

Its Congeners and Recalculated TWPEs for OCPSF and Petroleum Refining. 

August 10, 2004. 

4-21
5.1 

Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

SECTION 5 EXISTING INDUSTRY REVIEW 

Section 3 describes EPA’s 2003 and 2004 annual reviews of industries with 

existing effluent guidelines. This section discusses the review of each industrial category. 

Organization of this Section 

As explained in Section 3, EPA prioritized its 2003 and 2004 review of industries 

with existing effluent guidelines based on the results of a screening-level analysis. Following 

this screening-level analysis, EPA placed each industrial category into one of six groups. EPA 

constructed these groups by considering the discharge estimates of toxic and nonconventional 

pollution (i.e., Factor 1 analyses). EPA also considered the results of the limited Factor 2 and 3 

analyses and the extensive Factor 4 analysis. Additionally, EPA had significant questions about 

information and data gaps for some industrial categories (e.g., why did Timber Products 

Processing (Part 429) rank second in TRI and 29th in PCS in terms of TWPE discharged). These 

groupings reflect EPA’s assessment of the strength of the data and information used to estimate 

the discharges of toxic and nonconventional pollution. Consequently, the groups are not strictly 

based on the exact rank order of toxic and nonconventional pollution discharges. Rather, EPA 

used its best professional judgment to sort industrial categories into the different groups based on 

all quantitative and qualitative information collected, compiled, and analyzed. These groups are: 

C Group I: Industries that ranked high in the screening-level analysis and for 

which EPA conducted a detailed study; 

C Group II: Industries that ranked high in the screening-level analysis for 

which EPA has data gaps; the Agency may conduct detailed study in 

subsequent annual reviews; 

C Group III: Industries that ranked high in the screening-level analysis for 

which EPA has significant data gaps or inconsistencies; 

C Group IV: Industries that ranked low in the screening-level analysis but 

were identified by stakeholders in outreach efforts; 

C Group V: Industries for which EPA has recently reviewed and 

promulgated new effluent limitations guidelines and standards (ELGS); 

and 

C Group VI: Industries that ranked low in the screening-level analysis and 

not identified in stakeholder outreach. 

Table 5-1 lists the industries currently subject to effluent guidelines and their 

groups. 

5-1 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-1. Industries Covered by National Clean Water Industrial Regulations 

Industrial Category 40 CFR Part Group 

Dairy products processing 405 IV 

Grain mills manufacturing 406 VI 

Fruits and vegetable processing 407 IV 

Canned and preserved seafood 408 IV 

Sugar processing 409 VI 

Textile mills 410 III 

Cement manufacturing 411 VI 

Concentrated animal feeding operations (feedlots) 412 V 

Electroplating 413 V 

Organic chemicals, plastics and synthetic fibers 414 I 

Inorganic chemicals manufacturing 415 II 

Soaps and detergents manufacturing 417 VI 

Fertilizer manufacturing 418 III 

Petroleum refining 419 I 

Iron and steel manufacturing 420 V 

Nonferrous metals manufacturing 421 II 

Phosphate manufacturing 422 III 

Steam electric power generation 423 III 

Ferroalloy manufacturing 424 VI 

Leather tanning and finishing 425 VI 

Glass manufacturing 426 VI 

Asbestos manufacturing 427 VI 

Rubber manufacturing 428 VI 

Timber products processing 429 III 

Pulp, paper and paperboard 430 III,V 

Meat products 432 V 

Metal finishing 433 V 

Coal mining 434 IV, V 

Oil and gas extraction 435 IV, V 

Mineral mining and processing 436 IV 

Centralized waste treatment 437 V 

5-2
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-1 (Continued) 

Industrial Category 40 CFR Part Group 

Metal products and machinery 438 V 

Pharmaceutical manufacturing 439 V 

Ore mining and dressing 440 III 

Industrial laundries 441 V 

Transportation equipment cleaning 442 V 

Paving and roofing materials 443 VI 

Waste combustors 444 V 

Landfills 445 V 

Paint formulating 446 VI 

Ink formulating 447 VI 

Aquatic animal production 451 V 

Gum and wood chemicals 454 VI 

Pesticide chemicals 455 VI 

Explosives 457 VI 

Carbon black manufacturing 458 VI 

Photographic 459 VI 

Hospitals 460 VI 

Battery manufacturing 461 VI 

Plastic molding and forming 463 VI 

Metal molding and casting 464 IV 

Coil coating 465 IV 

Porcelain enameling 466 VI 

Aluminum forming 467 VI 

Copper forming 468 VI 

Electrical and electronic components 469 IV 

Nonferrous metals forming and metal powders 471 VI 

5-3
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.2 Group I Industries 

The Group I industries include Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 

(OCPSF) (Part 414), which includes an additional subcategory for Chemical Formulators, 

Packagers and Repackagers (CFPR), and Petroleum Refining (Part 419), which includes an 

additional subcategory for Petroleum Bulk Stations and Terminals (PBSTs). EPA categorized 

these industries as Group I due to their relatively high toxic-weighted discharges, possible 

opportunity for increased pollutant control, and potential additional subcategories. As explained 

in Section 5.1, these are the two industries for which EPA conducted detailed studies in its 2004 

annual review. Because EPA collected and analyzed more extensive data for these two 

industries, it has devoted a single section to each: the OCPSF review in Section 6 and the 

Petroleum Refining review in Section 7. These sections include additional information on 

methodology, data sources, and analyses specific to these industries, discusses the analysis of the 

data collected, and presents the decisions made based on this information. 

5.3 Group II Industries 

This section describes the detailed review EPA conducted on the Group II 

industries. Group II industries are those that had relatively high toxic-weighted pollutant 

discharges in EPA’s screening analysis. However, for these industries, EPA had data gaps, 

which made confirming these toxic discharges more difficult. During the review, EPA attempted 

to collect additional information for these industries to better assist its decision-making. The 

Group II industries include Inorganic Chemicals (Part 415) and Nonferrous Metals 

Manufacturing (Part 421). 

5.3.1 Inorganic Chemicals (Part 415) 

EPA selected the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry for review because 

it ranked high in terms of toxic and nonconventional pollutant discharges during EPA’s initial 

screening-level analyses. As part of this review, EPA conducted further verification of TRI and 

PCS data and reviewed data on industry characteristics. 

This section describes the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry in the 

following subsections: 

C Section 5.3.1.1 presents an overview of the inorganic chemicals 

manufacturing industry including the overall Standard Industrial 

Classification (SIC) codes that make up this industry. This section also 

presents the number, location, and discharge status of the facilities 

covered by this industry. 

C Section 5.3.1.2 summarizes the regulatory background applicable to the 

wastewater discharges from this industry. 

5-4
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Section 5.3.1.3 discusses the wastewater characteristics of the inorganic 

chemicals manufacturing industry. One subgroup within this industry, 

SIC code 2812 - chlor-alkali manufacturing, is a major contributor of 

dioxin and dioxin-like compound releases to wastewater. In addition, 

chlor-alkali production commonly occurs at integrated OCPSF facilities. 

Therefore, the characterization of the chlor-alkali production processes 

and wastewaters are addressed in Section 6 of this document. Section 

5.3.1.3 focuses on the other SIC codes that fall within this industry. This 

subsection also identifies those pollutants of concern based on current data 

from PCS and TRI. 

C Section 5.3.1.4 discusses the treatment and control of wastewaters 

generated by the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry. 

C Section 5.3.1.5 presents EPA’s conclusions regarding the status of this 

industry and whether it might warrant additional study. 

5.3.1.1 Industry Description 

The Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Point Source Category includes facilities 

within the following four SIC codes: 

C 2812 - Chlor-Alkali;

C 2813 - Industrial Gases;

C 2816 - Inorganic Pigments; and

C 2819 - Other Inorganic Chemicals.

The chlor-alkali (alkali and chlorine) industry, covered under SIC code 2812, 

produces chlorine, caustic soda, soda ash, sodium bicarbonate, potassium hydroxide, and 

potassium carbonate. Chlorine and caustic soda account for the bulk of the production. (2) 

Industrial gases, covered under SIC code 2813, are used in a wide variety of 

applications, from cryogenics to fuel for welding torches. Products for this segment of the 

industry include common elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, common 

compounds such as carbon dioxide, and over 100 specialty gases. Because nitrogen and oxygen, 

which constitute a large fraction of the industrial gas market, are captured by cooling, 

compressing, and distilling air, little pollution is associated with their production. (2) 

Chrome pigments, produced under SIC code 2816, are used in a variety of 

applications such as paints, plastics, printing inks, alkali-resistant paints and dyes, and rustinhibitive primers. Chrome yellows and oranges and molybdate chrome pigments compose the 

majority of the chrome pigments market. These two products, as well as chrome green, contain 

substantial amounts of lead. (2) Titanium dioxide is also produced under this SIC code and may 

5-5
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

be of interest due to the potential generation of chlorinated dioxins and furans from the chloride 

and chloride ilmenite production processes. (4) 

SIC code 2819 covers a variety of chemicals, including small-volume speciality 

chemicals, bulk acids, salts, phosphates, sulfur, and hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals are 

used as inputs to basic industrial products such as metals, pulp and paper, and chemicals. (2) 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the inorganic chemicals 

manufacturing industry from four sources: EPA’s estimate of facilities at the time of the final 

regulation (1982 and 1984), the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, the 1992 and 2000 TRI databases, 

and the 2000 PCS database (major and minor direct discharging facilities). Table 5-2 presents 

the number of facilities in the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry by SIC code from 

these sources. 

Table 5-2. Number of Facilities in Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Industry 

SIC Code 

Final Regulation 

(1982 and 1984) 

(2) 

1992 TRI 

Database 

1997 U.S. 

Economic 

Census 

2000 TRI 

Database 

2000 PCS 

Database -

Majors/ 

Minors 

2812 - Chlor-Alkali 77 51 39 37 17/7 

2813 - Industrial Gases 223 140 630 68 3/38 

2816 - Inorganic Pigments 36 47 74 46 16/12 

2819 - Other Chemicals 434 412 667 338 57/82 

Total 770 650 1410 489 93/139 

EPA’s estimates (from the final regulation and the TRI database) show that the 

number of facilities in the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry appears to be decreasing 

over time with significant reductions in the chlor-alkali and the industrial gases sectors. 

Table 5-3 presents the current number and percentage of facilities by type of 

discharge and SIC code based on 2000 TRI data. These data indicate that a majority of facilities 

within this industry are zero dischargers. 

Table 5-3. Number of Facilities by Discharge Type and SIC Code 

SIC Code 

2812 2813 2816 2819 Total

Direct Dischargers - Number (% of SIC Code) 11 (30%) 9 (13%) 14 (30%) 60 (18%) 94 

Indirect Dischargers - Number (% of SIC Code) 1 (3%) 3 (4%) 13 (28%) 69 (20%) 86 

Both Direct and Indirect Dischargers - Number 

(% of SIC Code) 

1 (3%) 0 (0%) 7 (15%) 30 (9%) 38 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-3 (Continued) 

SIC Code 

2812 2813 2816 2819 Total

Zero Dischargers - Number (% of SIC Code) 24 (64%) 56 (82%) 12 (26%) 179 (53%) 271 

Total 37 68 46 338 489 

Inorganic chemicals manufacturing facilities are located in every region of the 

United States. An analysis of facility type by location shows that facilities with SIC codes 2812 

and 2816 are located primarily in the eastern third of the U.S. and facilities with SIC code 2813 

are located primarily in the south. 

5.3.1.2 Regulatory Background 

Typically, this industry manufactures inorganic chemicals for captive or merchant 

use in four or more steps starting from raw material to final product. The wastestreams 

generated by the process vary based on the raw materials used, process sequence and control, 

recycle potential, handling, and quality control steps. It was this variability, in part, that led EPA 

to subcategorize the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry by the type of inorganic 

product produced since this approach involved the least ambiguity in applying the standards to a 

given point source. (1) 

EPA initially published effluent limitations guidelines and standards for the 

Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing category in 1974 for 22 subcategories (i.e., the Phase I 

rule). EPA then published, in 1975, a Phase II rule for an additional 27 subcategories. Portions 

of both the Phase I and Phase II rules were remanded to the Agency in 1976. In 1982, EPA 

published an amendment to the Phase I rule that contained revised effluent limitations guidelines 

and standards (ELGS) for 10 subcategories followed by an amendment to the Phase II rule in 

1986 with revised requirements for six subcategories. Currently, there are 67 subparts in the 

ELGS for the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry. EPA reserved 20 of those subparts 

for various reasons, including the following: no dischargers, the amount or toxicity of the 

discharge was considered insignificant or too low to treat, or the production or flow was 

considered too low. 

For 24 of the subparts, EPA set the BPT effluent limitations guidelines to require 

no discharge of wastewater pollutants. Tables 5-4 and 5-5 list the subparts that are reserved and 

the subparts that have no discharge at BPT, respectively. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-4. Reserved Subparts in 40 CFR Part 415 

Subpart Description Subpart Description 

G Hydrochloric Acid Production AT Manganese Sulfate Production 

J Nitric Acid Production AV Strong Nitric Acid Production 

O Sodium Carbonate Production AZ Potassium Permanganate Production 

R Sodium Metal Production BA Silver Nitrate Production 

S Sodium Silicate Production BD Sodium Hydrosulfide Production 

Y Ammonia Hydroxide Production BE Sodium Hydrosulfate Production 

Z Barium Carbonate Production BF Sodium Silicofluorite Production 

AF Carbon Dioxide Production BG Sodium Thiosulfate 

AK Cuprous Oxide Production BI Sulfur Dioxide Production 

AM Ferrous Sulfate Production BJ Zinc Oxide Production 

Table 5-5. Subparts in 40 CFR Part 415 Requiring No Discharge at BPT 

Subpart Description Subpart Description 

B Aluminum Sulfate Production AE Calcium Hydroxide 

C Calcium Carbide Production AI Chromic Acid 

E Calcium Oxide Production AL Ferric Chloride 

K Potassium Metal Production AN Fluorine 

L Potassium Dichromate Production AO Hydrogen 

M Potassium Sulfate Production AQ Iodine 

N Sodium Bicarbonate Production AR Lead Monoxide 

P Sodium Chloride Production AS Lithium Carbonate 

X Ammonium Chloride Production AX Potassium Chloride 

AA Borax Production BC Sodium Fluoride 

AB Boric Acid Production BH Stannic Acid 

AC Bromine Production BK Zinc Sulfate 

Table 5-6 lists the pollutants regulated in the Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 

category by subpart. Note that some subparts have “no discharge” requirements for direct 

dischargers and numeric limits for indirect dischargers. 

5-8
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-6. Regulated Pollutants/Parameters by Subpart in 40 CFR Part 415 

Subpart Description Regulated Pollutants/Parameters1 

A Aluminum Chloride pH 

B Aluminum Sulfate Zinc 

D Calcium Chloride Total Suspended Solids (TSS), pH 

F Chlor-Alkali Mercury (T), Copper (T), Lead (T), Nickel (T), Total Residual 

Chlorine, TSS, pH 

H Hydrofluoric Acid Fluoride, Nickel (T), Zinc (T), TSS, pH 

I Hydrogen Peroxide Cyanide (Amendable to Chlorine), Total Organic Carbon 

(TOC), TSS, pH 

L Potassium Dichromate Chromium (T), Chromium (H) 

Q Sodium Dichromate Chromium (T), Chromium (H), Nickel (T), TSS, pH 

T Sodium Sulfide Chromium (T), Zinc (T), COD, TSS, pH 

V Titanium Dioxide Chromium (T), Nickel (T), Iron (T), TSS, pH 

W Aluminum Fluoride Fluoride (T), Chromium (T), Nickel (T), TSS, pH 

X Ammonium Chloride Ammonia (as N), pH 

AB Boric Acid Arsenic, TSS, pH 

AG Carbon Monoxide and ByProduct Hydrogen COD, TSS, pH 

AH Chrome Pigments Chromium (T), Lead (T), Zinc (T), TSS, pH 

AJ Copper Salts Copper (T), Nickel (T), Selenium (T), TSS, pH 

AP Hydrogen Cyanide Cyanide (T), Cyanide (A), Total Residual Chlorine, TSS, pH 

AR Lead Monoxide Lead 

AU Nickel Salts Nickel (T), Copper (T), TSS, pH 

AW Oxygen and Nitrogen Oil and Grease, pH 

AY Potassium Iodine Iron, Barium, Sulfide, TSS, pH 

BA Silver Nitrate Silver, TSS, pH 

BB Sodium Bisulfite Chromium (T), Zinc (T), COD, TSS, pH 

BC Sodium Fluoride Fluoride 

BL Cadmium Pigments & Salts Cadmium (T), Selenium (T), Zinc (T), TSS, pH 

1

(T) - Total, (H) - Hexavalent. 

5.3.1.3 Wastewater Characterization 

The wastewater streams generated by the inorganic chemical manufacturing 

industry vary by subcategory. Examples of the types of wastewater streams generated include 

noncontact and contact cooling waters, scrubber wastewaters, distillation bottoms, condensates, 

floor and equipment washings, filter operation wastewaters, and spills and maintenance-related 

5-9
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

wastewaters. The Final Inorganic Chemicals TDD (1) provides subcategory-specific information 

on the production processes and wastes generated by this industry. 

For the inorganic chemical manufacturing facilities reporting to the 2000 TRI, 

EPA estimates a total toxic weighting pound equivalent (TWPE) discharge for the industry of 

624,250. The majority of this toxic discharge occurs from 12 facilities. Table 5-7 lists the 

pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or indirectly, which account for 95 percent of 

the total TWPE. This table presents the number of facilities that reported each chemical, total 

pounds of chemical discharged, and total TWPE for each chemical. The 2000 TRI database does 

not include all inorganic chemical manufacturing facilities or TRI-listed chemicals that are used 

or produced at levels below reporting thresholds. 

Table 5-7. 2000 TRI Top Pollutants Discharged by the Inorganic Chemicals 

Manufacturing Industry 

Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI Releases 

2000 Total 

(lb/yr) 

TRI Releases 

2000 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage of 

Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage of 

Total SIC Code 

TWPE 

Dioxin and Dioxin-like 

Compounds 

11 0.11 266,330 41.1 41.1 

Hexachlorobenzene 3 203 147,007 23.5 64.6 

Sodium Nitrite 7 243,083 90,751 14.5 79.1 

Chlorine 15 99,727 48,565 7.8 86.9 

Manganese Compounds 29 224,533 15,815 2.5 89.4 

Vanadium Compounds 8 22,766 14,166 2.3 91.7 

Chromium Compounds 33 19,759 10,114 1.6 93.3 

Silver Compounds 4 588 9,692 1.6 94.9 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

Based on the TRIReleases2000 (see Section 4.2.1), dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds represent the largest TWPE discharges for the industry. During its screening-level 

analysis, EPA identified the Oxy Vinyl L.P. facility located in Deer Park, Texas as discharging 

the largest dioxin and dioxin-like compound TWPE load. In a subsequent phone contact with 

the company, EPA learned that the Deer Park, Texas facility closed and therefore, EPA did not 

include the loads from that facility in the TRI totals in Table 5-7. 

For the inorganic chemical manufacturing facilities reporting to PCS for 2000, 

EPA estimates a TWPE discharge for the industry of 853,568. The majority of this toxic 

discharge occurs from eight facilities, and half of the TWPE load is due to the discharge of 

mercury. Table 5-8 lists the pollutants reported to PCS as discharged by major dischargers, 

which account for 95 percent of the total TWPE. This table presents the number of facilities that 

reported each chemical, total pounds of chemical discharged, and total TWPE for each chemical. 

5-10
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-8. 2000 PCS Top Pollutants Discharged by the Inorganic Chemicals 

Manufacturing Industry 

Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS Loads 

2000 Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS Loads 

2000 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage of 

Total SIC Code 

TWPE 

Mercury, Total (as Hg) 24 3,671 429,818 50 50 

Chlorine, Total Residual 44 221,979 108,100 13 63 

Sulfide, Total (as S) 5 25,634 71,789 8 71 

Iron, Dissolved (as Fe) 3 12,673,109 70,969 8 80 

Benzo(a)pyrene 12 12 50,109 6 86 

Lead, Total (as Pb) 39 18,517 41,479 5 90 

Aluminum, Total 

Recoverable 

1 483,625 31,188 4 94 

Chloride (as Cl) 15 393,760,079 9,587 1 95 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

As described in Section 6, EPA found that the largest dioxin discharges occur at 

large integrated OCPSF facilities which also operate chlor-alkali plants (whose wastewaters may 

be subject to the Inorganic Chemicals effluent guidelines (Part 415)). Dioxin discharges are also 

significant at stand-alone chlor-alkali plants. Because of the connection between dioxin 

discharges from the chlor-alkali industry and other chloride-related processes at OCPSF 

facilities, EPA discusses the chlor-alkali production process, wastewaters, and their 

characterization in Section 6 and is focusing the remainder of this section on SIC codes 2813, 

2816, and 2819. 

Over the years, the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry has generated less 

wastewater as old processes are replaced with new processes that use less water (2). 

PCSLoads2000 (see Section 4.2.2) provides total wastewater flow data by SIC code for the 

inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry; no flow data are provided in TRIReleases2000. 

EPA also evaluated flow using data from the 1992 PCS database included the Preliminary Data 

Summary for the Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing category prepared in 1994 (2). Table 5-9 

compares the average and total annual wastewater flows for 1992 and 2000 from the PCS 

database for major dischargers in the industry. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-9. 1992 and 2000 Wastewater Flows by SIC Code 

SIC Code 

Number of 

Major Facilities 

(1992/2000) 

Average Flow 

1992 (MGY) 

Average Flow 

2000 (MGY) 

Total Flow 

1992 

(MGY) 

Total Flow 

2000 

(MGY) 

2813 - Industrial Gases 33/3 2,871 13,178 94,731 39,533 

2816 - Inorganic Pigments 20/16 3,461 2,831 69,220 45,300 

2819 - Other Chemicals 124/57 4,395 2,135 544,927 121,680 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000 and 1992 PCS database. 

EPA estimated the average flow for 1992 and 2000 by dividing the total flow 

from PCS by the number of PCS facilities with flow data in each SIC code. As shown in Table 

5-9, facilities in SIC code 2819, Other Chemicals, discharge most of the wastewater in this 

industry. Facilities in SIC code 2816, the inorganic pigments group, discharge the least amount 

of wastewater. 

EPA does not currently have information on the raw waste loads generated by 

dischargers in the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry. Therefore, only discharge loads 

are discussed in the remainder of this section. 

Table 5-10 lists the pollutants with the highest percentage of the total TWPE by 

SIC code based on TRIReleases2000 for both direct and indirect dischargers. Looking at only 

SIC codes 2813, 2816, and 2819, the total TWPE discharges based on 2000 TRI data are 

479,282. 

Table 5-10. Pollutants of Concern from 2000 TRI Data (Direct and Indirect Dischargers) 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Regulated 

Pollutant? TWPE/yr 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Discharge 

Percentage 

of TWPE 

(SIC Code) 

Percentage of 

TWPE (Total) 

2813 Chlorine Yes 937 2 51 0.15 

Selenium Yes 840 1 46 0.13 

2816 Hexachlorobenzene No 145,559 2 47 23 

Dioxin and Dioxin-like 

Compounds 

No 123,470 6 40 19 

2819 Sodium Nitrite No 85,162 5 51 13 

Chlorine Yes 45,710 9 27 7 

Vanadium Compounds No 12,378 5 7 2 

Silver Compounds Yes 9,692 4 6 1.5 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-11 lists the same information based on PCSLoads2000 for direct 

dischargers. Again, looking at only SIC codes 2813, 2816, and 2819, the total TWPE discharges 

based on the 2000 PCS data are 683,500. 

Table 5-11. Pollutants of Concern from 2000 PCS Data (Direct Dischargers) 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Regulated 

Pollutant? TWPE/yr 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Discharge 

Percentage 

of TWPE 

(SIC Code) 

Percentage of 

TWPE (Total) 

2813 Total Mercury Yes 1,480 1 79 0.17 

Cadmium Yes 188 1 10 0.02 

2816 Iron, Dissolved Yes 70,969 2 92 8 

2819 Total Mercury Yes 359,939 6 60 42 

Total Residual Chlorine Yes 84,965 11 14 10 

Benzo(a)pyrene No 46,254 1 8 5 

Total Lead Yes 40737 13 7 5 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

5.3.1.4 Treatment Technologies 

EPA used various technologies as the basis for the Inorganic Chemicals 

Manufacturing category effluent limitations guidelines and standards, including: 

C Aeration; 

C Precipitation; 

C Clarification; 

C Filtration; 

C Neutralization; 

C Polishing; 

C Recycling; and 

C Thickening (1). 

For 24 of the 67 subcategories, EPA set zero discharge as the basis for the BPT effluent 

limitations guidelines. 

Table 5-12 presents the treatment technologies most commonly used in the 

inorganic chemicals industry reporting to TRI for 2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-12. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Inorganic Chemicals 

Manufacturing Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct 

(75 Facilities) 

Indirect 

(64 Facilities) 

Neutralization 40 43 

Chemical Precipitation 44 34 

Settling/Clarification 48 30 

Filtration 28 27 

Equalization 28 12 

Sludge Dewatering (Nonthermal) 9 13 

Stripping - Air, Steam, or Other 15 6 

Biological Treatment 17 1 

Adsorption 12 4 

Other Chemical Treatment 8 4 

General Oxidation (including disinfection) 7 4 

Source: Section 7A Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

Most of the direct and indirect discharging facilities reporting to TRI use 

neutralization, chemical precipitation, settling/clarification, filtration and/or equalization. These 

types of treatment technologies are consistent with the types used as the technology basis for the 

inorganic chemicals manufacturing effluent limitations guidelines and standards. 

EPA’s current evaluation of pollution prevention opportunities for this industry 

shows that, during the manufacture of inorganic chemicals, there are several opportunities to 

reduce the amount of pollutants generated and the volume of wastewater that has to be treated. 

These pollution prevention alternatives include, but are not limited, to: 

C Installing mechanical scrapers on filters to eliminate the need to backwash 

the filters. An example is during the manufacture of sulfate and nickel 

sulfate. 

C Using high purity ore in the manufacturing process, which reduces the 

amount of impurities in the ore that are discharged to the wastewater. An 

example is in the manufacture of titanium dioxide. 

C Using metal anodes instead of graphic anodes in the manufacturing 

process, which reduces the amount of lead and organic pollutants 

discharged to the wastewater. An example is during the manufacture of 

chlorine using the diaphragm cell process. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Using noncontact cooling water instead of contact cooling water in the 

manufacturing process, which reduces the volume of water used as well as 

the volume of wastewater generated. As an example, this can be done in 

the diaphragm cell process during the manufacture of chlorine. 

C Recovering and reusing inorganic chemicals used in the manufacturing 

process. For example, chlorine used in manufacturing ferric chloride can 

be recovered and reused. 

C Recycling drip acid used in the manufacturing process. As an example, 

this can be done during the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid. 

C Using an ion exchange process or reverse osmosis to treat wastewater 

generated during the manufacturing process. Because of the high quality 

of the treated wastewater, it can be reused for various purposes, which 

reduces the volume of wastewater discharged. (3) 

5.3.1.5 Conclusions 

The inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry ranked high in terms of toxic and 

nonconventional pollutant discharges among all industrial point source categories investigated in 

EPA’s screening-level analyses. Based on TRIReleases2000, much of this loading is attributed 

to dioxin and dioxin-like compounds generated by the chlor-alkali (SIC code 2812) and 

inorganic pigment (SIC code 2816) industries. EPA notes that, as explained in Section 6, it has 

identified the chlor-alkali sector of the inorganic chemicals manufacturing ELGS for possible 

revision. In addition, only a dozen facilities discharge most of the TWPE load for this industry 

based on 2000 TRI data. Other pollutants of concern for this industry based on 2000 TRI data 

include hexachlorobenzene, sodium nitrite, chlorine, vanadium compounds, silver compounds, 

and selenium. Data from the PCSLoads2000 identify mercury, chlorine, iron, benzo(a)pyrene, 

lead, and cadmium as pollutants of concern. 

EPA does not currently have data on the raw waste loads generated by 

dischargers in this industry category. Therefore, the Agency would need to collect additional 

data to assess the pollutant removals occurring in this industry. Additionally, stakeholders in 

EPA’s screening analyses commented that there have been substantial changes to this industrial 

category since the effluent guidelines were promulgated in 1982. EPA believes that additional 

study of this industry is warranted to determine whether the existing “no discharge” 

requirements are reasonable and to assess whether additional BMPs or improved treatment could 

achieve additional reductions in the pollutants with the highest toxic pounds. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.3.1.6 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards for the Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Point Source Category. 

EPA-440/1-82/007. Washington, D.C. June 1982. 

2. U.S. EPA. Preliminary Data Summary for the Inorganic Chemicals 

Manufacturing Point Source Category. EPA-821/R-96-016. Washington, D.C. 

December 1994. 

3. Center for Technology and Environmental Management. Fact Sheet: Best 

Management Practices for Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Industry. 

November 25, 1998. 

4. U.S. EPA. Final Titanium Dioxide Listing Background Document for the 

Inorganic Chemical Listing Determination. Washington, D.C. October 2001. 

5.3.2 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing (Part 421) 

EPA selected the Nonferrous Metals (NFM) Manufacturing Point Source 

Category for review because it ranked high in terms of toxic and nonconventional pollutant 

discharges during EPA’s screening-level analyses. As part of this review, EPA conducted 

further verification of Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) and Permit Compliance System (PCS) data 

and reviewed data on industry characteristics. 

This section describes the NFM manufacturing industry in the following 

subsections: 

C Section 5.3.2.1 presents an overview of the NFM manufacturing industry 

including the overall SIC codes that make up this industry and how those 

relate to the regulatory subcategories included within the industry. This 

section also presents the number, location, and discharge status of the 

facilities in this industry. 

C Section 5.3.2.2 summarizes the regulatory background applicable to 

wastewater discharges from this industry. 

C Section 5.3.2.3 discusses the types of wastewaters generated by the NFM 

manufacturing industry and presents information on how they are 

characterized. This section also identifies those pollutants of concern 

based on current data from PCS and TRI. 

C Section 5.3.2.4 discusses the treatment and control of wastewaters 

generated by the NFM manufacturing industry. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Section 5.3.2.5 presents EPA’s conclusions regarding the status of this 

industry and whether it might warrant additional study. 

5.3.2.1 Industry Description 

The NFM Manufacturing category includes sites that smelt and refine metals 

other than steel, such as aluminum, copper, nickel, and many others. It does not cover mining or 

forming operations and includes 31 subcategories. Although sites with different primary SIC 

codes could perform operations covered by Part 421, the main SIC codes that are covered by Part 

421 include 3331 (Primary Smelting and Refining of Copper), 3334 (Primary Production of 

Aluminum), 3339 (Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, Except Copper), 3341 

(Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals), and a portion of 2819 (Inorganic 

Chemicals, not elsewhere classified (NEC)). 

SIC code 2819 includes several operations covered by Part 421. In EPA’s 

screening-level analysis, all of the facilities within SIC code 2819 were included as part of the 

NFM manufacturing and inorganic chemicals manufacturing industries. Further review 

identified that the following six sites are known to perform NFM manufacturing operations, 

including the production of refined bauxite, alumina, slug uranium (radioactive), liquid metals, 

and several inorganic metals. The six sites reporting under SIC code 2819 that are included in 

EPA’s review for NFM manufacturing are: 

1. ALCOA World Alumina in Texas (TRI); 

2. ALCOA World Alumina in Florida (TRI); 

3. ALCOA World Chemicals in Arkansas (TRI); 

4. U.S. Enrichment Corp in Kentucky (TRI and PCS); 

5. U.S. Enrichment Corp in Ohio (PCS); and 

6. Reynolds Metals Co in Arkansas (PCS). 

Table 5-13 below presents the 31 subcategories of the NFM manufacturing 

industry and the SIC codes covered by Part 421 under which they fall. 

Table 5-13. SIC Codes and Subcategories in Part 421 

Subcategory SIC Code SIC Code Name 

1 Bauxite Refining 3334 Primary Smelting and Refining of Copper 

2 Metallurgical Acid Plants1 3331 Primary Smelting and Refining of Copper 

3 Primary Aluminum 3334 Primary Production of Aluminum 

4 Primary and Secondary 

Germanium and Gallium2 

3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

5 Primary and Secondary 

Titanium2 

3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

6 Primary Antimony 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

5-17
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-13 (Continued) 

Subcategory SIC Code SIC Code Name 

7 Primary Beryllium 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

8 Primary Columbium and 

Tantalum 

3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

9 Primary Copper Smelting 3331 Primary Smelting and Refining of Copper 

10 Primary Electrolytic Copper 

Refining 

3331 Primary Smelting and Refining of Copper 

11 Primary Lead 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

12 Primary Molybdenum and 

Rhenium 

3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

13 Primary Nickel and Cobalt 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

14 Primary Precious Metals and 

Mercury 

3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

15 Primary Rare Earth Metals 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

16 Primary Tungsten 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

17 Primary Zinc 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

18 Primary Zirconium and Hafnium 3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous Metals, 

Except Copper 

19 Secondary Aluminum 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

20 Secondary Copper 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

21 Secondary Indium 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

22 Secondary Lead 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

23 Secondary Mercury 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

24 Secondary Molybdenum and 

Vanadium 

3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

25 Secondary Nickel 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

26 Secondary Precious Metals 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

27 Secondary Silver 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

5-18
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-13 (Continued) 

Subcategory SIC Code SIC Code Name 

28 Secondary Tantalum 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

29 Secondary Tin 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

30 Secondary Tungsten and Cobalt 3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals 

31 Secondary Uranium 2819 Smelting or Refining of Uranium (NFM Portion of 

Inorganic Chemicals SIC Code) 

1

EPA assigned the Metallurgical Acid Plants Subcategory to SIC code 3331. According to a conversation with Dan 

Edelstein of the USGS Minerals Division, metallurgical acid recovery is mostly done from primary smelting. Also, 

according to the Final NFM Manufacturing Point Source Category Development Document (3), it is more often 

associated with copper, zinc, lead, and molybdenum. 

2

EPA assigned this subcategory to SIC code 3339, because EPA was unable to separate the secondary facility loads 

from the primary facility loads. 

The 1997 Economic Census provides information on the number of facilities 

classified within SIC codes 2819, 3331, 3334, 3339, and 3341. Table 5-14 presents the 1997 

Economic Census data, the number of “major” and “minor” direct dischargers submitting data to 

PCS, and the number of facilities submitting reports to EPA’s TRI for 2000 for this industrial 

category. 

Table 5-14. Number of Operating Facilities, By Year and Data Source 

SIC Code 

1997 Economic 

Census 

PCS Loads 

2000 

TRI Releases 

2000 

2819 Inorganic Chemicals, NEC 6 3/0 4 

3331 Primary Smelting and Refining of Copper 16 3/1 5 

3334 Primary Production of Aluminum 21 23/3 25 

3339 Primary Smelting and Refining of Nonferrous 

Metals, Except Copper 

142 13/5 30 

3341 Secondary Smelting and Refining of 

Nonferrous Metals 

256 14/17 172 

TOTAL 438 56/26 236 

EPA used TRIReleases2000 to determine the distribution of discharge status. Of 

the 236 facilities that reported to TRI in 2000, 115 reported releases directly to surface waters 

and/or transfers to POTWs and the remainder reported zero discharges. Table 5-15 shows the 

distribution of direct, indirect, both direct and indirect, and zero dischargers reporting to TRI by 

SIC code. 

5-19 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-15. Wastewater Discharge Status Reported in TRIReleases2000 

SIC 

Code 

Number of 

Direct 

Dischargers 

Percentage 

of SIC 

Code 

Number of 

Indirect 

Dischargers 

Percentage 

of SIC 

Code 

Number of 

Both D/I 

Dischargers 

Percentage of 

SIC Code 

Number of 

Zero 

Dischargers 

Percentage of 

SIC Code 

2819 4 100% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 

3331 1 20% 2 40% 0 0% 2 40% 

3334 14 56% 0 0% 2 8% 9 36% 

3339 10 33% 4 13% 4 13% 12 40% 

3341 38 22% 23 13% 13 8% 98 57% 

Total 67 Total Directs Only 29 Total Indirects 

Only 

19 Total Both Direct and 

Indirect 

121 Total Zero Dischargers 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

NFM manufacturing facilities are located throughout the United States, with 

concentrations near raw material sources, transportation centers, markets, or sources of 

inexpensive energy (1). For copper, lead, zinc, molybdenum, and titanium primary producers, 

the larger facilities are located near ore mines in the Midwest and West. Secondary metal 

producers tend to be located near metropolitan areas. 

5.3.2.2 Regulatory Background 

As described in the 1989 NFM Final TDD (1), EPA promulgated the ELGS for 

the NFM Manufacturing category in two separate rulemakings, referred to as Phase I and Phase 

II. In 1984, EPA addressed 12 subcategories that generate the largest quantities of toxic 

pollutants (Phase I), followed by regulation of 25 additional subcategories in 1985 (Phase II). 

Because of a series of lawsuits and settlements, EPA reproposed the rule several times, with final 

promulgation of both phases in August 1990. EPA determined that five of the subcategories 

considered by the Phase I and II rules did not warrant national regulation because no plants in 

the subcategories discharged wastewater or no plants discharged treatable concentrations of 

pollutants. These five subcategories were: 

C Primary Boron; 

C Primary Cesium and Rubidium; 

C Primary Lithium; 

C Primary Magnesium; and 

C Secondary Zinc. 

Conventional pollutants controlled in the ELGS, for one or more of the 31 

regulated subcategories, include oil and grease (O&G), TSS, and pH. Priority and 

nonconventional pollutants regulated for one or more of the subcategories include the following: 

5-20
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Aluminum C Lead 

C Ammonia (as N) C Mercury 

C Antimony C Molybdenium 

C Arsenic C Nickel 

C Benzo(a)pyrene C Palladium 

C Beryllium C Phenolics 

C Cadmium C Platinum 

C Chromium (total) C Selenium 

C Cobalt C Silver 

C Copper C Tantalum 

C Cyanide C Tin 

C Fluoride C Titanium 

C Gold C Tungsten 

C Hexachlorobenzene C Zinc 

C Iron 

The data collection effort for Part 421 took place from 1979 to 1984, and the data 

were not updated for the 1990 final rule. EPA has not conducted any additional data collection 

efforts for this industry since that time. 

5.3.2.3 Wastewater Characterization 

There are over 240 types of process wastewater streams generated by the 31 

regulated subcategories of the NFM manufacturing industry. Many of these wastewaters are 

associated with air pollution control treatment, contact cooling and quenching, casting, and wash 

and rinsing operations. (1) 

Table 5-16 presents the top pollutants discharged by the industry based on 

information in the 1989 Final NFM Manufacturing TDD. Based on the 1989 TDD loading 

information and accounting for toxic pound equivalents, benzo(a)pyrene was a top constituent of 

concern and was regulated in the final rule under the Primary Aluminum Smelting Subcategory. 

During the sampling effort for the rule, benzo(a)pyrene was found above its analytical 

quantitation limit in 13 of 19 samples taken from 10 plants. Effluent concentrations ranged from 

0.17 to 11.0 mg/l. Additionally, EPA determined that a concentration of 0.01 mg/l for 

benzo(a)pyrene was attainable using the rule’s identified treatment technologies (lime 

precipitation followed by sedimentation and multimedia filtration). In settlement negotiations 

after promulgation, the Agency revised its statistical analysis of benzo(a)pyrene data to develop 

one-day maximum and monthly average treatment effectiveness concentrations as a basis for 

calculating mass discharge limits. The recalculated treatment effectiveness concentrations are 

0.0337 mg/l maximum for any one day and 0.0156 mg/l maximum monthly average of daily 

values. The Agency also restricted the discharge allowance for benzo(a)pyrene to those streams 

that actually contain this pollutant. (3) 

5-21
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Stream-specific concentration data from PCS (for the 2000 reporting year) 

indicate that current discharges of benzo(a)pyrene are generally less than 0.02 mg/l for those 

facilities reporting its discharge, with only one facility reporting a discharge above 0.01 mg/l. 

These concentration data indicate that current discharges for this pollutant are generally below 

treatable levels. 

Table 5-16 also presents the top pollutants discharged by the industry based on 

the estimated total TWPE load from both TRI and PCS (using the 2000 databases). The 2000 

TRI TWPE was 978,450, with over 90 percent of the load coming from six direct discharging 

facilities. The 2000 PCS TWPE was 434,925, with over 90 percent of the load coming from 15 

facilities. 

Table 5-16. Top Pollutants Discharged by the NFM Manufacturing Industry 

Number of 

Facilities 

Discharged Annual 

Loading1 

Percentage 

Data Reporting Regulated Pounds of the Total 

Source Pollutant Pollutant Pollutant? TWPE Per Year TWPE Load 

TDD Benzo(a)pyrene 27 Yes 220,979 52 51% 

Arsenic 195 Yes 27,002 7,783 6% 

Silver 157 Yes 11,790 716 3% 

Aluminum 116 Yes 2,213 34,320 1% 

Ammonia as Nitrogen 163 Yes 1,161 771,510 0.27% 

Zinc 229 Yes 471 10,074 0.11% 

PCS Vanadium (total) 3 No 100,592 161,665 23.1% 

Benzo(a)pyrene 14 Yes 89,743 21 20.6% 

Chlorine (Total Residual) 25 No 84,373 173,257 19.4% 

Polychlorinated Biphenols 

(PCBs) 

6 No 29,319 2 6.7% 

Fluoride (total) 27 Yes 21,321 609,188 4.9% 

Chlorine (Free Available) 19 No 14,524 29,825 3.3% 

Aluminum (total) 22 Yes 14,239 220,806 3.3% 

Zinc (total) 26 Yes 12,107 258,991 2.8% 

TRI Polycyclic Aromatic 

Compounds (PACs) 

4 2 

831,010 194 84.9% 

Vanadium Compounds 4 No 52,174 83,851 5.3% 

Sodium Nitrite 1 No 34,727 93,019 3.5% 

Cadmium Compounds 8 3 

21,812 8,351 2.2% 1

Discharged annual loading from the TDD represents loading before application of the final regulations. 2

Benzo(a)pyrene is a regulated pollutant; PACs as a group are not regulated. The TWF for benzo(a)pyrene was used

as a representative toxic weighting factor (TWF) for the PACs category to calculate TWPE. 3

Cadmium is a regulated pollutant; cadmium compounds as a group are not regulated.

5-22 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Based on the 2000 PCS data, vanadium and benzo(a)pyrene are the top pollutants 

of concern for the NFM manufacturing industry. Vanadium is not currently a regulated 

pollutant, and benzo(a)pyrene is regulated under the Primary Aluminum Smelting Subcategory. 

Based on the 2000 TRI data, PACs are the pollutants of greatest concern and would include 

benzo(a)pyrene. 

The pollutants generated by facilities in this category vary by subcategory and 

process. For this analysis, PCS and TRI data are available at the 4-digit SIC code level. Table 

5-17 lists the pollutants with the highest total TWPE by SIC code from TRIReleases2000 for 

both direct and indirect dischargers. Table 5-18 presents the same information for 

PCSLoads2000 for major direct dischargers. EPA analyzed wastewater characterization data at 

the subcategory and segment levels for the 1990 rule, however, and are available in the 

supporting TDD (1). 

Table 5-17. Pollutants of Concern Identified in TRIReleases2000 

(Direct and Indirect Dischargers) 

SIC Code Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Discharge 

Pounds 

of 

Pollutant TWPE 

Percentage of 

TWPE (SIC Code) 

2819 Mercury 1 4 468 99 

3331 Silver Compounds 2 257 4,228 52 

Arsenic Compounds 2 258 894 11 

Selenium Compounds 1 750 840 10 

Cadmium Compounds 2 257 670 8 

Lead Compounds 2 257 575 7 

3334 Polycyclic Aromatic 

Compounds 

4 194 831,011 99 

3339 Vanadium Compounds 1 60,260 37,495 49 

Sodium Nitrite 1 93,019 34,727 45 

3341 Cadmium Compounds 2 7,852 20,510 36 

Vanadium Compounds 2 23,336 14,520 26 

Phosphorus (yellow or white) 2 401 6,648 12 

5-23
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-18. Pollutants of Concern Identified in PCS Database (Direct Dischargers) 

SIC Code Pollutant 

No. Facilities 

Reporting 

Discharge 

Pounds of 

Pollutant TWPE 

Percentage of 

TWPE 

(SIC Code) 

2819 Aluminum (Total) 1 9,158 591 38 

PCBs 1 0.035 455 29 

3331 Cadmium (Total Recoverable) 1 147 383 27 

Cadmium (Total) 1 143 374 26 

Zinc (Total Recoverable) 1 4,434 207 15 

Zinc (Dissolved) 2 4,285 200 14 

Lead (Total Recoverable) 1 79 176 12 

3334 Benzo(a)pyrene 8 21 89,743 37 

Chlorine (Total Residual) 12 167,184 81,416 33 

3339 Vanadium (Total) 2 142,237 88,503 65 

Chlorine (Free Available) 1 29,825 14,524 11 

3341 PCBs 1 2.2 28,725 57 

Vanadium (Total) 1 19,428 12,088 24 

5.3.2.4 Treatment Technologies 

The 1990 rule based limitations on zero discharge for 3 of 31 subcategories. EPA 

based limitations for the remaining 28 subcategories on a variety of technologies, including oil 

skimming, chemical precipitation, sedimentation, and filtration. EPA based ammonia limitations 

on steam stripping for nine subcategories and on air stripping for the Secondary Molybdenum 

and Vanadium subcategory. Cyanide limitations were based on cyanide precipitation for four 

subcategories and molybdenum limitations were based on iron co-precipitation for three 

subcategories. 

Table 5-19 presents the estimated reduction in pollutant loadings from raw 

wastewater to discharge based on the data in the 1989 TDD (1). These data indicate that the 

current treatment in the industry should be resulting in 99+ percent reductions for those 

pollutants regulated in the 1990 rule. 

5-24
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-19. NFM Manufacturing Category Pollutant Reductions 

Pollutant Group Name TDD Percent Removal 

Direct Dischargers 

Total Conventional Pollutants 99.3% 

Total Nonconventional Pollutants 99.7% 

Ammonia 99.8% 

Vanadium 99.7% 

Total Priority Pollutants 99.7% 

Benzo(a)pyrene 99.7% 

Indirect Dischargers 

Total Conventional Pollutants 99.8% 

Total Nonconventional Pollutants 99.2% 

Ammonia NA 

Vanadium NA 

Total Priority Pollutants 99.9% 

Benzo(a)pyrene NA 

Source: EPA, 1989 TDD.

NA - Not available.

Table 5-20 presents the treatment technologies most commonly used by NFM 

manufacturing facilities reporting to TRI for 2000. 

Table 5-20. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By NFM Manufacturing 

Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct 

(35 Facilities) 

Indirect 

(27 Facilities) 

Chemical Precipitation 33 30 

Filtration 22 21 

Settling/Clarification 25 15 

Neutralization 16 12 

Sludge Dewatering (Nonthermal) 9 6 

Equalization 7 4 

Stripping - Air or Steam 5 3 

Adsorption 4 4 

General Oxidation (including disinfection) 4 3 

Source: Section 7A Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

5-25 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

The information on treatment technologies indicates that facilities reporting to 

TRI in 2000 continued to use technologies that formed the basis of the final rule but also used 

additional technologies, including adsorption, biological treatment, and chemical oxidation. 

Over 50 percent of the NFM manufacturing facilities reporting to the 2000 TRI 

are zero dischargers. It is unknown whether there are best management practices (BMPs), 

pollution prevention practices, or other “dry” operations from these facilities that could be 

transferrable to other discharging facilities in similar subcategories. In addition, metals removal 

for this industry may be improved using multiple-stage metals precipitation or newer multimedia 

filtration followed by chemical precipitation technologies. 

5.3.2.5 Conclusions 

The NFM manufacturing industry ranks high in estimated toxic pollutant 

discharges among the industrial categories investigated in EPA’s screening-level analyses. 

These discharges are based on data reported to PCS and TRI. About half (54 percent) of the 

facilities classified in these SIC codes (using 1997 Economic Census data) provided chemical 

release data in TRI, while only 13 percent are major dischargers reporting surface water 

discharges in PCS. 

Based on the 2000 TRI data, EPA attributes most of the reported loading, made 

up of PACs such as benzo(a)pyrene, to six facilities. From the data available in PCS, 

benzo(a)pyrene, vanadium, and chlorine (total residual) appear to be the pollutants of greatest 

concern based on TWPE discharges. 

Concentration data from PCS (for the 2000 reporting year) indicate that current 

discharges of benzo(a)pyrene are generally below 0.01 mg/l for those facilities reporting its 

discharge. These concentrations are generally below treatable concentrations and additional 

reductions of this pollutant may not be possible. 

The information from both PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000 also indicate 

that the pollutants of concern (by SIC code) are, in most cases, being discharged by only one or 

two facilities. Therefore, while additional study of this industry is warranted based on the toxic 

loads discharged, the need for revised national regulations may not be warranted due to the 

number of facilities involved. 

TRI data indicate a significant percentage (>50 percent) of facilities in this 

industry are zero dischargers. However, data are not currently available to assess whether the 

processes and BMPs used by the zero discharge facilities can be transferred to other facilities 

that discharge similar subcategory wastewaters. The last data collection effort for this industry 

occurred in the 1980s, and additional study of this industry would help EPA determine whether 

facilities can achieve additional reductions in the pollutants with the highest toxic pounds by 

applying existing BMPs or newer technologies. Therefore, EPA will continue to review this 

industry in the next planning cycle. 

5-26
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.3.2.6 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards for the Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing Point Source Category, 

Volume I. EPA-440/1-89/019.1. Washington, D.C. May 1989. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau. 1997 Economic Census. 

3. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards for the Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing Point Source Category, 

Volume II. EPA-440/1-89/019.2. Washington, D.C. May 1989. 

4. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards for the Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing Point Source Category, 

Volume III. EPA-440/1-89/019.3. Washington, D.C. September 1986. 

5.4 Group III Industries 

This section provides information on the limited investigations EPA conducted on 

the Group III industries. During its screening-level review, EPA identified this group of 

industrial point source categories as having relatively high estimates of potential toxic-weighted 

pollutant discharges. However, EPA also identified numerous data gaps and issues that may 

affect the Agency’s estimate of the potential hazard posed by discharges from these categories. 

EPA’s review of these categories focused on filling in these data gaps to better inform EPA’s 

decision-making. These categories are: Fertilizer Manufacturing (Part 418), Phosphate 

Manufacturing (Part 422), Ore Mining and Dressing (Part 440), Pulp and Paper (Part 430) Phase 

II, Steam Electric Power Generation (Part 423), Textile Mills (Part 410), and Timber Products 

Processing (Part 429). 

5.4.1 Fertilizer and Phosphate Manufacturing (Parts 418 and 422) 

The fertilizer manufacturing and phosphate manufacturing industries ranked high 

in terms of toxic and nonconventional pollutant discharges among industrial point source 

categories investigated in the screening-level analyses. Because of the potential for overlap of 

operations between these two point source categories, EPA evaluated the SIC codes related to 

these industries and the specific facilities to better classify facilities that perform fertilizer 

manufacturing operations versus phosphate manufacturing operations. EPA found that one 

facility contributes over 99 percent of the toxic-weighted load from phosphate manufacturing, 

and that fluoride discharges account for over 99 percent of that facility’s discharge. EPA also 

found that one facility contributes 84 percent of the toxic-weighted load from fertilizer 

manufacturing and that fluoride discharges account for over 75 percent of that facility’s 

discharge. This section summarizes the review of both point source categories. 

5-27
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.1.1 Industry Description 

The fertilizer manufacturing industry includes facilities that produce phosphorusand nitrogen-based fertilizers. EPA divided the Fertilizer Manufacturing Point Source Category 

into seven subcategories based on the type of fertilizer produced. ELGS found in 40 CFR Part 

418 are applicable to process wastewater and contaminated nonprocess wastewater discharged 

from the specific subcategories listed in Table 5-21. Facilities subject to this point source 

category typically report under SIC codes 2873 (Nitrogenous Fertilizers), 2874 (Phosphatic 

Fertilizers), and 2875 (Fertilizers, Mixing Only). 

Table 5-21. Subcategories in the Fertilizer Manufacturing Point Source Category 

(Part 418) 

Subpart Title Description 

A Phosphate Subcategory Manufacture of sulfuric acid by sulfur burning, wet-process 

phosphoric acid, normal superphosphate, triple superphosphate, 

and ammonium phosphate. 

B Ammonia Subcategory Manufacture of ammonia. 

C Urea Subcategory Manufacture of urea. 

D Ammonium Nitrate 

Subcategory 

Manufacture of ammonia nitrate. 

E Nitric Acid Subcategory Production of nitric acid in concentrations up to 68 percent. 

F Ammonium Sulfate Production 

Subcategory 

Production of ammonium sulfate by the synthetic process and by 

coke oven by-product recovery. 

G Mixed Blend Fertilizer 

Production Subcategory 

Production of mixed1

 and blend2 fertilizer. 

1

Mixed fertilizer means “a mixture of wet and/or dry straight fertilizer material, mixed fertilizer materials, fillers and

additives prepared through chemical reaction to a given formulation.”

2

Blend means “a mixture of dry straight, and mixed fertilizer materials.”

The phosphate manufacturing industry includes facilities that produce 

phosphorus-related products. EPA divided the Phosphate Manufacturing Point Source Category 

into six subcategories based on the type of product. ELGS found in 40 CFR Part 422 are 

applicable to process wastewater and contaminated nonprocess wastewater discharged from the 

specific subcategories listed in Table 5-22. Facilities subject to this point source category 

typically report under SIC codes 2874 and 2819 (Industrial Inorganic Chemicals, not elsewhere 

classified). 

5-28
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-22. Subcategories in the Phosphate Manufacturing Point Source Category 

(Part 422) 

Subpart Title Description 

A Phosphorus Production 

Subcategory 

Production of phosphorus and ferrophosphorus by smelting of 

phosphate ore. 

B Phosphorus Consuming 

Subcategory 

Manufacture of phosphoric acid, phosphorus pentoxide, 

phosphorus pentasulfide, phosphorus trichloride, and 

phosphorus oxychloride directly from elemental phosphorus. 

C Phosphate Subcategory Manufacture of sodium tripolyphosphate, animal feed grade 

calcium phosphate, and human food grade calcium phosphate 

from phosphoric acid. 

D Defluorinated Phosphate Rock 

Subcategory 

Defluorination of phosphate rock by applying high temperature 

treatment along with wet process phosphoric acid, silica, and 

other reagents (not in manufacturing). 

E Defluorinated Phosphoric Acid 

Subcategory 

Defluorination of phosphoric acid. Wet process phosphoric acid 

is dehydrated by applying heat and other processing acids such 

as vacuum and air stripping. The acid is concentrated up to 

70-73% P2 O5 in the defluorination process. 

F Sodium Phosphates Subcategory Manufacture of purified sodium phosphates resulting from wet 

process phosphoric acid. 

During EPA’s initial screening-level review, facilities that reported SIC code 

2874 (Phosphatic Fertilizers) were included as part of both the Fertilizer Manufacturing category 

and the Phosphate Manufacturing category. This resulted in double counting of the pollutant 

loads discharged by these facilities. EPA further reviewed operations at the top dischargers in 

SIC code 2874 to determine which category is most appropriate for their operations. Table 5-23 

summarizes this review. 

Similarly, facilities that reported SIC code 2819 were included as part of both the 

Phosphate Manufacturing category and the Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing category. EPA 

further reviewed operations at the top dischargers in SIC code 2819 and confirmed that all 

operations were related to inorganic chemicals manufacturing. For the purposes of this review 

(and to avoid double counting pollutant loads), EPA then removed all facilities reporting SIC 

code 2819 from the Phosphate Manufacturing category, although it is possible some of these 

facilities also fall under the applicability of phosphate manufacturing. 

5-29
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-23. Review of Top Fertilizer and Phosphate Dischargers Reporting SIC 2874 as 

Primary SIC Code 

Final Category 

Facility Designation Description 

IMC Phosphates, 

Uncle Sam, LA 

Phosphate 

Manufacturing 

Produces phosphoric acid and hydrofluoric acid (covered under 

Subcategory D, Phosphate Manufacturing) and sulfuric acid by 

burning elemental sulfur (covered under Subcategory A, Fertilizer 

Manufacturing). This facility contributes over 99 percent of the 

toxic-weighted load from phosphate manufacturing, and fluoride 

discharges account for over 99 percent of this facility’s discharge. 

Mississippi Fertilizer Manufacture of sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, and diammonia 

Phosphates Corp., Manufacturing phosphate (covered under Subcategory A, Fertilizer 

Pascagoula, MS Manufacturing). 

Royster-Clark Inc, Fertilizer Facility purchases liquids (such as sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid) 

Hartsville, SC Manufacturing and other by-products and combines them in a rotary drum (covered 

under Subcategory G, Fertilizer Manufacturing). A reaction occurs 

and the result is granular homogenous fertilizer. Facility says 

primary SIC code is 2875. 

Source: Facility telephone contact reports (2, 3, 4). 

Fertilizer Manufacturing Process Descriptions (Part 418) 

This section describes the manufacturing processes included in the Fertilizer 

Manufacturing category. It describes processes included in Subcategory A (Phosphate 

Fertilizers) to distinguish operations covered under phosphate manufacturing. Fertilizer is 

available in both liquid and dry forms, and either as a single type of plant nutrient or a mixed 

type. The industry identifies plant food content by the total percentage of nitrogen, phosphoric 

acid, and water soluble potassium available in the fertilizer. The production of two basic 

fertilizer ingredients, nitrogen (N) and phosphate (P2O5), is covered under Part 418. (1) 

Phosphate Fertilizers (Subpart A) 

Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) is produced by two commercial methods: wet process 

and thermal process. Wet process phosphoric acid is typically used to produce fertilizers and 

would then be covered under the Fertilizer Manufacturing category. Thermal process 

phosphoric acid is covered under the Phosphate Manufacturing category, and is discussed below. 

In a wet process facility, phosphoric acid is produced by reacting sulfuric acid with naturally 

occurring phosphate rock. The phosphate rock is dried, crushed, and then continuously fed into 

the reactor along with sulfuric acid. The reaction combines calcium from the phosphate rock 

with sulfate, forming calcium sulfate (CaSO4), commonly referred to as gypsum. Gypsum is 

separated from the reaction solution by filtration. The production of wet process phosphoric acid 

generates a considerable quantity of acidic cooling water with high concentrations of phosphorus 

and fluoride. (8) 

5-30
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Sulfuric acid used in manufacturing fertilizers is typically produced at the 

phosphate fertilizer manufacturing facility using the contact process. First, elemental sulfur is 

burned in a furnace to produce sulfur dioxide, which is further oxidized using a catalyst surface 

to speed the oxidation reaction. The resulting sulfur trioxide is hydrolyzed with water to form 

sulfuric acid. (1) 

Phosphate fertilizers are classified into three groups of chemical compounds. 

Two of these groups are known as superphosphates and are defined by the percentage of 

phosphorus as phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5). Normal superphosphates contain between 15 and 

21 percent phosphorus as P2O5 and are prepared by reacting ground phosphate rock with 65 to 75 

percent sulfuric acid. Triple superphosphate contains over 40 percent phosphorus and are 

prepared either by the “run-of-pile” process (identical to normal superphosphate, except 

phosphoric acid is used instead of sulfuric acid) or the granular triple superphosphate process. In 

the granular process, ground phosphate rock or limestone is reacted with phosphoric acid; 

however, the phosphoric acid used in this process is appreciably lower in concentration (40 

percent P2O5) than that used in the run-of-pile process. The remaining phosphate fertilizer group 

is ammonium phosphate (NH4H2PO4), which is produced by reacting H3PO4 with anhydrous 

ammonia (NH3). (1) 

Nitrogen Fertilizers (Subparts B through F) 

NH3 is one of the principal fertilizer materials and can be used directly as a 

fertilizer or as a source of nitrogen in other synthetic fertilizers. NH3 is produced by the 

chemical reaction of hydrogen with nitrogen. Urea (CO(NH2)2), also known as carbamide, 

contains the highest percentage of nitrogen in solids fertilizers. It is produced by reacting 

ammonia with carbon dioxide to form ammonium carbamate, which is then dehydrated to form 

urea. Nitric acid is produced using anhydrous ammonia, air, water, and a catalyst. Ammonia is 

oxidized with air to form nitric oxide, which is further oxidized to form nitrogen dioxide. The 

gases are absorbed in water to produce nitric acid and nitric oxide. Ammonium nitrate is 

produced by neutralizing ammonia with nitric acid at high temperatures, which evaporates the 

water and some ammonia, leaving ammonium nitrate. (1) Synthetic ammonium sulfate is 

produced by combining anhydrous ammonia and sulfuric acid in a reactor. Coke oven 

by-product ammonium sulfate is produced by reacting the ammonia recovered from coke oven 

off-gas with sulfuric acid. (9) 

Mixed and Blended Fertilizers (Subpart G) 

Mixed fertilizers are a mixture of wet and/or dry straight fertilizer materials, 

fillers, and additives prepared through chemical reaction to a given formulation. Blended 

fertilizers are a mixture of dry, straight, and mixed fertilizer materials. (1) 

Phosphate Manufacturing Process Descriptions (Part 422) 

This section describes the manufacturing processes included in the Phosphate 

Manufacturing category that have potential overlap with processes covered under the Fertilizer 

5-31
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Manufacturing category: manufacture of phosphoric acid (Subcategory B) and defluorination of 

phosphoric acid (Subcategory D, E). 

As discussed above, phosphoric acid (H3PO4) is produced by two commercial 

methods: wet process and thermal process. The wet process is typically used to produce 

phosphoric acid used in fertilizer manufacture, which is covered under Fertilizer Manufacturing 

(Part 418, Subpart A). The thermal process phosphoric acid, covered by Phosphate 

Manufacturing (Part 422, Subpart B) is of a much higher purity and is used in the manufacture of 

high-grade chemicals, pharmaceuticals, detergents, food and beverage products, and other 

nonfertilizer products. Raw materials to produce phosphoric acid by the thermal process are 

elemental (yellow) phosphorus, air, and water. Thermal process phosphoric acid manufacture 

involves three major steps: combustion, hydration, and demisting. 

In combustion, the liquid elemental phosphorus is burned (oxidized) in ambient 

air in a combustion chamber at temperatures of 1,650 to 2,760°C (3,000 to 5,000°F) to form 

phosphorus pentoxide. The phosphorus pentoxide is then hydrated with dilute H3PO4 or water to 

produce strong phosphoric acid liquid (Reaction 3). Demisting, the final step, removes the 

phosphoric acid mist from the combustion gas stream before it is released to the atmosphere. 

This is usually done with high-pressure drop demistors. (7) 

Concentration of H3PO4 produced from thermal process normally ranges from 75 

to 85 percent. This high concentration is required for high-grade chemical production and other 

non-fertilizer-product manufacturing. Efficient plants recover about 99.9 percent of the 

elemental phosphorus burned as phosphoric acid. (7) 

Defluorinated phosphate (DFP), also known as tricalcium phosphate (TCP), is 

produced from phosphate rock, phosphoric acid, and soda ash. This process, covered under 

Subpart D, can be broken down into three sections: feed preparation/mixing, defluorination (by 

calcining), and product sizing. Phosphate rock, phosphoric acid, and soda ash are blended in a 

batch or continuous mixer/reactor. The material is conveyed to a screening system that excludes 

oversize material that is milled and recycled. The product from the screen is sent to storage prior 

to feeding into the defluorination system. The second stage reactions take place in a large kiln 

(or fluidized bed) where the material is heated to approximately 2,800°F. DFP from the kiln is 

discharged through a cooler and cooled by air. The kiln is vented to a scrubber system that must 

handle a large load of fluoride vapors. Material from the cooler is transferred to the productsizing area where screens, mills, and hoppers are used to classify and store the product prior to 

shipping. (9) 

Newer processes have been developed to produce high-purity phosphoric acid 

using wet process phosphoric acid, covered under Subpart E. This procedure involves 

pretreating the feed acid to remove impurities through dearseniation and filtration, solvent 

extraction, stripping, reextraction, concentration of the acid, and defluorination (through 

stripping). (8) 

5-32
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Facility Counts 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Fertilizer and 

Phosphate Manufacturing categories from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, the 

TRIReleases2000, and the PCSLoads2000. TRI includes facilities reporting discharges to any 

media. In contrast, PCS includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface 

waters. Table 5-24 lists the number of facilities from these sources. Approximately half of the 

facilities reporting to TRI in these categories collectively report no wastewater discharge of toxic 

chemicals. 

Table 5-24. Number of Fertilizer and Phosphate Facilities 

2000 PCS 2000 TRI 

Both 

Total No Direct and 

SIC 1997 

TotalMajorMinor

Reporting Reported Direct Indirect Indirect 

Code Census To TRI Discharge Discharge Discharge Discharge 

Fertilizer Manufacturing 

2873 143 40 25 15 63 21 38 1 3 

2874 NA 1 1 0 2 0 1 0 1 

2875 449 6 0 6 42 29 8 5 0 

Total 592 47 26 21 107 50 47 6 4 

Phosphate Manufacturing1 

2874 61 22 14 8 31 19 12 0 0 

Total 61 22 14 8 31 19 12 0 0 

NA - Census totals for SIC code 2874 are included under Phosphate Manufacturing. As explained previously, EPA

identified two facilities under this SIC code as part of Fertilizer Manufacturing (see Table 5-23). 1

Facilities reporting SIC code 2819 were included in the Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Point Source Category.

Fertilizer and phosphate manufacturing facilities are located throughout the 

United States, but there is a higher concentration in the Midwest and in the Southeast. 

5.4.1.2 Regulatory Background 

The current ELGS, summarized in Table 5-25, are codified at 40 CFR Part 418 

and 422. Fluoride limitations for Subpart A of Fertilizer Manufacturing and Subparts D and E of 

Phosphate Manufacturing are the same. A number of subcategories require zero discharge of 

process wastewater pollutants, with some exceptions. 

ELGS for the Fertilizer Manufacturing category are based on a combination of 

process changes, best management practices, and end-of-pipe technologies. For phosphate 

fertilizers (Subpart A), the primary source of contaminated process and nonprocess wastewater 

5-33
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

discharged is overflow from gypsum ponds. Effluent concentrations are based on double lime 

neutralization of the pond water to reduce fluoride and phosphorus, and ponds designed to hold 

precipitation from a 10-year, 24-hour rainfall event (for BPT) or a 25-year, 24-hour rainfall event 

(for BAT). EPA considered, but did not promulgate, ammonia limits. Ammonia primarily 

occurs from equipment wash water. Ammonia concentrations can range from 25 to over 600 

mg/L in gypsum ponds. 

For nitrogen fertilizers (Subparts B through E), mass-based limitations are based 

on application of best management practices (including containment and reuse), ammonia steam 

stripping, hydrolysis, and oil/water separators. More stringent limitations are also based on 

process changes and other end-of-pipe technologies, including air stripping, biological 

nitrification/denitrification, and ion exchange. 

For ammonium sulfate (Subpart F) and mixed and blended fertilizers (Subpart G), 

zero discharge limitations are based on manufacturing process controls, complete recycle and 

reuse of wastewaters, and dry air pollution control devices. 

ELGS for the Phosphate Manufacturing category are based primarily on end-ofpipe treatment technologies. Similar to Subpart A of the Fertilizer Manufacturing category, the 

primary source of process and nonprocess wastewater discharged from facilities in Subparts D 

and E of the Phosphate Manufacturing category is overflow from containment and cooling 

ponds. Effluent concentrations limits are based on lime neutralization of cooling pond water, 

and ponds are designed to hold precipitation from a 10-year, 24-hour rainfall event (for BPT) or 

a 25-year, 24-hour rainfall event (for BAT). 

For Subpart F, ELGS are based on double lime neutralization used to remove 

TSS, phosphate, radium-226, and fluoride. This process can lower fluoride levels from 9,000 

mg/L to about 30 mg/L, and phosphorus levels from 6,500 mg/L to about 60 mg/L. (11) In some 

cases, modified forms of phosphate may be present in certain wastewaters, which can hinder the 

lime neutralization process. These wastewaters should undergo a hydrolysis pretreatment step. 

(11) 

Table 5-25. Pollutants Regulated by Existing Fertilizer and Phosphate ELGS 

Subpart BPT BAT NSPS PSES & PSNS 

Mass- or 

ConcentrationBased Limits 

Fertilizer Manufacturing 

A1 Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

TSS (process 

wastewater only) 

Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

Same as BPT No discharge of 

incompatible 

process 

wastewater 

pollutants 

Concentrationbased 

B Ammonia 

pH 

Ammonia Ammonia 

pH 

PSNS set equal to 

NSPS 

Mass-based 

5-34 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-25 (Continued) 

Subpart BPT BAT NSPS PSES & PSNS 

Mass- or 

ConcentrationBased Limits 

C Ammonia 

Organic N 

Ammonia 

Organic N 

Same as BAT PSNS set equal to 

NSPS 

Mass-based 

D Ammonia 

Nitrate (as N) 

Ammonia 

Nitrate (as N) 

Same as BAT PSNS set equal to 

NSPS 

Mass-based 

E Ammonia 

Nitrate (as N) 

Ammonia 

Nitrate (as N) 

Same as BAT PSNS set equal to 

NSPS 

Mass-based 

F No discharge of 

process 

wastewater 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater 

pollutants 

PSNS: 

Ammonia (as N) 

Concentrationbased 

G No discharge of 

process 

wastewater 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater 

pollutants 

PSNS: 

Ammonia (as N) 

Total phosphorus 

Nitrate (as N) 

Concentrationbased 

Phosphate Manufacturing 

A2 None None None None 

B2 None None None None 

C2 None None None None 

D2,3 Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

TSS 

pH 

Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

Same as BPT None 

TDD says 

reserved; nothing 

in CFR 

Concentrationbased 

E3 Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

TSS 

pH 

Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

Same as BPT None 

TDD says 

reserved; nothing 

in CFR 

Concentrationbased 

F Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

TSS 

pH 

Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

Total phosphorus 

Fluoride 

TSS 

pH 

None 

TDD says 

reserved; nothing 

in CFR 

Mass-based 

Source: Code of Federal Regulations, <http://www.epa.gov/epahome/cfr40.htm>. 1

Subpart A: No discharge except calcium sulfate storage pile runoff. BPT = 10-year, 24-hour rainfall event and

BAT = 25-year, 24-hour rainfall event.

2

Subcategories A-C have applicability defined in the regulation. However, there are no limitations or standards. 3

Subparts D-E: No discharge of process wastewater except for cooling water recirculation systems designed,

constructed, and operated to maintain surge capacity equal to the runoff from the 10-year, 24-hour rainfall event

(BPT) (25-year for BAT).

5-35
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.1.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

This section presents wastewater sources and characteristics as determined from 

TRI and PCS data. 

Wastewater Discharge 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-26 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons per year (MGY)) for 2000, median 

annual discharge flow, and the range of annual flows for fertilizer and phosphate facilities. 

Facilities not reporting a flow were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in 

Table 5-26 are based on major dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. One facility in each 

category accounts for the majority of total flow reported for each point source category. 

Table 5-26. 2000 Wastewater Flows for Fertilizer and Phosphate Facilities 

Point Source Category 

Number of Major 

Facilities Reporting 

Nonzero Flows 

Median 

Facility Flow 

2000 (MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows 2000 

(MGY) 

Total Flow 

2000 (MGY) 

Fertilizer Manufacturing 24 394 26 - 703,349 912,489 

Phosphate Manufacturing 11 291 3 - 62,856 99,827 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 

Pollutants 

Table 5-27 lists the pollutants reported to PCS, which account for 95 percent of 

the total TWPE for fertilizer and phosphate manufacturing facilities that reported discharges to 

PCS by major dischargers for 2000. Table 5-28 lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged 

directly or indirectly, which account for 95 percent of the total TWPE for fertilizer and 

phosphate manufacturing facilities that reported to TRI for 2000. This table presents the number 

of facilities that reported each chemical, total pounds of chemical discharged, and total TWPE 

for each chemical. Note that information provided in Tables 5-27 and 5-28 reflect information 

as reported to TRI or PCS. 

The pollutant contributing most of the TWPE from phosphate manufacturing 

facilities is fluoride. Fluoride is a component of phosphate rock, used in the production of 

phosphoric acid. The vast majority of fluoride (>99 percent) reported discharged in 2000 came 

from one facility covered under Subpart D, Deflourinated Phosphate Rock. This facility is in 

compliance with their current NPDES permit and discharges fluoride in once-through cooling 

water and stormwater at concentrations of about 50 to 60 mg/L1

. 

1

BAT limitations for fluoride discharges from cooling water recirculation systems are 75 mg/L daily maximum and 

25 mg/L monthly average. 

5-36 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-27. Fertilizer and Phosphate Pollutant Discharges Reported by Major Facilities to 

PCS for 2000

Cumulative 

Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

Fertilizer Manufacturing 

Fluoride, Total (as F) 3 2,188,701 76,605 2330 90 - 74,184 66% 66% 

Aluminum, Total (as Al) 1 346,681 22,357 NA NA 19% 85% 

Iron, Total (as Fe) 1 1,631,865 9,138 NA NA 8% 93% 

Nitrogen, Ammonia 

Total (as N) 

25 3,483,296 6,375 90 0.4 - 1,595 5% 98% 

Totals 26 508,665,081 116,464 

Phosphate Manufacturing 

Fluoride, Total (as F) 14 31,243,823 1e+06 255 14 - 1,080,892 99.8% 99.8% 

Total 14 110,978,734 1e+06 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000.

NA - Not applicable; only one facility reported this pollutant.

Table 5-28. Fertilizer and Phosphate Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to TRI 

for 2000

Cumulative 

Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI Total 

(lbs/yr) 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

Fertilizer Manufacturing 

Chromium Compounds 2 14,030 7,181 3,591 10 - 7,171 32% 32% 

Dioxin and Dioxin-like 

Compounds1 

2 0.01 6,626 3,313 384 - 6,242 29% 61% 

Copper Compounds 11 3,011 1,888 160 3 - 754 8% 70% 

Chlorine 9 3,725 1,814 67 2 - 519 8% 78% 

Manganese Compounds 7 24,056 1,694 18 0 - 1,414 8% 85% 

Zinc Compounds 13 33,523 1,567 12 0 - 796 7% 92% 

Ammonia 48 522,929 787 4.1 0 - 83 3% 96% 

Totals 107 5,498,199 22,566 

Phosphate Manufacturing 

Ammonia 12 15,113 22.8 0.4 <1 - 12 70% 70% 

Zinc Compounds 1 105 4.9 NA NA 15% 85% 

Manganese Compounds 1 66 4.7 NA NA 14% 99% 

Total 31 18,427 32.5 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

NA - Not applicable; only one facility reported this pollutant. 

 EPA estimated the TWPE for dioxin using the congener distributions reported to TRI. For facilities that did not report a distribution, EPA used 

an average distribution reported by facilities in this point source category. 

5-37 

1
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

The primary pollutants contributing most of the TWPE for fertilizer 

manufacturing facilities include fluoride, metal compounds, ammonia, and dioxin and dioxinlike compounds. With the exception of ammonia, these pollutants are reported as discharged by 

a few facilities. Ammonia was discharged by over half of the facilities in PCS and nonzero 

dischargers reporting to TRI. The primary pollutants contributing to the TWPE as reported to 

TRI are metal pollutants and dioxin and dioxin-like compounds. Over half of the TWPE 

reported is attributed to a few facilities. Note that 2000 was the first year that facilities were 

required to report dioxin discharges to TRI. Based on information from this review, many 

facilities report dioxin discharges at a concentration equal to half of the method detection limit 

and most do not sample their effluents for dioxin. 

5.4.1.4 Pollutant Prevention and Treatment Technology 

Table 5-29 lists the treatment technologies most commonly used by fertilizer and 

phosphate manufacturing facilities reporting to TRI for 2000. 

Table 5-29. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Fertilizer and Phosphate 

Manufacturing Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment 

Process 

Number of Fertilizer Facilities Reporting Use 

Number of Phosphate 

Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct Dischargers 

(22 facilities) 

Indirect Dischargers 

(1 facility) 

Direct Dischargers 

(5 facilities) 

Neutralization 9 1 2 

Equalization 6 1 -

Settling/Clarification 4 1 2 

Biological Treatment 6 - -

Steam Stripping 4 - -

Other Chemical Treatment 3 - 1 

Oil Skimming 3 1 -

Chemical Precipitation - Lime or 

Sodium Hydroxide 

1 - 2 

Other Physical Treatment 2 - -

Other Treatment 3 - 2 

Source: EPA, Section 7A Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

5-38 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.1.5 Industry Trends 

The Census Bureau released preliminary results of the 2002 economic census on a 

subsector basis. The Chemical Manufacturing subsector, classified under North American 

Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code 325, includes establishments that manufacture 

basic chemicals and establishments that transform organic and inorganic raw materials by a 

chemical process and formulate the materials into intermediate and end products. This NAICS 

subsector includes: 

C Basic chemical manufacturing; 

C Resin, synthetic rubber, and artificial and synthetic fibers and filaments 

manufacturing; 

C Pesticide, fertilizer, and other agricultural chemical manufacturing; 

C Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing; 

C Paint, coating, and adhesive manufacturing; 

C Soap, cleaning compound and toilet preparation manufacturing; and 

C Other chemical product manufacturing. 

Thus, NAICS code 325 includes more than just the fertilizer and phosphate manufacturing 

industries. The trends shown below over the period 1997 - 2002 represent the entire subsector 

and may not be comparable for the fertilizer and phosphate manufacturing industries. Chemical 

manufacturing sales increased over the five-year period while the number of establishments 

declined, and employment dropped by 10 percent. 

Trends in U.S. Chemical Manufacturing Industry 

1997 2002 

Establishments 13,474 13,107 

Sales $415 billion $427 billion 

Paid Employees 883 thousand 790 thousand 

Source: 2002 Economic Census, http://www.census.gov/econ/census02/advance/TABLE2.HTM. 

5.4.1.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

During EPA’s outreach effort, some stakeholders suggested that the fertilizer 

manufacturing ELGS are outdated and do not seem to be sufficiently stringent. During previous 

outreach efforts, stakeholders in Oklahoma noted concerns related to ammonia discharges in this 

5-39 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

industry. Based on the information presented in Section 5.4.1.3 concerning wastewater 

discharges, EPA concludes that only a few facilities discharge the majority of TWPE load from 

these industries. However, ammonia was discharged by over half of the facilities in PCS and 

nonzero dischargers reporting to TRI. 

5.4.1.7 Conclusions 

Pollutants with the highest TWPE reported to TRI and PCS for 2000 are fluoride, 

metal compounds, ammonia, dioxin, and dioxin-like compounds for fertilizer manufacturing 

facilities and fluoride for phosphate manufacturing facilities. 

For phosphate manufacturing, a single facility, which is in compliance with its 

permit limits, contributes greater than 99 percent of the reported fluoride discharges. 

Consequently, based on the information available at this time, EPA concludes the phosphate 

manufacturing ELGs do not need additional study at this time. 

For fertilizer manufacturing, with the exception of ammonia, only a few facilities 

contribute the majority of the TWPE. Over half of the facilities in PCS and nonzero dischargers 

reporting to TRI reported discharging ammonia. EPA plans to further evaluate its methodology 

for considering ammonia and nitrogen compound discharges. 

5.4.1.8 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Industrial Technology Division Rulemaking Summary, Category: 

Fertilizer Manufacturing, 40 CFR Part 418. Washington, D.C. No Date. 

2. Telephone conversation with Russell G. Oliver of IMC Phosphates, Uncle Sam, 

LA, and Bob Southworth of ERG. “SIC Code for Uncle Sam and Faustina 

Facilities.” November 18, 2003. 

3. Telephone conversation with Jim Smith of Mississippi Phosphate Corp, 

Pascagoula, MS, and Arash Hooshangi of ERG. “Clarification of Manufacturing 

Processes and Pollutant Discharges.” January 16, 2004. 

4. Telephone conversation with Billy Pirkle of Royster-Clark, Hartsville, SC, and 

Arash Hooshangi of ERG. “Clarification of Manufacturing Processes and 

Pollutant Discharges.” January 16, 2004. 

5. Australian Government. Emission Estimation Technique Manual for Inorganic 

Chemicals Manufacturing, Version 2.0. Department of the Environment and 

Heritage. 2004. Available online at: http://www.npi.gov.au/handbooks/ 

approved_handbooks/pubs/inorganic-chemical.pdf. 

5-40
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

6. Australian Government. Emission Estimation Technique Manual for Ammonium 

Sulfate Manufacturing, Version 2.0. Department of the Environment and 

Heritage. 2004. Available online at: http://www.npi.gov.au/handbooks/ 

approved_handbooks/pubs/fammsulf.pdf. 

7. U.S. EPA. Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors, AP-42, Fifth Edition, 

Volume I: Stationary Point and Area Sources, Chapter 8: Inorganic Chemical 

Industry. Washington, D.C. 1988. Available online at: 

http://www.epa.gov/ttn/chief/ap42/ch08/. 

8. Vichem. “Phosphoric Acid Purification.” 2004. Available online at: 

http://www.vichem.fr/apurifacidphos.htm 

9. KEMWorks Technology, Inc. Animal Feed Ingredients: Defluorinated 

Phosphate Rock (DFP). 2004. Available online at: 

http://www.kemworks.com/Animal_Nutrition.htm 

10. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Phosphorus Derived Chemicals Segment 

of the Phosphate Manufacturing Point Source Category. EPA-440/1-74-006-a. 

Washington, D.C. January 1974. 

11. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Other Non-Fertilizer Phosphate 

Chemicals Segment of the Phosphate Manufacturing Point Source Category. 

EPA-440/1-75/043-a. Washington, D.C. June 1976. 

12. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Basic Fertilizer Chemicals Segment of the 

Fertilizer Manufacturing Point Source Category. EPA-440/1-74-011-a. 

Washington, D.C. March 1974. 

13. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Formulated Fertilizer Chemicals Segment 

of the Fertilizer Manufacturing Point Source Category. EPA-440/1-75/042-a. 

Washington, D.C. January 1975. 

5.4.2 Ore Mining and Dressing 

5.4.2.1 Industry Description 

Regulations in 40 CFR Part 440 for the Ore Mining and Dressing Point Source 

Category apply to discharges from facilities that are engaged in the mining, milling, or preparing 

of 23 separate metal ores. Metal ore mining is conducted by a variety of methods, such as 

5-41
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

surface mining, underground mining, and in situ mining. Surface mining operations include 

quarrying, open pit, open cut, open cast, stripping, placarding, and dredging. Underground 

mining, which is used primarily for lead and zinc ores, is carried out through shafts. In situ 

mining, or solution mining, includes leaching of uranium and copper. Metals are separated from 

less valuable material (gangue) in milling processes. Methods of extraction include gravity 

concentration, magnetic separation, electrostatic separation, floatation, and leaching. Leaching 

involves processes such as amalgamation, cyanidation, solvent extraction, and ion exchange. 

Chemicals used in separation processes, in particular the reagents used in froth floatation, are the 

primary source of toxic organic pollutants for this industry. This industry is divided into nine 

SIC codes, as shown in Table 5-30. 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Ore Mining and 

Dressing category from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, the TRIReleases2000, 

and PCSLoads2000. Table 5-30 lists the number of ore mining and dressing facilities by SIC 

code from these sources. The number of facilities reporting to TRI for 2000 represent only about 

14 percent of the ore mining and dressing industry based on the total number of facilities in the 

census, while the number of major dischargers reporting to PCS represent about 11 percent of 

the number of facilities in the census. 

Table 5-30. Number of Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities 

1997 U.S. 2000 TRI - All 

2000 PCS

 Major Minor 

SIC Code Economic Census Dischargers Dischargers Dischargers 

1011 Iron Ores 32 NA 5 5 

1021 Copper Ores 49 19 11 2 

1031 Lead and Zinc Ores 31 19 23 6 

1041 Gold Ores 300 40 18 14 

1044 Silver Ores 16 5 1 5 

1061 Ferroalloy Ores NR 7 6 1 

1081 Metal Mining Services 203 NA 0 1 

1094 Uranium-Radium-Vanadium 

Ores 

29 NA 10 13 

1099 Metal Ores, Not Elsewhere 

Classified 

36 6 3 4 

Total 696 96 (14%) 77 (11%) 51 (7%) 

Source: U.S. Economic Census, 1997; TRIReleases2000; PCSLoads2000.

NA - Facilities in this SIC code are not required to report to TRI.

NR - No facilities are reported in this SIC code.

Of the 96 ore mining and dressing facilities in TRIReleases2000, Table 5-31 

presents the number and percentage of facilities by type of discharge. According to available 

5-42 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

data in TRI 2000, no ore mining and dressing facilities reported both direct and indirect 

discharges. Over half of the facilities reporting to TRI indicated no wastewater discharge. Of 

those that discharge, almost all are direct dischargers (39 of 41). 

Ore mining and dressing facilities are geographically concentrated in the western 

states and Alaska. 

Table 5-31. Number of Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities by Discharge Type (TRI 2000) 

No Reported Wastewater 

Direct Dischargers Only Indirect Dischargers Only Discharge 

Percentage Percentage Percentage 

of All of All of All 

SIC Facilities in Facilities in Facilities in 

Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code 

1021 8 42% 0 0% 11 58% 

1031 18 95% 0 0% 1 5% 

1041 6 15% 2 5% 32 80% 

1044 3 60% 0 0% 2 40% 

1061 2 43% 0 0% 4 57% 

1099 1 17% 0 0% 5 83% 

Total 39 (41%) 2 (2%) 55 (57%) 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

Sources of wastewater for ore mining and dressing facilities include: 

C Spillage from thickeners; lubricants and floatation agents;

C Transport water; and 

C Leaching processes.

5.4.2.2 Regulatory Background 

The ELGS for this industry are codified under 40 CFR Part 440. Subcategories 

are based on the metal being extracted, the differences between mine and mill wastewater, and 

the type of mill process. Climate, rainfall, and location were considered in determining if any 

subcategories could achieve zero discharge. Mines located in arid regions can effectively reduce 

effluent discharge quantities by evaporation. Other facilities, located in areas with net positive 

precipitation or icy conditions, have less control over their discharge volumes. 

The final regulation was promulgated in 1982. BPT limitations are based on lime 

precipitation and settling. For BAT, EPA also considered adding secondary settling, 

flocculation, or granular media filtration as the technology basis. EPA further considered 

5-43
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

secondary settling because it was the least expensive of these three options. EPA analyzed plant 

data from facilities using secondary settling, and determined that nationally applicable 

regulations based on secondary settling were not necessary for the following reasons: 

C BPT removes at least 95 percent of the relevant pollutants; 

C The only environmentally significant pollutants remaining after stream 

flow dilution are cadmium and arsenic, and no appreciable reduction of 

these pollutants was observed with secondary settling; and 

C The BPT limitations for the Ore Mining and Dressing category are more 

stringent than BAT limitations for other industries in 1982. 

BAT ELGS are set at BPT levels for toxic pollutants. The toxic pollutants regulated by BAT for 

this industry in at least one subcategory are cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, and zinc. Table 

5-32 presents the pollutants regulated by ELGS for each ore mining subcategory. 

Process wastewater for this industry includes any water used in the mill or in the 

ancillary operations required for beneficiating the ore, and contacting the ore, processing 

chemicals, intermediate products, by-products or products of a process, including contact cooling 

water. 

Table 5-32. Ore Mining and Dressing Pollutants Regulated by Existing Effluent 

Limitations Guidelines and Standards 

40 CFR 

Part Subcategory BPT BAT NSPS 

440.10 Iron Ore TSS, Dissolved Fe, 

pH 

Dissolved Fe TSS, Dissolved Fe, pH 

440.20 Aluminum Ore TSS, Fe, Al, pH Total Fe, Al TSS, Fe, Al, pH 

440.30 Uranium, Radium, & 

Vanadium Ores 

TSS, COD, Zn, 

Ra226 (dissolved), 

Ra226 (total), U, pH 

COD, Zn, Ra226 

(dissolved), Ra226 

(total), U 

TSS, COD, Zn, Ra226 

(dissolved), Ra226 

(total), U, pH 

440.40 Mercury Ore TSS, Hg, Ni, pH Hg TSS, Hg, pH 

440.50 Titanium Ore TSS, Fe, pH, Zn, Ni Fe, Zn TSS, Fe, pH, Zn 

440.60 Tungsten Ore TSS, Cd, Cu, Zn, Pb, 

As, pH 

Cd, Cu, Zn Cd, Cu, Zn, pH, TSS 

440.70 Nickel Ore TSS, Cd, Cu, Zn, Pb, 

As, pH 

Reserved Reserved 

440.80 Vanadium Ore TSS, Cd, Cu, Zn, Pb, 

As, pH 

Reserved Reserved 

440.90 Antimony Ore Reserved Reserved Reserved 

5-44
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-32 (Continued) 

40 CFR 

Part Subcategory BPT BAT NSPS 

440.100 Copper, Lead, Zinc, Gold, TSS, Cu, Zn, Pb, Hg, Cu, Zn, Pb, Hg, Cd TSS, Cu, Zn, Pb, Hg, 

Silver, Molybdenum Ores Cd, pH Cd, pH 

440.110 Platinum Ore Reserved Cu, Zn, Pb, Hg, Cd Reserved 

440.140 Gold Placer Mines Settleable Solids Settleable Solids Settleable Solids 

Source: Code of Federal Regulations <http://www.epa.gov/epahome/cfr40.htm >. 

5.4.2.3 Wastewater Characteristics 

Of the 77 major facilities reporting to PCS, 57 (74 percent) report information on 

discharge outfall flow rates. Table 5-33 presents the total annual flow (in million gallons) for 

2000, median annual discharge flow, and range of annual flows for each SIC code. Facilities not 

reporting a flow were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-33 are 

based on major dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. Iron ore mines (SIC code 1011) had the 

largest median facility flow, while copper ores (SIC code 1021) had the lowest median facility 

flow. However, for uranium, radium, and vanadium ores (SIC code 1094), 8 of 10 facilities 

reported zero flows. The total number of facilities reporting wastewater flows to PCS for 2000 

accounts for about 12 percent of the Ore Mining and Dressing industry based on 1997 Economic 

Census, and thus may not characterize the entire industry. 

Table 5-33. 2000 Wastewater Flows for Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities 

SIC 

Code 

1997 U.S. 

Economic 

Census 

Number of Major 

Facilities Reporting 

Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility 

Flow 2000 

(MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows (MGY) 

Total Flow 

2000 (MGY) 

1011 32 5 2,455 2-48,680 1,000,173 

1021 49 5 2 0.003-5,051 351,130 

1031 31 20 350 38-6,548 587,837 

1041 300 16 398 2-3,797 567,185 

1044 16 1 553 NA 553 

1061 NR 5 732 84-8,096 184,542 

1094 29 2 72 3-142 5,129 

1099 36 3 1,372 275-1,607 17,732 

Total 493 57 2,714,281 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000 and 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

NR - None reported. 

Table 5-34 presents the chemicals reported to TRI for 2000 as discharged directly 

or indirectly that account for 95 percent of the total TWPE for each SIC code. This table presents 

5-45 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

the number of facilities that reported each chemical, total pounds of chemical discharged for 

each SIC code, and total TWPE for each chemical. Iron ore mines, metal mining service 

facilities, and uranium-radium-vanadium ore mines (SIC codes 1011, 1081, 1094) are not 

required to report to TRI. 

Table 5-34. Ore Mining and Dressing Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to 

TRI for 2000 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI 

Total 

(lbs/yr) 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code 

TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage of 

Total SIC Code 

TWPE 

1021 Silver Compounds 1 255 4,200 4,200 NA 49% 49% 

1021 Copper CompoundsR 6 1,777 1,114 1,114 NA 13% 62% 

1021 Arsenic Compounds 1 255 885 885 NA 10% 72% 

1021 Cadmium CompoundsR 1 255 666 666 NA 8% 80% 

1021 Lead CompoundsR 2 256 573 287 2-571 7% 87% 

1021 Selenium Compounds 1 255 286 286 NA 3% 90% 

1021 Thallium Compounds 1 255 255 255 NA 3% 93% 

1021 Nickel Compounds 2 1,701 185 93 0-185 2% 95% 

1031 Lead CompoundsR 11 6,062 13,579 571 29-8,590 61% 61% 

1031 Manganese Compounds 3 73,700 5,191 6 1-5,184 23% 84% 

1031 Copper Compoundsr 9 1,571 985 82 7-320 4% 88% 

1031 Zinc CompoundsR 17 21,027 983 35 0-219 4% 92% 

1031 Cadmium CompoundsR 5 324 846 31 8-713 4% 96% 

1041 Arsenic Compounds 4 4,374 15,175 1,993 87-11,102 89% 89% 

1041 Sodium Nitrite 1 1,955 730 730 NA 4% 93% 

1041 Copper CompoundsR 2 516 324 162 129-194 2% 95% 

1044 Lead CompoundsR 3 819 1,835 591 34-1,210 43% 43% 

1044 Arsenic Compounds 2 326 1,131 566 212-919 27% 70% 

1044 Silver Compounds 2 32 527 264 247-280 12% 82% 

1044 Manganese Compounds 3 5,122 361 106 82-173 9% 91% 

1044 Mercury CompoundsR 1 2 234 234 NA 6% 97% 

1061 Lead 1 117 262 262 NA 82% 82% 

1061 Manganese Compounds 2 654 46 23 0-46 14% 96% 

Total 41 491,249 52,627 

Source: TRIReleases2000. R - Pollutants that are currently regulated by ELGS.

NA - No range was calculated because only one facility reported a nonzero release.

Information in Table 5-34 shows that for some SIC codes (such as 1021 and 

1041) and many of the pollutants listed, the pollutants are primarily attributed to a handful of 

discharging facilities. However, of the chemical releases reported to TRI for 2000, the following 

5-46 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

pollutants are the major contributors to the total TWPE (52,627 lb-eq/yr) for ore mining and 

dressing facilities: 

C Lead in SIC code 1031 (lead and zinc ores) accounts for 26 percent of the 

ore mining TWPE and is discharged by just over half of the facilities 

reporting to TRI in this SIC code; and 

C Arsenic in SIC code 1041 (gold ores) accounts for 29 percent of the ore 

mining TWPE, which is reported as discharge by only 10 percent of 

facilities reporting to TRI in this SIC code. 

Lead is regulated under 40 CFR Part 440 by BPT and BAT for mining activities 

in the following SIC codes: 

C 1021 - Copper ores;

C 1031 - Lead and zinc ores;

C 1041 - Gold ores;

C 1044 - Silver ores; and

C 1061 - Ferroalloy ores (molybdenum).

In developing the ELGS for the Ore Mining and Dressing category, EPA concluded that 

limitations on copper, lead, zinc, and mercury would ensure adequate control of arsenic (1). 

Arsenic is, therefore, not specifically regulated under the existing rule.

 Table 5-35 lists the pollutants reported to PCS for 2000, which account for 95 

percent of the total TWPE for each SIC code. 

Table 5-35. Ore Mining and Dressing Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS for 2000 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Number 

of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

1011 Molybdenum, Total (as 

Mo) 

1 819,646 165,108 165,108 NA 96% 96% 

1021 Copper, Total (as Cu) 3 14,166 8,881 4,440 443-8,438 67% 67% 

1021 Arsenic, Total (as As) 2 576 2,000 2,000 NA 15% 82% 

1021 Zinc, Total (as Zn) 3 15,129 707 354 134-573 5% 87% 

1021 Cadmium, Total (as Cd) 4 196 513 256 227-285 4% 91% 

1021 Cyanide, Total (as Cn) 3 412 444 444 NA 3% 94% 

1021 Lead, Total (as Pb) 2 127 285 285 NA 2% 96% 

5-47
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-35 (Continued) 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Number 

of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

1031 Mercury Total 

Recoverable 

3 641 75,044 75,044 NA 52% 52% 

1031 Cadmium, Total (as Cd) 15 19,025 49,694 17 3-49,205 35% 87% 

1031 Lead, Total Recoverable 9 5,128 11,487 1,091 71-4,989 8% 95% 

1041 Arsenic, Total 

Recoverable 

10 1,083 3,757 164 6-1,896 59% 59% 

1041 Manganese, Total 

Recoverable 

6 8,416 593 166 11-250 9% 68% 

1041 Aluminum, Total 

Recoverable 

3 5,025 324 78 66-180 5% 73% 

1041 Silver, Total Recoverable 9 19 312 53 18-240 5% 78% 

1041 Copper, Total 

Recoverable 

11 485 304 11 132-304 5% 83% 

1041 Cyanide, Weak Acid, 

Dissociable 

11 275 296 21 0-253 5% 88% 

1041 Lead, Total Recoverable 11 60 135 8 1-73 2% 90% 

1041 Selenium, Total 

Recoverable 

9 105 118 17 1-41 2% 92% 

1041 Zinc, Potentially 

Dissolved 

3 2,183 102 38 0-64 2% 94% 

1041 Cadmium, Total 

Recoverable 

11 28 73 3 0-56 1% 95% 

1041 Zinc, Total Recoverable 11 1,298 61 8 1-23 1% 95% 

1044 Arsenic, Total 

Recoverable 

1 11 39 39 NA 93% 93% 

1044 Copper, Total 

Recoverable 

1 2 1 1 NA 2% 95% 

1061 Molybdenum, Total (as 

Mo) 

3 131,433 26,476 13,238 457-26,018 56% 56% 

1061 Fluoride, Total (as F) 2 203,918 7,137 3,569 76-7,062 15% 

1061 Manganese, Potentially 

Dissolved 

1 93,362 6,567 6,576 NA 14% 80% 

1061 Manganese, Total 

Recoverable 

3 64,645 4,553 2,277 98-4,455 10% 95% 

1061 Cyanide, Total (as Cn) 3 557 600 600 NA 1% 95% 

1094 Manganese, Total (as Mn) 2 659 46 46 NA 47% 47% 

1094 Selenium, Total (as Se) 9 40 44 44 NA 45% 92% 

1094 Copper, Total 

Recoverable 

1 10 7 7 NA 7% 99% 

1099 Iron, Total Recoverable 3 7,508 42 11 2-29 100% 100% 

Total 77 110,515,980 383,560 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000.

NA - No range was calculated because only one facility reported a nonzero release.

5-48 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Of the major facility discharges from the Ore Mining and Dressing category, the 

following pollutants are the major contributors to the total PCS TWPE (383,560 lb-eq/yr): 

C Molybdenum accounts for 43 percent of the ore mining TWPE and is 

discharged by a single facility in SIC code 1011 (Iron Ores); 

C Mercury accounts for 20 percent of the ore mining TWPE and is 

discharged by approximately 10 percent of the facilities in SIC code 1031 

(Lead and Zinc Ores); 

C Cadmium accounts for 13 percent of the ore mining TWPE and is 

discharged by approximately 56 percent of the facilities in SIC code 1031 

(Lead and Zinc Ores); and 

C Molybdenum accounts for 7 percent of the ore mining TWPE and is 

discharged by 25 percent of the facilities in SIC code 1061 (Ferroalloy 

Ores). 

Cadmium and mercury are regulated under 40 CFR Part 440 by BPT and BAT in 

several subcategories, including the mining activities in the following SIC codes: 

C 1021 - Copper Ores;

C 1031 - Lead and Zinc Ores;

C 1041 - Gold Ores;

C 1044 - Silver Ores; and

C 1061 - Ferroalloy Ores (Molybdenum).

Molybdenum was not among the pollutants identified for control in the 1982 Development 

Document (1), and thus is not regulated in any ore mining subcategory. Molybdenum has not 

been historically regulated in ELGS. Data collected for recent ELGS development for other 

industries demonstrates that molybdenum removal requires precipitation and solid/liquid 

separation at a pH unique to molybdenum. (3) 

Table 5-36 lists the pollutants from Tables 5-34 and 5-35 with the highest TWPE 

that are not currently regulated under 40 CFR Part 440. 

5-49
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-36. Ore Mining and Dressing Top Pollutants Reported to TRI and PCS for 2000 

That Are Not Regulated Under 40 CFR Part 440 

Pollutant 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 1 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 2 

Reason for 

Exclusion from 

ELGS 

Additional 

Information 

Molybdenum NR3 NR3 191,584 50% Not identified for 

control. 

Only 4 facilities report 

discharge of this 

pollutant; requires 

precipitation at a unique 

pH. 

Arsenic 16,174 31% 3,7964 0.99% Limits on Cu, Pb, Zn, 

& Hg effectively 

control releases of 

this pollutant. 

Primarily reported in 

both TRI and PCS from 

SIC code 1041 

facilities. 

Manganese 5,353 10% 6,5785 1.7% Not identified for 

control. 

Generally not regulated 

in ELGs because it can 

be used as a treatment 

chemical. 

Silver 4,315 8.2% 3126 0.081% Detected at levels too 

low for treatment by 

known technologies. 

Over 97% of TWPE 

reported by a single 

facility in SIC code 

1021. 

Source: Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Pretreatment Standard, 1982; TRIReleases2000;

PCSLoads2000. 1

The total TWPE for all ore mining and dressing facilities reporting to TRI for 2000 is 52,627 lb-eq/yr.

2

The total TWPE for all ore mining and dressing facilities reporting to PCS for 2000 is 383,560 lb-eq/yr. 3

Molybdenum discharges are not required to be reported to TRI.

4

The discharge of arsenic represents the amount reported to PCS as arsenic, total recoverable. 5

The discharge of manganese represents the amount reported to PCS as manganese, potentially dissolved. 6

The discharge of silver represents the amount reported to PCS as silver, total recoverable.

EPA also attempted to determine how effective this regulation has been by 

comparing previously collected data to the 2000 TRI and PCS data. In 1977, EPA began a series 

of sampling and analysis programs to identify pollutants of concern in the ore mining and 

dressing industry, placing an emphasis on toxic pollutants. These programs in support to the 

existing regulations included: 

C Screen Sampling Program (20 facilities); 

C Verification Sampling Program (14 facilities); 

C Verification Monitoring Program (3 facilities); 

C EPA Regional Offices Surveillance and Analysis Program (15 facilities); 

C Cost Site Visit Program (7 facilities); 

C Uranium Study (5 mines and 5 mills); 

C Gold Placer Mining Study (11 mines); 

C Titanium Sand Dredging Mining and Milling Study (3 facilities); and 

C Solid Waste Study (6 subcategories). 

5-50
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

The results of these nine sampling programs are as follows: 

C Out of 129 toxic organic pollutants, 29 were detected in treated 

wastewater; 

C All 13 toxic metals were detected in wastewater; and 

C Cyanide and asbestos were observed in many samples. 

Table 5-37 compares the results of wastewater sampling presented in the 1982 

Development Document (1) with counts of facilities reporting discharges of the 13 toxic metals 

and cyanide to TRI and PCS for 2000. Because only facilities with permit limits report to PCS 

and only facilities above thresholds report to TRI, the PCS and TRI counts are minimum 

estimates of facilities discharging wastewater containing these metals. No new pollutants were 

identified for this industry after reviewing the 2000 TRI and PCS data. 

Table 5-37. Toxic Metals in Ore Mining Wastewater 

Chemical 

1982 Development 

Document 

# Detects / # Samples 

TRIReleases20001 

Number of Facilities 

Reporting Chemical 

PCSLoads20002 

Number of Facilities 

Reporting Chemical 

Antimony 6/82 4 1 

Arsenic 106/114 7 6 

Beryllium 43/84 0 1 

Cadmium 54/106 7 34 

Chromium 70/85 5 5 

Copper 100/103 17 28 

Cyanide 24/68 4 18 

Lead 70/86 15 24 

Mercury 54/87 2 34 

Nickel 70/86 6 2 

Selenium 58/84 2 13 

Silver 29/84 2 1 

Thallium 3/82 1 2 

Zinc 106/106 23 38 

Source: EPA, Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards, 1982 (1);

TRIReleases2000; PCSLoads2000. 1

96 facilities reported wastewater discharges to TRI for 2000.

2

77 major dischargers reported to PCS for 2000.

5-51
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

In general, this information suggests the number of ore mining and dressing facilities discharging 

these toxic metals in process wastewater decreased substantially after promulgation of the ore 

mining and dressing ELGS. 

Stormwater 

EPA staff in Region 9 expressed a concern over high concentrations of metals in 

active and inactive mine site runoff that are violating water-quality standards. In particular, they 

cited arsenic, copper, mercury, and selenium. These discharges are currently considered 

industrial stormwater discharges and are not subject to ELGS. EPA analyzed information 

reported to TRI to determine if the reported polluted releases originated from stormwater. TRI 

requires facilities that monitor stormwater runoff pollutant concentrations to report the 

percentage of the total quantity of pollutant released to a receiving stream contributed by 

stormwater. Stormwater discharges are reported to Section 5 of TRI as a percentage of a total 

stream discharge. Table 5-38 compares the surface water releases of pollutants to the amount of 

discharge attributed to stormwater runoff at ore mining and dressing facilities. 

Table 5-38. Ore Mining and Dressing Stormwater Discharges Reported to TRI for 2000 

Percent 

Pounds of 

Annual Discharge Stormwater Reported 

Annual 

Number of 

Facilities 

Number of 

Facilities 

Discharge 

From 

SIC Chemical Reporting Pounds TWPE Reporting Pounds TWPE Stormwater 

1021 Lead 

Compounds 

2 256 573 1 1 2.2 0.39% 

1021 Manganese 

Compounds 

3 352 25 2 87 6.1 25% 

1021 Nickel 

Compounds 

2 1,701 185 1 1 0.11 0.06% 

1021 Zinc 

Compounds 

3 1,917 90 1 97 4.5 5.0% 

1021 Copper 

Compounds 

6 1,777 1,114 3 15 9.4 0.84% 

1031 Zinc 

Compounds 

17 21,027 983 8 3,037 142 14% 

1031 Cadmium 

Compounds 

5 324 846 2 52 136 16% 

1031 Copper 

Compounds 

9 1,371 985 2 53 34 3.5% 

1031 Lead 

Compounds 

11 6,062 13,579 2 70 157 1.2% 

1031 Mercury 

Compounds 

1 3 351 1 0.0003 

0 

0.035 0.010% 

5-52
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-38 (Continued) 

Percent 

Pounds of 

Annual Discharge Stormwater Reported 

Annual 

Number of 

Facilities 

Number of 

Facilities 

Discharge 

From 

SIC Chemical Reporting Pounds TWPE Reporting Pounds TWPE Stormwater 

1041 Manganese 

Compounds 

5 1,298 91 1 2 0.14 0.15% 

1061 Lead 1 117 262 1 117 262 100% 

1061 Barium 1 109 0.22 1 109 0.22 100% 

1061 Manganese 

Compounds 

2 654 262 1 4 0.28 0.11% 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

Note: Of the 96 facilities that reported surface water discharges, 14 facilities attributed a percentage of their

discharge to stormwater runoff.

None of the arsenic or selenium releases reported to TRI were identified as 

originating from stormwater. The total mercury TWPE from stormwater is 0.035 lb-eq/year, 

which accounts for 0.005 percent of the total mercury TWPE reported to TRI by ore mining and 

dressing facilities. The total copper TWPE from stormwater is 42.92 lb-eq/year, which accounts 

for 1.7 of the total copper TWPE reported to TRI by ore mining and dressing facilities. Stream 

descriptions are not provided for stormwater, so it is not possible to determine what percentage 

of the discharges are from waste rock and overburden piles. Except for one facility in SIC code 

1061 (Ferroalloy Ores), the percentage of reported TWPE/yr identified as stormwater discharges 

was 25 percent or less. 

These stormwater discharges are currently subject to industrial stormwater 

discharge requirements contained in EPA’s Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) for Industrial 

Activities Sector G for Metal Mining. The MSGP establishes benchmark monitoring for 

pollutants such as TSS, pH, arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, 

mercury, nickel, selenium, silver, zinc, and uranium. While facilities should be monitoring these 

discharges, there is no central repository for these monitoring data. Many mines are subject only 

to the stormwater permit and do not report to TRI or PCS. Consequently, for this review, EPA 

does not have adequate information to assess whether or not stormwater discharges associated 

with this industry are a significant source of pollution. Benchmark monitoring information 

supplied by the affected states and/or facilities is necessary to evaluate these discharges further. 

5-53
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.2.4 Pollution Prevention and Treatment Technology 

Most direct discharging ore mining and dressing facilities use settling or 

precipitation treatment. Of the 41 facilities reporting either direct or indirect discharges to TRI 

for 2000, 23 facilities provided information on their wastewater treatment operations. Table 

5-39 lists the treatment technologies used by ore mining and dressing facilities reporting to TRI 

for 2000. 

Table 5-39. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Ore Mining and Dressing 

Facilities, TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct Dischargers1 

(22 facilities) 

Indirect Dischargers1 

(1 facility) 

Settling/Clarification 20 0 

Chemical Precipitation 7 0 

Biological Treatment 4 0 

Adsorption 3 0 

Cyanide Oxidation 2 1 

Filtration 2 0 

Other Physical Treatment 2 1 

Source: EPA, Section 7A Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

1

In TRI 2000, of the facilities that provided information on their wastewater treatment operations, 22 facilities 

reported direct releases, 1 reported transfers to POTWs, and no facilities reported both direct releases and transfers 

to POTWs. 

For this study, EPA did not evaluate any pollution prevention or treatment 

methods to control pollutant discharges from stormwater discharges from ore mining and 

dressing facilities. However, EPA Region 9 suggests the following should be considered to 

control stormwater discharges: 

C Reclamation of waste rock or overburden and tailing piles (regrading and 

restoration to natural contours); and/or 

C Containment of stormwater through grading, berms, retention ponds (e.g., 

designed to contain 100-year, 24-hour storm). 

EPA did not evaluate the costs or the effectiveness of these suggestions for this review. 

5-54 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.2.5 Industry Trends 

Table 5-40 compares the ore mining and dressing industry as presented in the 

1982 TDD (1) with 2000 TRI data and 1997 Economic Census data. In this 15-year period, the 

number of mining facilities increased by 7 percent. The percentage of facilities that did not 

discharge wastewater may have increased, but this conclusion is based on information from the 

limited number of facilities that reported to TRI. 

Table 5-40. Comparison of Ore Mining and Dressing Facilities in 1982 and 2000 

Total Number of 

Facilities Direct Dischargers Indirect Dischargers No Discharge 

650 (1982) 67% 0% 33% 

6961

 (1997) 41%2 2%2 57%2 

Source: Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards, 1982 (1); U.S. Economic

Census, 1997 (2); TRIReleases2000. 1

Number of ore mining and dressing facilities identified in 1997 Economic Census.

2

Percentage of the 96 total facilities reporting to TRI in 2000.

5.4.2.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

Stakeholders and EPA Regional staff submitted the following comments 

regarding the Ore Mining and Dressing category: 

C The current ELGS may be outdated and the BAT technology basis may no 

longer be appropriate. 

C The current ELGS should be revised to address discharges from waste 

rock, spent ore, and leach material. Other issues that need to be addressed 

include closure/financial assurance plans, remediation, and a definition of 

active versus inactive mines. 

C The recommendations of EPA’s National Mining Team, which include 

water budgets and closure plans, should be considered when revising the 

hard rock mining ELGS. 

C The decision to exclude seepage from the waste dumps from the 40 CFR 

Part 440 definition of mine drainage should be reversed. 

C Discharges from waste rock and overburden piles should be subject to the 

ELGS and should not be considered industrial stormwater, which is not 

subject to guidelines. Pollutants of concern in the discharges include 

arsenic, copper, mercury, and selenium. 

5-55
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.2.7 Conclusions 

Pollutants with the highest TWPE in TRI and PCS for 2000 are metals, which are 

naturally associated with the ores being mined. Cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, and zinc are 

regulated by BAT, BPT, and NSPS under existing regulations. 

In TRI, lead and arsenic contribute the most TWPE for this industry (over 60 

percent). In PCS, molybdenum, mercury, and cadmium contribute the most TWPE for the 

industry (over 80 percent). As explained above, lead, cadmium, and mercury are regulated by 

this ELGS. Molybdenum is not regulated, only reported by four facilities, and requires chemical 

precipitation at a unique pH. Arsenic was not regulated under the existing rule because it was 

determined to be adequately controlled through regulation of other metals. This pollutant was 

primarily reported in a single SIC code 1041. 

The number of facilities reporting to TRI for 2000 represent only about 14 percent 

of the ore mining and dressing industry based on the total number of facilities in the 1997 

Economic Census, while the number of major dischargers reporting to PCS represent about 11 

percent of the industry. Consequently, the reported pollutant discharges may or may not 

accurately characterize the entire industry. Other data limitations and quality concerns include: 

C Outfall descriptions are not included in PCSLoads2000, and must be 

obtained on a per-facility basis from PCS; and 

C Few facilities report percent stormwater discharges in TRI, and it is 

difficult to compare TRI discharges from stormwater with other surface 

water discharges. 

During review of this regulation, EPA Regional staff raised concerns about metal 

pollutants associated with stormwater discharges. EPA does not have sufficient information on 

these discharges to evaluate them. These discharges are generally subject to benchmark 

monitoring in stormwater permits (e.g., Multi-Sector Stormwater General Permits) rather than 

ELGS requirements. More specific monitoring data on stormwater discharges from mines would 

be necessary to determine the extent of metal discharges from waste rock and overburden piles. 

Monitoring data for stormwater permits are not easily obtained since records of any monitoring 

data provided by mining operations are, in most instances, maintained at the state level. EPA did 

not contact any facilities directly because it did not identify any reported discharges to TRI or 

PCS as being uncharacteristic for the industry. In the next annual review, EPA will continue to 

obtain and consider information to fill remaining data gaps. 

5.4.2.8 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards for the Ore Mining and Dressing Point Source Category. 

EPA-440/1-82/061. Washington, D.C. 1982. 

5-56
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

2. U.S. Economic Census. 1997. Available online at: 

http://www.census.gov/epcd/www/econ97.html. 

3. U.S. EPA. Federal Register (Volume 68, Number 245), 40 CFR Part 437 [FRL7601-3] RIN 2040-AD95, “Effluent Limitations Guidelines, Pretreatment 

Standards, and New Source Performance Standards for the Centralized Waste 

Treatment Point Source Category.” December 22, 2003, pp. 71014-71026. 

5.4.3 Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Phase II 

5.4.3.1 Industry Description 

Paper is composed of cellulose fibers and nonfibrous additives, felted together 

into a uniform sheet. In the U.S., the most common fiber source is wood, followed by recovered 

waste paper. Pulp is the term used for the fibrous material produced chemically and/or 

mechanically from wood or other cellulosic materials. Paperboard is thick paper, nominally with 

thickness greater than 0.3 mm. For statistical purposes, the U.S. Government divides the pulp, 

paper, and paperboard industry into three parts, each assigned a 4-digit SIC code: 

C 2611 Pulp Mills - Establishments that make pulp from wood or other 

materials and whose primary product shipped is pulp. 

C 2621 Paper Mills - Establishments whose primary product is paper. 

Integrated facilities that make both pulp and paper are included in this SIC 

code if they primarily ship paper or paper products. Thus, some facilities 

in SIC code 2621 make paper from purchased pulp while others make pulp 

and paper at the same site. 

C 2631 Paperboard Mills - Establishments whose primary product is 

paperboard. Again, integrated facilities that make both pulp and 

paperboard are included in this SIC code if they primarily ship paperboard 

or paperboard products. 

ELGS for the Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Point Source Category are codified at 

40 CFR Part 430. As discussed in Section 5.4.3.2, EPA divided the category into 12 

subcategories based on the primary sources of wastewater pollutants. These subcategories do 

not correspond to the SIC codes. For example, the regulations in Subpart B (Bleached 

Papergrade Kraft and Soda) apply to discharges resulting from production of bleached kraft 

market pulp (SIC code 2611), integrated production of bleached kraft pulp and paper (SIC code 

2621), or integrated production of bleached kraft pulp and paperboard (SIC code 2631). 

5-57
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

EPA’s Phased Approach for Reviewing Pulp and Paper Effluent Guidelines 

Phase I. In 1988, a legal suit brought by the Environmental Defense Fund and 

National Wildlife Federation resulted in a consent decree obligating EPA to address discharges 

of dioxins and furans from 104 bleaching pulp mills, including nine dissolving pulp mills2

. At 

the same time it addressed the dioxin and furan issues at these 104 mills, EPA chose to review 

the ELGS for the entire Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard category. On December 17, 1993, EPA 

proposed a new subcategorization scheme and revised regulations for all 12 new subcategories. 

In a 1996 Notice of Data Availability (July 1996), EPA announced that it would promulgate final 

ELGS for the Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard category in stages. EPA first addressed Subparts B 

(Bleached Papergrade Kraft and Soda) and E (Papergrade Sulfite), because these subparts 

applied to the majority of the 104 mills identified in the consent decree. Revised ELGS for 

Subparts B and E were promulgated April 15, 1998, and became known as Pulp, Paper, and 

Paperboard Phase I. The new subcategorization scheme was also promulgated at this time. 

Phase III. EPA proposed ELGS addressing discharges of dioxins and furans for 

the two dissolving pulp subcategories (Subpart A, Dissolving Kraft, and Subpart D, Dissolving 

Sulfite) in 1993. However, EPA did not promulgate regulations for these two subcategories in 

1998 because EPA anticipated that the final ELGS for these subcategories would be based on 

different technologies than those that served as the basis for the proposed ELGS, and because 

affected companies were undertaking multi-year laboratory studies and mill trials to develop 

alternative bleaching technologies (61 FR 36835, July 1996). More recently, EPA determined it 

will not promulgate revised regulations for Phase III because there are only four affected 

facilities in these two subcategories (as of July 2004): two in Florida and one each in Georgia 

and Washington. Instead, EPA will support NPDES permit writers as they develop ELGS for 

dissolving pulp mills. 

Phase II. The remaining eight subcategories, listed below, compose Phase II: 

C Subpart C. Unbleached Kraft Subcategory; 

C Subpart F. Semi-Chemical Subcategory; 

C Subpart G. Mechanical Pulp Subcategory; 

C Subpart H. Nonwood Chemical Subcategory; 

C Subpart I. Secondary Fiber Deink Subcategory; 

C Subpart J. Secondary Fiber Non-Deink Subcategory; 

2

Five of these dissolving pulp mills remained in operation in 2000, but one has since closed. 

5-58 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Subpart K. Fine and Lightweight Papers From Purchased Pulp 

Subcategory; and 

C Subpart L. Tissue, Filter, Non-Woven and Paperboard From Purchased 

Pulp Subcategory. 

In 1993, EPA proposed revised BPT and NSPS for control of conventional 

pollutant discharges from these eight subcategories. EPA did not propose ELGS for dioxins and 

furans because they were not identified as pollutants of concern in discharges from these 

subcategories. In 1996, EPA planned to promulgate ELGS for the Phase II subcategories after 

promulgating the final rules for the Phase I subcategories. However, in the Effluent Guidelines 

Program Plan for 2002/2003 (67 FR 55012-55014, August 27, 2002), EPA announced it was not 

including revision of ELGS for the eight Phase II subcategories. Instead, EPA announced it 

would decide whether to move forward with regulatory development for the Phase II 

subcategories during its 2004 annual review. 

Number and Discharge Status of Phase II Mills 

As listed in Table 5-41, the 1997 U.S. Economic Census reports the total number 

of establishments in the pulp, paper and paperboard industry by SIC code. 

Table 5-41. Number of Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Establishments 

SIC Code Description 1997 U.S. Economic Census 

2611 Pulp Mills 39 

2621 Paper Mills 256 

2631 Paperboard Mills 217 

Total 512 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

Of the 512 facilities identified by the 1997 Census, 232 (45 percent) reported 

releases to TRI in 2000 and 291 were included in PCS. EPA classified each mill as Phase I, 

Phase II, or Phase III, based on information reported by mills in EPA’s 1990 survey of the pulp, 

paper, and paperboard industry. In this survey, mills reported production by subcategory (5). 

The name and operations of the mills as of 2000 were confirmed by consulting Lockwood-Post’s 

Directory of the Pulp, Paper and Allied Trades (4). Mills with any operations in Phase I 

subcategories were identified as Phase I, though wastewater generated by part of their production 

may be subject to ELGS for Phase II subcategories. By definition, the production at mills with 

operations in the Phase III subcategories does not overlap with other subcategories. 

Table 5-42 presents the distribution of the 232 TRI-reporting facilities, by SIC 

code and regulatory review phase. Note that 78 facilities reported to TRI a primary SIC code of 

2611 (pulp mills), while the census only identified 39 facilities in SIC code 2611. This 

5-59
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

discrepancy might result from the differences in identification of the SIC code at integrated 

mills. The census based primary SIC code on value of shipments, while the TRI primary SIC 

code might be based on the primary source of toxic chemical releases. Thus, integrated mills are 

identified as SIC code 2621 (paper) or 2631 (paperboard) in the census, but might be identified 

as SIC code 2611 (pulp) in TRI, because pulping is the source of more toxic releases. Of the 

mills reporting to TRI for reporting year 2000, the majority (139, or 60 percent) are in regulatory 

review Phase II. 

Table 5-42. Pulp and Paper Mills Reporting to TRI for Reporting Year 2000 

SIC Code Total Phase I Phase II Phase III 

2611 78 51 22 5 

2621 109 30 79 0 

2631 45 7 38 0 

Total (%) 232 88 (38) 139 (60) 5 (2) 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

Of the 512 facilities identified by the 1997 Census, 255 (50 percent) were mills 

classified as “major dischargers” whose 2000 discharges were reported to PCS. In addition to 

these major dischargers, PCS identified another 36 minor dischargers in the three pulp and paper 

SIC codes. Table 5-43 presents the distribution of PCS reporting facilities, by SIC code and 

regulatory review phase. Note that 86 major discharge mills were identified in PCS with a 

primary SIC code of 2611 (pulp mills), while the census only identified 39 facilities in SIC code 

2611. Similar to the TRI database, this discrepancy might result from the differences between 

identification of the source of pollutants (e.g., pulping) and the product shipped from integrated 

mills. Of the major discharge mills with 2000 discharge data in PCS, the majority (172, or 67 

percent) are in regulatory review Phase II. 

Table 5-43. Pulp and Paper Mills with Data in PCS 

SIC 

Code 

Total Phase I Phase II Phase III 

Major 

Dischargers 

Minor 

Dischargers 

Major 

Dischargers 

Minor 

Dischargers 

Major 

Dischargers 

Minor 

Dischargers 

Major 

Dischargers 

Minor 

Dischargers 

2611 86 6 36 1 46 5 4 0 

2621 125 23 35 0 90 23 0 0 

2631 44 7 7 0 36 7 1 0 

Total 255 36 78 1 172 35 5 0 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Table 5-44 presents discharge information about the Phase II mills from 

TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. All mills that reported to TRI reported wastewater 

5-60 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

releases of toxic chemicals. The majority (107 mills or 78 percent) reported at least some 

releases of toxic chemicals directly to receiving streams. 

Table 5-44. Phase II Mills 

PCS TRI 

Total 

Major 

Dischargers 

Minor 

Dischargers 

Total 

Reporters 

No Reported 

Discharge 

Direct 

Discharge 

Indirect 

Discharge 

Both Direct 

and Indirect 

Discharge 

207 172 35 139 0 103 32 4 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

5.4.3.2 Regulatory Background 

EPA promulgated BPT regulations for the Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard category 

from 1974 to 1982. Using data from the early to mid-1970s, EPA divided the industry into 25 

subcategories. BPT limitations for BOD5, TSS, and pH for all subcategories, including those 

that are now “Phase II,” was based on the performance (percent removal) of biological 

wastewater treatment, subcategory raw waste loads, and characteristic production-normalized 

effluent flow rates. During the industry review leading to the 1993 proposal of revised 

regulations, EPA determined that its original subcategorization scheme could be simplified to 12 

subcategories. EPA also determined that the average performance of the industry, in terms of 

conventional pollutants discharged, had improved markedly from the time the original 

regulations were promulgated. In 1993, EPA proposed revised BPT and NSPS regulations for 

conventional pollutants for all 12 new subcategories. However, in 1996, EPA determined that it 

would not revise BPT for the Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard category and has taken no further 

action on the proposal since that time. 

In 1982, EPA promulgated BAT ELG for trichlorophenol and pentachlorophenol 

for 24 subcategories (all but the then existing groundwood-chemi-mechanical subcategory). The 

priority pollutant zinc was limited in four groundwood subcategories. 

During the development of the 1993 proposed regulations, EPA studied 443 

specific pollutants (5). Although the focus of EPA’s study was revising the BAT ELG for 

chemical pulp mills that bleach, EPA also investigated the generation of chlorinated organic 

pollutants at nonchemical pulp mills and chemical nonwood pulp mills (mills that were later 

classified as Phase II) that bleach with chlorine and/or hypochlorite. EPA found levels of 

chloroform, chlorinated phenolic compounds, and dioxins in the final effluents from these mills. 

EPA did not propose ELGS for these priority and nonconventional pollutants in Phase II 

subcategories in 1993, but did not exclude the subcategories from regulation. EPA decided to 

consider whether to develop regulations for these pollutants as part of its 2004 annual review. 

Table 5-45 presents the existing limitations for Phase II subcategories. 

5-61
-- --

Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-45. ELGS for Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Phase II Subcategories (Part 430) 

Subpart 

BPT - Monthly Average Maximum NSPS - Monthly Average Maximum 

BOD5 TSS BOD5 TSS 

pounds per 1,000 lb of product 

C - Unbleached Kraft 2.8 6.0 1.8-2.71 1 3.0-4.8 

C - Unbleached Kraft and 

Semi-chemical 

Cross Recovery 

(Reserved) 

4.0 6.25 2.1 3.8 

F - Semi-chemical, 

Ammonia 

4.0 5.0 1.6 3.0 

F - Semi-chemical, Sodium 4.35 5.5 1.6 3.0 

G - Groundwood Chemmechanical 7.05 10.65 

G - Groundwood 

Thermomechanical 

5.55 8.35 2.5 4.6 

G - Groundwood, 

Integrated, Coarse Paper 

3.9 6.85 2.5 3.8 

G - Groundwood, 

Integrated Fine Paper 

3.6 6.3 1.9 3.0 

H - Nonwood reserved reserved reserved reserved 

I - Secondary Fiber Deink, 

Fine Paper 

9.4 5.3 3.1 4.6 

I - Secondary Fiber Deink, 

Tissue Paper 

9.4 5.3 5.2 6.8 

I - Secondary Fiber Deink, 

Newsprint 

9.4 5.3 3.2 6.3 

J - Secondary Fiber Nondeink, Paperboard 1.5 2.5 1.4 1.8 

J - Secondary Fiber Nondeink, Paperboard and 

Corrugating Medium 

2.8 4.6 2.1 2.3 

J - Secondary Fiber Nondeink, Builders Paper and 

Roofing Felt 

3.0 3.0 0.94 1.4 

J - Secondary Fiber Nondeink, Tissue 4.0 5.1 2.5 5.3 

J - Secondary Fiber Nondeink, Molded Products 1.3 3.2 1.1 2.3 

K - Non-integrated, Fine 

Paper 

4.25 5.9 1.9 2.3 

5-62
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-45 (Continued) 

Subpart 

BPT - Monthly Average Maximum NSPS - Monthly Average Maximum 

BOD5 TSS BOD5 TSS 

pounds per 1,000 lb of product 

K - Non-integrated, Fine 

Paper, Cotton Furnish 

9.1 13.1 4.2 4.9 

K - Non-integrated, 

Lightweight Paper 

13.2 10.6 6.7 5.2 

K - Non-integrated, 

Electrical Paper 

20.9 16.7 11.7 9.2 

L - Non-integrated, Tissue 6.25 5.0 3.4 2.6 

L - Non-integrated, Filter 

and Nonwoven 

16.3 13.0 8.3 6.6 

L - Non-integrated, 

Paperboard 

3.6 2.8 1.9 1.5 

1

The range of values represent limits for different size operations. 

5.4.3.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

This subsection presents wastewater flow and pollutant load information reported 

to PCS and TRI for the year 2000. Also discussed are results of EPA sampling at five deink 

mills, and the basis of mill estimates of PACs releases reported to TRI. 

Wastewater Flows 

Of the 172 mills for which information was reported to PCS, 168 reported 

nonzero flows in 2000. Table 5-46 presents the median mill flow and the range of per mill flows 

for Phase II mills that are major dischargers. Wastewater flow information was not available for 

minor dischargers. In some cases, the reported flows may include stormwater discharges and 

noncontact cooling water, as well as process wastewater. 

Table 5-46. 2000 Wastewater Flows for Phase II Mills (All SIC Codes) 

Number of Major 

Dischargers Reporting Median Per Mill Flow 2000 Range of Mill Flows MGY Total Flow 2000 

Nonzero Flows MGY (MGD) (MGD) MGY (MGD) 

168 1,400 (3.8) 0.0008 to 49,000 

(<0.00 to 13) 

660,000 (1,800) 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

5-63 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Wastewater Pollutant Loads from TRI and PCS 

Table 5-47 presents information reported to TRI for reporting year 2000 by Phase 

II mills. The table lists the chemicals that account for 97 percent of the TWPE, the number of 

facilities that reported each chemical, and the total pounds of chemical discharged to surface 

waters. Indirect discharging facilities reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW 

removal efficiencies, EPA estimated the amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see 

DCN 00618, Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs, for more information). Therefore, the TWPE 

estimates in this table have been adjusted to account for POTW treatment. PACs contribute 80 

percent of the Phase II TWPE. As discussed later in this section, Phase II mills may have overreported PAC and dioxin releases to TRI. Table 5-48 shows that manganese compounds and 

chlorine contribute 68 percent of the Phase II TWPE when PACs and dioxins are not included in 

the analysis. 

Table 5-49 presents information about Phase II mills’ calendar year 2000 

discharges, reported to PCS. The table lists the chemicals that account for 95 percent of the total 

TWPE. Total residual chlorine and aluminum contribute 69 percent of the Phase II TWPE. 

Wastewater Pollutant Loads from EPA Sampling 

In 2000, EPA undertook a sampling program at five mills in the Secondary Fiber 

Deink Subcategory, one of the eight Phase II subcategories (1). EPA sampled mills with standalone deink operations that produce tissue and toweling, including two mills that use chlorinated 

bleaching agents and three mills that do not. Table 5-50 presents the production-normalized 

loads of selected analytes detected in treated mill effluent. 

Other than a low concentration of phenol detected at one mill, the only organic 

priority pollutant detected in treated mill effluent was chloroform. EPA analyzed effluent 

samples for several PACs, but none were detected. With the exception of zinc, which was 

detected at concentrations ranging from 0.194 to 0.256 mg/L in the Mill 1 final effluent, the few 

priority pollutant metals detected in treated mill effluent were present at less than 0.035 mg/L. 

PACs and dioxins and furans, reported to TRI in Phase II mill wastewater releases, were not 

detected above the analytical method detection limit in treated wastewater during this study. 

5-64
Section 5 

Table 5-47. Pulp and Paper Phase II Chemical Releases Reported to TRI for 2000 

5-65

Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI Total 

(lbs/yr) 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percenta

Total Pha

TWPE 

Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds 

12 113 484,471 32,340 8,567 to 77,104 80% 

Manganese Compounds 36 790,947 55,709 1,268 2 to 5,589 9% Chlorine 10 48,903 23,815 550 2.4 to 10,714 4% Potassium Dimethyldithiocarbamate 

2 23,529 21,960 10,980 9,701 to 12,259 4% 

Dioxin and Dioxin-like Compounds 

12 0.0047 7,480 36 0.18 to 5,296 1% 

Total All Pollutants 139 5,677,680 608,875 

Source: EPA, TRI Releases 2000. 

Table 5-48. Pulp and Paper Phase II Chemical Releases Reported to TRI for 2000 Without PAC

Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI Total 

(lbs/yr) 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percenta

Total Pha

TWPE 

Manganese Compounds 36 790,947 55,709 1,268 2 to 5589 48% Chlorine 10 48,903 23,815 550 2.4 to 10,714 20% Potassium Dimethyldithiocarbamate 

2 23,529 21,960 10,980 9,701 to 12,259 19% 

Vanadium Compounds 7 6,314 3,929 622 182 to 1,121 3% Zinc Compounds 26 80,615 3,769 77 0.9 to 1,117 3% Manganese 1 38,605 2,719 2,719 NA 2% Total All Pollutants 139 5,677,567 116,925 

Source: EPA, TRI Releases 2000. 
Section 5 

Table 5-49. Pulp and Paper Phase II PCS Pollutant Discharges Reported for PCS for 20

5-66

Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS Total 

(lbs/yr) PCS TWPE/yr 

Median 

TWPE/yr 

Range of Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Perce

of T

Pha

TW

Chlorine, Total Residual1 16 48,134 23,440 121 1 to 10,741 35

Aluminum, Total (As Al) 10 267,639 17,260 300 11 to 9,989 25Aluminum, Total Recoverable 

7 95,760 6,175 876 23 to 2,682 9% 

Arsenic, Total Recoverable 2 1,522 5,280 2,640 2 to 5,278 8% Lead Total Recoverable 4 2,143 4,801 9.5 1 to 4,781 7% Nitrogen, Ammonia Total (As N) 

50 986,219 1,805 14 0.006 to 264 3% 

Copper, Total (As Cu) 24 2,747 1,722 49 0.25 to 387 3% Lead, Total (As Pb) 5 652 1,460 177 50 to 853 2% PCB-1242 (Arochlor 1242) 1 0 1,355 NA NA 2% Zinc, Total (As Zn) 32 19,949 933 11 0.005 to 300 1% Total All Pollutants 172 690 million 67,796 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads 2000.

NA - Not applicable, only one reported value.

1Total residual chlorine discharges reported to PCS may be daily maximum, calculated load may be overestimated.
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-50. Comparison of Analytes Detected in Treated Wastewater (Final Effluent) 

Analyte 

Mills with Hypochlorite Bleaching Mills with TCF Bleaching Only 

Mill 1 Mill 2 Mill 3 Mill 4 Mill 5 

Chloroform (g/ADMT) 1.07 0.252 5.36 0 0 

2,4,6-TCP (1653) (g/ADMT) 0 0 0.149 0 0 

Dioxin TEQ (ug/ADMT) 0 0 0 0 0 

AOX1

 (kg/ADMT) 0.067 0.0362 0.402 0.0211 0.0121 

BOD5 (kg/ADMT) 3.52 18.52 1.33 0.156 0.667 

COD (kg/ADMT) 7.35 2.87 9.75 2.64 8.02 

TSS (kg/ADMT) 2.33 0.642 0.91 0.342 1.83 

Source: Five-Deink Mill Summary Report, Revision 2, April 15, 2003. Table 6-3.

ADMT - Air Dried Metric Ton.

1

Adsorbable Organic Halides. A bulk parameter that is measured by EPA Method 1650. This method measures the

total mass of halogenated organic matter in water and wastewater. In pulp mill wastewaters, this material

is almost exclusively chlorinated organic matter.

2

Mill 2 has questioned EPA’s measured concentration of BOD5 in their final effluent.

Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds (PACs) 

Table 5-51 lists mills that reported releases of PACs to TRI for reporting year 

2000 along with the reported basis of their estimate. No mills reported using monitoring data or 

measurements as the basis of their estimate. The major operations at these mills are the 

production of unbleached kraft pulp that is made into paperboard on site. Most mills also repulp 

waste paperboard without bleaching. Kraft pulp mills often burn waste wood (known as hog 

fuel), coal, and fuel oil to generate steam used directly in the mill or used to generate electricity. 

Waste from the boilers includes fly ash and bottom ash. 

EPA contacted one of the mills that reported PAC releases to obtain information 

about its operations and verify PACs discharges (2, 3). The mill contact reported using estimates 

from the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI). They reported that the 

NCASI document references EPA’s compilation of air pollution emission factors, AP 42, 5th Ed, 

Volume 1 for coal, fuel oil, gas, and wood combustion, lists individual PACs released from each 

type of fuel combusted, and lists benzo(a) pyrene and benzo(j,k) fluorene as the predominant 

PACs in combustion ash. 

For PACs, the contacted mill used an emission factor to estimate 7.1 pounds of 

PACs that were released to the water in 2000 due to trace amounts in chemicals used at the site 

(3). The mill contact reported that the majority of the PACs reported released from this mill are 

associated with wood ash. According to the mill contact, the ash settles out in the settling basin 

of the wastewater treatment system and will remain on site when this basin fills with solids and 

is closed, essentially landfilling 158 pounds in 2000. The mill mistakenly reported PACs in this 

landfilled ash as released to surface water. They corrected this error with EPA’s TRI office, and 

the corrected mass is reflected in Tables 5-47 and 5-51 of this report. 

5-67
Section 5 

Table 5-51. Phase II Mills Reporting Releases of PACs for TRI Reporting Year 2000 

5-68

Mill Location Subcategory 

Direct 

Discharge 

(lb/yr) 

Dire

Discha

(TWPE

International Paper Roanoke Rapids, NC Unbleached Kraft 10 42,83Stone Container Corp. Florence, SC Unbleached Kraft 7.1 30,41Packaging Corp. Of America Clyattville, GA Unbleached Kraft 7 29,98Great Southern Paper Co. Cedar Springs, GA Unbleached Kraft & Semichem. 3 12,85International Paper Prattville, AL Unbleached Kraft 18 77,10Packaging Corp. Of America Counce, TN Unbleached Kraft 16 68,53Georgia-Pacific Corp. Monticello. MS Unbleached Kraft 18 77,10Stone Container Corp. Missoula. MT Unbleached Kraft 8 34,26Gaylord Container Corp. Bogalusa, LA Unbleached Kraft 14 59,97International Paper Pineville Mill Pineville, LA Unbleached Kraft 4 17,13Willamette Inds. Inc. Albany Paper Mill Albany, OR Unbleached Kraft 6 25,70Longview Fibre Co. Longview, WA Unbleached Kraft 2 8,56

1Mills reported basis of estimate in 2000 TRI as: C - Mass balance calculations; E - Published emission factors; and O - Other approach

calculations). No mills reported M - Monitoring data/measurements as the basis of their estimate. 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Information from the 2000 TRI database provides no concentrations of PACs 

measured by chemical analysis in Phase II wastewaters above analytical detection limits. 

Furthermore, EPA sampling at five phase II mills did not detect any PACs. Therefore, EPA 

concludes TRI-reported PAC discharges are most likely overestimated. 

Dioxins 

Dioxins are known to be present in wastewaters generated from bleaching 

chemically pulped wood with chlorine and chlorine-containing compounds. Dioxins are also 

generated during a variety of combustion processes, including combustion of wood. Wet 

scrubbers and water conveyance of wood ash may be sources of dioxins in wastewater. 

Table 5-52 lists mills that reported releases of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds 

to TRI for reporting year 2000, along with the reported basis of their estimate. Only 1 of the 11 

mills reporting dioxin releases used monitoring data or measurements as the basis of their 

estimate. These mills have operations in a variety of subcategories, including producing paper 

from purchased pulp, groundwood, nonwood fibers (cotton linters and flax), and semi-chemical 

pulp. Mills that use nonwood fibers and mills that purchase pulp typically do not have 

wastewood boilers, so are unlikely to have wood ash as a dioxin source. Groundwood and semichemical mills may have wastewood boilers. 

EPA contacted a mill, described above, that reported both PAC and dioxin 

releases (2,3). The mill contact reported that they used an emission factor based on combustion 

of wood to calculate dioxin releases, as the dioxins were presumed to be released with sluiced 

wood ash. This facility changed the assumption underlying its estimate, assuming instead that 

the wood ash settles out in the settling basin of the wastewater treatment system and will remain 

on site when this basin fills with solids and is closed, essentially landfilling the waste. From 

originally reporting a release to surface water of 0.047 grams, the mill contact changed the 

estimated release to zero. 

Three Phase II mills are required to monitor for dioxins in their NPDES permits. 

However, none of these mills detected dioxins in their effluent in 2000. 

Information from the 2000 TRI database and PCS database provides little 

evidence that dioxins are present in Phase II mill wastewaters above analytical detection limits. 

Only 1 of 12 mills that reported wastewater releases of dioxins to TRI reported using monitoring 

data/measurements as the basis for the reported release. In addition, EPA sampling in 2000 did 

not detect any dioxin above the minimum detection level. 

5-69
Section 5 

Table 5-52. Phase II Mills Reporting Releases of Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds to TRI for Repo

5-70

Direct Direct To After 

Mill Location Subcategories1 

Discharge 

(g/yr) 

Discharge 

(TWPE/yr) 

POTW 

(g/yr) 

POTW 

(g/yr)2 

P

(T

Daishowa America Co. Ltd. Port Angeles, WA Groundwood 

Purchased Pulp 

0.68 5297 

Buckeye Lumberton Inc. Lumberton, NC Nonwood 0.227 515 Schweitzer Mauduit Intl. Inc. Lee, MA Nonwood 0.07 246 Schweitzer-Mauduit Intl. Inc. Ancram, NY Purchased Pulp 0.02 30 Procter & Gamble Paper Prods. Co. 

Mehoopany, PA Purchased Pulp 0.01 42 

Felix Schoeller Technical Papers Inc. 

Pulaski, NY Purchased Pulp 0.003 13 

Procter & Gamble Paper Prods. Co. 

Jackson, MO Purchased Pulp 0.004 9 

Blandin Paper Co. Grand Rapids, Groundwood, 6.36 1.082 

MN Nondeink, 

Purchased Pulp 

Georgia-Pacific Corp. Plattsburgh, NY Nondeink, 0.31 0.053 

Purchased Pulp, Semi-chemical 

Procter & Gamble Paper Prods. Co. 

Albany, NY Purchased Pulp 0.015 0.0027 

Smart Papers L.L.C. Hamilton, OH Purchased Pulp 0.004 0.0005 Procter & Gamble Paper Prods. Oxnard, CA Purchased Pulp 0.00075 0.0001 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000.

1Purchased pulp - subpart K, fine and lightweight paper from purchased pulp and/or subpart L, tissue, filter, nonwoven and paperboard 2Mass transferred to POTW, that is ultimately discharged to surface waters. Accounts for POTW removals. 3Mills reported basis of estimate in 2000 TRI as: C - Mass balance calculations; E - Published emission factors; and O - Other approach

calculations); M - Monitoring data/measurements.
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.3.4 Pollution Prevention and Treatment Technology 

Table 5-53 lists the treatment technologies used by Phase II pulp, paper, and 

paperboard mills reporting to TRI in 2000. Because production at individual pulp and paper 

mills has increased over time, they have added treatment units, in sequence or parallel, to their 

existing treatment. This may explain why a greater number of biological treatment systems were 

reported (101) than there are direct discharge facilities (95) reporting to TRI for 2000. 

Table 5-53. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported by Phase II Mills, TRI Reporting 

Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct1 

(95 facilities) 

Indirect1 

(18 facilities) 

Adsorption - Other 11 0 

Air Flotation 9 2 

Biological Treatment 101 7 

Chemical Precipitation - Other 5 1 

Condenser 1 0 

Equalization 4 1 

Filtration 2 3 

General Oxidation (Including Disinfection) - Chlorination 0 1 

General Oxidation (Including Disinfection) - Other 0 1 

Mechanical Separation 1 0 

Neutralization 14 4 

Oil Skimming 2 1 

Other Chemical Treatment 0 2 

Other Blending 1 0 

Other Incineration/ Thermal Treatment 3 0 

Other Physical Treatment 6 1 

Settling/ Clarification 75 8 

Sludge Dewatering (Nonthermal) 24 5 

Stripping - Air 3 0 

Stripping - Steam 3 0 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000 (Section 7A Table). 1

In TRI 2000, of the facilities that provided information on their wastewater treatment operations, 95 facilities

reported direct releases, 18 transferred to POTWs, and 2 facilities had both direct releases and transfers to POTWs.

5-71 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.3.5 Industry Trends 

The Census Bureau released preliminary results of the 2002 Economic Census on 

a subsector basis. The Paper Manufacturing subsector, NAICS code 322, includes 

establishments that make converted paper products as well as establishments that make pulp 

and/or paper. Thus, NAICS code 322 includes more than just the pulp, paper, and paperboard 

industry. Never the less, trends shown in Table 5-54 are expected to be the same as for the pulp, 

paper, and paperboard industry. Sales were flat over the five-year period while the number of 

establishments declined and employment dropped by more than 15 percent. 

Table 5-54. Trends in U.S. Papermaking Industry (Pulp, Paper, and Converted Products) 

1997 2002 

Establishments 5,868 5,463 

Sales $150 billion $151 billion 

Paid Employees 574 thousand 476 thousand 

Source: 2002 Economic Census, http://www.census.gov/econ/census02/advance/TABLE2.HTM. 

5.4.3.6 Stakeholder and Regional EPA Issues 

During previous outreach efforts, some stakeholders raised concerns about 

discharge of dyes and dioxin from bleaching at secondary fiber mills. During the current 

outreach cycle, some stakeholders supported the Phase II rule, due to concerns for the number of 

pollutants discharged by the chemical, mechanical, and secondary fiber de-inking subcategories. 

Stakeholders did not provide any data (e.g., estimates of discharge loads, or 

instances of water quality violations resulting from Phase II mill discharges) supporting their 

concerns. Nor did EPA’s review of available data describing Phase II mill discharges support 

stakeholders’ concerns. 

5.4.3.7 Conclusions 

In the screening-level analysis of TRI data, the major identified toxic pollutant 

problem associated with phase II mills was discharges of PACs. No mills reported using 

monitoring data or measurements as the basis of their estimate of PACs released to surface 

waters. In a sampling program conducted by EPA at five Phase II mills (all secondary fiber 

mills), priority pollutant PACs were never detected. In none of the data reviewed by EPA were 

PACs detected in Phase II wastewaters. 

A second pollutant driving the TWPE estimate in the screening-level analysis of 

TRI data was dioxins. Only one mill reported using monitoring data or measurements as the 

basis of its estimates of dioxin discharges. The three mills required by NPDES permits to 

monitor their effluent for dioxins did not detect them in 2000. Also, in a sampling program 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

conducted by EPA at five Phase II mills (all secondary fiber mills, including three mills that 

bleached with chlorine-containing compounds), dioxins and furans were not detected above the 

method minimum level in treated effluent. Thus, the data reviewed by EPA for this report do not 

identify that dioxins are present in Phase II mill wastewaters. 

If PAC and dioxin releases are not included in the estimate of the Phase II TWPE, 

Phase II toxic pollutant discharges estimated using TRI release information for reporting year 

2000 are reduced from 608,875 TWPE to 116,925 TWPE, attributable mainly to manganese, 

chlorine, and potassium dimethyldithiocarbamate. Detectable levels of PACs and dioxins were 

not found in data-reported to PCS; therefore, changes to the assumptions about PACs and 

dioxins have no impact on the Phase II PCS loads (67,800 TWPE), which are attributable mainly 

to chlorine and aluminum. 

5.4.3.8 References 

1. Eastern Research Group, Inc. Five-Deink-Mill Study Summary Report, Revision 

2. Prepared for U.S. EPA Office of Research and Development and Office of 

Water. April 15, 2003. 

2. Heately, Bill. Personal communication from Corporate Environmental Director, 

Smurfitt Stone Container Corporation, to A. Hooshangi, ERG. February 3, 2004. 

3. Heately, Bill. E-mail message from Corporate Environmental Director, Smurfitt 

Stone Container Corporation, to B. Bicknell, ERG. February 4, 2004. 

4. Paperloop Publications, 2001. Lockwood-Post’s Directory of the Pulp, Paper and 

Allied Trades, 2002. San Francisco, Paperloop Publications. 

5. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Proposed Effluent Limitations Guidelines 

and Standards for the Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Point Source Category. 

EPA-821-R-93-019. Washington, D.C. October 1993. 

5.4.4 Steam Electric 

5.4.4.1 Industry Description 

The steam electric industry includes electric utilities that combust coal, natural 

gas, and/or oil to generate electricity for distribution in commerce. Steam electric operations are 

classified in the following SIC codes: 

C SIC code 4911 Electrical Services: Establishments engaged in the 

generation, transmission and/or distribution of 

electric energy for sale; and 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C SIC code 4931 Electric and Other Services Combined: 

Establishments primarily engaged in providing 

electric services in combination with other services, 

with electric services as the major part though less 

than 95 percent of the total. 

This summary does not include nonutility steam electric power plants located in 

industrial, commercial, or other facilities. These cogenerators exist as ancillary processes at 

chemical, pulp and paper, petroleum refining, or other industrial plants. Any pollutant loads 

associated with these operations are currently considered as part of the primary industry 

operation. 

Information on the number of facilities in the Steam Electric Point Source 

Category was obtained from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, TRIReleases2000, 

and PCSLoads2000. TRI includes all facilities reporting discharges to any media. In contrast, 

the PCS includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface waters. Table 5-55 

lists the number of steam electric facilities from these sources. The number of facilities under 

SIC code 4911 reporting to TRI for 2000 represents only about 10 percent of the steam electric 

industry based on the total number of facilities in the census, while the number of SIC code 4911 

facilities reporting discharges to PCS for 2000 represent about 13 percent of the total industry. 

Of the facilities reporting to TRI, only 48 percent report water discharges. 

Table 5-55. Number of Steam Electric Facilities 

2000 PCS 2000 TRI 

No Both Direct 

SIC 1997 Major Minor Reported Direct Indirect and Indirect 

Code Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Total Discharge Dischargers Dischargers Dischargers 

4911 6,212 835 541 294 638 296 321 9 12 

4931 NA 53 9 44 43 29 10 2 2 

Total 888 550 338 681 325 331 11 14 

NA - Data were not presented for SIC code 4931 in the 1997 Economic Census. Data in the Census for SIC code 493 (which includes SIC codes 

4931, 4932, and 4939) included 1,989 facilities. 

Steam electric facilities are dispersed throughout the United States, with a higher 

concentration located on the east coast. 

5.4.4.2 Regulatory Background 

ELGS for the Steam Electric Point Source Category (40 CFR Part 423) are 

described below. 

C EPA first proposed ELGS in October 1974 based on BPT, BAT, NSPS, 

and PSNS. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C The Agency promulgated final versions of the ELGS in June 1975. 

C The proposed 1974 regulations applied to thermal and chemical pollution. 

In 1976, the thermal regulations were remanded and are now covered 

under section 316(a) of the Clean Water Act. The chemical pollution 

limitations affected the following wastestreams: 

— Once-through cooling water, 

— Cooling tower blowdown, 

— Bottom ash transport water, 

— Fly ash transport water, 

— Boiler blowdown, 

— Metal cleaning wastes, and 

— Material storage and construction runoff (including coal pile 

runoff). 

C In 1976, the U.S. Court of Appeals remanded to EPA for reconsideration: 

— NSPS limitations for fly ash transport water, 

— Rainfall runoff limitations for material storage and construction 

runoff, and 

— BPT clause concerning receiving water characteristics. 

C EPA promulgated PSES in 1977, which covered copper in metal cleaning 

wastes, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and oil and grease. 

C EPA promulgated a second rule in 1982 that: 

— Included the 1974 and 1977 limitations, 

— Revised BAT, NSPS, PSES, and PSNS, and 

— Established separate limitations for each type of wastestream. 

The current ELGS, summarized in Table 5-56, are codified at 40 CFR Part 423. 

EPA promulgated the following additional rules under section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act 

based on BTA for cooling water intake structures: 

C Rules for new sources discharging over 2 MGD (2001); and 

C Rules for existing sources discharging over 50 MGD (February 2004). 

5-75
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-56. Steam Electric Pollutants Regulated by ELGS 

Waste 

Stream BPT BAT NSPS PSES & PSNS 

All pH: 6-9 PCBs: Zero pH: 6-9 PCBs: Zero 

Wastestreams PCBs: Zero Discharge Discharge PCBs: Zero Discharge Discharge 

Low Volume 

Wastes 

TSS: 100/30 

Oil and Grease: 20/15 

No Limitation Equal to BPT No Limitation 

Fly Ash TSS: 100/30 No Limitation Zero Discharge Zero Discharge 

Handling Oil and Grease: 20/15 (PSNS only) 

No limitation in 

PSES 

Bottom Ash TSS: 100/30 No Limitation TSS: 100/30 No Limitation 

Handling Oil and Grease: 20/15 Oil and Grease: 20/15 

Chemical TSS: 100/30 Cu: 1.0/1.0 TSS: 100/30 Cu: 1.0 max 

Metal Oil and Grease: 20/15 Fe: 1.0/1.0 Oil and Grease: 20/15 

Cleaning Cu: 1.0/1.0 Cu: 1.0/1.0 

Fe: 1.0/1.0 Fe: 1.0/1.0 

Non- No Limitation Reserved Reserved Reserved 

Chemical 

Metal 

Cleaning 

Once- FAC: 0.5/0.2 (2 TRC: 0.20 (2 TRC: 0.20 (2 hrs/day) No Limitation 

Through hrs/day) hrs/day) or = BPT if or = BPT if <25 MW 

Cooling <25 MW 

Cooling 

Tower 

Blowdown 

FAC: 0.5/0.2 (2 

hrs/day) 

FAC: 0.5/0.2 (2 

hrs/day) 

126 Pr. Pol.: No 

FAC: 0.5/0.2 (2 

hrs/day) 

126 Pr. Pol.: No 

126 Pr. Pol.: No 

Detect 

Cr: 0.2 max 

Detect Detect Zn: 1.0 max 

Cr: 0.2/0.2 

Zn: 1.0/1.0 

Cr: 0.2/0.2 

Zn: 1.0/1.0 

Coal Pile 

Runoff 

TSS: 50 max No Limitation TSS: 50 max No Limitation 

Source: Code of Federal Regulations <http://www.epa.gov/epahome/cfr40.htm>. 

Notes: 

- Concentrations are in mg/l. If maximum and average concentrations apply, they are given as “maximum/average.” 

TRC is Total Residual Chlorine, and equals Free Available Chlorine (FAC) plus Combined Residual Chlorine 

(CRC). 

- BCT is reserved for all wastestreams. 

- Low Volume Wastes include: clarifier blowdown, makeup water filter backwash, lime softener blowdown, ion 

exchange softener regeneration, demineralizer regeneration, powdered resin demineralizer back flush, reverse 

osmosis brine, boiler blowdown, evaporator blowdown, laboratory drains, sanitary wastes, diesel engine cooling 

system discharge. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.4.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

This subsection presents wastewater sources and characteristics as determined 

from TRI and PCS data. This section also compares pollutant releases reported to TRI and PCS 

for 2000 with pollutant releases reported in the 1996 PDS (1). 

Wastewater Sources 

The steam electric power industry is the single largest industrial user of water in 

the United States. Most of the water used in the steam electric industry is cooling water. Water 

is heated to high temperatures to create high-temperature and high-pressure steam, which turns 

the turbines. A generator converts the turbine’s mechanical energy into electrical energy. To 

maintain high pressure in the process, low-pressure steam leaving the turbines must be cooled in 

condensing tubes, which are kept cool with the constant flow of cooling water. 

Types of wastewater discharged by steam electric facilities include cooling water, 

ash-handling wastes, coal pile drainage, water treatment wastes, boiler blowdown, wet air 

pollution control device wastes, maintenance cleaning wastes, and miscellaneous waste streams. 

Table 5-57 lists the typical pollutants from various wastewater streams in steam electric 

facilities. 

Table 5-57. Sources of Process Wastewater in Steam Electric Facilities 

Process Wastewater Pollutants 

Cooling Water Chlorine, iron, copper, nickel, chlorinated organic compounds, temperature, 

suspended solids 

Ash Handling Generally: SiO2, Al2O3, Fe3O3, CaO, MgO, TiO2, SO3, P2O3, and carbon residuals 

Possibly: TDS, TSS, sulfate, calcium, chloride, magnesium, nitrate, turbidity, 

antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, cyanide, iron, lead, mercury, 

nickel, selenium, silver, thallium, vanadium, and zinc 

Coal Pile Runoff Generally: Acidity, COD, calcium, magnesium, iron, aluminum, manganese, 

silica, chloride, sulfate, TDS, TSS, arsenic, chromium, copper, nickel, vanadium, 

and zinc 

Possibly: Antimony, cadmium, beryllium, lead, selenium, thallium, mercury, and 

silver 

Wastewater Treatment Clarification: Aluminum sulfate, sodium aluminate, ferrous sulfate, ferrous 

chloride, and calcium carbonate 

Filtration: Suspended solids 

Ion Exchange: Calcium and magnesium salts, iron, copper, zinc, aluminum, 

manganese, potassium, soluble sodium, chlorides, sulfates, organics, sulfuric acid, 

and sodium hydroxide 

Evaporation: Salts (type depends on intake water characteristics) 

Softening: Calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and sodium salts 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-57 (Continued) 

Process Wastewater Pollutants 

Boiler Blowdown Chlorides, sulfates, precipitated solids containing calcium and magnesium salts, 

soluble and insoluble corrosion products, and chemical additives 

Wet Air Pollution Control 

Device Waste 

Generally: No wastewater is produced 

Possibly: Sodium and magnesium chlorides, calcium sulfates and sulfide, and 

trace metals 

Maintenance Cleaning Oil, grease, phosphates, nitrites, suspended solids, dissolved solids, iron, nickel, 

chromium, vanadium, zinc, magnesium salts, polynuclear hydrocarbons, acidity, 

alkalinity, and oil 

Miscellaneous 

Wastestreams 

Suspended solids, dissolved solids, oil and grease, phosphates, surfactants, 

acidity, methylene chloride, phthalates, BOD, COD, fecal coliform, and nitrates 

Source: Preliminary Study of the Steam Electric Point Source Category, 1996. 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-58 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for steam electric facilities. Facilities not reporting a flow 

were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-58 are based on major 

dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

Table 5-58. 2000 Wastewater Flows for Steam Electric Facilities 

SIC Code 

Number of Major 

Facilities Reporting 

Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility Flow 

in 2000 (MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows in 2000 

(MGY) 

Total Flow in 

2000 (MGY) 

4911 497 58,661 0.09 - 1,351,273 54,354,346 

4931 8 44,390 32 - 360,921 745,410 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Wastewater Pollutants 

Table 5-59 lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or indirectly, 

which account for 95 percent of the total TWPE for steam electric facilities that reported to TRI 

for 2000. This table presents the number of facilities that reported each chemical, total pounds 

of chemical discharged, and total TWPE for each chemical. The 2000 TRI database does not 

include all steam electric facilities or TRI-listed chemicals that are used or produced at levels 

below reporting thresholds. 

Table 5-60 lists the pollutants reported to PCS, which account for 95 percent of 

the total TWPE for steam electric facilities that reported discharges by major dischargers to PCS 

for 2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-59. Steam Electric Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to TRI for 2000 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI Total 

(lbs/yr) 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage of 

Total SIC Code 

TWPE 

SIC 4911- Electrical Services 

4911 Arsenic 

Compounds 

111 156,682 543,582 624 3 - 68,235 29% 29% 

4911 Polycyclic 

Aromatic 

Compounds 

(PACs)1a 

4 9,611 475,475 102,805 4,284-265,581 26% 55% 

4911 Copper 

Compounds 

191 337,322 211,468 182 1 - 11,284 11% 66% 

4911 Vanadium 

Compounds 

83 284,781 177,197 100 1 - 25,947 10% 76% 

4911 Mercury 

Compounds 

48 1,251 146,500 293 37 - 55,377 8% 84% 

4911 Lead Compounds 90 34,898 78,172 65 2 - 38,806 4% 88% 

4911 Selenium 

Compounds 

39 51,944 58,203 583 1 - 8,331 3% 91% 

4911 Chromium 

Compounds 

164 109,971 56,290 46 1 - 13,820 3% 94% 

4911 Manganese 

Compounds 

198 521,321 36,718 34 0.1 - 3,451 2% 96% 

4911 Totals 342 4,193,725 1,854,204 

SIC 4931- Electric and Other Services Combined 

4931 Chlorine 4 1,999 973 6 2-959 40 40 

4931 Thallium 1 540 541 NA NA 22 62 

4931 Mercury 

Compounds 

2 2 234 117 117-117 10 72 

4931 Copper 

Compounds 

2 260 163 82 3-160 7 78 

4931 Manganese 1 1200 85 NA 3 82 

4931 Vanadium 

Compounds 

2 135 84 42 19-65 3 85 

4931 Vanadium 1 130 81 NA NA 3 89 

4931 Arsenic 1 21 73 NA NA 3 91 

4931 Copper 1 110 69 NA NA 3 94 

4931 Chromium 

Compounds 

2 112 58 29 1-56 2 97 

4931 Total 14 15,895 2,441 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000.

NA - Not applicable. Only one facility reported discharge of chemical. 1

The TWF for benzo(a)pyrene was used as a representative TWF for the PACs category to calculate TWPE.

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-60. Pollutant Discharges Reported by Major Steam Electric Facilities to PCS for 

2000 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total SIC 

Code 

TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage of 

Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

SIC 4911- Electrical Services 

4911 Copper, Total (as CU) 112 1,181,324 740,574 41 0.1-188,359 26% 26% 

4911 Boron, Total (as B) 23 2,265,554 401,491 3,628 41-232,358 14% 39% 

4911 Arsenic, Total (as As) 28 106,098 368,090 1,398 5-230,012 13% 52% 

4911 Chlorine, Total 

Residual 

173 526,841 256,562 154 0.02- 34,034 9% 61% 

4911 Lead, Total (as Pb) 23 101,823 228,083 81 1-174,004 8% 69% 

4911 Mercury, Total (as Hg) 6 1,821 213,179 94 4-211,218 7% 76% 

4911 Arsenic, Total 

Recoverable 

17 29,559 102,550 482 1- 56,943 4% 80% 

4911 Nitrogen, Nitrate Total 

(as NO3) 

5 1,549,432,967 96,065 8 0.0002-

96,036 

3% 83% 

4911 Copper, Total 

Recoverable 

48 122,593 76,854 95 0.03-37,101 3% 86% 

4911 Aluminum, Total (as 

Al) 

26 954,636 61,563 118 0.03-26,315 2% 88% 

4911 Silver, Total (as Ag) 6 3,336 54,946 806 16-27,446 2% 90% 

4911 Iron, Total (as Fe) 136 6,914,403 38,721 2 0.002-

18,655 

1% 91% 

4911 Zinc, Total (as Zn) 75 770,111 36,001 13 0.02-7,212 1% 92% 

4911 Fluoride, Total (as F) 7 693,893 24,286 513 0.1-12,524 1% 93% 

4911 Boron, Total 

Recoverable 

1 129,904 23,021 23,021 NA 1% 94% 

4911 Selenium, Total (as Se) 33 18,961 21,246 159 0.04-5,378 1% 95% 

4911 Totals 541 13,646,371,340 2,857,536 

SIC 4931- Electric and Other Services Combined 

4931 Copper, Total (as Cu) 2 75,077 47,066 23,533 2-47,064 62% 62% 

4931 Chlorine, Total 

Residual 

2 45,185 22,004 11,002 9,560-

12,444 

29% 91% 

4931 Arsenic, Total 

Recoverable 

1 724 2,512 2,512 2,512 3% 95% 

4931 Selenium, Total 

Recoverable 

2 1,869 2,094 1,047 675-1,419 3% 97% 

4931 Total 9 3,152,453 75,673 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

As shown in Table 5-59, the pollutants reported to TRI that account for the 

majority of the total TWPE are arsenic, PACs, copper, vanadium, mercury, lead, selenium, 

chromium, and manganese. All of these pollutants are likely from coal pile runoff and ashhandling wastes. Coal pile runoff occurs when stored coal is exposed to rainfall and impurities 

in the coal are rinsed off in the stormwater. Ash is a product of coal or oil combustion and is 

generally collected in ponds where the ash settles and the water is reused or treated; the ash pond 

overflow is the ash-handling wastewater. Copper may also be present in cooling water because 

of cooling equipment corrosion. Copper and other metals may also be present in treated metal 

cleaning wastes. 

As shown in Table 5-60, the pollutants reported to PCS that account for the 

majority of the total TWPE are mainly metals, including copper, boron, arsenic, lead, aluminum, 

silver, iron, zinc, and selenium. Chlorine, nitrogen, and fluoride also account for a high TWPE 

in the industry. The metals and nitrogen are likely from coal pile runoff and ash handling. 

Chlorine is used in the steam electric industry mainly to control the growth of microorganisms in 

cooling water systems. Fluoride air pollution is a by-product of coal combustion, and the 

fluoride present in the water is likely from wet air pollution control devices. 

Tables 5-59 and 5-60 also demonstrate that facilities in SIC code 4911 discharge 

the vast majority of pollutants contributing to the TWPE from this industry, where as SIC code 

4931 accounts for less than 0.1 percent of the TWPE discharges from this industry reported to 

TRI and less than 3 percent of the TWPE discharges reported to PCS. 

EPA originally estimated chlorine loads for the industry using PCS data. During 

subsequent review of the calculation, EPA identified several unique characteristics of the way 

chlorine is reported to PCS for this industry that contributed to an overestimation of chlorine 

loads. These characteristics include: 

C Chlorine concentration and/or loads may only be reported as maximum 

values. 

C Some facilities report both TRC and FAC, and both values were included 

in the calculation3

. 

C PCS may report pollutant concentrations as either a daily maximum or 

average or as a 2-hour maximum or average. When the concentration is 

reported as a daily value, EPA calculated annual loads assuming 24 hours 

of discharge. However, the steam electric regulation (40 CFR Part 423) 

states that chlorine may only be discharged for 2 hours a day. EPA 

contacted steam electric facilities in each region and confirmed that 

chlorine discharge occurs for only 2 hours a day. Therefore, chlorine 

3

 Free Available Chlorine (FAC) is a subset of Total Residual Chlorine (TRC). 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

loads based on 24 hours of discharge were overestimated by a factor of 

twelve. 

EPA adjusted the PCS loads to correct for facilities reporting only maximum 

chlorine discharge, eliminate double counting of different types of chlorine, and correct the time 

period of the discharge. Before the adjustments, the PCS chlorine loads were 8,907,981 pounds 

per year (4,338,035 TWPE). After adjustments, the PCS chlorine loads were 526,841 pounds 

per year (256,562 TWPE). 

The 1996 PDS estimated parameter loadings from NPDES monitoring data, 

which were extracted from PCS reports for 1992. A total of 512 major facilities reported to PCS 

under SIC codes 4911 and 4931 in 1992. However, data were included in PCSLoads2000 for 

only 361 facilities due to missing or erroneous data. In comparison, the PCS data for 2000 

includes pollutant loads for 550 major dischargers. The 1996 PDS made the following 

conclusions about the 1992 PCS monitoring data: 

1. Chlorine and iron constitute the greatest overall loads in pounds; 

2. Chlorine represents the greatest overall load in TWPEs; and 

3. Mercury and arsenic were the greatest contributors of priority pollutant 

TWPEs. 

Table 5-61 shows the highest parameter loadings (as measured by TWPE) 

reported to PCS in 1994, compared to the reported 2000 discharges. 

Table 5-61. Five Highest Parameter Loadings (as Measured by TWPE) 

Reported to PCS in 1992 and 2000 

Parameter 

1992 PCS Data (361 facilities) 2000 PCS Data (550 facilities) 

# Facilities Pounds Released # Facilities Pounds Released 

Chlorine 218 7,710,0001 203 497,503 

Polychlorinated 

Biphenyls, PCBs 

1 35 0 NA 

Mercury 18 652 6 1,821 

Boron 15 1,330,000 23 2,265,555 

Arsenic 54 32,600 28 106,098 

Source: EPA, Preliminary Study of the Steam Electric Point Source Category, 1996 and PCSLoads2000. 1

Chlorine pounds may represent a maximum due to calculation from reported daily maximum concentrations. 

The PDS did not adjust chlorine loads to address the unique reporting issues 

associated with chlorine. Before EPA adjusted the 2000 PCS data, the 1992 and 2000 estimated 

chlorine loads were similar. However, because the chlorine releases reported in 2000 in Table 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5-61 were adjusted, they might not be comparable to 1992 PCS data. PCBs were also identified 

as a top pollutant using 1992 PCS data. However, only one facility reported a PCB discharge. 

Mercury, boron, and arsenic were reported as top pollutants in both 1992 and 2000. 

The following is a summary of the comparison of the 1996 PDS and the 2000 TRI 

and PCS data used for this review: 

C The total number of major dischargers reporting to PCS and having 

estimated annual loads increased from 361 to 550; 

C PCS releases: 

— Chlorine and iron constituted the greatest overall loads in pounds 

in 1992; nitrate nitrogen and iron constituted the greatest overall 

loads in pounds in 2000. 

— Chlorine, mercury, boron, and arsenic were the pollutants 

discharged by more than one facility that contributed the bulk of 

the TWPE estimate in 1992. 

— Copper, boron, arsenic, chlorine, lead and mercury contributed the 

bulk of the TWPE estimate in 2000. 

. 

— Chlorine contributed the most to the pollutant load in 1992, but not 

in 2000 due to adjustments made to the load calculation. 

Other Wastewater Pollution Issues 

Some steam electric facilities use bromine in place of chlorine to prevent the 

growth of microorganisms in condenser tubes. Bromine is not explicitly regulated under 40 CFR 

Part 423, although total residual oxidants (TRO) or free available oxidants (FAO) may be limited 

by facilities’ NPDES permits. The 1996 PDS presented information from a survey of regional 

contacts to determine the extent of bromine use. The survey showed that bromine usage was 

increasing, and the limits for bromine are generally based on chlorine. Of the 550 facilities with 

load estimation based on 2000 PCS data, 89 facilities (16 percent) reported TRO or FAO. 

5.4.4.4 Pollutant Prevention and Treatment Technology 

Most direct discharge facilities reporting to TRI use settling/clarification. Table 

5-62 lists the treatment technologies most commonly used by steam electric facilities reporting 

to TRI for 2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-62. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Steam Electric Facilities, 

TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct Dischargers 

(235 facilities) 

Indirect Dischargers 

(11 facilities) 

Settling/Clarification 222 9 

Neutralization 112 6 

Oil Skimming 53 0 

Chemical Precipitation - Lime or Sodium Hydroxide 42 2 

Equalization 40 1 

Sludge Dewatering (Nonthermal) 25 3 

Chemical Precipitation - Other 23 3 

Filtration 23 1 

Aerobic Biological Treatment 12 0 

Other Chemical Treatment 12 0 

Source: EPA, Section 7A Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

As new wastewater treatment technologies become affordable and available, they 

have been used in the steam electric industry. One of the most commonly used in the industry is 

membrane filtration, especially reverse osmosis. Along with membrane filtration, ultrafiltration 

and microfiltration have been used to pretreat the water entering the reverse osmosis membranes. 

The industry is also using electrodeionization (EDI). EDI combines ion exchange membranes 

and ion exchange resins to produce boiler feed water with treatment that minimizes the use of 

chemical additives. Additionally, the industry is using ozone and ultraviolet light to replace 

chlorine as a disinfectant. (3) 

5.4.4.5 Industry Trends 

The steam electric industry was last studied by EPA in 1996 for ELGS (1). Table 

5-63 compares the industry statistics presented in the 1996 PDS with data collected by the 

Energy Information Administration (EIA) for 2000. Total electricity production has increased 

by about 30 percent. The percentage of total electricity generated by nonutilities has increased 

from 11 percent to 21 percent. 

5-84
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-63. Comparison of Industry Statistics 

1996 PDS 2000 Review 

Operable Capacity, megawatts 699,971 811,625 

Total Electricity Production, 

million megawatthours 

2,883 3,800 

Electricity Production by Utilities, 

million megawatthours 

2,558 (89 percent of total) 3,015 (79 percent of total) 

Electricity Production by 

Nonutilities, million megawatthours 

325 (11 percent of total) 785 (21 percent of total) 

Number of Major Facilities With 

Loads Calculated from PCS 

361 541 

Source: Preliminary Study of the Steam Electric Point Source Category, 1996; U.S. Economic Census, 1997; EPA, 

PCSLoads2000; EIA 2000 (2). 

5.4.4.6 Stakeholder and Regional EPA Issues 

Stakeholder and EPA Regional issues identified during ELGS review are 

summarized below. Commenters noted: 

C Applicability concerns for cogeneration units; 

C Potential for toxic pollutants in coal pile runoff (including mercury and 

selenium); 

C The growing use of POTW effluent as cooling water; and 

C The need to expand the scope of the regulations due to exempt facilities 

that should not be exempt and many newer facilities that are not covered. 

EPA met with representatives from the Utility Water Act Group (UWAG). 

Concerns expressed by UWAG include: 

C Using half the detection limit for values below the detection limit when 

pollutant concentrations are reported at all during the year might 

overestimate metal loads; 

C The failure to adjust for intake pollutants unfairly disadvantages the steam 

electric industry; 

C EPA should exclude pollutants not representative of the loads discharged 

by steam electric facilities from the pollutant data; and 

C The toxic-weighting factor for chlorine is inappropriate. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.4.7 Conclusions 

In the screening-level analysis of TRI data, EPA identified the major toxic 

pollutants associated with steam electric power plants as metals (including arsenic, copper and 

others) and PACs. These pollutants likely come from coal pile runoff and ash-handling wastes. 

With the exception of copper and iron in chemical metal cleaning, the steam electric ELGS do 

not contain limits for most metals or PACs. 

In the review of PCS data, EPA identified the major pollutants of concern as 

metals (copper, boron, arsenic, and others) and chlorine. The metals are likely from coal pile 

runoff and ash handling, while chlorine is used as a biocide in cooling water systems. 

Coal pile runoff has effluent limitations only for TSS. The ash-handling 

wastestream has limits for oil and grease and TSS. Neither wastestream has limits for metals or 

PACs, though coal pile runoff and ash handling may be sources of toxic metals and PACs. 

The once-through cooling and the cooling tower blowdown wastestreams have 

limits for chlorine. However, there are available substitutes for chlorine that are not controlled 

by 40 CFR Part 423. Bromine is an effective biocide that is being used in the industry. Some 

permits may limit bromine based on the chlorine limits, although bromine is more toxic than 

chlorine in freshwater. 

EPA still lacks information about the steam electric industry. EPA does not know 

the following: 

C The source of metals in reported discharge; 

C The concentrations of pollutants discharged and present in in-process 

wastestreams; 

C The available control technologies for metals and PACs; 

C Alternatives to chlorine-containing biocides, including their toxicity, cost, 

and other environmental impacts; 

C The impact of nondetects being estimated to be equal to half the detection 

limit; and 

C How electricity production wastewater streams are controlled at 

cogeneration operations. 

Because this industry ranks high relative to other industries in terms of TWPE 

and because EPA continues to have data gaps and issue that remain unresolved, EPA will 

continue to study of the steam electric industry during the next review cycle. 

5-86
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.4.8 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Preliminary Study of the Steam Electric Point Source Category. 

Washington, D.C. 1996. 

2. Energy Information Administration. Electric Power Annual 2000. U.S. 

Department of Energy. DOE/EIA-0348(2000)/1. Washington, D.C. 2001. 

Available online at: http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/FTPROOT/electricity/0348001.pdf. 

3. Industrial WaterWorld. “Growth Projected for Power Plant Water Treatment 

Technologies Market.” January 2004. Available online at: 

http://ww.pennnet.com/Articles/Article_Display.cfm?Section=Articles&ARTICL 

E_ID=199184&VERSION_NUM=1&pc=ENL. 

5.4.5 Textile Mills 

5.4.5.1 Industry Description 

The textile industry includes facilities that manufacture and process textile 

materials, such as carpets, broad woven fabrics, and knitwear. These facilities are classified 

under SIC major group 22, Textile Mill Products, which includes facilities using wet processes, 

such as scouring, dyeing, finishing, printing, and coating, discharge contact wastewater. EPA 

divided the Textile Mills Point Source Category into nine subcategories based on the wet 

processing segment of the industry. Table 5-64 lists the regulated subcategories as well as their 

associated SIC codes. 

Table 5-64. Textile Mills Subcategories 

Subpart Name Applicable SIC Code(s) 

A Wool Scouring1 2299 

B Wool Finishing1 2231 

C Low Water Use Processing 2211, 2221, 2231, 2241, 2253, 2254, 2259, 2273, 

2281, 2282, 2284, 2295, 2296, 2298 

D Woven Fabrics Finishing1 2261, 2262 

E Knit Fabric Finishing1 2251, 2252, 2257, 2258 

F Carpet Finishing1 2273 

G Stock & Yarn Finishing1 2269 

H Nonwoven Manufacturing 2297 

I Felted Fabric Processing 2299 

Source: Preliminary Study of the Textile Mills Point Source Category, 1996. 

1

Subcategories with wet processing. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Textile Mills 

category from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, the TRIReleases2000, and 

PCSLoads2000. The 2000 TRI database includes all facilities reporting discharges to any media. 

The 2000 PCS database includes facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface waters. 

Table 5-65 lists the number of textile mills by SIC code from these sources. The number of 

facilities reporting to TRI for 2000 represents only about 5 percent of the textile industry based 

on the total number of textile mills in the census, while the number of facilities reporting 

discharges to PCS for 2000 represents less than 2 percent of the total industry. 

Table 5-66 presents the number and percentage of the textile mills in 

TRIReleases2000. 

Textile mills are predominantly located on the east coast, with concentrations in 

North Carolina and South Carolina. 

Table 5-65. Number of Textile Mills 

1997 U.S. 2000 TRI-All 

2000 PCS 

Major Minors 

SIC Code Economic Census Dischargers Dischargers Dischargers 

2211 - Broadwoven Mills, Cotton 398 15 12 9 

2221 - Broadwoven Mills, Manmade 

Fiber & Silk 

452 28 8 10 

2231 - Broadwoven Mills, Wool 78 13 4 2 

2241 - Narrow Fabric 273 5 0 2 

2251 - Women’s Hosiery 137 0 1 0 

2252 - Hosiery, NEC 455 3 1 2 

2253 - Knit Outerwear 643 4 2 0 

2254 - Knit Underwear 54 1 1 0 

2257 - Circular Knit Fabric Mills 359 1 3 0 

2258 - Lace and Warp Knit 262 4 3 0 

2259 - Knitting Mills, NEC 62 3 0 0 

2261- Finishers, Broadwoven Cotton 442 13 11 7 

2262 - Finishers, Broadwoven 

Manmade & Silk 

306 15 12 2 

2269 - Finishers, NEC 155 10 11 2 

2273 - Carpets & Rugs 474 17 4 1 

2281 - Yarn Spinning 393 5 3 7 

2282 - Yarn Texturing 146 1 0 5 

5-88
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-65 (Continued) 

SIC Code 

1997 U.S. 

Economic Census 

2000 TRI-All 

Dischargers 

2000 PCS 

Major 

Dischargers 

Minors 

Dischargers 

2284 - Thread Mills 67 4 2 0 

2295 - Coated Fabrics 229 6 0 3 

2296 - Tire Cord and Fabrics 21 8 0 0 

2297 - Nonwoven Fabrics 193 5 0 3 

2298 - Cordage & Twine 201 3 0 1 

2299 - Textile Goods, NEC 355 5 1 5 

Total 6,155 296 (4.8%) 79 (1.3%) 61 (0.99%) 

Source: U.S. Economic Census, 1997; EPA, TRIReleases2000; EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Table 5-66. Number of Textile Mills by Discharge Type (TRI 2000) 

Indirect Dischargers Both Direct and No Reported 

Direct Dischargers Only Only Indirect Dischargers Wastewater Discharge 

Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage 

of All of All of All of All 

SIC Facilities in Facilities in Facilities in Facilities in 

Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code 

2211 3 20% 4 27% 1 6% 7 47% 

2221 0 0% 3 11% 1 4% 24 85% 

2231 3 23% 2 15% 0 0% 8 62% 

2241 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 5 100% 

2252 0 0% 3 100% 0 0% 0 0% 

2253 0 0% 3 75% 1 25% 0 0% 

2254 1 100% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 

2257 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 1 100% 

2258 2 29% 2 29% 0 0% 3 43% 

2259 1 25% 2 50% 0 0% 1 25% 

2261 1 4% 12 50% 0 0% 11 46% 

2262 5 21% 10 42% 0 0% 9 37% 

2269 2 9% 8 35% 0 0% 13 56% 

2273 1 3% 15 41% 1 3% 20 54% 

2281 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 5 100% 

2282 0 0% 1 25% 0 0% 3 75% 

2284 0 0% 4 57% 0 0% 3 43% 

5-89 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-66 (Continued) 

Indirect Dischargers Both Direct and No Reported 

Direct Dischargers Only Only Indirect Dischargers Wastewater Discharge 

Percentage Percentage Percentage Percentage 

of All of All of All of All 

SIC Facilities in Facilities in Facilities in Facilities in 

Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code Number SIC Code 

2295 1 2% 3 6% 2 4% 44 88% 

2296 0 0% 6 46% 2 15% 5 38% 

2297 1 8% 4 33% 0 0% 7 58% 

2298 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 3 100% 

2299 1 8% 4 31% 0 0% 8 62% 

Total 22 (7.4%) 86 (29%) 8 (2.7%) 180 (61%) 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

5.4.5.2 Regulatory Background 

Under the existing ELGS for the Textile Mills Point Source Category, EPA 

divided the industry into nine subcategories based on the type of processes used. ELGS found in 

40 CFR Part 410 are applicable to process wastewater discharged from operations in the nine 

subcategories that manufacture textiles. ELGS for the Textile Mills category are described 

below: 

C EPA first proposed ELGS in February 1974 based on BPT, BAT, NSPS, 

and PSNS. 

C EPA first promulgated ELGS in July 1974. 

C The U.S. Court of Appeals remanded all regulations except BPT to EPA 

for reconsideration. 

C EPA promulgated a revised rule in 1982 that: 

— Imposed BPT limits on two new subcategories, 

— Revised BAT and NSPS for all subcategories, and 

— Required POTWs to enforce local limits in place of PSNS or PSES 

(i.e., no pretreatment standards established for new or existing 

sources). 

5-90
C

Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Subcategories for this category are presented below. 

Subpart Subcategory 

A Wool Scouring1 

B Wool Finishing1 

C Low Water Use Processing 

D Woven Fabrics Finishing1 

E Knit Fabric Finishing1 

F Carpet Finishing1 

G Stock & Yarn Finishing1 

H Nonwoven Manufacturing 

I Felted Fabric Processing 

Source: Preliminary Study of the Textile Mills Point Source Category, 1996. 

1

Subcategories with wet processing. 

C EPA established the basis for BPT as biological treatment.

C EPA established the basis for BAT for the nine subcategories as follows:

— Biological treatment (same technology as BPT): Felted Fabric 

Processing. 

— Biological treatment and filtration: Woven Fabric Finishing; Knot 

Fabric Finishing; Carpet Finishing; Stock& Yarn Finishing; and 

Nonwoven Manufacturing. 

— Biological treatment and chemical coagulation and filtration: Wool 

Scouring; Wool Finishing; and Hosiery Products Subdivision of 

Knit Fabrics. 

The current ELGS, summarized in Table 5-67, are codified at 40 CFR Part 410. 

5-91 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-67. Pollutants Regulated by Existing Textile Mill ELGS 

40 CFR 

Part Subcategory BPT BAT NSPS 

410.10 Wool Scouring1 BOD5, COD, TSS, Oil & 

Grease, Sulfide, Phenols, 

Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

410.20 Wool Finishing1 BOD5, COD, TSS, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

410.30 Low Water Use 

Processing 

BOD5, COD, TSS, pH COD BOD5, COD, TSS, pH 

410.40 Woven Fabrics 

Finishing1 

BOD5, COD, TSS, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

410.50 Knit Fabric 

Finishing1 

BOD5, COD, TSS, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

410.60 Carpet Finishing1 BOD5, COD, TSS, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

410.70 Stock & Yarn 

Finishing1 

BOD5, COD, TSS, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

410.80 Nonwoven 

Manufacturing 

BOD5, COD, TSS, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

410.90 Felted Fabric 

Processing 

BOD5, COD, TSS, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total Chromium, pH 

COD, Sulfide, 

Phenols, Total 

Chromium 

BOD5, COD, TSS, 

Sulfide, Phenols, Total 

Chromium, pH 

Source: Code of Federal Regulations <http://www.epa.gov/epahome/cfr40.htm>. 1

Subcategories with wet processing. 

5.4.5.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

This subsection presents the wastewater characteristics of PCS reporting facilities 

and the pollutants contributing the highest load as reported by TRI and PCS facilities. This 

section also compares pollutant releases reported to TRI and PCS for 2000 with pollutant 

releases reported in the 1996 Preliminary Study (1). For this 304(m) review, EPA collected very 

little new information on indirect dischargers and continues to rely on the 1996 Preliminary 

Study. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Wastewater Characteristics 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS also report discharge outfall flow rates. 

Table 5-68 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual 

discharge flow, and the range of annual flows for each SIC code. Facilities not reporting a flow 

were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-68 are based on major 

dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. In some cases, the PCS reported flows may include 

stormwater discharges and noncontact cooling water, as well as process wastewater. 

Table 5-68. 2000 Wastewater Flows for Textile Mills 

SIC Code 

Number of Major 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility 

Discharge 2000 

(MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows 2000 (MGY) Total Flow 2000 (MGY) 

2211 12 422 9-1,359 5,467 

2221 8 114 13-311 1,273 

22311

 4 96 39-1,088 1,320 

22511 1 22 NA 22 

22521 1 52 NA 52 

2253 2 79 64-95 159 

2254 1 796 NA 796 

22571 3 202 7-291 500 

22581 3 286 246-293 825 

22611 11 726 49-1,778 7,814 

22621 10 332 1-5,061 7,697 

2269 11 132 7-675 2,950 

22731 4 550 490-672 2,262 

2281 3 221 67-330 618 

2284 2 206 30-382 413 

2299 1 70 NA 70 

Total 79 32,238 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 1

Wet Process.

NA - Not applicable; only one facility reported a nonzero discharge flow rate.

Finishers of broadwoven cotton, manmade fibers, and silk (SIC codes 2261 and 

2262) had the largest total wastewater flows. Of the 10 facilities reporting wastewater flows in 

SIC code 2262, one facility’s reported flow accounts for 66 percent of the total wastewater flow. 

The total annual wastewater flow is more equally distributed among the 11 facilities reporting in 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

SIC code 2261, and no facility’s reported flow accounts for more than 23 percent of the total 

wastewater flow. 

Table 5-69 lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or indirectly, 

which account for 95 percent of the total TWPE for textile mills that reported to TRI for 2000. 

This table presents the number of facilities that reported each chemical, total pounds of chemical 

discharged for SIC code 22, and total TWPE for each chemical. 

Table 5-70 lists the pollutants reported to PCS, which account for 95 percent of 

the total TWPE for textile mills that reported discharges to PCS for 2000. 

As shown in Tables 5-69 and 5-70, the pollutants reported to TRI and PCS that 

account for the majority of the total TWPE are sulfide and chlorine. In TRI, over 97 percent of 

the TWPE results from indirect dischargers. In some dyeing processes, sulfur dyes are reacted 

with sodium sulfide to make the sulfur dye water soluble. This operation is the source of sulfide 

in textile mill effluent. Sulfide is regulated by BPT and BAT limitations in every wet processing 

subcategory. Thirty-day average limits on sulfide range from 0.04 to 0.22 kg/kkg of product. 

Chlorine is used primarily in bleaching processes, and in minor applications, to disinfect treated 

wastewater and remove color from wastewater (1). 

In PCS, the chlorine loads are reported as total residual chlorine (TRC). The TRC 

discharges may be calculated from reported daily maximum concentration, and thus represent a 

maximum mass discharge. Other pollutant mass discharges are based on reported monthly 

averages for either mass or concentration. 

EPA conducted a study of the textile mills industry in 1996 to determine if 

existing ELGS for this industry required updating or revision. Data sources for the 1996 

Preliminary Study include the Textiles Blue Book, the U.S. Department of Commerce, POTW 

surveys, and the TRI and PCS databases. Table 5-71 presents the total annual loads of chlorine 

and sulfide that were reported in the 1996 Preliminary Study (1). The 1996 study used 1992 TRI 

data and 1994 PCS data. 

The TRI database for 1992 or any reporting year does not include all textile mills 

or TRI-listed chemicals that are used or produced at levels below reporting thresholds. 

Furthermore, estimates may be based on monitoring data or on mass balance calculations. The 

accuracy and comparability of these estimates, therefore, is unknown, as the method of 

estimation may vary from facility to facility or for the same facility for different time periods. 

5-94
Section 5 

Table 5-69. Textile Mill Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to TRI for 200

SIC Code Pollutant 

Number of Facilities 

Reporting1 

TRI Total 

(lbs/yr) TRI TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range o

Facility 

TWPE/

Direct Indirect Direct Indirect Total Direct Indirect Total 

22 Chlorine 5 3 2,681 126,296 128,977 1,306 61,504 62,810 210 2-53,1222 Sodium Nitrite 0 5 0 43,559 43,559 0 16,262 16,262 890 93-13,3522 Chromium 

Compounds 

7 6 1,714 1,677 3,391 877 858 1,735 92 1-505 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000.

1A total of 116 facilities reported wastewater releases to TRI for 2000.

5-95
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-70. Textile Mill Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS for 2000 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting1 

PCS Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

22 Sulfide, Total 

(as S) 

66 53,067 148,616 885 22-44,274 50% 50% 

22 Chlorine 30 223,975 109,072 39 0-78,414 37% 87% 

22 Sulfide, Total 3 5,708 15,985 6,443 1,332-

8,210 

5% 92% 

22 Copper, Total 

(as Cu) 

33 19,366 12,140 23 0-10,949 4% 96% 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 1

PCS loads contains discharge data for 79 facilities in SIC code 22.

Table 5-71. Textile Mill Pollutant Discharges Reported in 1996 Preliminary Study 

Pollutant 

Total Annual Load (lb/yr) 

1994 PCS1 

Number of 

Reporting 

Facilities 1992 TRI 

Number of 

Reporting 

Facilities 

Chlorine 86,598 10 259,601 21 

Sulfide 32,254 to 71,118 10 NRb NRb 

Source: Preliminary Study of Textile Mills Point Source Category, 1996, Table IX-1, pg. 47. 1

The range of PCS loads represents values that were calculated assuming ND = 0 and ND = 1⁄2 DL. Chlorine loads

were calculated only assuming ND = 0. 

NR - The pollutant was not reported in the data source.

A total of 228 textile mills reported chemical releases to TRI for 1992 compared 

to the 296 mills that reported for 2000. Table 5-72 presents the highest total annual chemical 

releases reported to TRI for 1992, compared to the data reported for 2000. The total pounds and 

the number of facilities reporting releases of these chemicals have significantly decreased from 

1992 to 2000. Because many reported releases are based on estimates (not measurements), the 

decrease in reported releases might be attributed to changes in estimation methodology as well as 

reduction in actual releases. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-72. Eight Highest Chemical Releases Reported to TRI in 1992 and 2000 

Chemical 

1992 TRI Database 2000 TRI Database 

Number of 

Facilities Pounds Released 

Number of 

Facilities Pounds Released 

Ammonium sulfate1 38 2,572,379 0 NR 

Sulfuric acid1 19 1,284,439 1 0 

Ammonia 62 978,434 22 77,221 

Biphenyl 23 668,528 5 3,660 

Ethylene glycol 19 639,457 8 22,383 

Chlorine 21 259,601 8 128,977 

Chromium compounds 20 125,477 13 3,390 

Chromium 1 512 2 231 

Source: EP, Preliminary Study of the Textile Mills Point Source Category, 1996 and TRIReleases2000. 1

Ammonium sulfate and sulfuric acid were removed from the TRI list and reporting requirements. 

NR - The pollutant was not reported to the data source. 

The 1996 study estimated parameter loadings from NPDES monitoring data, 

which were extracted from PCS reports for 1994. A total of 423 records were found under SIC 

code 22, of which only 59 reported both concentration and flow values needed to estimate loads. 

For any given pollutant, 10 was the highest number of facilities reporting discharges of that 

pollutant. In comparison, the PCS data for 2000 include pollutant loads for 79 major 

dischargers, and up to 69 facilities reported discharges of a single pollutant. The 1996 

Preliminary Study made the following conclusions about the 1994 PCS monitoring data: 

1. Metal parameters consistently detected at low levels were copper, 

chromium, and zinc; 

2. Ammonia, chlorine, and sulfide were the most frequently monitored 

inorganic parameters; and 

3. Few organic priority pollutants were consistently identified. 

Table 5-73 presents the highest parameter loadings reported to PCS in 1994, 

compared to the reported 2000 discharges. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-73. Five Highest Parameter Loadings Reported to PCS in 1994 and 2000 

Parameter 

1994 PCS Data 2000 PCS Data 

Number of 

Facilities Pounds Released 

Number of 

Facilities Pounds Released 

Zinc 10 233,856 28 3,949 

Chlorine 10 86,598 30 223,9751 

Sulfide 10 71,118 66 53,067 

Ammonia 10 48,784 34 120,551 

Copper 10 25,228 33 19,366 

Source: EPA, Preliminary Study of the Textile Mills Point Source Category, 1996; PCSLoads2000. 1

Chlorine pounds may represent a maximum due to calculation from reported daily maximum concentrations. 

Chlorine contributes the majority of the TWPE for the textile industry in 2000. 

Chlorine accounts for 90 percent of the total TWPE in TRI and 30 percent of the total TWPE in 

PCS in 2000. Chlorine releases from 1994 and 2000 may not be comparable since 2000 chlorine 

pounds might have been calculated using daily maximum concentrations. However, the 1994 

chorine discharges might be calculated the same way. Sulfide was also identified in PCS as a 

high contributor to the pollutant loading, accounting for 60 percent of the total TWPE in 2000. 

According to data in Table 5-73, sulfide releases per facility decreased although the number of 

reporting facilities increased since 1994. Ammonia is the only pollutant for which reported total 

industry releases were higher in 2000 than in 1994; however, the per-facility releases decreased 

more than 15 percent4

. 

The following is a summary of the comparison of the 1996 Preliminary Study and 

the 2000 TRI and PCS data used for this review: 

C The total number of facilities reporting to TRI has increased from 228 to 

296; 

C The total number of major dischargers with data in PCS has increased 

from 59 to 79; 

C Total releases of the top five pollutants reported to TRI for the industry in 

1992 have significantly decreased; 

C Total chlorine releases reported to TRI have decreased from 259,601 to 

128,977 lb/yr; 

4

Based on the total pounds released and the number of reporting facilities for 2000 and 1994. 

5-98 
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Chlorine releases in the PCS 2000 data are not comparable to 1994 data 

since the 2000 pounds might have been calculated from reported daily 

maximum concentrations; and 

C Ammonia is the only pollutant for which reported total industry releases 

were higher in 2000 than in 1994. 

Wastewater Pollutant Sources 

Types of wastewater discharged by textile mills include cleaning water, process 

water, noncontact cooling water, and stormwater. Likely sources of textile process wastewater 

include wet processes such as scouring, dyeing, finishing, printing, and coating of textile 

products. One of the largest sources of wastewater pollutants is desizing, or the process of 

removing size chemicals from textiles (1). Typical sizing agents include starch, polyvinyl 

alcohol, carboxymethyl cellulose, and polyacrylic acid (2). 

Dyeing processes are another large source of wastewater. The primary source of 

wastewater from dyeing operations is spent dyebath and washwater. Wastewater from dyeing 

operations typically contains residual dye and auxiliary chemicals, as well as cleaning solvents. 

Dyes are also a major source of metals in textile wastewater. Metals are usually present in low 

concentrations, and typically include zinc, nickel, chromium, and cobalt. 

Finishing processes generally produce wastewater containing natural and 

synthetic polymers. Chemical handling and high pH are the primary pollution concerns 

associated with the bleaching process. Table 5-74 lists the typical pollutants generated from 

various process steps in textile manufacturing. 

Table 5-74. Sources of Process Wastewater in Textile Manufacturing 

Process Wastewater 

Slashing/Sizing BOD; COD; metals; cleaning waste, size 

Desizing BOD from water soluble sizes; synthetic size; lubricants; biocides; antistatic compounds 

Scouring Disinfectants and insecticide residues; NaOH; detergents; fats; oils; pectin; wax; knitting 

lubricants; spin finishes; spent solvents 

Bleaching Hydrogen peroxide, sodium silicate or organic stabilizer; high pH 

Mercerizing High pH; NaOH 

Dyeing Metals; salt; surfactants; toxics; organic processing assistants; cationic materials; color; 

BOD; COD; sulfide; acidity/alkalinity; spent solvents 

Printing Suspended solids; urea; solvents; color; metals; heat; BOD; foam 

Finishing BOD; COD; suspended solids; toxics; spent solvents 

Source: EPA, Preliminary Study of the Textile Mills Point Source Category, 1996. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Other Wastewater Pollution Issues 

Dyes and pigments released from the printing and dyeing processes are the major 

sources of color in textile wastestreams. Dyes that are not anchored to fabric are discarded as 

spent dyebath. Large releases of color can interrupt photosynthesis, which can decrease the 

levels of dissolved oxygen in receiving streams (2). EPA has not historically regulated color in 

the ELGS program. 

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) might be released to wastewater during 

finishing steps of the textile manufacture process. Significant water releases might result from 

bath dumps from finishing processes, equipment cleaning waste, rinse water from the cleaning of 

containers that contained the flame retardant chemicals, and area washdowns (3). The five major 

types of BFRs include: 

C Tetrabromobisphenol A;

C Hexabromocyclododecane; 

C Decabromodipheyl ether (DBDE);

C Octabromodiphenyl ether (OBDE); and 

C Pentabromodiphenyl ether (PentaBDE). 

DBDE is the most commonly used BFR, and accounts for 80 percent of the total 

polybrominated diphenyl ether production worldwide. BFRs have been detected in the 

environment in locations far from sites where they are produced or used. Research has shown 

that concentrations of BFRs in the environment and in humans are increasing (4). The detection 

of PBDEs in human breast milk raises concerns regarding the persistence, bioaccumulation, and 

potential for toxicity in humans and animals. Little is known about the fate of BFRs once they 

are released into the environment. 

Sources of aquatic toxicity in textile wastewaters include salt, surfactants, ionic 

metals and their metal complexes, toxic organic chemicals, biocides, and toxic anions. Salt has 

been identified as a potential problem because large quantities of salt are often needed to 

improve dye fixation onto fibers (2). The salts most commonly used in textile processes are 

sodium chloride and sodium sulfate. Magnesium chloride and potassium chloride are used less 

frequently. Surfactants are widely used in textile processes, and can be a large contributor to 

effluent aquatic toxicity (2). Since salt and surfactants are not reported to TRI or PCS by textile 

mills, EPA does not have characterization data for these parameters. 

5.4.5.4 Pollutant Prevention and Treatment Technology 

Most direct-discharging facilities reporting to TRI use aerobic biological 

treatment. Table 5-75 lists the treatment technologies used by textile mills reporting to TRI for 

2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-75. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Textile Mills, 

TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct Dischargers1 

(22 facilities) 

Indirect Dischargers1 

(30 facilities) 

Aerobic Biological Treatment 17 4 

Anaerobic Biological Treatment 1 1 

Settling/Clarification 19 13 

Sludge Dewatering (Nonthermal) 9 9 

Thermal Drying/Dewatering 0 1 

Emulsion Breaking - Chemical 0 3 

Equalization 13 13 

Filtration 9 11 

Oxidation 5 1 

Neutralization 10 15 

Chemical Precipitation - Other 3 8 

Chemical Precipitation - Lime or Sodium Hydroxide 2 6 

Chemical Precipitation - Sulfide 1 0 

Cyanide Oxidation 1 0 

Other Physical Treatment 2 0 

Oil Skimming 2 1 

Other Chemical Treatment 3 2 

Air Floatation 1 2 

Other Blending 1 2 

Other Liquid Phase Separation 1 1 

Source: EPA, Section 7A Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

1

Of the facilities that provided information on their wastewater treatment operations to TRI in 2000, 22 facilities 

reported direct releases, 30 reported transfers to POTWs, and 1 reported both direct releases and transfers to 

POTWs. 

The treatment and control technologies used by indirect dischargers in the 1996 

Preliminary Study include: 

C Biological Treatment;

C Equalization;

C Filtration;

C Neutralization;

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Oil-Water Separation; 

C Screening; 

C Sedimentation; 

C Sulfide Oxidation; and 

C Temperature. 

The 1996 Preliminary Study compares water use for the textile industry in 1993 

and 1980. In 1980, textile water use was, on average, 15.1 gal/lb of fiber processed. In 1993, 

the water use was, on average, to 11.7 gal/lb of fiber processed. This 22-percent reduction in 

water use resulted from more efficient use of water in wet processing and the development of 

water conservation programs at textile mills throughout the industry (1). Comparable 

information on production-normalized water use for 2000 was not available in the data sources 

EPA consulted for this review. Examples of water reuse at textile mills include: 

C Print screen rinse water is reused for rinsing;

C Rinses from scouring machines are reused in scouring process; and

C Sizing chemicals are reused after being removed from fabric.

In addition to water reuse, other pollution prevention practices reported in the 1996 Preliminary 

Study included: 

C Alternative process chemicals (e.g., biodegradeable, water soluble);

C Process changes (e.g., dyeing, sizing); and

C Equipment changes (e.g.,dye machinery).

5.4.5.5 Industry Trends 

EPA last studied the textile industry in 1996 (1). Table 5-76 compares the textile 

industry as presented in the 1996 Preliminary Study with 1997 Economic Census data and TRI 

data for 2000. Although the total number of establishments has decreased, the results of this 

review are consistent with the 1996 Preliminary Study finding that about half of the textile mills 

are in wet processing SIC codes, and a large percentage of discharges from textile mills are 

transferred to POTWs. 

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Table 5-76. Comparison of Industry Statistics 

1996 Preliminary Study 2000 Review 

Total number of establishments 5,887 mills in 1992 Census of 4,792 mills in 1997 Economic 

Manufacturers Census 

Percentage of establishments in wet 35-50% 50% of mills in 1997 Economic 

processing SIC codes Census 

Percent of establishments that 91-96% 80% of the 72 mills reporting 

discharge to POTWs discharges to TRI for 2000 

Source: EPA, Preliminary Study of the Textile Mills Point Source Category, 1996; U.S. Economic Census, 1997; 

and EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

5.4.5.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

Stakeholder and EPA Regional issues identified during this review are 

summarized below: 

C In general, stakeholders were concerned with industrial sludge disposal, 

and based on an EPA Region 4 poll, stakeholders expressed a need for a 

measurable limit for color and copper. 

C The source for releases of color and copper is the dyeing process. 

C Because facilities are not required to report color releases to TRI and PCS, 

available data are not sufficient to evaluate color discharges for this 

industry. Only one facility reported color releases to PCS. 

C Copper releases account for less than 1 percent of the total TWPE in TRI 

and PCS. 

EPA did not receive any public comments on the December 31, 2003 Preliminary 

Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, FRN [FRL-7604-7] from this industry. 

5.4.5.7 Conclusions 

Pollutants driving the total TWPE for this industry are sulfide and chlorine. 

Based on 2000 PCS data, sulfide accounts for 50 percent of the total TWPE for the textile 

industry. Currently, every wet processing subcategory under 40 CFR Part 410 contains 

limitations under BPT and BAT for sulfide. According to the 1996 Preliminary Study, some 

textile mills use sulfide oxidation as a pretreatment technology to reduce sulfide concentrations. 

At this time, EPA has not identified any other pollution prevention or treatment processes to 

lower sulfide releases. 2000 TRI and PCS data showed high TWPE values for chlorine, which 

accounts for 37 percent of the PCS TWPE and 90 percent of the TRI TWPE. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

The number of facilities reporting to TRI for 2000 represents only about 5 percent 

of the textile industry based on the total number of textile mills in the 1997 Economic Census, 

while the number of facilities reporting discharges to PCS for 2000 represent less than 2 percent 

of the total industry. Consequently, the reported pollutant discharges may not accurately 

characterize the entire textile industry. In comparison, the 1996 Preliminary Study presents year 

1992 TRI data for 228 textile mills and 1994 PCS data for 59 textile mills. When compared to 

the 1992 Census count of textile mills, the 1992 TRI data represent only about 4 percent of 

textile mills, and PCS data represent only about 1 percent of textile mills in the United States. 

Other data quality concerns include: 

C Releases reported to TRI might be based on estimates, not measurements, 

and tend to overestimate actual discharges. 

C Total residual chlorine discharges reported to PCS may reflect daily 

maximum concentration. Thus, loads calculated from this maximum 

concentration represent a maximum pollutant mass discharge. 

Textile mills may release compounds that are not reported to TRI or in PCS, such 

as BFRs used in textile finishing processes. BFRs are bioaccumulative and persistent chemicals 

that have been detected in the environment and in humans. However, EPA does not currently 

have actual data for these chemicals. EPA is concerned about persistent bioaccumulative 

compounds and has formed a task force to consider these compounds further. The ELG program 

will follow the work of this task force and plans to incorporate relevant suggestions/concerns 

into future planning activities. In the next annual review, EPA will continue to obtain and 

consider information to fill remaining data gaps. 

5.4.5.8 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Preliminary Study of the Textile Mills Category. Washington, D.C. 

1996. 

2. U.S. EPA. Clean Technologies in U.S. Industries: Focus on Textiles. 1997. 

Available online at: http://www.usaep.org/resources/reports/ 

rep_cleantech_text.html. 

3. U.S. EPA. 2003. Proposed Significant New Use Rule for Flame Retardants in 

Residential Upholstered Furniture: Evaluation of Releases and Occupational 

Exposures. Report prepared by ERG, Inc. Chantilly, VA. 

4. Birnbaum, L., and Staskal, D. “Brominated Flame Retardants: Cause for 

Concern?” Environmental Health Perspectives, 112:9-17. 2004. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards for the Textile Mills Point Source Category. EPA-440/1-79/022b. 

Washington, D.C. 1979. 

5.4.6 Timber Products Processing Point Source Category 

5.4.6.1 Industry Description 

As defined in 40 CFR Part 429.10, the Timber Products Processing Point Source 

Category includes all facilities with timber products processing operations and any plant 

producing insulation board with wood as the major raw material. Products manufactured by this 

category include veneer, plywood, hardboard, preserved wood (pressure and non-pressuretreated), particle board, and wood furniture and fixtures. Operations covered by this category are 

included in the six SIC codes presented in Table 5-77. 

Table 5-77. Timber Products Processing SIC Code Descriptions 

SIC 

Code Description Activities 

2421 Sawmills & Planing 

Mills, General 

Sawing rough lumber and timber from logs and bolts; sawing box lumber and 

softwood cut stock; planing mills combined with sawmills; and separately 

operated planing mills. 

2435 Hardwood Veneer 

and Plywood 

Producing commercial hardwood veneer and manufacturing plywood or 

prefinished hardwood plywood. 

2436 Softwood Veneer & 

Plywood 

Producing commercial softwood veneer and plywood from veneer produced in 

the same establishment or from purchased veneer. 

2491 Wood Preserving Treating wood, sawed, or planed in other establishments, with creosote or 

other preservatives to prevent decay and to protect against fire and insects. 

2493 Reconstituted Wood 

Products 

Manufacturing reconstituted wood products, such as hardboard, particleboard, 

insulation board, medium density fiberboard, waferboard, and oriented strand 

board. 

2499 Wood Products, NEC Manufacturing miscellaneous wood products, and products from rattan, reed, 

splint, straw, veneer, wicker, and willow. 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities included in each SIC code 

from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, and EPA’s TRI and PCS databases for 

2000. Table 5-78 lists the number of facilities by SIC code from these sources. The TRIreporting facilities in Table 5-78 include facilities reporting releases to any medium, even those 

that reported no wastewater releases. In contrast, the PCS-reporting facilities include only 

facilities that are permitted to discharge to surface waters. The number of facilities reporting to 

TRI for 2000 represent only about 4 percent of the total industry, based on total number of 

facilities in the 1997 Economic Census. One sector of the industry, wood preserving, is 

relatively better represented in TRI. The number of wood preserving facilities reporting to TRI 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

for 2000 represents about 32 percent of the wood preserving facilities in the 1997 Economic 

Census. 

Table 5-78. Number of Facilities in Timber Products Processing SIC Codes 

SIC 

Code Description 

1997 U.S. 

Economic 

Census 

2000 TRI-All 

Dischargers 

2000 PCS 

Major 

Dischargers 

Minor 

Dischargers 

2421 Sawmills & Planing Mills, General 5,176 33 2 102 

2435 Hardwood Veneer and Plywood 332 8 0 13 

2436 Softwood Veneer & Plywood 155 46 2 12 

2491 Wood Preserving 451 144 1 19 

2493 Reconstituted Wood Products 316 108 4 15 

2499 Wood Products, NEC 2,842 33 2 13 

Total 9,272 372 11 174 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000 and 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

Table 5-79 presents the number of facilities reporting to TRI by type of discharge. 

This table shows that the majority of facilities reporting to TRI did not report releasing TRI 

chemicals to surface waters or POTWs. However, the wood preserving industry does not follow 

this trend, in that more than half of the facilities in SIC code 2491 reported a direct or indirect 

wastewater discharge. 

Operations in timber products processing are primarily located in the South and 

Northwest. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-79. Number of Timber Products Processing Facilities by Discharge Type 

(TRI 2000) 

SIC 

Code Description 

Total 

Reporting to 

TRI 

Direct 

Dischargers 

Only 

Indirect 

Dischargers 

Only 

Both Direct 

and Indirect 

Dischargers 

No Reported 

Wastewater 

Discharge 

2421 Sawmills & Planing Mills, 

General 

33 2 1 0 30 

2435 Hardwood Veneer and 

Plywood 

8 0 0 0 8 

2436 Softwood Veneer & 

Plywood 

46 0 1 0 45 

2491 Wood Preserving 144 49 5 21 69 

2493 Reconstituted Wood 

Products 

108 6 9 4 89 

2499 Wood Products, NEC 33 3 1 0 29 

Total 372 60 17 25 270 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

5.4.6.2 Regulatory Background 

EPA promulgated the existing regulations (40 CFR Part 429) for the Timber 

Products Processing category in stages, between April 1974 and November 1981. These 

regulations divide this category into 16 subparts (subcategories), as summarized in Table 5-80. 

The subcategories are generally defined by combinations of products made and the processes 

used to make these products. They are not generally defined by SIC code. Regulations for the 

timber products processing subcategories may apply to one SIC code, multiple SIC codes, or a 

portion of the facilities in an SIC code. Table 5-80 presents the general relationship between 

SIC codes and timber products processing subcategories as well as the current ELGS for this 

industry. 

BAT regulations for 11 subcategories require no discharge of process wastewater. 

This is compatible with the information presented in Table 5-79, in that more than 70 percent of 

the timber products processing facilities reporting to TRI reported no wastewater releases of 

pollutants. In 40 CFR Part 429.11, the term “process wastewater” specifically excludes 

noncontact cooling water, material storage yard runoff (either raw material or processed wood 

storage), and boiler blowdown. For the dry process hardboard, veneer, finishing, particleboard, 

and sawmills and planing mills subcategories, fire control water is excluded from the definition. 

Thus, all timber products processing facilities may be permitted to discharge noncontact cooling 

water, storage yard runoff, and fire control water. In addition, barking, wet storage, and log 

washing operations may be located at facilities with primary operations in subcategories for 

which BPT and/or BAT is “no discharge of process wastewater.” Because there are ELG for 

barking, wet storage, and log washing, facilities may be permitted to discharge wastewaters from 

these operations. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Thus, even though BAT guidelines for two of the three wood preserving 

subcategories require “no discharge of process wastewater,” facilities in all three wood 

preserving subcategories may be permitted to discharge storage yard runoff, which might be 

contaminated with wood preserving chemicals, as well as noncontact cooling water, and 

wastewaters from any on-site barking, wet storage, and log washing operations. 

PSES regulations for all but two subcategories require discharging facilities to 

comply with the general pretreatment standards in 40 CFR Part 403. EPA established PSES for 

two wood preserving subcategories, G - Steam and H - Boulton. The standards are the same for 

both subcategories and include maximum concentrations for any one day, for four pollutants: 

C Oil and grease, 100 mg/L;

C Copper, 5 mg/L;

C Chromium, 4 mg/L; and 

C Arsenic, 4 mg/L. 

Table 5-80. Pollutants Regulated by Existing Timber Products Processing ELGS 

40 

CFR 

Part Subcategory 

Approximate SIC 

Code 

SIC Code 

Description BPT BAT NSPS 

A Barking Major Group 24, 

facilities that bark logs 

BOD5, TSS, pH Reserved BOD5, TSS, pH 

B Veneer 2435 and 2436, 

without wet storage 

Hardwood and 

Softwood Veneer 

and Plywood 

BOD5, pH No discharge of 

process 

wastewater 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater 

pollutants 

C Plywood 2435 and 2436, 

without wet storage 

Hardwood and 

Softwood Veneer 

and Plywood 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

D Dry Process 

Hardwood 

2493, hardboard using 

dry matting 

Reconstituted 

Wood Products 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

E Wet Process 

Hardwood 

2493, hardboard using 

wet matting 

Reconstituted 

Wood Products 

BOD5, TSS, pH Reserved No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

F Wood 

Preserving -

Water-Borne or 

Nonpressure 

2491, CCA and other 

inorganics 

Wood Preserving No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

G Wood 

Preserving ­

Steam 

2491, oil borne and 

combination 

Wood Preserving COD, Oil & 

Grease, phenols, 

pH 

Reserved No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

H Wood 

Preserving -

Boulton 

2491, oil borne Wood Preserving No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-80 (Continued) 

40 

CFR 

Part Subcategory 

Approximate SIC 

Code 

SIC Code 

Description BPT BAT NSPS 

I Wet Storage Major Group 24, 

facilities with wet log 

storage 

pH, debris pH, debris pH, debris 

J Log Washing Major Group 24, 

facilities with log 

washing 

TSS, pH No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

K Sawmills and 

Planing Mills 

2421, except hydraulic 

barking 

Sawmills & Planing 

Mills, General 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

L Finishing Not defined by SIC; 

includes staining, 

moisture proofing, etc. 

at timber processing 

operations 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

M Particleboard 

Manufacturing 

2493, particleboard Reconstituted 

Wood Products 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

N Insulation 

Board 

2493, wood insulation 

board (excludes 

bagasse) 

Reconstituted 

Wood Products 

BOD5, TSS, pH Reserved No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

O Wood Furniture 

and Fixture 

Production 

Without Water 

Wash Spray 

Booth(s) or 

Laundries 

2499 Wood products, 

NEC 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

P Wood Furniture 

and Fixture 

Production 

With Water 

Wash Spray 

Booth(s) or 

Laundries 

2499 Wood products, 

NEC 

TSS, pH No discharge of 

process 

wastewater1 

pollutants 

No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

pollutants 

Source: Code of Federal Regulations, <http://www.epa.gov/epahome/cfr40.htm>. 1

The term “process wastewater” specifically excludes noncontact cooling water, material storage yard runoff (either raw material or processed 

wood storage), and boiler blowdown. For the dry process hardboard, veneer, finishing, particleboard, and sawmills and planing mills 

subcategories, fire control water is excluded from the definition. 

Technology Basis for Existing Limitations 

Table 5-81 summarizes the technology basis for existing limitations. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-81. Summary of Technology Basis of Existing Timber Products ELGS 

Subcategory BPT BAT PSES 

F - Wood 

PreservingWater-Borne 

or 

No discharge of process 

wastewater based on 

recovery and reuse of 

contaminated water as 

BAT (no process wastewater 

discharge) based on process 

controls such as use of surface 

condensers rather than 

Comply with 40 CFR Part 

403. 

Nonpressure make-up water for treating 

solutions (4). 

barometric condensers or recycle 

of barometric condenser cooling 

water, and on-site disposal 

techniques, such as containment 

and spray-evaporation and/or 

spray irrigation to eliminate 

discharges to surface waters (3). 

G - Wood Limits based on in-plant Reserved. Limits based on oil/water 

Preserving ­

Steam 

controls, oil/water 

separation, and biological 

separation and the rationale 

that the 100 mg/L oil and 

treatment (4). grease limit would control 

pentachlorophenol 

discharges to 15 mg/L or 

less (3). 

H - Wood 

Preserving ­

No discharge of process 

wastewater based on leak 

See Subpart F. See Subpart G. 

Boulton and spill control and 

disposal of small wastewater 

volumes by evaporation or 

percolation (4). 

Others Limits for insulation board 

and wet process hardboard, 

Most other subcategories have a 

“no discharge of process 

Comply with 40 CFR Part 

403. 

based on primary and 

secondary treatment, with 

wastewater” requirement, based 

on internal controls and reuse of 

reuse of a portion of the 

treated wastewater (4). 

recovered wastewater (3 and 4). 

Sources: EPA, 1974 and 1981 Development Documents (3 and 4). 

Stormwater Multi-Sector General Permit 

Timber products processing facilities are covered by EPA’s multi-sector general 

permit (MSGP) for industrial stormwater discharges. The MSGP authorizes stormwater 

discharges associated with industrial activities covered by ELGS. The timber products 

processing industry is included as Industrial Sector A in the MSGP. The MSGP requirements 

apply only in the five states for which EPA issues permits. Most of the remaining states issue 

general stormwater permits that, at a minimum, generally contain the same requirements as the 

MSGP. EPA or other permitting authority may require an individual permit for a facility instead 

of coverage under the MSGP or general permit. For example, the state of Alabama does not 

issue general stormwater permits for wood preserving facilities. Instead, each facility is issued 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

an individual NPDES permit. For most of these facilities, the permitted wastewater discharge is 

stormwater (6). The MSGP includes the following permit conditions: 

C Facilities must submit a “Notice of Intent” to discharge stormwater prior 

to receiving authorization to discharge. 

C Facilities must prepare and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention 

Plan (SWPPP). 

C Facilities must conduct chemical analytical monitoring of specified 

benchmark parameters to determine if a stormwater discharge merits 

further monitoring. The MSGP provides benchmark levels that represent 

target concentrations for a facility to achieve by implementing pollution 

prevention measures. 

Wood preserving facilities are subject to benchmark monitoring for arsenic and copper. They 

are required to monitor once per quarter for monitoring years 2 and 4. The wood preserving 

sector-specific benchmark cut-off concentrations are: 

Total Arsenic ..................... 0.16854 mg/L.

Total Copper ...................... 0.0636 mg/L.

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Hazardous Waste Regulations 

As discussed in the Preliminary Data Summary for the Wood Preserving Segment 

of the Timber Products Processing Point Source Category (5), in 1990, EPA issued final 

regulations that specifically listed wood preserving wastes from facilities that use chlorophenolic 

formulations, creosote formulations, and inorganic preservatives containing arsenic or chromium 

as hazardous wastes. The types of wastes identified include wood preserving wastewaters, 

process residuals, preservative drippage, and spent preservatives. In addition to identifying 

specific wood preserving wastes as hazardous, EPA identified a “drip pad” as a new RCRA 

hazardous waste management unit unique to wood preserving facilities. EPA developed specific 

standards (referred to as RCRA Subpart W standards) for the design, installation, operation, and 

closure of hazardous waste drip pads. 

Preservative drippage and process residuals might accumulate on drip pads, in 

pathways over which treated wood is transported, and in treated wood storage yards. This 

category of waste includes drippage of preservative from treated wood, preservative that is 

washed off treated wood by rainwater, and residuals from collecting and recycling preservative 

that drips off or is washed off treated wood. However, preservative that is washed off treated 

wood in storage yards by rainwater is not specifically identified as a RCRA listed waste. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Existing Regulatory Conclusions 

After its preliminary review of existing regulations for SIC code 2491 (wood 

preserving), EPA come to the following conclusions: 

C Even though BAT guidelines for two of the three wood preserving 

subcategories are “no discharge of process wastewater,” facilities in all 

three wood preserving subcategories may be permitted to nonprocess 

discharge storage yard runoff, which may be contaminated with wood 

preserving chemicals, as well as noncontact cooling water and 

wastewaters from any on-site barking, wet storage, and log washing 

operations. 

C Wood preserving facilities are subject to EPA’s MSGP or general 

stormwater permits issued by the states, unless a permitting authority 

issues individual NPDES permits for stormwater discharges. MSGP and 

general stormwater permits require baseline monitoring for arsenic and 

chromium, but not for constituents of organic wood preservatives, such as 

PACs, pentachlorophenol, or dioxins (dioxins are potential contaminants 

of pentachlorophenol). 

C Preservative that is washed off treated wood in storage yards by rainwater 

is not specifically identified as a RCRA-listed waste and is not subject to 

RCRA hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal regulations unless 

it exhibits a characteristic hazard (such as toxicity). 

5.4.6.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

This subsection presents the wastewater characteristics of facilities reporting to 

PCS and the pollutants that contribute the most to the pollutant load reported in each SIC code 

by facilities in TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. This subsection also describes an analysis 

of stormwater discharges of wastewater pollutants. 

Wastewater Characteristics Reported in PCS 

Ten of the 11 major dischargers reporting to PCS also report discharge outfall 

flow rates. Flow rates are not available for the 174 facilities identified as minor dischargers. 

Table 5-82 presents the total annual flow (in million gallons) for 2000 and range of facility flows 

for each SIC code. Facilities not reporting a flow were not included in the calculation of the 

median. As noted in Table 5-82, BAT limitations for most of the timber products processing 

subcategories is “no discharge of process wastewater,” although facilities may be permitted to 

discharge material storage yard runoff and other nonprocess wastewaters. Only 0.1 percent of 

the timber products processing facilities in the 1997 Economic Census had discharge flow rates 

in PCSLoads2000. Thus, the reported flows are not likely to characterize the entire industry. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-82. Timber Products Wastewater Flows Reported to PCS for 2000 

Number of 

SIC 

Code Description 

Applicable 

Subparts BAT 

Major 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Nonzero 

Flows 

Range of 

Facility 

Flows in 

2000 (MGY) 

Total 

Flow in 

2000 

(MGY) 

2421 Sawmills & 

Planing Mills, 

General 

K No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

1 NA 900 

2435 Hardwood 

Veneer and 

Plywood 

B & C No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

0 NR NR 

2436 Softwood 

Veneer & 

Plywood 

B & C No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

2 110 - 701 811 

2491 Wood 

Preserving 

F- WaterBorne 

G - Steam 

No discharge1 

BPT limits, BAT 

reserved 

0 NR NR 

Conditioning 

H - Bolton 

no discharge1 

Conditioning 

2493 Reconstituted 

Wood Products 

D - Dry 

Hardboard 

No dischargea 

BPT limits, BAT 

4 326 - 2,002 3,780 

E - Wet reserved 

Hardboard 

M - Particle 

no discharge1 

BPT limits, BAT 

Board reserved 

N– Insulation 

Board 

2499 Wood Products, 

NEC 

O & P No discharge of 

process wastewater1 

2 246 - 256 501 

Total 10 5,993 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000.

NA - Not applicable; only one facility reported flow rate.

NR - No reported flow.

1

The term “process wastewater” specifically excludes noncontact cooling water, material storage yard runoff (either

raw material or processed wood storage), and boiler blowdown. For the dry process hardboard, veneer, finishing,

particleboard, and sawmills and planing mills subcategories, fire control water is excluded from the definition. In

addition, discharges from barking, wet storage, and log washing located at timber products processing facilities may

be permitted using guidelines for Subparts A, I, and J.

Table 5-83 presents the chemicals reported to PCS that account for 95 percent of 

the total TWPE for each SIC code. No wastewater discharges for facilities with SIC codes 

2421and 2491 were reported to PCS. One facility in SIC code 2436, Softwood Veneer and 

Plywood, reported discharge of several metal pollutants. This facility did not comply with its 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

copper limits in seven of eight quarters in 2002-2004. None of the other facilities reporting to 

PCS had apparent compliance problems. 

Table 5-83. Timber Products Processing Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS for 2000 

SIC 

Code Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS 

Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percentage 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

24361 Lead, Total Recoverable 1 31 69 69 49% 

Iron, Total Recoverable 1 5,622 31 31 22% 

Copper, Total Recoverable 1 31 20 20 14% 

Chlorine, Total Residual 1 20 10 10 7% 

Cadmium, Total Recoverable 1 3 8 8 6% 

24932 Chlorine, Total Residual 2 1,126 548 274 67% 

Copper, Total (As Cu) 1 196 123 123 15% 

Zinc, Total (As Zn) 1 1,045 49 49 6% 

Chromium, Hexavalent (As Cr) 1 86 44 44 5% 

Nitrogen, Ammonia Total (As N) 1 19,886 36 36 4% 

24993 Phenolics, Total Recoverable 1 5 0.1 0.1 100% 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 1

Softwood Veneer & Plywood, loads from one facility that was not complying with copper limits from April 2002 to

March 2004.

2

Reconstituted Wood Products.

3

Wood Products, NEC.

Wastewater Characteristics Reported in TRI 

As discussed in Section 4.2.4.2, in the screening-level review of the 2000 TRI 

data, EPA used a median toxic-weighting factor of the 17 dioxin and dioxin-like compounds to 

represent a toxic-weighting factor for this class of compounds. For the Timber Products 

Processing category review, EPA recalculated the estimated toxic-weighted pounds of dioxins 

using the TRI-reported congener distributions. For facilities that reported dioxin congener 

distributions, EPA calculated TWPE using the congener distributions and TWFs of the 

individual dioxin compounds. For facilities that did not report a dioxin congener distribution, 

EPA used the average distribution of the reporting facilities to recalculate TWPE. 

In the screening-level review, EPA estimated that wood preserving facilities (SIC 

code 2491) released 5,359,154 TWPE of dioxins. EPA’s revised estimate, based on reported 

congener distribution, is 379,324 TWPE. EPA notes that 2000 was the first year that facilities 

were required to report dioxin releases to TRI. See Section 4.2.4.2 for issues related to dioxin 

reporting. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

For the screening-level review of the 2000 TRI data, EPA assumed that the only 

PAC reported to be discharged by timber products processing facilities was benzo(a)pyrene. 

Thus, EPA used the toxic-weighting factor (TWF) for benzo(a)pyrene to estimate the TWPE of 

PACs released by wood preserving facilities. For this review, EPA assumed that composition of 

PACs released by the timber products processing facilities is proportional to the PACs 

composition of creosote. EPA made this assumption and revised its methodology accordingly 

because facilities that reported PACs to TRI also reported discharging creosote. Because 

creosote contains PACs, EPA assumed that the source of the PACs is creosote. Using this 

methodology, the TWF for the PACs category is reduced from 4,284 to 65.78, which reduces the 

total TWPE for PACs from 1,051,876 to 16,153. 

Table 5-84 presents the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or 

indirectly that account for 95 percent of the total TWPE for each SIC code. This table presents 

the number of facilities that reported each pollutant, total pounds of pollutant discharged for each 

SIC code, and total TWPE for each pollutant. Note that this table reflects information as 

reported to TRI and that EPA has not verified this information. 

As with PCS, no facilities in SIC code 2435, Hardwood Veneer and Plywood, 

reported wastewater pollutant releases. 

Two facilities in SIC code 2421, Sawmills and Planing Mills, reported releases of 

arsenic, copper, and chromium, metals that are the active ingredients in inorganic wood 

preservatives. 

The most releases, both in terms of number of facilities reporting and TWPE, 

were reported by facilities in SIC code 2491, Wood Preserving. Dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds have the highest TWPE reported to TRI among the six SIC codes and were reported 

to TRI by approximately 25 percent of the discharging wood preserving facilities. Releases of 

coal tar creosote were reported by 29 wood preserving facilities. However, because there is no 

toxic-weighting factor for creosote, it does not contribute to the total TWPE discharged by 

facilities in SIC code 2491. There are no pretreatment standards or ELGS for any of the 

pollutants identified in Table 5-84 that are discharged by wood preserving facilities. 

The information in Tables 5-83 and 5-84 provides the basis of the following 

conclusions: 

C More than 93 percent of the TWPE discharges reported to TRI for 2000 

were discharges of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds from SIC code 2491 

(wood preserving); 

C If EPA assumes a toxic-weighting factor for creosote based on its 

chemical composition, creosote would add 126,000 TWPE to the total 

TWPE for this industry; 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Based on the information reported to TRI, compared to wood preserving, 

toxic discharges from other timber products processing SIC codes are low; 

C Very little information about discharges of toxic pollutants from this 

industry is included in PCS; and 

C Because process wastewater discharge is prohibited, pollutant discharges 

from most subcategories most likely originate from noncontact cooling 

water, material storage yard runoff (either raw material or processed wood 

storage), and boiler blowdown, fire control water, barking, wet storage, or 

log washing. Of these sources, runoff from preserved wood storage is the 

most likely source of pollutants. 

Table 5-84. Timber Products Processing Pollutant Releases to Surface Water Reported to 

TRI for 2000 

SIC 

Code Description Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Pollutant/Any 

Wastewater 

TRI Total 

(lbs/yr) 

TRITWPE/yr 

Median 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Range of 

Facility 

TWPE/yr 

Percent 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

2421 Sawmills & 

Planing Mills, 

Arsenic 

compounds 

2 of 3 260 902 451 17 - 885 75% 

General 

Copper 

compounds 

2 of 260 163 81 3 - 160 14% 

Chromium 

compounds 

2 of 3 260 133 67 3 - 131 11% 

2436 Softwood 

Veneer & 

Plywood 

Methyl 

methacrylate 

1 of 1 23 0.007 0.007 NA 100% 

2491 Wood Preserving Creosote 29 of 75 37,994 NC NC NC NC 

Dioxin and 

dioxin-like 

compounds 

24 of 75 0.8 379,324 3,825 75 - 122,187 94% 

Polycyclic 

aromatic 

compounds 

6 of 75 246 16,153 375 39 - 12,865 4% 

2493 Reconstituted Ammonia 4 of 19 21,112 32 1 0.4 - 30 57% 

Wood Products 

Formaldehyde 12 of 19 5,516 13 1 0.01 - 8 23% 

Phenol 2 of 19 260 7 4 0.1 - 7 13% 

1,2,4-

Trichlorobenzene 

1 of 19 35 3 3 NA 5% 

2499 Wood Products, 

NEC 

Dioxin and 

dioxin-like 

compounds 

1 of 4 0.0004 184 184 NA 98% 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases 2000.

NC - Not calculated. Creosote does not have a toxic-weighting factor; therefore, no TWPE is calculated.

NA - Not applicable; only one facility reported pollutant discharge. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Wastewater Pollutant Sources 

This subsection describes the sources of wastewater discharged to receiving 

streams by wood preserving facilities (SIC code 2491). Because wood preserving facilities 

account for almost all of the TRI-reported releases of TWPE for the Timber Products Processing 

category, EPA’s review of timber products wastewater pollutant sources focused on the wood 

preserving industry. 

As described in the 1991 PDS (1), the major sources of wastewater in the wood 

preserving industry are internal wood water, which is removed from the wood during the 

conditioning process, and steam condensate, which is generated during conditioning. The wood 

water and steam condensate become contaminated from contact with wood constituents, oil and 

grease, and preservative. Other sources of wastewater include wastewater generated during 

preservative formulation recovery and regeneration, drippage and spills from the retort, other 

miscellaneous sources, and stormwater runoff. 

TRI requires facilities to estimate on-site releases of toxic chemicals, including 

discharges to receiving streams. Some facilities monitor stormwater runoff chemical 

concentrations. TRI requires facilities that monitor stormwater to report the percentage of the 

total quantity of the chemical discharged that was contributed by stormwater. 

The BPT limitations guidelines for Timber Products Subpart F (Wood Preserving 

- Water-borne or Nonpressure Subcategory) and Subpart H (Wood Preserving - Boulton 

Subcategory) require “no discharge of process wastewater pollutants.” However, the definition 

of process wastewater specifically excludes material storage yard runoff. Thus, wood preserving 

facilities may be permitted to release material storage yard runoff and other stormwater. 

EPA analyzed information reported to TRI to determine if the reported pollutant 

releases originated from stormwater or from other sources. EPA determined the number of wood 

preserving facilities that reported stormwater contributions to their wastewater discharges. EPA 

found that, of the 755

 wood preserving facilities that reported discharging wastewater to TRI, 51 

facilities reported that stormwater contributes 100 percent of the mass of the chemicals they 

released to surface waters. 

Table 5-85 lists the chemicals that account for 90 percent of the total, unweighted pounds of pollutants released by all wood preserving facilities reporting to TRI. In 

contrast, Table 5-86 lists the total TWPE of pollutants released, and lists the one chemical group, 

dioxin and dioxin-like compounds, that accounts for more than 90 percent of the total TWPE 

released by all wood preserving facilities reporting to TRI. Each table lists the number of 

facilities that reported releasing the chemical. For each chemical, the tables also lists the number 

of facilities 

5

The 75 facilities in SIC code 2491, Wood Preserving, that reported wastewater discharges to TRI, include 49 that 

reported only releases to surface water, 21 that reported transfers to POTWs, and 5 that reported both releases to 

surface water and transfers to POTWs. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

that reported the percentage contributed by stormwater. Finally, each table lists the number of 

facilities that reported that stormwater contributed 100 percent of the quantity of chemical 

discharged. 

Table 5-85. Stormwater Discharges of Pollutants Accounting for 90 Percent of 

Unweighted Pounds of Wood Preserving Pollutant Loads 

Chemical 

Releases 

Reported to 

TRI 

( Pounds) 

Percentage 

of SIC 2491 

Total TRI 

Pounds 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Releasing the 

Chemical 

Number of 

Facilities 

Providing 

Percentage 

Contributed by 

Stormwater 

Number of 

Facilities That 

Report 100 

Percent of the 

Discharge is 

from Stormwater 

Creosote, Coal Tar 37,994 82% 29 29 20 

Chromium Compounds 2,183 5% 25 24 15 

Arsenic Compounds 1,523 3% 22 22 14 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

Table 5-86. Stormwater Discharges of Pollutant Accounting for 90 Percent of Wood 

Preserving TWPE 

Chemical 

Releases 

Reported to 

TRI 

( TWPE) 

Percentage 

of SIC 2491 

Total TRI 

TWPE 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Releasing the 

Chemical 

Number of 

Facilities 

Providing 

Percentage 

Contributed by 

Stormwater 

Number of 

Facilities That 

Report 100 

Percent of the 

Discharge is 

from Stormwater 

Dioxin and DioxinLike Compounds 379,324 94% 24 24 21 

Source: Section 5 Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

As shown in Table 5-86, of the 24 facilities reporting percentage of the mass of 

dioxins released that derived from stormwater, 21 facilities reported that stormwater contributed 

100 percent of the released mass. Of the three facilities that did not report 100 percent 

stormwater discharge of dioxins, two were direct dischargers and one was an indirect discharger. 

 In addition, as shown in Table 5-85, creosote, chromium compounds, and arsenic 

compounds account for 90 percent of the total unweighted pounds of toxic chemicals released by 

all wood preserving facilities reporting to TRI. Over half of the facilities reporting releases of 

these chemicals reported that 100 percent of the mass discharged was contributed by stormwater.

 EPA analyzed reported releases to determine what pollutants were associated 

with nonstormwater releases. Twenty-four facilities for which usable information was available 

reported that stormwater contributed less than 100 percent of the mass of chemical they 

discharged to receiving streams. Table 5-87 lists the chemicals these 24 facilities reported 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

discharging. Except for dioxin, these chemicals are constituents of wood preservatives. Dioxin 

is a potential contaminant of pentachlorophenol. The table also lists the number of facilities 

reporting non-stormwater-derived discharges of these chemicals. 

Table 5-87. Nonstormwater Discharges of Pollutants from Wood Preserving Facilities 

Number of Facilities Reporting That Less than 100 

Chemical Percent of Their Discharge Is from Stormwater 

Chromium Compounds or Chromium 11 

Arsenic Compounds or Arsenic 9 

Copper Compounds or Copper 8 

Creosote, Coal Tar 2 

Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds 2 

Pentachlorophenol 2 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

EPA does not currently have information about the wastewaters that are the 

source of these pollutant releases. 

The information reported to TRI by facilities in SIC code 2491 (wood preserving) 

provides the basis of the following conclusions: 

C Of the 144 facilities reporting to TRI, almost half (69) did not report 

releasing TRI chemicals to surface water or transferring them to POTWs. 

C Of the 75 facilities that reported releasing TRI chemicals to surface water 

or transferring them to POTWs, 51 facilities reported that stormwater 

contributes 100 percent of the direct chemical discharges. 

C Facilities reporting releases of TRI chemicals that did not originate from 

stormwater reported releasing chromium, arsenic, copper, creosote, dioxin 

and dioxin-like compounds, and pentachlorophenol. Except for dioxin, 

these chemicals are constituents of wood preservatives. Dioxin is a 

potential contaminant of pentachlorophenol. 

C EPA has not identified the nonstormwater sources of TRI-reported 

chemical releases that are attributable to stormwater. 

EAD Preliminary Data Summary 

EPA conducted a preliminary characterization study of the wood preserving 

industry and published the results of that study in 1991(1). As reported in the 1991 PDS, EPA 

conducted sampling episodes at five wood preserving facilities, four in the Boulton subcategory 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

and one in the steam subcategory. Two of the five facilities did not discharge process 

wastewater, while the other three discharged to POTWs and are subject to PSES for oil and 

grease, copper, chromium, and arsenic. EPA did not sample facilities that treat only with 

inorganic preservatives, nor did it sample nonprocess wastewater discharges, such as storage 

yard run-off. EPA did not estimate industry-wide loads of pollutants discharged by wood 

preserving facilities. For this reason, the information presented in the PDS is not readily 

comparable to the information reported to TRI or PCS in 2000. 

EPA frequently detected toxic and priority pollutants not limited by existing 

PSES in treated effluents discharged to POTWs. These pollutants included, among many others: 

C Dioxins and dioxin-like compounds (including 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD, 2,,3,7,8-

TCDF, and others); 

C PACs (including Benzo(j,k)fluorene (fluoranthene), 

Benzo(a)phenanthrene (chrysene), and others); and 

C Pentachlorophenol. 

5.4.6.4 Pollution Prevention and Treatment Technology 

Table 5-88 lists the treatment technologies used by timber products processing 

facilities reporting to TRI for 2000. Timber products processing facilities use biological 

treatment more than any other wastewater treatment processes. Three types of biological 

treatment have been used by this industry: aerobic, anaerobic, and facultative. Biological 

treatment reduces concentrations of COD, total phenols, oil and grease, pentachlorophenol, and 

organic compounds in wastewater. This treatment is normally used as a pretreatment step prior 

to discharge to a POTW (1). 

Table 5-88. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Timber Products Processing

 Facilities TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct 

Dischargers1 

(37 facilities) 

Indirect 

Dischargers1 

(25 facilities) 

Biological Treatment 22 17 

Settling/Clarification 16 10 

Equalization 9 6 

Adsorption -- Carbon 9 5 

Oil Skimming 7 2 

Filtration 6 2 

Emulsion Breaking -- Chemical 6 4 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-88 (Continued) 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct 

Dischargers1 

(37 facilities) 

Indirect 

Dischargers1 

(25 facilities) 

Chemical Precipitation -- Other 3 2 

Sludge Dewatering (Nonthermal) 3 1 

Air Flotation 3 1 

Neutralization 2 1 

Thermal Drying/Dewatering 2 0 

Other Incineration/thermal Treatment 2 0 

Other Liquid Phase Separation 2 0 

Other Physical Treatment 2 0 

General Oxidation (Including Disinfection) -- Ozonation 1 2 

General Oxidation (Including Disinfection) -- Other 1 1 

Other Chemical Treatment 0 1 

Stripping -- Air 0 1 

Source: EPA, Section 7A Table of the TRI 2000 Database. 

1

Of the facilities that provided information on their wastewater treatment operations in TRI 2000, 37 facilities 

reported direct releases, 25 reported transfers to POTWs, and 19 reported both direct releases and transfers to 

POTWs. 

5.4.6.5 Industry Trends 

Wood preserving is the major source of toxic releases reported by this industrial 

category. Stormwater discharges reported to TRI include creosote, chromium, arsenic, and the 

potential pentachlorophenol contaminant, dioxins. Wood preservers have voluntarily agreed to 

cancel certain chromated copper arsenate (CCA) wood preservative products and terminate 

certain uses of other CCA products (68 FR 17366; April 9, 2003). These changes, when fully 

implemented, might affect the toxicity of discharged stormwater; however, they will not have 

any direct impact on dioxin or PACs releases resulting from the use of pentachlorophenol and 

creosote wood preservatives. 

5.4.6.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

Stakeholders believe that EPA should amend the definition of process wastewater 

in 40 CFR Part 429 to exclude wastewater generated in air pollution control devices and in 

operation and maintenance activities. The final rule for the Plywood and Composite Wood 

Products Manufacture National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) 

was published on July 30, 2004 (see http://www.epa.gov/ttn/atw/plypart/plywoodpg.html and 69 

5-121
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

FR 45944). These new standards are based, in part, on the use of wet electrostatic precipitators 

(WESP), a form of wet air pollution control. In addition to promulgating the new air pollution 

regulation, EPA also amended the ELGS for the Timber Products Processing Point Source 

Category codified at 40 CFR Part 429, Subpart B (Veneer Subcategory), Subpart C (Plywood 

Subcategory), Subpart D (Dry Process Hardboard Subcategory), and Subpart M (Particleboard 

Manufacturing Subcategory). The amendments adjusted the definition of process wastewater 

found at 40 CFR Part 429.11(c) to exclude certain sources of wastewater generated by air 

pollution control devices expected to be installed to comply with the final Plywood and 

Composite Wood Products NESHAP. 

EPA estimated that the nationwide increase in wastewater flow as a result of the 

amendment is within the range of water flow rates currently handled by individual facilities. 

EPA believes that facilities would likely dispose of this wastewater by sending it to a municipal 

treatment facility, reusing it on site (e.g., in log vats or resin mix), or hauling it off site for spray 

irrigation. 

In addition, Washington State permitting authorities suggest revising these 

guidelines to include effluent limits for stormwater discharges from associated log yards. The 

state has prepared a manual for implementing industrial stormwater general permits at log yards 

(7). 

EPA will need considerably more data and information to promulgate new 

effluent guidelines affecting Subparts B, C, D, and M of 40 CFR Part 429 for air pollution 

control device wastewaters generated in complying with the final NESHAP for Plywood and 

Composite Wood Products Manufacture. In particular, EPA will need information to adequately 

characterize the quantity and quality of wastewater that would be generated as result of 

compliance with the standards. The volume and pollutant content of wastewater generated at 

these facilities are related to production processes, air pollution control equipment that generate 

wastewater, the extent of opportunities for internal recycling of wastewater, and the availability 

of other process uses for wastewater. Until EPA promulgates ELGS for pollutants in these 

process wastewaters, technology-based effluent limits should be established on a case-by-case 

basis under 40 CFR Part 125.3. Thus, individual facilities seeking a discharge permit will have 

the opportunity, on a case-by-case basis, to characterize and obtain discharge allowances for 

their wastewaters from air pollution control devices installed to comply with the final NESHAP 

for Plywood and Composite Wood Products Manufacture. The permit writer would be expected 

to determine, based upon BPJ, the appropriate effluent limitations for these air pollution control 

wastewaters. (See 40 CFR Part 125.3.) The permit writer can take into account facility-specific 

information on wastewater volumes and pollutants, available wastewater control and treatment 

technologies, costs and effluent reduction benefits, receiving water quality, and any applicable 

State water quality standards. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.4.6.7 Conclusions 

Based on the information for this review, the major toxic discharge associated 

with timber products processing facilities is stormwater discharges of dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds from wood preserving facilities. Stormwater discharges of creosote from wood 

preserving facilities may also be a significant problem. EPA’s conclusions after reviewing this 

industry are listed below. 

C More than 93 percent of the TWPE discharges reported to TRI for 2000 

were discharges of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds from SIC code 2491 

(wood preserving). 

C The majority of the wood preserving facilities report that all dioxin 

releases derive from stormwater. However, stormwater releases are 

extremely difficult to estimate because stormwater events are intermittent 

and vary in intensity. Therefore, the pollutant loads in stormwater 

releases are uncertain. 

C If EPA assumes a toxic-weighting factor for creosote based on its 

chemical composition, creosote would add 126,000 TWPE to the total 

TWPE for this industry. 

C Based on the information reported to TRI, compared to wood preserving, 

toxic discharges from other timber products processing SIC codes are low. 

C Very little information about discharges of toxic pollutants from this 

industry is included in PCS. 

C Because process wastewater discharge is prohibited, pollutant discharges 

from most subcategories most likely originate from noncontact cooling 

water, material storage yard runoff (either raw material or processed wood 

storage), and boiler blowdown, fire control water, barking, wet storage, or 

log washing. Of these sources, runoff from preserved wood storage is the 

most likely source of pollutants. 

C Wood preserving facilities are subject to EPA’s MSGP or general 

stormwater permits, unless a permitting authority issues individual 

NPDES permits for stormwater discharges. MSGP and general 

stormwater permits require baseline monitoring for arsenic and chromium, 

but not for constituents of organic wood preservatives, such as PACs, 

creosote, pentachlorophenol, or dioxins. (Dioxins are potential 

contaminants of pentachlorophenol.) 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Preservative that is washed off treated wood in storage yards by rainwater 

is not specifically identified as a RCRA-listed waste and is not subject to 

RCRA hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal regulations unless 

it exhibits a characteristic hazard (such as toxicity). 

C Wood preserving facilities have voluntarily agreed to cancel certain CCA 

wood preservative products and terminate certain uses of other CCA 

products (68 FR 17366; April 9, 2003). These changes, however, will not 

have any direct impact on creosote, PACs, or dioxin releases that are 

related to the use of pentachlorophenol and creosote wood preservatives. 

EPA plans to consider stormwater discharges from wood preserving facilities in 

the next annual review. In particular, EPA will consider whether these discharges are 

appropriately controlled through current stormwater discharge permits, whether requirements for 

these discharges need to be reevaluated, and/or whether it may be appropriate to revise the ELGS 

to include stormwater discharge requirements. 

5.4.6.8 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Preliminary Data Summary for the Wood Preserving Segment of the 

Timber Products Processing Point Source Category. EPA-440/1-91/023. 

Washington, D.C. 1991. 

2. U.S. EPA. 1981. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines 

and Standards for the Timber Products Point Source Category. EPA-440/1-

81/023. Washington, D.C. 1981. 

3. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Plywood, Hardboard, and Wood 

Preserving Segment of the Timber Products Processing Point Source Category. 

EPA-440/1-74-023-a. Washington, D.C. April 1974. 

4. 1997 Economic Census Data. Available online at: 

http://www.census.gov/epcd/www/econ97.html 

5. U.S. EPA. 1996 Wood Preserving Resource Conservation and Recovery 

Compliance Guide to Federal Environmental Regulation. EPA-305-B-96-001. 

June 1996. 

6. Festoso, Shari. Personal communication from NPDES Permit Writer, Alabama 

Department of Environmental Protection to Betsy Bicknell, ERG. January 2004. 

7. Washington State Department of Ecology. Industrial Stormwater General Permit 

Implementation Manual for Log Yards. 04-10-031. April 2004. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5 Group IV Industries 

This section describes the limited investigations EPA conducted on the Group IV 

industries. During its screening-level review, EPA did not identify this group of industrial point 

source categories as having high estimates of potential toxic-weighted pollutant discharges. 

Rather, EPA identified this group of industries based on stakeholder response to public outreach. 

Therefore, EPA focused this review on the issues identified by stakeholders. In particular, EPA 

evaluated implementation and efficiency considerations and stakeholder concerns about potential 

risks to human health and the environment based on available data about discharges from these 

industries. 

5.5.1 Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing (Part 407) 

During the screening-level review, canned and preserved fruits and vegetable 

processing was one of eight industrial categories identified solely through Factor 4 concerns. 

Issues driving the concerns include: 1) discharges of nutrients and conventional pollutants, 

2) lack of BOD limits, and 3) improvements in industry capacity to control discharges. In 

addition, EPA determined that three industrial sectors are unregulated subcategories within Part 

407. These sectors, Distilled and Blended Liquors, Malt Beverages, and Soybean Oil Mills, are 

discussed in Section 5.5.1.7. 

5.5.1.1 Industry Description 

The Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing Point Source 

Category is regulated at 40 CFR Part 407. This point source category includes facilities 

reporting under SIC industry group 203, Canned, Frozen, and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables. 

Specifically, it includes SIC codes listed below: 

C SIC code 2033 - Canned Fruits, Vegetables, Preserves, Jams, and Jellies. 

Establishments primarily engaged in canning fruits, vegetables, and fruit 

and vegetable juices, and in manufacturing catsup and similar tomato 

sauces, or natural and imitation preserves, jams, and jellies. 

C SIC code 2034 - Dried and Dehydrated Fruits, Vegetables, and Soup 

Mixes. Establishments primarily engaged in sun drying or artificially 

dehydrating fruits and vegetables, or in manufacturing packaged soup 

mixes from dehydrated ingredients. 

C SIC code 2035 - Pickled Fruits and Vegetables, Vegetable Sauces and 

Seasonings, and Salad Dressings. Establishments primarily engaged in 

pickling and brining fruits and vegetables, and in manufacturing salad 

dressings, vegetable relishes, sauces, and seasonings. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C SIC code 2037 - Frozen Fruits, Fruit Juices, and Vegetables. 

Establishments primarily engaged in freezing fruits, fruit juices, and 

vegetables. These establishments also produce important by-products such 

as fresh or dried citrus pulp. 

C SIC code 2096 - Potato Chips, Corn Chips, and Similar Snacks. 

Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing potato chips, corn 

chips, and similar snacks. 

Juice manufacturing (covered by SIC codes 2033 and 2037) was identified at a potential 

subcategory during the Factor 4 analysis. 

Facility Counts 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Canned and 

Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing category from three sources: the 1997 U.S. 

Economic Census, the TRIReleases2000, and PCSLoads2000. TRI includes facilities reporting 

discharges to any media. In contrast, the PCS includes only facilities that are permitted for 

discharge to surface waters. Table 5-89 lists the number of facilities from these sources. 

Table 5-89. Number of Facilities in Fruits and Vegetable Processing SIC Codes 

1997 U.S. 

PCS TRI 

No Both 

SIC Economic Total Major Minor Total Reported Direct Indirect Direct & 

Code Census Dischargers Dischargers Dischargers Reporters Discharge Discharge Discharge Indirect 

2033 695 70 8 62 12 11 1 0 0 

2034 152 1 0 1 8 5 0 3 0 

2035 354 12 2 10 11 7 0 4 0 

2037 258 20 7 13 57 42 9 5 1 

2096 368 2 1 1 20 14 2 4 0 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000, TRIReleases2000. 

Of the 40 reporting facilities, 8 are located in Florida. The rest are located in 18 states around 

the country. 

5.5.1.2 Regulatory Background 

C Final effluent limitations for Subparts A - E were promulgated March 21, 

1974. 

C Final effluent limitations for Subparts F, G, and H were promulgated April 

16, 1976. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

The current ELGs for the Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing 

Source category, 40 CFR Part 407, contain 8 subcategories (Subparts A - H). Table 5-90 lists 

the limitations. The technology basis of existing regulations is (BPT) was in-plant waste 

management and operating methods and end-of-pipe preliminary screening, primary treatment, 

and secondary biological treatment. BAT and NSPS are the same as BPT followed by 

disinfection (chlorination). For some facilities, more intensive biological treatment and final 

multimedia or sand filtration may be required to meet BAT limits. BAT and NSPS limitations 

are normalized on the basis of metric ton (kkg) of raw material. EPA did not establish 

pretreatment standards for existing or new indirect dischargers (PSES or PSNS), and reserved 

NSPS for Subparts F, G, and H. 

Table 5-90. Effluent Guidelines for Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables 

Processing, Part 407 

Pollutant 

BPT 30-day Averages 

(kg/kkg) 

NSPS 30-day Averages 

(kg/kkg) 

BOD5 0.05 to 3.34 0.07 to 0.55 

TSS1 0.00 to 5.09 0.1 to 0.55 

Oil and Grease2 20 mg/L none 

pH within the range 6 to 93 within the range 6 to 93 

1

BPT TSS limit for "added ingredients" in Subpart H is 0 kg/kkg. NSPS for Subpart H is reserved. 2

Oil and grease limits for Subpart H only. 

3

pH range 6 to 9.5 for Subparts F, G, and H.

5.5.1.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-91 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for fruits and vegetable processing facilities. Facilities not 

reporting a flow were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-91 are 

based on major dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

Table 5-91. Wastewater Flows in the Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables 

Processing Industry 

SIC 

Code 

Number of Major Discharge 

Facilities Reporting Nonzero 

Flows 

Median Facility 

Flow in 2000 

(MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows (MGY) 

Total Flow 

(MGY) 

2033 7 82 15 to 542 1,330 

2034 0 - - -

2035 2 103 84 to 123 207 

2037 7 889 9 to 1510 5,170 

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Table 5-91 (Continued) 

SIC 

Code 

Number of Major Discharge 

Facilities Reporting Nonzero 

Flows 

Median Facility 

Flow in 2000 

(MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows (MGY) 

Total Flow 

(MGY) 

2096 1 101 NA 101 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

NA – No range was calculated; only 1 facility reported nonzero flow.

Fruit and vegetable processing is seasonal for most producers. Water use and 

wastewater pollutant loads vary according to the specific raw material processes (e.g., 2,400 

gal/ton apples to 17,000 gal/ton cauliflower). Total pollutant loads are directly correlated to the 

amount of water used in processing, and consequently, water conservation practices can reduce 

pollutant loads. Most processors use secondary (biological) treatment. 

Table 5-92 presents sources of process wastewater in this category. 

Table 5-92. Sources of Process Wastewater in Canned and Preserved Fruits and 

Vegetables Processing Industry 

Process Wastewater Pollutants 

Washing: general cleaning and dirt Suspended solids including fibers and soil particles; possibly pesticides 

removal of raw products residues 

Grading, stemming, pitting, and Dissolved organic material (BOD5), suspended solids including fibers 

seeding and soil particles, and possibly pesticides residues 

Peeling, steam or lye and washing Sodium hydroxide (high pH), BOD5, and suspended solids 

Blanching (scalding with water or Dissolved organic material (BOD5) and suspended solids 

steam) 

Post-blanching washing and cooling Dissolved organic material (BOD5) and suspended solids 

Fluming (conveyance) Dissolved organic material (BOD5)and suspended solids 

Filling and packaging, including Dissolved organic material (BOD5), salt, oil and grease (depending on 

adding syrup, brine, etc. product) 

Sanitation and plant clean-up Dissolved organic material (BOD5) and suspended solids, residual 

disinfectant (e.g., chlorine) 

Sources: Waste Management and Utilization in Food Production and Process, 1995; State of the Art Report, 2004; 

Clean Technologies in U.S. Industries: Food Processing, 2004. 

Pollutants Discharged 

Table 5-93 lists the pollutants reported to PCS for fruit and vegetable processing 

facilities that reported discharges to PCS by major dischargers in 2000. In addition, this table 

also lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or for fruit and vegetable 

processing facilities that reported to TRI for 2000. This table lists the number of facilities that 

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reported each chemical and the total pounds of chemical discharged to surface waters. Indirect 

discharging facilities reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW removal efficiencies, 

EPA estimated the amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see DCN 00618, Evaluation 

of RSEI Model Runs, for more information). Therefore, the TWPE estimates in this table have 

been adjusted to account for POTW treatment 

Table 5-93. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI 

Pollutant Category & Primary 

Pollutants 

PCS 

Pounds/yr 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

TRI All 

Discharge lbs 

Pounds/yr 

TRI All 

TWPE/yr 

All Pollutants 16,020,109 2,905 7,713,669 17,674 

Nonconventional 14,614,715 2,638 7,713,699 17,674 

Total Dissolved Solids 7,603,747 0 0 0 

Total Sulfide 764 2,140 0 0 

Ammonia as Nitrogen 73,127 134 21,022 32 

Chlorine, Total Residual 261 127 35,253 17,167 

Chloride 4,137,463 101 0 0 

Nitrogen, Nitrate Total (As N) 1,422,715 88 7,657,242 475 

Conventional 1,404,936 NA 0 NA 

Total Suspended Solids 990,347 – 

BOD5 368,122 – 

Oil and Grease 46,467 – 

Priority 457 267 0 0 

Arsenic 34 117 

Copper 119 74 

Selenium 34 38 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000.

NA - EPA does not have TWFs for conventional pollutants, therefore, it did not calculate TWPE for conventional

pollutants.

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges in the PCSLoads2000 

and TRIReleases2000 are low. Generally, a few facilities reporting to TRI and PCS contribute 

most of the TWPE in this industry. For purposes of comparison, Tables 5-94 and 5-95 list the 

TWPE for fruit and vegetable processing plants along with the industries reporting the highest 

discharges in each database. Table 5-94 presents the information reported to PCS and Table 

5-95 presents the information reported to TRI. (Note: These tables include TWPE loading 

estimates for the three potential additional subcategories – distilled and blended liquors, malt 

beverages, and soybean oil mills. No other tables in this subsection reflect facilities or 

discharges in these subcategories.) For a description of the derivation of the values in these 

tables, see the memorandum in the public docket Description and Results of EPA Methodology 

to Synthesize Screening Level Results for the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004, which 

is available through E-docket, document number OW-2003-0074-0391. 

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Table 5-94. Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing TWPE Reported to 

PCS Compared to Industries Reporting Highest Discharge 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

PCS-Reported 

TWPE/yr PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

407 Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing 28,7791 16 

1 Includes TWPE loading estimates for three potential additional subcategories as described in Section 5.5.1.7. 

Table 5-95. Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing TWPE Reported to 

TRI Compared to Industries Reporting Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

TRI Reported 

TWPE/yr TRI Rank 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber Products Processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum Refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber Manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic Molding and Forming 106,189 10 

407 Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing 38,3381 17 

1

Includes TWPE loading estimates for three potential additional subcategories as described in Section 5.5.1.7. 

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5.5.1.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Standard treatment in this industry is biological treatment with primary solids 

removal, oil and grease removal, and neutralization (pH adjustment) depending on products. 

Treatment systems must be sufficiently robust to handle seasonal variations in pollutant loads. 

Direct discharging plants may disinfect wastewater with chlorine prior to 

discharge. Advanced treatment would replace chlorine disinfection with ozone or ultraviolet 

light. 

Most advances in reducing pollutant discharges involve water conservation and 

other pollution prevention practices listed in Table 5-96. 

Table 5-96. Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Water Conservation and 

Process Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Washing: general cleaning and dirt 

removal of raw products 

C

C

Perform washing and cleaning at the agricultural site, so wastes 

are reused at the farm. 

Use air flotation to remove suspended debris from raw crop 

materials. 

C Minimize water use. 

Grading, stemming, pitting, and seeding C Minimize water use. 

Peeling, steam or lye and washing C Use dry peeling methods. 

Blanching (scalding with water or C Use steam blanching rather than water blanching. 

steam) C Replace blanching with nonthermal means of destroying 

microbes. 

Post-blanching washing and cooling C Use air cooling. 

C Reuse relatively clean cooling water for peeling, primary washing, 

or post-peeling washing. 

Fluming (conveyance) C Replace water flumes with pneumatic (air-based) transport. 

C Reuse relatively clean fluming water for peeling, primary 

washing, or post-peeling washing. 

Filling and packaging, including adding C Minimize water use. 

syrup, brine, etc. 

Sanitation and plant clean-up C Use low-volume/high-pressure cleaning systems. 

Sources: Waste Management and Utilization in Food Production and Process, 1995; State of the Art Report, 2004; 

Clean Technologies in U.S. Industries: Food Processing, 2004. 

5.5.1.5 Industry Trends 

Table 5-97 presents the change in the number of fruit and vegetable processing 

facilities between 1992 and 1997 by SIC code. The table also shows the difference in the value 

of goods shipped during this period. Depending on sector, the value of goods shipped has 

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declined by as much as 10 percent or increased by as much as 28 percent. Table 5-98 presents 

similar data for facilities in NAICS code 311 (food manufacturing including grains, fruits and 

vegetables, dairy, meats, seafood, and miscellaneous food) and shows a very small increase in 

the number of establishments (less than 1 percent) and an 8-percent increase in the value of 

shipments (not adjusted for inflation). 

Table 5-97. Comparison of 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

Value of Goods Shipped 

SIC Industry Sector 

Number of Establishments (millions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

2033 Canned Fruits, Vegetables 

Preserves, Jams, and Jellies 

695 683 1.8 14.5 15.0 -3.7 

2034 Dried and Dehydrated Fruits, 

Vegetables, and Soup Mixes 

152 159 -1.9 2.9 2.8 1.3 

2035 Pickled Fruits & Vegetables, 354 377 -6.1 7.1 7.8 -9.6 

Vegetable Sauces & Seasonings, 

and Salad Dressings 

2037 Frozen Fruits, Fruit Juices, and 

Vegetables 

258 255 1.2 9.6 7.5 27.9 

2096 Potato Chips, Corn Chips, and 

Similar Snacks 

368 408 -9.8 9.1 7.3 25.6 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census and 1992 U.S. Census Data. 

Table 5-98. Comparison of 1997 and 2002 U.S. Economic Census Data 

NAICS Industry Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(billions of dollars) 

2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 

311 Food Manufacturing 26,374 26,302 0.27 457 422 8.4 

Source: 2002 U.S. Economic Census and 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

5.5.1.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

This subsection discusses stakeholder and EPA Regional staff issues. EPA 

primarily received input from stakeholders prior to publication of the Preliminary Effluent 

Guidelines Plan. EPA did not receive any comments on the Preliminary Plan pertaining to the 

existing ELGs for the canned and preserved fruits and vegetables processing industry. 

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Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

In the process of conducting its 2003 annual review, EPA solicited input from 

stakeholders (EPA Regions and industry) on the regulatory status of this industry. Stakeholder 

suggestions are summarized below. 

Previous Suggestions (Section 2.4 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening-Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329)) 

In general, responders were concerned with the discharge of nutrients, as well as 

overloading POTWs and small streams (for direct dischargers) with conventional pollutants such 

as BOD. Responders identified several specific industries as having such characteristics, 

including vegetables processing. Another issue identified was nonapproved pretreatment 

processes in relation to juice manufacturing. 

Permitting Authorities (Section 2.5 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation 

and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening-Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-

0074-0329)) 

Washington State permitting authorities suggest updating these guidelines for 

both direct and indirect dischargers. Direct dischargers are performing well below the limits, 

and permitting authorities have found it difficult to address that gap effectively and lower 

discharges. In addition, permitting authorities suggest that revising these guidelines could 

address dissolved oxygen problems, since there are no water quality criteria for BOD and no 

equitable way to determine the far-field impacts of BOD. 

Additional Concerns Identified Post-Proposal 

One EPA Regional stakeholder noted that POTWs would also benefit from more 

EPA assistance in managing wastewater with high pollutant loads (BOD, TSS, ammonia). EPA 

lists these among the 15 pollutants of concern in the new Local Limits Guidance Manual; 

however, conventional pollutant management is not integrated into many aspects of this manual. 

In addition, an update of the 1971 document Equitable Recovery of Industrial Waste Treatment 

Costs could be helpful to POTWs needing to manage their capacity and recover the costs for 

users with high pollutant loads and users whose flows and loadings tend to spike. 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments it receives, EPA cannot address these 

suggestions without adequate supporting data. Some stakeholders identified nutrient discharges 

from fruit and vegetable processing plants as a concern. Information in PCS and TRI does not 

indicate that fruit and vegetable processing plants discharge significant quantities of nutrients 

relative to other industrial categories. State permitting authorities also suggested that EPA 

should revise the existing guidelines because dischargers are performing well below the limits. 

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Because TRI and PCS data indicate toxic discharges from fruit and vegetable processing plants 

are small relative to other industries, EPA has concluded that a revision would provide only 

small incremental gains, if any. If stakeholders provide additional data and supporting 

information on these or any of the issues identified above, EPA will reevaluate them at that time. 

5.5.1.7 Potential Additional Subcategories 

Based on comments and information received by stakeholders, EPA also 

evaluated whether it should consider additional subcategories of the Canned and Preserved Fruits 

and Vegetables Processing category for Distilled and Blended Liquors, SIC code 2085; Malt 

Beverages, SIC code 2082; and Soybean Oil Mills, SIC code 2075. EPA determined it was 

appropriate to consider these industrial operations as potential additional subcategories of Part 

407. 

Distilled and Blended Liquors 

One of the industries identified by commenters for new effluent guidelines 

development is distilled and blended liquors (SIC code 2085), which applies to: establishments 

primarily engaged in manufacturing alcoholic liquors by distillation, and in manufacturing 

cordials and alcoholic cocktails by blending processes or by mixing liquors and other 

ingredients. Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing industrial alcohol are classified 

in SIC code 2869, and those only bottling purchased liquors are classified in Wholesale Trade, 

SIC code 5182. (See SIC Manual, 1987 for a list of specific products included in SIC code 

2085). 

EPA reviewed the applicability of existing ELGs to determine if discharges from 

distilled and blended liquor operations were already subject to existing ELGs. In particular, EPA 

considered Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing (40 CFR Part 470). EPA 

found that none of the existing categories of Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables 

Processing apply to discharges from SIC code 2085. 

Next, EPA evaluated whether this industrial activity should be addressed as a 

potential new subcategory under Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing (40 

CFR Part 407). Part 407 applies to the processing of a variety of raw fruits and vegetables into 

fruit and vegetable products. EPA compared the processes, operations, wastewaters, and 

pollutants addressed by the Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing ELG to the 

processes, operations, wastewaters, and pollutants of the potential new subcategory. 

The basic unit processes employed in producing distilled and blended liquors 

include milling of grain and malt (soaked and germinated grain); cooking; cooling; filtration; 

fermenting; distillation; aging; vessel clean up, and packaging. Cordials and liqueurs are 

manufactured by blending liquors with other ingredients, such as fruit syrups. The grain 

processing, cooking, filtration, clean-up, and packaging operations at distilled liquors plants are 

similar to preserved fruit and vegetable operations. Wastewater pollutants from distilled and 

blended liquors include BOD5, and suspended solids. (1, Table 50), which are also pollutants 

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found in wastewaters from fruit and vegetable processing. Molasses distillery wastes include 

nitrogen and phosphates (1, Table 52). In addition, distilled and blended liquor plants and fruit 

and vegetable processing plants employ the same type of wastewater treatment: conventional 

biological treatment. 

As a result of this review, EPA concluded the processes, operations, wastewaters, 

and pollutants at distilled and blended liquor plants are similar to those at fruit and vegetable 

processing plants. 

Based on information in the 1997 Economic Census, EPA estimates there are 60 

distilled and blended liquor facilities in the United States. EPA's primary source of wastewater 

data for this industry is information reported to TRI and PCS for the year 2000. Three facilities 

reported information to TRI in 2000. Of these, two are zero dischargers and one is a direct 

discharger. The total toxic pounds reported by the direct discharger in 2000 was 78 TWPE, 

mostly attributed to chlorine. Twenty-seven facilities reported direct discharges to PCS in 2000. 

Of these, 7 were major dischargers and 20 were minor dischargers. Detailed discharge 

information in PCS indicates that the total toxic pounds discharged by the seven major 

dischargers were 94 TWPE. Therefore, based on the information available at this time, EPA has 

concluded that it is not appropriate to revise the ELGs for canned and preserved fruits and 

vegetables processing to include limits for this additional subcategory (distilled and blended 

liquors) because discharges from this potential subcategory rank low in terms of TWPE. 

Malt Beverages 

One of the industries identified by commenters for effluent guidelines 

development is malt beverages (SIC code 2082). SIC code 2082 applies to establishments 

primarily engaged in manufacturing malt beverages. 

EPA reviewed the applicability of existing ELGs to determine if discharges from 

malt beverages operations were already subject to existing ELGs. In particular, EPA considered 

Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing (40 CFR Part 70). EPA found that none 

of the existing subcategories in 40 CFR Part 70 apply to discharges from SIC code 2082. 

Next, EPA evaluated whether this industrial activity should be addressed as a 

potential new subcategory under the Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing (40 

CFR Part 407) category. Part 407 applies to the processing of a variety of raw fruits and 

vegetables into fruit and vegetable products. EPA compared the processes, operations, 

wastewaters, and pollutants addressed by Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables 

Processing ELG to the processes, operations, wastewaters, and pollutants of the potential new 

subcategory. 

The basic unit processes used in the malt beverage industry are grinding of rice, 

corn, and malt (soaked and germinated grain); brewing (cooking); filtration; fermenting; aging; 

vessel clean-up, and packaging. The grain processing, cooking, filtration, and packaging 

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operations at malt beverage plants are similar to preserved fruit and vegetable operations. 

Wastewater pollutants from this industry include BOD5 and suspended solids. (1, Tables 33 and 

35), which are also pollutants found in wastewaters from fruit and vegetable processing. In 

addition, malt beverages processing plants employ the same type of wastewater treatment as fruit 

and vegetable processing plants: conventional biological treatment. Spent grain (mash) is 

typically recovered for use as animal feed. 

As a result of this review, EPA concluded the processes, operations, wastewaters, 

and pollutants at malt beverage plants are similar to those at fruit and vegetable processing 

plants. Malt beverages are appropriately considered as a potential new subcategory of 40 CFR 

Part 407. 

Based on information in the 1997 Economic Census, EPA estimates there are 529 

malt beverage facilities in the United States. As EPA's primary source of wastewater data for 

this industry is information reported to TRI and PCS for the year 2000. Twenty-seven malt 

beverage facilities reported information to TRI in 2000. Of these, 13 were indirect dischargers, 5 

were direct dischargers, and 9 were zero dischargers. The total toxic pounds reported by all malt 

beverage facilities in TRI was 7,594 TWPE with one indirect discharger contributing 97 percent 

of the TWPE from sodium nitrite. Eleven facilities reported direct discharges to PCS in 2000. Of 

these, four were major dischargers and seven were minor dischargers. Detailed discharge 

information for the four major dischargers in PCS indicates that the total toxic pounds 

discharged by these facilities was 25,781 TWPE. One facility contributed 97 percent of the 

TWPE from chlorine. Based on the information in TRI and PCS, EPA concludes that, with a 

few exceptions, discharges from malt beverage facilities rank low in terms of toxic pounds 

discharged. As a result, EPA has concluded that it is not appropriate to revise the ELGs for 

canned and preserved fruits and vegetables processing to include limits for this additional 

subcategory because only a few facilities contribute the bulk of the TWPE for this industry. 

Soybean Oil Mills 

One of the industries identified by commenters for effluent guidelines 

development is soybean oil mills (SIC code 2075). The SIC code 075 applies to establishments 

primarily engaged in manufacturing soybean oil, cake, and meal, and soybean protein isolates 

and concentrates, or in processing purchased soybean oil other than into edible cooking oils. 

Establishments primarily engaged in refining soybean oil into edible cooking oils are classified 

in SIC code 2079. 

EPA reviewed the applicability of existing ELGs to determine if discharges from 

soybean oil mill operations were already subject to existing ELGs. In particular, EPA reviewed 

the applicability of Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing (40 CFR Part 407) 

to these operations. EPA found that none of the current subcategories of Canned and Preserved 

Fruits and Vegetables Processing apply to discharges from SIC code 2079. 

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Next, EPA evaluated whether this industrial category should be addressed as a 

potential new subcategory under Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing (40 

CFR 407). Part 407 applies to the processing of a variety of raw fruits and vegetables into fruit 

and vegetable products. EPA compared the processes, operations, wastewaters, and pollutants 

addressed by Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing to the processes, 

operations, wastewaters, and pollutants of the potential new subcategory. 

At soybean oil mills, a vegetable (raw soybeans) is processed into soybean 

products. Soybeans are dehulled, cooked and flaked, then crushed and subjected to direct solvent 

extraction to produce two types of products, soybean oil and soybean meal and cakes. Solvent is 

removed from the meal by steam (vapor) stripping followed by toasting. Solvent is recovered 

from the oil by evaporation followed by steam stripping. The dehulling, cooking, flaking, 

toasting, and clean-up operations at soybean oil mills are similar to preserved fruit and vegetable 

processing operations. Wastewater pollutants from this industry include BOD, suspended solids, 

and fats, oils, and greases (1, Table 18), which are also pollutants found in wastewaters from 

fruit and vegetable processing. In addition, soybean oil mills and fruit and vegetable processing 

plants employ the same type of wastewater treatment: conventional biological treatment 

preceded by oil/water separation of high oil concentration wastewaters. 

As a result of this review, EPA concluded the processes, operations, wastewaters, 

and pollutants at soybean oil mills are similar to those at fruit and vegetable processing plants. 

Soybean Oil Mills is appropriately considered an a potential new subcategory of 40 CFR Part 

407. 

Based on information in the 1997 economic census, EPA estimates there are 118 

soybean oil mills in the United States. EPA's primary source of wastewater data for this industry 

is information reported to TRI and PCS for the year 2000. Sixty-five soybean oil mills reported 

information to TRI in 2000. Of these, 42 were indirect dischargers, 6 were direct dischargers, 4 

were both indirect and direct dischargers, and 13 were zero dischargers. The total toxic pounds 

reported by all malt beverage facilities in TRI was 12,991 TWPE, with two direct discharging 

facility contributing 98 percent of the TWPE from sodium nitrite and chlorine. Nineteen 

facilities reported direct discharges to PCS in 2000. Of these, one was a major discharger and the 

remainder were minor discharges. Detailed discharge information for the single major 

dischargers indicates that the facility’s permit includes only limitations for conventional 

pollutants. Therefore, the TWPE estimate from the PCS facilities is 0 TWPE. Based on the 

information in TRI and PCS, EPA concludes that, with a few exceptions, discharges from 

soybean oil mills rank low in terms of toxic pounds discharged. As a result, EPA has concluded 

that it is not appropriate to revise the ELGs for canned and preserved fruits and vegetables 

processing to include limits for this additional subcategory because only a few facilities 

contribute the bulk of the TWPE for this industry. 

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5.5.1.8 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from fruits and 

vegetable processing plants are low relative to other industrial categories. In addition, only a 

few facilities generally are the main contributors to the TWPE for this industry. The pollutants 

driving the TWPE estimate for these few facilities are total residual chlorine and total sulfide. 

Stakeholders and EPA Regional staff identified various issues associated with 

discharges from fruit and vegetable processing plants. At this time, the information in the docket 

for this annual review does not support the concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders 

provide additional data and supporting information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will 

reevaluate them at that time. 

In this review, EPA also evaluated whether it should consider developing 

limitations and standards for additional subcategories for Distilled and Blended Liquors, SIC 

code 2085; Malt Beverages, SIC code 2082; and Soybean Oil Mills, SIC code 2075. EPA 

concluded that it is not appropriate to revised the ELG for Canned and Preserved Fruits and 

Vegetables Processing category to include limits for these additional subcategories because only 

a few facilities contribute the bulk of the TWPE and/or discharges rank low relative to other 

industrial categories. 

5.5.1.9 References 

1. Environmental Science and Engineering. Draft Development Document for 

Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New Source Performance Standards for the 

Miscellaneous Foods and Beverages Point Source Category. Prepared for U.S. 

EPA Effluent Guidelines Division. 1975. 

5.5.2 Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing (Part 408) 

During the screening-level review phase, the Canned and Preserved Seafood 

Processing Point Source Category was one of eight industrial categories identified solely through 

Factor 4 concerns. Issues driving the concerns include: 1) discharges of nutrients and 

conventional pollutants resulting in overloading POTWs and small streams; 2) no limits for 

pollutants such as nutrients and pathogens, now causing concern; and 3) changes in control 

technologies since the promulgation of the guidelines. 

5.5.2.1 Industry Description 

The Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing category is regulated at 40 CFR 

Part 408. This category includes facilities reporting under SIC industry group 20, Food and 

Kindred Products. Specifically, it includes SIC code 2091, Canned and Cured Fish and 

Seafoods, and SIC code 2092, Prepared Fresh or Frozen Fish and Seafoods. EPA identified no 

specific subcategories during the Factor 4 analysis; however, follow-up discussions identified 

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about 150 companies, primarily in Washington and Alaska that are categorized under SIC code 

2091, and just under 600 companies categorized under SIC code 2092. 

C SIC code 2091 - Canned and Cured Fish and Seafoods. Establishments 

primarily engaged in cooking and canning fish, shrimp, oysters, clams, 

crabs, and other seafoods, including soups, and those engaged in smoking, 

salting, drying, or otherwise curing fish and other seafoods for the trade. 

C SIC code 2092 - Prepared Fresh or Frozen Fish and Seafoods. 

Establishments primarily engaged in preparing fresh and raw or cooked 

frozen fish and other seafoods and seafood preparations, such as soups, 

stews, chowders, fishcakes, crabcakes, and shrimp cakes. Prepared fresh 

fish are eviscerated or processed by removal of heads, fins, or scales. This 

industry also includes establishments primarily engaged in the shucking 

and packing of fresh oysters in nonsealed containers. 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in this category from three 

sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, TRIReleases2000, and PCSLoads2000. TRI includes 

facilities reporting discharges to any media. In contrast, PCS includes only facilities that are 

permitted for discharge to surface waters. Table 5-99 lists the number of facilities from these 

sources. 

Table 5-99. Number of Facilities in the Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing 

Category 

U.S. 

Economic 

1997 

PCS TRI 

Major Minor Total No Reported Direct Indirect Both Direct 

SIC Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Reporting Discharge Discharge Discharge & Indirect 

2091 163 19 5 14 5 5 0 0 0 

2092 669 70 3 67 5 3 2 0 0 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000, TRIReleases2000. 

Of the seven facilities reporting discharges to PCS or TRI, three are located in Alaska. The 

others are located in Mississippi, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Puerto Rico. 

5.5.2.2 Regulatory Background 

EPA promulgated ELGS for BPT, BAT, and NSPS for the catfish, crab, shrimp, 

and tuna segments of the industry (Subparts A-N) in 1974. 

EPA promulgated ELGS for BPT, BAT, and NSPS for the fish meal, bottom fish, 

clam, oyster, sardine, scallop, herring, and abalone segments of the industry (Subparts O-AG) in 

1975. 

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The current ELGS for the Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing category, 40 

CFR Part 408 (listed in Table 5-100), contain 33 subcategories (Subpart A - AG). EPA 

established limitations only for the BOD, TSS, and oil and grease. The technology basis for 

existing effluent guidelines includes screening, dissolved air flotation, and biological treatment. 

Coliform Test as Indicator 

EPA considered including a coliform test as an indicator of fecal content in 

seafood processing wastewater (1, pg 213). Coliform organisms, however, are not naturally 

found in the intestines of cold-blooded animals. Therefore, no correlation exists between fish 

fecal contamination and fecal coliform levels in fish processing wastewater. An EPA-sponsored 

study of fecal coliform levels in fish processing wastewater conducted in 1973 concluded that 

the coliform test produced extremely inconsistent results. Based on the results of the study, EPA 

decided not to include fecal coliform in the list of parameters selected for regulation. 

Kjeldahl Test for Monitoring Nitrogen 

EPA considered including a kjeldahl test for monitoring organic nitrogen and 

ammonia levels in fish processing wastewater. EPA did not include a monitoring requirement 

for total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) because the removal of nitrogen in physical/chemical and 

biological treatment had yet to be evaluated. Furthermore, there was no demonstrated need for a 

separate treatment technology specific to nitrogen compounds. 

5.5.2.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-101 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for seafood processing facilities. Facilities not reporting a 

flow were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-101 are based on 

major dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

Table 5-101. Wastewater Flows 

SIC Code 

Number of Major 

Facilities Reporting 

Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility Flow 

2000 (MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows 2000 (MGY) 

Total Flow 2000 

(MGY) 

2091 4 736 523 - 1679 3,674 

2092 2 518 31 - 1006 1,036 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Wastewater is high in solids, dissolved proteins, BOD, oil and grease, organic 

nitrogen, and ammonia. Wastewater sources in seafood processing include thawing, butchering, 

washing, peeling, picking, meat flumes, separators, cooking, and cleaning. Wastes generally 

include carcasses, shells, trimmings, and by-catch not suitable for human consumption. 

5-140 
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Table 5-100. Effluent Guidelines for Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing Part 4

5-141

Subparts 

BOD5 - 30-Day Average (kg/kkg) TSS - 30-Day Average (kg/kkg) Oil and Greas

BPT BAT NSPS BPT BAT NSPS BPT 

Farm-raised catfish: A NA 2.3 2.3 9.2 5.7 5.7 3.4 Crab: B, C, D, F, H NA 0.15 to 2.5 2.5 to 4.11 0.74 to 12 0.23 to 6.3 0.45 to 6.3 0.20 to 4.2 

Remote Alaskan crab: E, G NA NA NA --2 3.3 to 5.3 3.3 to 5.3 --2 

Shrimp: I, K, L, M NA 10 to 28 25 to 621 38 to 210 3.4 to 18 10 to 180 12 to 17 

Remote Alaskan shrimp: J NA NA NA --2 180 180 --2 

Tuna: N 9.0 0.62 8.1 3.3 0.62 3.0 0.84 Fish meal: O 3.5 2.6 2.9 1.3 1.3 1.3 0.63 Salmon: P, Q (nonremote), R, S NA 1.0 to 133 1.4 to 321 1.4 to 22 0.12 to 2.2 0.37 to 21 0.17 to 10 

Remote Alaskan salmon: Q --2 NA --2 --2 21 --2 --2 

Bottom fish: T, U, V NA 0.58 to 5.33 0.58 to 7.41 2.1 to 14 0.73 to 1.1 0.73 to 2.5 0.55 to 5.7 

Clam: W, X NA 5.73 5.71 15 to 18 4.4 to 17 4.4 to 17 0.23 to 

0.97 

0

Oyster: Y, Z, AA NA 173 171 15 to 190 15 to 39 15 to 39 0.70 to 1.7 

Sardine: AB NA NA NA 10 to 16 10 10 1.4 to 2.8 Scallop: AC, AD NA NA NA 1.4 1.4 1.4 0.24 Herring filet: AE (nonremote), AF NA 6.23 151 24 1.8 5.2 to 18 10 

Alaskan herring filets (remote): AE --2 NA --2 --2 18 --2 --2 

Alabone: AG NA NA NA 15 14 14 1.4 

Sources: EPA, Technical Development Documents, 1974 and 1975.

NA - no limitations were established.

1There are no NSPS for BOD for Subparts D, F, I, P, Q, T, W, Y, Z, and AE.2No pollutants exceeding 1.27cm in any dimension may be discharged.3There are no BAT limits for BOD for Subparts P, T, W, Y, and Z.
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Pollutants Discharged 

Table 5-102 lists the pollutant discharges reported to PCS and TRI in 2000 for 

seafood processing facilities. This table lists the number of facilities that reported each chemical 

and the total pounds of chemical discharged to surface waters. Indirect discharging facilities 

reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW removal efficiencies, EPA estimated the 

amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see DCN 00618, Evaluation of RSEI Model 

Runs, for more information). Therefore, the TWPE estimates in this table have been adjusted to 

account for POTW treatment. 

Table 5-102. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI in 2000 

Pollutant Category and Primary 

Pollutants 

PCS 

(Pounds/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

TRI 

(Pounds/yr) 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

All Pollutants 103,177,359 18,961 53,562 20 

Nonconventionals 969,315 18,933 53,562 20 

Total Sulfide 6,728 18,842 (100%) 0 0 

Ammonia as Nitrogen 4,988 9 11,388 17 (87%) 

Nitrogen, Nitrate Total 431,852 27 42,174 3 (13%) 

Conventionals 102,207,906 0 0 0 

BOD5 48,117,494 – – – 

TSS 38,672,465 – – – 

Oil and Grease 15,417,947 – – – 

Priority 138 28 0 0 

Lead 7 17 0 0 

Copper 9 6 0 0 

Zinc 122 6 0 0 

Sources: EPA, TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. 

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges in PCS and TRI are low. 

Sulfide from a single facility contributes almost 99 percent of the overall TWPE discharged from 

this industry. For comparison purposes, Tables 5-103 and 5-104 present the TWPE for seafood 

processing along with the industries reporting the highest discharges in each database. Table 5­

103 presents the information reported to PCS and Table 5-104 presents the information reported 

to TRI. For a description of the derivation of the values in these tables, see the memorandum in 

the public docket titled Description and Results of EPA Methodology to Synthesize Screening 

Level Results for the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004, which is available through 

Edocket at document number OW-2003-0074-0391. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-103. Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing TWPE Reported to PCS 

Compared to Industries Reporting 10 Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

PCS-Reported 

TWPE/yr PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

408 Canned and Preserve Seafood Processing 18,961 20 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Table 5-104. Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing TWPE Reported to TRI 

Compared to Industries Reporting 10 Highest Dischargers 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

TRI-Reported 

TWPE/yr TRI Rank 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber Products Processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum Refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber Manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic Molding and Forming 106,189 10 

408 Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing 20 42 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.2.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Most processing plants use screening and sedimentation for solids-liquid 

separation, dissolved air flotation units, and biological treatment. Seafood processing plants also 

use in-process controls such as water management and by-product/waste recovery. 

Pollution prevention efforts focus on reductions in BOD and wastewater 

management, such as by-product recovery, in-plant controls, and recycling. Increased contact 

between water and seafood products and wastes is undesirable because it results in higher 

pollutant loadings and decreases the nutritional value of by-products. Table 5-105 presents 

water conservation and pollution prevention alternatives for this industry. 

Table 5-105. Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Process Water Conservation/Pollution Prevention Alternative 

Cleaning • Reuse water from “clean” processes in less hygiene-demanding processes, such as 

cleaning. 

• Filter, store, and reuse cleaning water. 

Recycling • Install heat pump evaporator to reduce BOD concentrations in wastewater to allow for a 

closed-loop process. Eliminates water discharge.1 

Transportation • Use dry handling in place of flumes for in-plant transport of products. 

• Use collection hoppers to collect dry waste from butchering and clean up to eliminate 

waste flumes. 

• Collect dry wastes using pneumatic brooms or nozzles in place of water. 

By-product • Recover protein from wastewater for use as fish meal or animal feed. 

recovery • Recover solids early from wastewater to lower BOD and nitrogen, and to avoid 

decomposition of potentially valuable by-products. 

Sources: EPA, Technical Development Documents, 1974 and 1975; Anderson, Driscoll, Carawan, and Pacific 

Northwest Pollution Prevention Research Center. 

1

The heat pump evaporator was used in a case where a local POTW did not have enough capacity to treat a crabmeat 

processor’s wastewater, which was high in BOD. 

5.5.2.5 Industry Trends 

1997 U.S. Economic Census provides data that illustrates the changes in the 

number of facilities and in the value of goods shipped between 1992 and 1997, as shown in 

Table 5-106. Table 5-107 presents similar data for facilities in NAICS code 311 (food 

manufacturing including grains, fruits and vegetables, dairy, meats, seafood, and miscellaneous 

food) for the years 1997 and 2002. The table shows a very small increase in the number of 

establishments (less than 1 percent) and an 8-percent increase in the value of shipments (not 

adjusted for inflation). 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-106. 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

SIC Industry Sector 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(millions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

2091 Canned and Cured Fish and Seafoods 163 159 2.5 854 969 -11.9 

2092 Prepared Fresh or Frozen Fish and 

Seafoods 669 685 -2.3 7,039 W NA 

Source: 1997 and 1992 U.S. Economic Census. 

W - Data were withheld to avoid disclosure. 

NA - Comparable data were not available. 

Table 5-107. 1997 and 2002 Census Data 

NAICS Industry Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(billions of dollars) 

2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 

311 Food Manufacturing 26,374 26,302 0.27 457 422 8.4 

Source: 2002 and 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

5.5.2.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

This subsection discusses stakeholder and regional staff issues. EPA primarily 

received input from stakeholders prior to publication of the Preliminary Plan. EPA did not 

receive any comments on the Preliminary Plan pertaining to existing ELGS for the seafood 

processing industry. 

Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

Several stakeholder groups surveyed by the Agency during the 2004 annual 

review provided input on the Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing category. Each group’s 

suggestions are summarized below. 

Previous Suggestions (Section 2.4 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329) 

In the fall of 1999 and again in the spring of 2001, EAD requested suggestions 

from Headquarters, Regional, and state staff charged with the task of implementing ELGS to 

follow up on concerns and to gather recommendations regarding which effluent guidelines the 

Agency might develop or revise. Responders identified seafood processing on the basis of 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

concerns over the discharge of nutrients. They were also concerned about overloading POTWs 

and small streams (for direct dischargers) with conventional pollutants such as BOD. 

Draft Strategy Outreach: Permitting Authorities (Section 2.5 of the “Factor 4 

Analysis: Implementation and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review 

Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-0329)) 

Upon announcing the draft Strategy in 2002, EPA began collecting information 

from experts in effluent guidelines implementation. This includes management and staff in 

EPA’s Office of Wastewater Management (OWM). It also includes EPA Regional and state 

NPDES permit writers, NPDES, pretreatment coordinators, and coordinators for the Total 

Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program. These EPA permitting authorities identified concerns 

for seafood processing guidelines. Issues include the discharge of conventional pollutants BOD 

and pathogens, especially fecal coliform during seafood processing. 

Washington State permitting authorities also noted that the guidelines are out of 

date (originally promulgated in 1974) and need to be updated. Alaska noted that six of its seven 

impairments are due to seafood processing, specifically from discharges of residues and resulting 

dissolved gas concentrations. 

Draft Strategy Outreach: AMSA & ASIWPCA (Section 2.6 of the “Factor 4 

Analysis: Implementation and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review 

Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-0329)) 

Upon announcing the draft Strategy in 2002, EPA gathered information from 

stakeholders in two water pollution control associations: Association of Metropolitan Sewerage 

Agencies (AMSA) and the Association of State and Interstate Water Pollution Control 

Authorities (ASIWPCA). 

In a teleconference with ASIWPCA members, EPA listed the industrial categories 

with existing effluent guidelines identified by other stakeholders as possibly warranting revision. 

In response, ASIWPCA stakeholders made several points. First, seafood processing effluent 

guidelines do not regulate pollutants now understood to cause problems, such as discharge 

nutrients and fecal coliform for which there are no limits. Second, the guidelines for this 

industry are out of date, requiring only screening of the effluent, when the available technology 

has advanced well beyond this level. 

Additional Concerns Identified Post-Proposal 

One stakeholder noted that POTWs would also benefit from more EPA assistance 

in managing wastewater with high pollutant loads (BOD, TSS, ammonia). EPA lists these 

among the 15 pollutants of concern in the new Local Limits Guidance Manual; however, 

conventional pollutant management is not integrated into many aspects of this manual. In 

addition, the pretreatment community should be reminded of the relationship between accepting 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

wastewater with high BOD levels and meeting ammonia limits. Finally, Alaska seafood 

processors have not yet converted to recovering by-products for other uses, which could 

significantly reduce pollutant loadings. 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments it receives, EPA cannot address these 

suggestions without adequate supporting data. Some stakeholders identified nutrient discharges 

from seafood processing plants as a concern. Information in PCS and TRI does not indicate that 

seafood processing plants are discharging significant quantities of nutrients relative to other 

industrial categories. State permitting authorities also suggested that EPA should revise the 

existing guidelines to include limitations for fecal coliform. EPA does not generally regulate 

fecal coliform in ELGS. In the event that stakeholders provide additional data and supporting 

information, on these or any of the issues identified above, EPA will reevaluate them at that 

time. 

5.5.2.7 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from seafood 

processing plants are low relative to other industrial categories. Sulfide from a single facility 

contributes almost 99 percent of the overall TWPE for this industry. 

Stakeholders and EPA staff identified various issues associated with discharges 

from seafood processing plants. At this time, the information in the docket for the annual review 

does not support the concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders provide additional data and 

supporting information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will reevaluate them at that time. 

5.5.2.8 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards of Performance for the Catfish, Crab, Shrimp, and Tuna Segments of 

the Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing Industry Point Source Category. 

Phase I. EPA-440-1-74-020a. Washington, D.C. 1974. 

2. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Fish Meal, Salmon, Bottom Fish, Clam, 

Oyster, Sardine, Scallop, Herring, and Abalone Segment of the Canned and 

Preserved Fish and Seafood Processing Industry Point Source Category: Group 

1, Phase II. EPA-440-1-75-041A. Washington, D.C. 1975. 

5.5.3 Coal Mining (Part 434) 

During the screening-level review phase, coal mining was one of eight industrial 

categories identified solely through Factor 4 concerns. Issues driving the concerns include: 

1) stormwater runoff, 2) high discharges of total dissolved solids (TDS) and total suspended 

solids (TSS), and 3) manganese discharges. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.3.1 Industry Description 

The Coal Mining Point Source Category is regulated at 40 CFR Part 434. This 

point source category includes facilities reporting under SIC industry group 122, Bituminous 

Coal and Lignite Mining. Specifically, it includes SIC code 1221, Bituminous Coal and Lignite 

Surface Mining, and SIC code 1222, Bituminous Coal Underground Mining. No specific 

subcategories were identified during the Factor 4 analysis. Below is a description of these SIC 

codes: 

C SIC code 1221 - Bituminous Coal and Lignite Surface Mining. 

Establishments primarily engaged in producing bituminous coal or lignite 

at surface mines or in developing bituminous coal or lignite surface mines. 

This industry includes auger mining, strip mining, culm bank mining, and 

other surface mining, by owners or lessees or by establishments which 

have complete responsibility for operating bituminous coal and lignite 

surface mines for others on a contract or fee basis. Bituminous coal and 

lignite preparation plants performing such activities as cleaning, crushing, 

screening or sizing are included if operated in conjunction with a mine 

site, or if operated independently of any type of mine. 

C SIC code 1222 - Bituminous Coal Underground Mining. Establishments 

primarily engaged in producing bituminous coal in underground mines or 

in developing bituminous coal underground mines. This industry includes 

underground mining by owners or lessees or by establishments which 

have complete responsibility for operating bituminous coal underground 

mines for others on a contract or fee basis. Bituminous coal preparation 

plants performing such activities as cleaning, crushing, screening or sizing 

are included if operated in conjunction with a mine. Independent 

bituminous coal preparation plants are classified in SIC code 1221. 

C SIC code 1231 - Anthracite Mining. Establishments primarily engaged in 

producing anthracite or in developing anthracite mines. All establishments 

in the United States that are classified in this industry are located in 

Pennsylvania. This industry includes mining by owners or lessees or by 

establishments which have complete responsibility for operating 

anthracite mines for others on a contract or fee basis. Also included are 

anthracite preparation plants, whether or not operated in conjunction with 

a mine. 

Facility Counts 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Coal Mining category 

from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, TRIReleases2000, and PCSLoads2000. 

TRI includes facilities reporting discharges to any media. In contrast, PCS includes only 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface waters. Table 5-108 lists the number of 

facilities from these sources. 

Table 5-108. Number of Facilities in the Coal Mining Category 

1997 

Economic 

PCS TRI 

Major Minor No Reported Direct Indirect Both Direct 

SIC Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Total Discharge Discharge Discharge & Indirect 

1221 829 129 15 114 50 33 17 0 0 

1222 614 17 1 16 27 22 5 0 0 

1231 68 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000, TRIReleases2000. 

Coal mining facilities are located throughout the United States, with the highest 

concentration in West Virginia, Alabama, and Ohio. 

5.5.3.2 Regulatory Background 

Below is a summary of the regulatory background of this industry: 

C EPA first promulgated BPT limitations for Subparts B (preparation 

plants), C (acid drainage mines), and D (alkaline drainage mines) on April 

26, 1977; 

C EPA promulgated NSPS for Subparts B, C, and D on January 12, 1979, 

and established subcategories for reclamation and western mines; 

C EPA revised BPT and NSPS rainfall exemptions on December 28, 1979; 

and 

C EPA published proposed BAT and NSPS limitations for all subcategories 

in January 1981 including proposed amendments to BPT. 

The current ELGS for the Coal Mining category, 40 CFR Part 434, contain eight 

subcategories (Subpart A - H). Table 5-109 lists the limitations. The technology basis for these 

limitations and standards is neutralization and settling. BAT limitations are the same as BPT 

limitations. In addition, NSPS is identical to BAT, except NSPS requires no discharge of 

wastewater pollutants from preparation plants (Subpart B). The technology basis for the nodischarge requirement was a complete water recycle system. No limits were established for 

Subpart H (Western Mines). Rather, operators are required to submit and implement a Sediment 

Control Plan to maintain sediment discharges at or below premining levels. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-109. Effluent Guidelines for Coal Mining Part 434 

BPT - 30-day Averages (mg/L) BPT - Daily Maximum (mg/L) 

TSS 35 70 

Settleable Solids1 0.5 mL/L 

pH within range of 6 to 9 within range of 6 to 9 

Iron, Total 3.5 7.0 

Manganese, Total2 2.0 4.0 

Source: US EPA, 1981. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Coal

Mining Point Source Category. 440181057b. 1

Limits for settleable solids only apply to Subpart E (post mining areas).

2

No manganese limits exist for Subpart D (alkaline drainage mines).

In addition, Subpart F, Miscellaneous Provisions, contains alternative limitations 

that apply during catastrophic precipitation events. These limitations, listed in Table 5-110, and 

apply to discharges that result from a rainfall or snowmelt event less than the 10-year, 24-hour 

storm. For events greater than the 10 year, 24-hour precipitation event, there are no limitations 

on settleable solids. The only limitation is that pH remain between 6 and 9. 

Table 5-110. Catastrophic Precipitation Event Exemption 

BPT - Daily Maximum 

Settleable Solids1 0.5 mL/L 

pH within range of 6 to 9 

Source: US EPA, 1981. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Coal

Mining Point Source Category, EPA 440-1-81-057b. 1

No limits on settleable solids when precipitation exceeds the 10-year, 24-hour storm.

Other Regulations 

In addition to regulating wastewater discharges under the effluent guidelines 

program, EPA regulates hazardous and solid waste under the RCRA and air emissions under the 

Clean Air Act (CAA). Other regulating authorities applicable to coal mining include: 

C Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA): 

Responsible for all federally required plans, approvals, certifications, and 

licensing relating to mine safety. 

C Department of Interior, Office of Surface Mining (OSM): Regulates active 

coal mining operations and supports the reclamation of abandoned mines 

as required by the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 

(SMCRA). 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Army Corps of Engineers (COE): Responsible for processing permit 

applications and issuing permits as outlined in Section 404 of the CWA. 

5.5.3.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-111 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for coal mining facilities. Facilities not reporting a flow 

were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-111 are based on major 

dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

Table 5-111. Wastewater Flows for Coal Mining Facilities 

SIC Code 

Number of Major Facilities 

Reporting Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility Flow 

in 2000 (MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows in 2000 (MGY) 

Total Flow in 2000 

(MGY) 

1221 9 831.21 63 - 6,914 15,676.75 

1222 1 526.11 NA 526.11 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000.

NA - No range was calculated; only one facility reported a nonzero flow.

Common sources of wastewater in the coal mining industry include precipitation, 

surface runoff, ground water infiltration, and coal preparation plant effluent. No process water is 

used during the coal mining process. Preparation plants use water for washing the coal to 

remove impurities. The wastewater content from coal mining facilities varies according to mine 

location, soil content, and purity of the coal extracted. There does not appear to be a correlation 

between production rate and wastewater volume. Table 5-112 presents characteristics of 

different classifications of coal mine wastewater. 

Table 5-112. Sources of Process Wastewater in Coal Mining 

Wastewater Source Characteristics 

Acid mine drainage Suspended solids, low pH, high concentrations of iron and other metals 

Alkaline mine drainage Low levels of suspended solids, neutral or slightly high pH, low concentrations of 

metals 

Preparation plants High levels of coal fines. 

Reclamation Variable levels of suspended solids, low concentrations of iron & manganese 

Source: US EPA, 1981. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Coal 

Mining Point Source Category, EPA 440-1-81-057b. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Pollutants Discharged 

Table 5-113 lists the pollutants reported to PCS for coal mining facilities (major 

dischargers) that reported to PCS in 2000. Table 5-114 lists the direct discharges by pollutant as 

reported to 2000 TRI for coal mining facilities. 

Table 5-113. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI in 2000 

Pollutant Category 

and Primary Pollutants 

PCS 

(Pounds/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

TRI (Pounds/yr) 

(Direct Only) 

TRI TWPE/yr 

(Direct Only) 

All Pollutants 33,529,627 1,385 741,083 22,472 

Nonconventional 31,563,104 1,380 739,958 2,245 

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) 31,471,976 n/a – – 

Manganese 11,621 818 (59%) 16,400 1,155 (51%) 

Iron 7,742 434 (31%) – – 

Ammonia as Nitrogen – – 723,229 1,089 (49%) 

Conventional 1,966,515 0 0 0 

TSS 1,966,357 – – – 

BOD5 96 – – – 

Oil and Grease 62 – – – 

Priority 81 51 1,125 20,227 

Mercury – – 149 17,444 (86%) 

Arsenic – – 769 2,668 (13%) 

1

Copper discharge. 

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges for this category are low. 

Generally, a few facilities drive the TWPE estimates from both TRI and PCS. For comparison, 

Tables 5-114 and 5-115 present the TWPE for coal mining along with the industries reporting 

the highest discharges in each database. Table 5-114 presents the information reported to PCS 

and Table 5-115 presents the information reported to TRI. For a description of the derivation of 

the values in these tables, see the memorandum in the public docket titled Description and 

Results of EPA Methodology to Synthesize Screening Level Results for the Effluent Guidelines 

Program Plan for 2004, which is available through Edocket at document number OW-2003-

0074-0391. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-114. Coal Mining TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to Industries Reporting 

10 Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

PCS-Reported 

TWPE/yr PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

434 Coal Mining 1,385 32 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Table 5-115. Coal Mining TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to Industries Reporting 

10 Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

TRI-Reported 

TWPE/yr TRI Rank 

414 Organic chemicals, plastics and synthetic fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam electric power generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous metals manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, paper and paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic chemicals manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber products processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide chemicals manufacturing, formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic molding and forming 106,189 10 

434 Coal Mining 22,472 21 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.3.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Acid Discharges 

Mines with acid discharges treat wastewater using chemical precipitation, pH 

adjustment, aeration, and settling. Neutralization and aeration promote oxidation of metals such 

as iron and magnesium. The metal ions form insoluble metal hydroxides, which precipitate out 

of solution and may be removed by settling. 

Acid mine drainage is caused by the oxidation of pyrite, which release iron, 

sulfide, and hydrogen ions into surface waters. In some locations, manganese also may be 

released. The rate of acid formation is dependent on the amount of pyrite in overburden, the 

presence of limestone or other neutralizers, and exposure to air containing the oxygen necessary 

for oxidation. Special handling techniques and water management may be applied to reduce acid 

mine drainage. Special handling techniques include identifying potentially acid rock prior to 

placement, and strategically locating potentially acid materials to minimize exposure to water 

and air. Water management techniques include: 1) installing high wall drainage systems to 

promote surface runoff and reduce contact between water and the spoil surface; 2) installing 

spoil drains to minimize contact time between groundwater and mine spoil; 3) filling trenches 

with alkaline material to lower the rate of acid formation; and 4) flooding acid-forming 

materials to avoid air contact. 

Alkaline Discharges 

Some mines with alkaline discharges use settling ponds to remove suspended 

solids from wastewater. 

Preparation Plants 

These plants use a slurry treatment system, consisting of a settling basin or 

clarifier and thickeners, to treat the coal wash water. Runoff from surrounding areas is treated in 

a settling pond. 

Reclamation Areas 

Such areas use sedimentation ponds to remove solids from wastewater. 

5.5.3.5 Industry Trends 

Table 5-116 compares information from the 1992 and 1997 Economic Census for 

the coal mining industry. U.S. Census data indicates a decrease in the number of the number of 

coal mines by almost 40 percent between 1992 and 1997. Value of goods shipped also declined 

by 10 percent or more for bituminous coal during the same time period. Anthracite mining 

showed an almost 14-percent increase in value of goods shipped. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

In addition to U.S. Census data, statistics for the coal mining industry are 

provided by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Energy Information Administration (EIA). 

Table 5-117 presents the number of coal operations in the U.S. from 1997 to 2002, generally 

decreasing by around 20 percent. Table 5-118 presents coal production from 1996 to 2000, 

which remains steady. 

Table 5-116. 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

SIC Sector 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(in billions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

1221 Bituminous coal and lignite ­

surface 

829 1,359 -39.0 12.5 13.8 -9.9 

1222 Bituminous coal - underground 614 1,008 -39.1 10.8 12.6 -14.4 

1231 Anthracite mining 68 N N 0.18 0.16 13.8 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census.

N - Comparable data were not available.

Table 5-117. Number of U.S. Coal Mining Operations from 1997 to 2002 

Operations 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 

Percent Change 

from 1997 to 

2002 

Underground Mines 968 910 817 771 777 711 -26.5 

Surface Mines 1,117 1,069 1,011 920 937 921 -17.5 

Preparation Plants 432 422 399 363 354 355 -17.8 

Total Mining Operations 2,578 2,459 2,274 2,099 2,122 2,046 -20.6 

Source: U.S. Department of Labor. 

Table 5-118. U.S. Coal Production from 1997 to 2000 (in millions of short tons) 

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 

Average Annual 

Percent Change 

(1996-2000) 

Total U.S. Production 1,064 1,090 1,118 1,100 1,074 0.20 

Source: EIA web page. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.3.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

This subsection discusses stakeholder and EPA Regional issues. EPA primarily 

received input from stakeholders and EPA Regional staff prior to the Preliminary Effluent 

Guidelines Plan. EPA did not receive any comments on the Preliminary Plan pertaining to the 

coal mining industry. 

Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

Several groups surveyed by the Agency in the process of the 2004 annual review 

provided input on the Coal Mining category. Their suggestions and/or concerns are summarized 

below. 

Comments on the 2002/2003 Plan (Section 2.3 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: 

Implementation and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” 

(Edocket OW-2003-0074-0329)) 

A commenter asserted that the effluent guidelines for the Coal Mining category 

require revision because rainfall exemptions for coal mining in the current effluent guidelines 

allow for relaxation of limits as soon as it rains. Furthermore, the commenter stated that 

settlement basins used as primary control for mine drainage do not work very well when it rains. 

(Note: EAD recently revised these effluent guidelines, with revisions promulgated in January 

2002; however, the revised rule did not reassess the effluent limitations for precipitation events.) 

Previous Suggestions (Section 2.4 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329)) 

Although responders recommended coal mining for revised effluent guidelines 

development, no specific concerns were noted. 

AMSA & ASIWPCA (Section 2.6 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329)) 

A stakeholder noted that coal mining operations discharge manganese, which is 

generating problems, notably in West Virginia streams. In follow-up discussion with this 

stakeholder, EPA explained that manganese in coal mining effluent does not necessarily 

adversely effect the receiving stream as much as the discharge stream remaining after treatment 

to remove manganese, which consists basically of increasing the pH. (The water quality 

standard for manganese is based on concerns for staining relative to drinking water uses.) The 

effluent then must be neutralized before discharge; options typically include adding either acid 

or aluminum to the effluent. (Another side effect of changing the pH is the potential increase in 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

concentration of the more toxic selenium in the effluent, since it can more readily leach into the 

water from the pit cleanings.) 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments it receives, EPA can not address these 

suggestions without adequate supporting data. In the event that stakeholders provide additional 

data and supporting information on these or any of the issues identified above, EPA will 

reevaluate them at that time. 

5.5.3.7 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from coal 

mining operations are low relative to other industrial categories. In addition, a few facilities 

generally contribute the bulk of the TWPE for this industry. The pollutants driving the TWPE 

estimate for these few facilities are mercury and arsenic. 

Stakeholders and EPA staff identified various issues associated with discharges 

from coal mining operations. The information in the docket on the 2004 annual review does not 

at this time support the concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders provide additional data 

and supporting information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will reevaluate them at that 

time. 

5.5.4 Coil Coating (Part 465) 

During the screening-level review phase of the 2004 annual review, coil coating, 

including the can making subcategory, was one of eight industrial categories identified solely 

through Factor 4 concerns. Issues driving the concerns include changes to industry since 

promulgation, such as: 1) discharges of new solvents adopted by the industry and not regulated 

by existing guidelines, 2) costs to monitor pollutants no longer used by the industry, and 3) 

applicability issues for multi-process facilities. 

5.5.4.1 Industry Description 

The Coil Coating Point Source Category is regulated at 40 CFR Part 465. This 

point source category includes facilities reporting under SIC industry group 341, Metal Cans and 

Shipping Containers. Specifically, it includes SIC code 3411, Metal Cans. The SIC description 

for metal cans is establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing metal cans from purchased 

materials. The canmaking subcategory was identified during the Factor 4 analysis. 

Facility Counts 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Coil Coating Point 

Source Category from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, TRIReleases2000, and 

PCSLoads2000. The 2000 TRI database includes facilities reporting discharges to any media. 

In 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

contrast, the 2000 PCS database includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to 

surface waters. Table 5-119 lists the number of facilities from these sources. 

Table 5-119. Number of Facilities 

1997 

PCS TRI 

Major Minor No Reported Direct Indirect Both Direct 

SIC Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Total Discharge Discharge Discharge & Indirect 

3411 274 8 0 8 136 94 1 41 0 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000, TRIReleases2000. 

No facilities for this SIC code reported to PCS as major dischargers. Eight minor 

dischargers report to PCS under SIC code 3411, but these facilities do not need to report their 

discharge data. There are 42 facilities that report discharges to TRI; all but one of these report 

only indirect discharges. Facilities are located in 21 states and Puerto Rico. Of the 42 facilities, 

10 are located in EPA Region 5. 

5.5.4.2 Regulatory Background 

The current ELGS for the Coil Coating Point Source Category, 40 CFR Part 465, 

contain four subcategories (Subpart A - D), which are based on the material used or product 

(e.g., metal cans). EPA promulgated final versions of the effluent limitations for Subparts A - C 

on October 30, 1982 and promulgated effluent limitations for Subpart D (Canmaking) in 

November 1983. 

The technology basis of existing regulations for Subparts A - C is: 

C Recycle, cyanide treatment, chromium reduction, oil removal, lime 

precipitation and sedimentation, and sludge dewatering for BPT; 

C Cyanide treatment, chromium reduction, oil removal, lime precipitation 

and sedimentation for BAT and PSES; 

C Recycle, cyanide treatment, chromium reduction, oil removal, chemical 

precipitation and sedimentation, and sludge dewatering for NSPS; and 

C Recycle, cyanide treatment, chromium reduction, chemical precipitation 

and sedimentation, and sludge dewatering for PSNS. 

The technology basis for existing regulations for Subpart D is: 

C Wastewater flow normalization, chromium reduction, oil removal, and 

lime precipitation and sedimentation for BPT; 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C In-process flow reduction, chromium reduction, oil removal, and lime 

precipitation and sedimentation for BAT and PSES; and 

C BPT end-of-pipe treatment and in-process flow reduction for NSPS and 

PSNS. 

Effluent limitations guidelines are mass-based on the basis of milligram (mg) per 

surface area processed in square meters (m2

) and grams (g) per one million cans produced. BCT 

was deferred for all Subparts (A-D). Table 5-120 lists these limitations. 

5-159
Section 5 

Table 5-120. Effluent Guidelines for Coil Coating and Canmaking 

5-160

Pollutant 

BPT 30-day averages BAT 30-day averages NSPS 30-day averages PSES 30-day averages 

Subparts A-C 

(mg/m2) 

Subpart D 

(g/1 million 

cans) 

Subparts A-C 

(mg/m2) 

Subpart D 

(g/1 million 

cans) 

Subparts A-C 

(mg/m2) 

Subpart D 

(g/1 million 

cans) 

Subparts A-C 

(mg/m2) 

Subpart D 

(g/1 million 

cans) 

S

Chromium 0.45-0.58 38.70 0.16-2.0 15.10 0.052-0.47 11.45 0.16-0.20 15.10 Copper 2.612 NR 0.903 NR 0.21 2 NR 0.902 83.90 

Cyanide 0.32-0.41 NR 0.11-0.14 NR 0.028-0.25 NR 0.11-0.14 NR Zinc 1.46-1.89 131.15 0.51-0.66 51.18 0.14-0.20 38.80 0.51-0.66 51.18 Aluminum 6.263 688.00 1.843 268.48 0.593 203.52 NR NR 

Iron 1.65-1.74 5676.00 0.57-0.74 2214.96 0.20-0.22 1679.04 NR 2214.96 Phosphorous NR 1468.45 NR 573.04 NR 434.39 NR 573.04 Manganese NR NR NR NR NR NR NR 24.33 Oil and grease 31.31-40.4 2580 NR NR 3.16-4.75 763.20 NR 1006.80 TSS 52.2-67.3 4192.5 NR NR 3.79-5.70 1240.20 NR NR TTO1 NR NR NR NR NR NR NR 12.59 

pH 7.5-10.0 7.0-10.0 NR NR 7.5-10.0 7.0-10.0 NR NR 

NR = Not regulated

1Total toxic organic pollutants include 1,1,1-Trichloroethane, 1,1-Dichloroethane, 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane, Bis (2-chloroethyl) ether, Chloroform, 1,1-Dichloroethylen

(dichloromethane), Pentachlorophenol, Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, Butyl benzyl-phthalate, Di-N-butyl phthalate, Phenanthrene, Tetrachloroethylene, and Toluene.

2Subpart B only.3Subpart C only.
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Pretreatment standards for total toxic organics (TTO) were established for new 

and existing sources in the canmaking subcategory. EPA detected 14 organic compounds at 

quantifiable levels during wastewater sampling, and selected these compounds to be included in 

the regulation. According to Part 465, TTO is the sum of the mass of each of the following toxic 

organic compounds that are found at a concentration greater than 0.010 mg/1: 

1,1,1-Trichloroethane;

1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane;

Chloroform;

Methylene chloride (dichloromethane);

Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate;

Di-N-butyl phthalate;

Tetrachloroethylene; and

Other Effluent Guidelines 

1,1-Dichloroethane;

Bis (2-chloroethyl) ether;

1,1-Dichloroethylene;

Pentachlorophenol;

Butyl benzyl-phthalate;

Phenanthrene;

Toluene. 

40 CFR Part 467 (Aluminum Forming) is applicable to rolling, drawing, 

extruding, forging, and related operations such as heat treatment, casting, and surface treatments. 

For the purposes of this regulation, surface treatment of aluminum is considered to be an integral 

part of aluminum forming whenever it is performed at the same plant site at which the aluminum 

is formed. 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. 

Because no major dischargers from this industry reported to PCS in 2000, EPA is not providing 

information on annual flow rates. 

5.5.4.3 Wastewater Characterization and Pollutant Sources 

Wastewater pollutant loads depend on the base material and the production 

process used. Table 5-121 illustrates the processes and the associated pollutants. 

Table 5-121. Sources of Process Wastewater in Coil Coating and Canmaking 

Process Wastewater Pollutants 

Cleaning Metals, suspended solids, oil 

Conversion coating Metals, suspended solids 

Finishing Suspended solids 

Canmaking Metals, oil, toxic organics, suspended solids 

Sources: EPA, Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Coil Coating Point 

Source Category (Phase I) [Final] (EPA 440-1-82-071), 1982 and Development Document for Effluent Limitations 

Guidelines and Standards for the Coil Coating Point Source Category (Canmaking Subcategory) -Final (EPA 440-

1-83-071), 1983. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Pollutants Discharged 

As indicated previously, no major coil coating and canmaking facilities reported 

discharging to PCS in 2000. Therefore, EPA has no information in PCSLoads2000 on pollutants 

discharges from this industry. Table 5-122 lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged 

directly or indirectly for coil coating and canmaking facilities that reported to TRI for 2000. 

Indirect discharging facilities reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW removal 

efficiencies, EPA estimated the amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see DCN 

00618, Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs, for more information). Therefore, the TWPE estimates 

in this table have been adjusted to account for POTW treatment. Of the 42 TRI reporting 

facilities, a single indirect discharging facility contributes 99 percent of the toxic-weighted 

pounds. 

Table 5-122. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI 

Pollutant Category and 

Primary Pollutants 

PCS 

(Pounds/yr) PCS TWPE/yr 

TRI 

(Pounds/yr) TRI TWPE/yr 

All Pollutants - - 32,803 11,763 

Nonconventional - - 32,803 11,763 

Sodium Nitrite - - 31,210 (95%) 11,652 (99%) 

Manganese - - 1,592 (5%) 112 (1%) 

Conventional - - - -

Priority - - - -

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges in TRI for this industry 

are low. Discharges from a single facility contribute over 99 percent of the total TWPE. For 

comparison purposes, Tables 5-123 and 5-124 present the TWPE for the coil coating industry 

along with the industries reporting the highest discharges in each database. Table 5-123 presents 

the information reported to PCS and Table 5-124 presents the information reported to TRI. For a 

description of the derivation of the values in these tables, see the memorandum in the public 

dcoket titled Description and Results of EPA Methodology to Synthesize Screening Level Results 

for the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004, which is available through Edocket at 

document number OW-2003-0074-0391. 

Table 5-123. Coil Coating TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to Industries Reporting 

10 Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

PCS-Reported 

TWPE/yr PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-123 (Continued) 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

PCS-Reported 

TWPE/yr PCS Rank 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

465 Coil Coating 0 

Table 5-124. Coil Coating TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to Industries Reporting 

10 Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

TRI Reported

 TWPE/yr TRI Rank 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber Products Processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum Refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber Manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic Molding and Forming 106,189 10 

434 Coil Coating 11,763 25 

5.5.4.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Coil Coating 

Standard treatment for coil coating may include chemical precipitation and 

sedimentation, oil removal, cyanide removal, chromium reduction, or filtration. 

Canmaking 

Standard treatment for canmaking may include chemical precipitation and 

sedimentation, oil removal, filtration, neutralization, chemical emulsion breaking, or dissolved 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

air flotation. Oil skimming was used as the technology basis for TTO removal for the 

canmaking subcategory. Since toxic organics detected in canmaking wastewater are similar to 

those in aluminum forming and coil coating wastewater, EPA used the removal rate from 

aluminum forming plants to predict the organics removal for canmaking. On average, aluminum 

forming plants achieve a 97-percent removal of organics by oil skimming. 

Pollution Prevention 

Recycle and reuse, and use of alternative cleaning or conversion coating agents 

are the focus of current pollution prevention activities. Some facilities have achieved zero 

discharge by evaporating wastewater to leave a dry residue. Separating waste streams can 

increase the efficiency of the wastewater treatment system and reduce the pounds of chemicals 

added for treatment. Table 5-125 lists pollution prevention alternatives for this industry. 

Table 5-125. Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Process Water Conservation/Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Aluminum coil 

coating 

Install ultrafiltration units to remove aluminum etchings from cleaning solutions. This 

extends the life of cleaning solutions, thus reducing use of cleaning solvents, and reduces 

discharges of aluminum in effluent. 

Cleaning Reduce dragout. 

Reuse of alkaline cleaning rinse water as make-up to the alkaline cleaning tank. 

Multistage countercurrent rinses. 

Conversion 

coating 

Use a chromium regeneration system. 

Recycle and reuse rinse water. 

Recycle quench water. 

Use cyanide-free chromating solutions. 

Use zinc-free sealing rinses. 

Use no-rinse conversion coating in place of chromate conversion coating. 

Finish coating Use solvent-free wax to reduce organic emissions, reduce gas consumption formerly required 

to dry the wax/solvent mixture, and reduce combustion by-products from drying and 

oxidation process. 

Can coating Use radiation-cured coatings to reduce VOC emissions and eliminate/reduce the need for 

carrier solvents. 

Source: EPA, Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Coil Coating Point 

Source Category (Phase I) [Final] (EPA 440-1-82-071), 1982 and Development Document for Effluent Limitations 

Guidelines and Standards for the Coil Coating Point Source Category (Canmaking Subcategory) -Final (EPA 440-

1-83-071), 1983 and industry web sites. 

5.5.4.5 Industry Trends 

U.S. Economic Census data indicate a decrease in the number of metal canmaking 

facilities by 15 percent between 1992 and 1997 (see Table 5-126). The value of goods shipped 

has also declined by less than 1 percent during the same time period. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

In Table 5-127, advance comparative statistics for 1997 to 2002 for NAICS code 

332 (Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing) show a continuing decrease in the number of 

establishments of almost 3 percent, but just over a 1-percent increase in the value of shipments 

(not adjusted for inflation). Table 5-128 illustrates the increase in can shipments since 1982. 

Table 5-126. 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

SIC 

Code 

Industry 

Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(in billions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

3411 Metal Cans 274 324 -15 12.0 12.1 -0.6 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

Table 5-127. 1997 and 2002 Census Data 

NAICS 

Code Industry Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(billions of dollars) 

2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 

332 Fabricated Metal 

Product Mfr. 

60,602 62,384 -2.8 245 242 1.2 

Source: 2002 U.S. Economic Census. 

Table 5-128. Can Shipments by Category 

Year 

Can Shipments in Billions of Cans 

Food Beverage General Line 

1982 27.6 57.9 3.8 

1992 30.9 95.7 4.1 

2002 31.3 100.5 4.4 

Source: CanCentral.com.. <http://www.cancentral.com> Accessed on July 6, 2004. 

5.5.4.6 Stakeholder and Regional Issues 

This subsection discusses stakeholder and Regional issues. EPA primarily 

received input from stakeholders and EPA Regional staff prior to the Preliminary Effluent 

Guidelines Plan. EPA did not receive any comments on the Preliminary Plan pertaining to the 

coil coating and canmaking industry. 

5-165
Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

Several groups surveyed by the Agency in the process of the 2004 annual review 

provided input on the Coil Coating category and the Canmaking subcategory. Their suggestions 

are summarized below. 

Consultations with Permitting Authorities (Section 2.5 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: 

Implementation and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” 

(Edocket OW-2003-0074-0329)) 

EPA permit writers and pretreatment coordinators note that the industry has 

changed since the effluent guidelines were promulgated in 1983. The industry is using 

completely different solvents than those assessed during the development of the existing 

guidelines. However, EPA has received no data to support this observation. EPA permit writers 

and pretreatment coordinators are also concerned about the costs associated with monitoring 

requirements for pollutants that are no longer used by the industry. In addition, permitting 

authorities in EPA Regions 2 and 5 and stakeholders in Alabama and Tennessee have identified 

applicability issues. Questions focused on facilities with multiple processes that also perform 

coal coating, most recently aluminum forming facilities. 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments it receives, EPA cannot address these 

suggestions without adequate supporting data. In the event that stakeholders provide additional 

data and supporting information on these or any of the issues identified above, EPA will 

reevaluate them at that time. 

EPA notes that, for direct dischargers, permit writers can reduce the frequency of 

required monitoring through the provisions described at 40 CFR Part 122.44(1)(2) “monitoring 

waivers for certain guideline-listed pollutants.” (This is not available during the term of the first 

permit.) For indirect discharges, the Office of Wastewater Management plans to finalize (in 

December 2004) a waiver provision for “pollutants not present” under the National Pretreatment 

Program’s streamlining regulation. That regulation is projected to be final in December 2004. 

5.5.4.7 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from coil coating 

and canmaking operations are low relative to other industrial categories. Discharges from a 

single facility contribute over 99 percent of the total TWPE. 

Stakeholders and EPA staff identified various issues associated with discharges 

from coil coating and canmaking plants. The information in the docket on the 2004 annual 

review does not at this time support the concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders provide 

additional data and supporting information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will reevaluate 

them at that time. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.5 Dairy Products Processing (Part 405) 

During the screening-level review phase of the 2004 annual review, dairy 

processing was one of eight industrial categories identified solely through Factor 4 concerns. 

Issues driving the concerns include overloading of POTWs and small streams (for direct 

dischargers) receiving wastewater from this industry with nutrients and conventional pollutants 

such as BOD and oil and grease. 

5.5.5.1 Industry Description 

The Dairy Products Processing Point Source Category is regulated at 40 CFR Part 

405. This point source category includes facilities reporting under SIC industry group 202, 

Dairy Products. Specifically, it includes SIC codes 2021 (Creamery Butter), 2022 (Natural, 

Processed, and Imitation Cheese), 2023 (Dry, Condensed, and Evaporated Dairy Products), 2024 

(Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts), and 2026 (Fluid Milk). No specific subcategories were 

identified during the Factor 4 analysis. Below is a description of these SIC codes: 

C SIC code 2021 - Creamery Butter. Establishments primarily engaged in 

manufacturing creamery butter. 

C SIC code 2022 - Natural, Processed, and Imitation Cheese. 

Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing natural cheese (except 

cottage cheese), processed cheese, cheese foods, cheese spreads, and 

cheese analogs (imitations and substitutes). These establishments also 

produce by-products, such as raw liquid whey. Establishments primarily 

engaged in manufacturing cottage cheese are classified in SIC code 2026, 

and those manufacturing cheese-based salad dressings are classified in 

SIC code 2035. 

C SIC code 2023 - Dry, Condensed, and Evaporated Dairy Products. 

Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing dry, condensed, and 

evaporated dairy products. Included in this industry are establishments 

primarily engaged in manufacturing mixes for the preparation of frozen 

ice cream and ice milk and dairy and nondairy base cream substitutes and 

dietary supplements. 

C SIC code 2024 - Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts. Establishments 

primarily manufacturing ice cream and other frozen desserts. 

Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing frozen bakery 

products, such as cakes and pies, are classified in SIC code 2053. 

C SIC code 2026 - Fluid Milk. Establishments primarily engaged in 

processing (e.g., pasteurizing, homogenizing, vitaminizing, bottling) fluid 

milk and cream and related products, including cottage cheese, yogurt 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

(except frozen), and other fermented milk. Establishments primarily 

engaged in manufacturing dry mix whipped toppings are classified in SIC 

code 2023; those producing frozen whipped toppings are classified in SIC 

code 2038; and those producing frozen yogurt are classified in SIC code 

2024. 

Facility Counts 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Dairy Products 

Processing category from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, TRIReleases2000, and 

PCSLoads2000. The 2000 TRI database includes facilities reporting discharges to any media. 

In contrast, the 2000 PCS database includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to 

surface waters. Table 5-129 lists the number of facilities from these sources. 

Table 5-129. Number of Facilities in the Dairy Products Processing Category 

SIC 

1997 U.S. 

Economic 

PCS TRI 

Major Minor Total No Reported Direct Indirect Both Direct 

Code Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Reporters Discharge Discharge Discharge & Indirect 

2021 34 4 0 4 18 2 2 14 0 

2022 525 27 2 25 141 37 22 82 0 

2023 215 15 2 13 52 11 7 34 0 

2024 451 6 0 6 20 8 0 11 1 

2026 613 29 1 28 94 40 1 53 0 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000 and, TRIReleases2000. 

Of the 220 reporting facilities, over 50 percent are located in four states: Wisconsin (48 

facilities), California (28 facilities), Minnesota (21 facilities), and New York (18 facilities). The 

rest are located in 30 other states. Almost 50 percent of the reporting facilities are part of SIC 

code 2022 (Natural, Processed, and Imitation Cheese). 

5.5.5.2 Regulatory Background 

The current ELGS for the Dairy Products Point Source Category, 40 CFR Part 

405, contain 12 subcategories (Subpart A - L). EPA promulgated final versions of the effluent 

limitations in 1974. Table 5-130 summarizes the current ELGS. The technology basis of 

existing regulations was: 

In-plant control: Establishing a plant management improvement program to adopt water 

conservation practices, installing waste monitoring equipment, improving 

plant maintenance, improving production scheduling practices, improving 

quality control, finding alternative uses for products currently wasted to 

drain, and improving housekeeping and product-handling practices. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

End-of-Pipe Control: For large plants- biological treatment system (activated sludge, trickling 

filter, or aerated lagoon). 

For small plants- anaerobic digestion- stabilization lagoon system, and 

irrigating with wastewater by spray or ridge and furrow where land is 

available and it is economically feasible. 

For all subcategories, EPA did not establish PSES or PSNS. In addition, for all subcategories, 

EPA set BCT equal to BPT. 

Table 5-130. Effluent Guidelines for Dairy Products Processing Part 405 

BPT NSPS 

Monthly Monthly 

Effluent Average Daily Average 

Characteristic Subpart Daily Maximum1 Maximum1 Maximum Maximum 

BOD5 

(lbs per 100 lbs 

of BOD5 input) 

A 0.048-0.063 0.019-0.313 0.010 0.005 

B and C 0.338-0.450 0.135-0.225 0.074 0.037 

D 0.138-0.183 0.055-0.091 0.016 0.008 

E 0.670-0.893 0.268-0.446 0.148 0.074 

F 0.073-0.098 0.029-0.049 0.016 0.008 

G 0.220-0.293 0.068-0.146 0.048 0.024 

H 0.460-0.613 0.184-0.306 0.094 0.047 

I 0.345-0.460 0.138-0.230 0.076 0.038 

J 0.163-0.218 0.065-0.109 0.036 0.018 

K and L 0.100-0.130 0.040-0.065 0.022 0.011 

TSS 

(lbs per 100 lbs 

of BOD5 input) 

A 0.071-0.094 0.029-0.469 0.013 0.006 

B 0.551-0.675 0.203-0.338 0.093 0.046 

C 0.506-0.675 0.203-0.338 0.093 0.046 

D 0.206-0.274 0.083-0.137 0.020 0.010 

E 1.005-1.339 0.402-0.669 0.185 0.093 

F 0.109-0.146 0.044-0.073 0.020 0.010 

G 0.330-0.439 0.132-0.219 0.060 0.030 

H 0.690-0.919 0.276-0.459 0.118 0.059 

I 0.518-0.690 0.207-0.345 0.095 0.048 

J 0.244-0.328 0.098-0.164 0.045 0.023 

K 0.150-0.195 0.060-0.098 0.028 0.014 

L 0.150-0.195 0.060-0.098 0.023 0.014 

pH All 6-9 6-9 6-9 6-9 1

The range of values represent limits for different size operations. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.5.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-131 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for dairy products processing facilities. Facilities not 

reporting a flow were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-131 are 

based on major dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

Table 5-131. Wastewater Flows 

SIC 

Number of Major Facilities 

Reporting Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility 

Flow In 2000 

(MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows In 2000 

(MGY) 

Total Flow In 

2000 (MGY) 

2022 2 88 68-109 177 

2023 2 202 71-333 404 

2026 1 250 NA 250 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

NA - No range calculated: only one facility reported a nonzero flow.

Most dairy plants discharge their wastewater to POTWs. The primary pollutants 

found in dairy processing plant wastewater are organics and TSS; additional pollutants include 

phosphorus, nitrogen, chlorides, and heat. Effluent guidelines are not set for these additional 

pollutants; however, control and treatment of the primary pollutants (organics and TSS) help to 

maintain these additional pollutants at an acceptable level. Dairy processing wastewater 

experiences daily and seasonal fluctuations in temperature, flow, and pollutants. Table 5-132 

presents sources of process wastewater and the associated pollutants. 

Table 5-132. Sources of Process Wastewater in Dairy Products Processing 

Process Wastewater Pollutant 

Washing, cleaning, and sanitizing of all pipe lines, pumps, processing BOD, TSS, pH, detergents 

equipment, tanks, tank trucks and filling machines 

Processing losses, such as start-up, product change-over and shut down of BOD, TSS, pH, detergents 

high temperature short time (HTST) and ultra high temperature (UHT) 

pasteurizers 

Loss in filling operations through equipment jams, leaks, and broken BOD, TSS, pH 

packages 

Lubrication of casers, stackers, and conveyors that ends up in the BOD, TSS, pH, detergents, oil 

wastewater from washing and grease 

Sources: EPA, Development Document for Dairy Products Processing, 1974 and Dairy Food Plant Wastes and 

Waste Treatment Practices, 1971. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Pollutants Discharged 

Table 5-133 lists the pollutants reported to PCS for dairy processing facilities that 

reported discharges to PCS by major dischargers in 2000. In addition, Table 5-133 lists the 

pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or for dairy products processing facilities that 

reported to TRI for 2000. This table presents the number of facilities that reported each 

chemical and the total pounds of chemical discharged to surface waters. Indirect discharging 

facilities reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW removal efficiencies, EPA 

estimated the amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see DCN 00618, Evaluation of 

RSEI Model Runs, for more information). Therefore, the TWPE estimates in this table have been 

adjusted to account for POTW treatment. 

Table 5-133. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI 

Pollutant Category 

& Primary Pollutants 

PCS 

(Pounds/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE/yr 

TRI 

(Pounds/yr) 

TRI 

TWPE/yr 

All Pollutants 224,891 4 3,326,527 5,829 

Nonconventionals 81,912 4 3,326,522 5,829 

Chlorine, Total Residual – – 11,437 5,570 (96%) 

Nitrogen, Nitrate Total (As N) 7,644 0.5 3,228,359 200 (3%) 

Ammonia as Nitrogen 1,878 3 (80%) 37,160 56 

Conventionals 142,979 0 0 0 

TSS 97,972 

BOD5 42,037 

Oil and Grease 2,969 

Priority 0 0 5 0 

Toluene 0 0 5 0 

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges in PCS and TRI are low. 

A single facility contributes over 96 percent of the overall TWPE for this industry. For 

comparison purposes, Tables 5-134 and 5-135 present the TWPE for dairy products processing 

along with the industries reporting the highest discharges in each database. Table 5-134 presents 

the information reported to PCS and Table 5-135 presents the information reported to TRI. For a 

description of the derivation of the values in these tables, see the memorandum in the public 

docket titled Description and Results of EPA Methodology to Synthesize Screening Level Results 

for the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004, which is available through Edocket at 

document number OW-2003-0074-0391. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-134. Dairy Products Processing TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to 

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

PCS-Reported 

TWPE/yr PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

405 Dairy Products Processing 5 39 

Table 5-135. Dairy Products Processing TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to 

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category 

TRI-Reported 

TWPE/yr TRI Rank 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber Products Processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum Refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber Manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic Molding and Forming 106,189 10 

405 Dairy Products Processing 5,827 30 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.5.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Standard treatments include activated sludge, trickling filters, aeration lagoons, 

stabilization ponds, land application, and anaerobic digestion. The 1974 development document 

(1) suggested pretreatment practices of anaerobic digestion, high-rate trickling filter and 

activated sludge systems, stabilization ponds, aerated ponds, and chemical treatment. Direct 

discharging plants may disinfect wastewater with chlorine prior to discharge. Advanced 

treatment would replace chlorine disinfection with ozone or ultraviolet light. Most advances are 

water conservation and other pollution prevention practices. 

Water conservation and pollution prevention practices reduce pollutant loads. 

Table 5-136 presents some pollution prevention alternatives for this industry. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-136. Pollution Prevention Alternatives for Dairy Products Processing 

Type of Technique Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Process/equipment Replace traditional faucets with low-flow models. 

modification Shut off water during breaks. 

Install water control units. 

Install flow meters. 

Reduce exterior area water use. 

Operational and Place catch pans under potential overflows/leaks to reduce cleanup. 

housekeeping changes Cover outside storage areas. 

Conduct inspections and preventive maintenance of potential discharge areas. 

Install secondary containment. 

Monitor liquid fill machines to prevent overflows. 

Cover outside drain during loading and unloading. 

Cover inside floor drains (in nonproduction areas only). 

Prevent spills and conduct regular inspections of potential spill sites. 

Conduct precleaning and dry cleanup. 

Install screening. 

Minimize pests to reduce the need for chemical pest control. 

Recycling/reuse Use countercurrent washes. 

Reuse process water. 

Install water recirculation units. 

Use recirculating water to chill products. 

Recycle refrigerants. 

Reduce/recycle/reuse packaging. 

Material substitution and Control general inventory to minimize disposal of outdated materials. 

elimination Use alternative refrigerants. 

Source: Multimedia Environmental Compliance Guide for Food Processors, EPA, 1999. 

5.5.5.5 Industry Trends 

1997 U.S. Economic Census data indicates the change in the number of the 

number of dairy products processing facilities between 1992 and 1997, as shown in Table 5-137. 

Although the number of facilities may have increased or decreased, depending on sector, the 

value of goods shipped increased by as much as 33 percent during the same time period. 

Advance comparative statistics for 1997 to 2002 for the broader category represented by NAICS 

code 311 (food manufacturing including grains, fruits and vegetables, dairy, meats, seafood, and 

miscellaneous food) shows a very small increase in the number of establishments (less than 1 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

percent) and an 8-percent increase in the value of shipments (not adjusted for inflation), as 

shown in Table 5-138. 

Table 5-137. 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

Value of Goods Shipped 

SIC 

Code Industry Sector 

Number of Establishments (billions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

2021 Creamery Butter 34 31 9.7 1.4 1.0 32.9 

2022 Natural, Processed, and 

Imitation Cheese 

525 573 -8.4 20.3 16.9 20.1 

2023 Dry, Condensed, and Evap. 

Dairy Products 

215 214 0.5 9.2 7.5 21.9 

2024 Ice Cream and Frozen 

Desserts 

451 456 -1.1 5.9 5.3 11.6 

2026 Fluid Milk 613 746 -17.8 22.2 21.9 1.4 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

Table 5-138. 1997 and 2002 Census Data 

NAICS 

Code Industry Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(billions of dollars) 

2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 

311 Food Manufacturing 26,374 26,302 0.27 457 422 8.4 

Source: 2002 U.S. Economic Census. 

5.5.5.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

This subsection discusses stakeholder and EPA regional issues. EPA primarily 

received input from stakeholders and EPA Regional staff prior to the Preliminary Effluent 

Guidelines Plan. EPA did not receive any comments to the Preliminary Plan pertaining to the 

dairy products processing industry. 

Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

Several groups surveyed by the Agency in the 2004 annual review provided input 

on the Dairy Products Processing category. Each group and their suggestions are summarized 

below. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Previous Suggestions (Section 2.4 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329)) 

In the fall of 1999 and again in the spring of 2001, EPA requested suggestions 

from Headquarters, Regional, and state staff charged with the task of implementing effluent 

guidelines to follow up on concerns and to gather recommendations regarding which effluent 

guidelines the Agency might develop or revise. Responders identified dairy products processing 

based on concerns over the discharge of nutrients. They were also concerned about overloading 

POTWs and small streams (for direct dischargers) with conventional pollutants such as BOD. 

Another issue identified included a concern for copper in relation to dairies; however, follow-up 

identified this issue to be a miscommunication. 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments it receives, EPA cannot address these 

suggestions without adequate supporting data. Some stakeholders identified nutrient discharges 

from dairy processing plants as a concern. Information in PCS and TRI does not indicate that 

dairy processing plants are discharging significant quantities of nutrients relative to other 

industrial categories. In the event that stakeholders provide additional data and supporting 

information on these or any of the issues identified above, EPA will reevaluate them at that time. 

5.5.5.7 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from dairy 

processing plants are low relative to other industrial categories. Total residual chlorine 

discharges from a single facility contributes over 96 percent of the overall TWPE for this 

industry. 

Stakeholders and EPA staff identified various issues associated with discharges 

from dairy processing plants. The information in the docket at this time does not support the 

concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders provide additional data and supporting 

information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will reevaluate them at that time. 

5.5.5.8 References 

1. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Dairy Product Processing Point Source 

Category. EPA-440/1-74-021-a. Washington, D.C. May 1974. 

5.5.6 Electrical and Electronic Components (Part 469) 

During the screening-level review phase of the 2004 annual review, electrical and 

electronic components was one of eight industrial categories identified solely through Factor 4 

concerns. Issues driving the concerns include: 1) significant process changes resulting in 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

changes in the typical pollutants discharged, including a shift from aluminum to copper, and 

2) confusion over applicability of effluent guidelines for metal finishing. 

5.5.6.1 Industry Description 

The Electrical and Electronic Components Point Source Category is regulated at 

40 CFR Part 469. This point source category includes facilities reporting under SIC major group 

36, Electronic and Other Electrical Equipment and Components, Except Computer Equipment. 

Specifically, it includes facilities in SIC code 3671, Electron Tubes, and SIC code 3674, 

Semiconductors and Related Devices. No specific subcategories were identified during the 

Factor 4 analysis. Below is a description of the SIC codes: 

C SIC code 3671: Electron Tubes. Establishments primarily engaged in 

manufacturing electron tubes and tube parts. Establishments primarily 

engaged in manufacturing X-ray tubes and parts are classified in SIC code 

3844. 

C SIC code 3674: Semiconductors and Related Devices. Establishments 

primarily engaged in manufacturing semiconductors and related solid-state 

devices. Important products of this industry are semiconductor diodes and 

stacks, including rectifiers, integrated microcircuits (semiconductor 

networks), transistors, solar cells, and light sensing and emitting 

semiconductor (solid-state) devices. 

Facility Counts 

Information on the number of facilities in the Electrical and Electronic 

Components Point Source Category was obtained from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic 

Census, TRIReleases2000, and PCSLoads2000. TRI includes facilities reporting discharges to 

any media. In contrast, PCS includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface 

waters. The number of facilities from these sources is listed in Table 5-139. 

Table 5-139. Number of Facilities in the Electrical and Electronic Components Category 

SIC 1997 

PCS TRI 

Major Minor Total No Reported Direct Indirect Both Direct 

Code Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Reporting Discharge Discharge Discharge and Indirect 

3671 159 5 1 4 1 4 0 4 5 

3674 1099 13 4 9 150 51 4 91 4 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000, TRIReleases2000. 

The 111 reporting facilities are located in 22 states, with the highest concentrations in California 

(20 percent), Texas (17 percent), Arizona (11 percent), Oregon (9 percent), and Pennsylvania (9 

percent). 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.6.2 Regulatory Background 

When promulgated, the ELGS for the Electrical and Electronic Components Point 

Source Category, 40 CFR Part 469, contained 21 subcategories. Seventeen of these 

subcategories were excluded from regulation under Paragraph 8 of the Revised Settlement 

Agreement. The following four categories (A - D) may apply to discharges from electrical and 

electronic components facilities: 

C Semiconductor Subcategory: EPA promulgated ELGS for BPT, BAT, 

BCT, NSPS, PSES, and PSNS (Subpart A) in 1983. 

C Electronic Crystals Subcategory: EPA promulgated ELGS for BPT, 

BAT, BCT, NSPS, PSES, and PSNS (Subpart B) in 1983. 

C Cathode Ray Tube Subcategory: EPA promulgated ELGS for NSPS, 

PSES, and PSNS in 1984. Existing direct dischargers in this subcategory 

were excluded from regulation under Paragraph 8 of the Revised 

Settlement Agreement. The only direct discharger in this subcategory 

discharged less than two pounds per day after treatment. 

C Luminescent Materials Subcategory: EPA promulgated NSPS and PSNS 

in 1984. Existing dischargers in this subcategory were excluded from 

regulation under Paragraph 8 of the Revised Settlement Agreement. The 

two direct dischargers in this subcategory each discharged less than one 

pound per day after treatment. The indirect dischargers were excluded on 

the basis that their toxic discharges to POTWs were insignificant. 

Existing regulations do not include limits on conventional parameters for any of 

the four subcategories. BOD and oil and grease were detected at concentrations below 

treatability. Fecal coliform was not present in the discharges from any of the subcategories. In 

addition, the existing regulations do not include limits on copper. 

EPA established limitations for TTO for new and existing sources in the 

semiconductors and electronic crystals subcategories. EPA detected several toxic organics in 

process wastes resulting from solvent cleaning and developing and stripping photoresist. TTO is 

the sum of the mass of each of the following toxic organic compounds that are found at a 

concentration greater than 0.010 mg/l: 

C 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene; C Chloroform; 

C 1,2-Dichlorobenzene; C 1,3-Dichlorobenzene; 

C 1,4-Dichlorobenzene; C Ethylbenzene; 

C 1,1,1-Trichloroethane; C Methylene chloride; 

C Naphthalene; C 2-Nitrophenol phenol; 

C Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate; C Tetrachloroethylene; 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Toluene; C Trichloroethylene; 

C 2-Chlorophenol; C 2,4-Dichlorophenol; 

C 4-Nitrophenol; C Pentachlorophenol; 

C Di-n-butyl phthalate; C Anthracene; 

C 1,2-Diphenylhydrazine; C Isophorone; 

C Butyl benzyl pthalate; C 1,1-Dichloroethylene; 

C 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol; C Carbon tetrachloride; 

C 1,2-Dichloroethane; C 1,1,2-Trichloroethane; and 

C Dichlorobromomethane. 

Performance standards for TTO were established for new sources in the cathode 

ray tubes subcategory. EPA detected six toxic organics in process wastes resulting from the use 

of solvents for cleaning and degreasing operations, and from the application of toluene-based 

laquer coatings. TTO is the sum of the mass of each of the following toxic organic compounds 

that are found at a concentration greater than 0.010 mg/l: 1,1,1-trichloroethane; chloroform; 

methylene chloride; bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate; toluene; and trichloroethylene. 

The technology basis for the limitations in each subcategory are: 

C Semiconductors: neutralization, solvent management, in-plant 

precipitation of concentrated fluoride stream; 

C Electronic Crystals Manufacturing: neutralization, solvent management, 

and end-of-pipe precipitation/clarification; 

C Cathode Ray Tubes: solvent management, neutralization, and end-of-pipe 

precipitation/clarification; and 

C Luminescent Materials Manufacturing: neutralization, precipitation/ 

clarification. 

Table 5-140 presents the effluent guidelines for the semiconductors and electronic crystals 

subcategories. Table 5-141 presents the guidelines for cathode ray tubes and luminescent 

materials manufacturing. 

Table 5-140. Effluent Guidelines for Semiconductors and Electronic Crystals 

Manufacturing (Concentration-Based) 

Pollutant 

30-day Average Limits (mg/L) 

BPT BAT BCT NSPS PSES & PSNS 

TTO 1.371 1.371 1.371 1.371 1.371 

pH within the range NA within the range within the range NA 

of 6 to 9 of 6 to 9 of 6 to 9 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-140 (Continued) 

Pollutant 

30-day Average Limits (mg/L) 

BPT BAT BCT NSPS PSES & PSNS 

TSS 232 NA 232 232 NA 

Fluoride 17.43 17.4 NA 17.4 NA 

Arsenic 0.834 0.83d NA 0.834 0.834 

Source: EPA, Development Document for Phase I, 1983.

NA - No limit.

TTO - Total Toxic Organics.

1

The limit for TTO represents a daily maximum value.

2

Limits for TSS only apply to the electronic crystals subcategory.

3

There is no BPT limit for fluoride for the semiconductor subcategory.

4

Limits for arsenic only apply to facilities with gallium or indium arsenide crystal manufacturing operations.

Table 5-141. Effluent Limitations and Standards for Cathode Ray Tubes and Luminescent 

Materials Manufacturing (Concentration-Based) 

Pollutant 

30-Day Average Limit (mg/L) 

NSPS PSES1 PSNS 

TTO 1.58 NA NA 

pH within the range of 6 to 9 NA NA 

TSS 18 to 31 NA NA 

Cadmium 0.03 to 0.26 0.03 0.03 to 0.26 

Chromium2 0.26 0.30 0.26 

Lead2 0.27 0.41 0.27 

Zinc 0.33 to 0.67 0.56 0.33 to 0.67 

Fluoride 18 18 18 

Antimony3 0.04 NA 0.04 

Source: EPA, Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines for the Electrical and Electronic

Components Point Source Category - Phase II (EPA 440-1-84-075), 1984.

NA - No limit.

TTO - Total Toxic Organics.

1

PSES limits only apply to the cathode ray tubes subcategory.

2

Limits for chromium and lead only apply to the cathode ray tubes subcategory.

3

Limits for antimony only apply to the luminescent materials subcategory.

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Related Effluent Guidelines 

EPA believes that semiconductor manufacturing can be divided into two sections 

for the purposes of applying the requirements of 40 CFR Part 469 and Part 433: Metal Finishing. 

Metal finishing comprises the following processes: 

C Electroplating; 

C Electroless plating; 

C Anodizing; 

C Coating (chromating, phosphating, and coloring); 

C Chemical etching and milling; and 

C Printed circuit board manufacture. 

For some semiconductor manufacturing operations, ELGS for the Electrical and 

Electronic Components category (Part 469) may be effective and applicable to wastewater 

discharges from Metal Finishing (Part 433) listed above. In such cases, the Part 433 limits will 

not apply and the Part 469 regulations will apply. EPA clarified this overlap in a memorandum 

dated April 21, 1998 (1). New technologies in semiconductor manufacturing include 

electroplating-type operations that add microscopic amounts of metal to selective portions of the 

wafer. These operations are distinguished from the electroplating operations that occur in the 

final assembly process, which is separate from wafer fabrication. EPA concluded that processes 

performed in a fab cleanroom before final assembly, including the electroplating-type operations, 

are to be regulated under 40 CFR Part 469. Part 433 applies only to processes after wafer 

fabrication, in which a layer of metal is deposited onto the surface of the wafer to provide 

contact points for final assembly. 

5.5.6.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-142 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for electrical and electronic component facilities. Facilities 

not reporting a flow were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-142 

are based on major dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

Table 5-142. Wastewater Flows 

SIC 

Code 

Number of Major 

Facilities Reporting 

Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility Flow 

In 2000 (MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows In 2000 

(MGY) 

Total Flow In 2000 

(MGY) 

3671 1 191 NA 191 

3674 4 1,651 59 - 15,493 18,853 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000.

NA - No range calculated; only one facility reported a nonzero flow.

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-143 presents sources of process wastewater and the associated pollutants 

identified in the 1983 and 1984 Development Documents, organized by the four subcategories in 

the effluent guidelines. 

Table 5-143. Sources of Process Wastewater in Electrical and Electronic Components 

Category 

Wastewater Pollutants 

Semiconductors 

Acid wastes from etching and cleaning Fluoride, low pH, toxic organics 

Water rinses Fluoride (low levels), toxic organics 

Equipment cleaning waste Toxic organics, may have high pH if caustic cleaning agent is used. 

Scrubber wastes Toxic organics 

Stripper quench rinses Toxic organics 

Chemical mechanical planarization Copper 

(CMP) 

Electronic Crystals 

Crystal growing operations Sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate 

Etching Fluoride, toxic organics 

Manufacture of gallium or indium Arsenic 

arsenic crystals 

Cutting and grinding operations Suspended solids 

Equipment cleaning Toxic organics 

Cathode Ray Tubes 

Glass panel wash Fluoride 

Mask degrease Toxic organics 

Photoresist application Chromium 

Phophor application Cadmium, zinc 

Glass funnel and mount cleaning Fluoride 

Tube coating Suspended solids from graphite emulsions 

Tube Salvage Lead, cadmium, zinc, fluoride, chromium, suspend solids 

Luminescent Materials 

Lamp phosphor process Antimony, fluoride, suspended solids 

Blue and green phosphor process Cadmium, zinc, suspended solids 

Sources: EPA, Development Documents for Electrical and Electronic Components Phases I and II, 1983 & 1984; 

Maag et al., Assessing the Environmental Impact of Copper CMP, 2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Pollutants Discharged 

Table 5-144 lists the pollutants reported to PCS for electrical and electronic 

component facilities that reported discharges to PCS by major dischargers in 2000. In addition, 

this table lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or for electrical and electronic 

component facilities that reported to TRI for 2000. This table lists the number of facilities that 

reported each chemical and the total pounds of chemical discharged to surface waters. Indirect 

discharging facilities reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW removal efficiencies, 

EPA estimated the amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see DCN 00618, Evaluation 

of RSEI Model Runs, for more information). Therefore, the TWPE estimates in this table have 

been adjusted to account for POTW treatment. 

Table 5-144. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI 

Pollutant Category 

and Primary Pollutants 

PCS 

(Pounds) 

PCS TWPE TRI 

(Pounds) 

TRI TWPE 

All Pollutants 9,094,696 23,714 4,205,438 9,800 

Priority 18,612 18,340 6,243 7,372 

Silver 786 12,941 (71%) 0 0 

Lead 15 34 2,569 5,754 (78%) 

Arsenic 642 2,228 (12%) 389 1,349 (18%) 

Copper 2,946 1,847 (10%) 206 129 

Nonconventional 8,893,786 5,374 4,199,195 2,428 

Total Fluoride 145,775 5,102 (95%) 0 0 

Manganese 18,957 1,335 (55%) 

Ammonia as Nitrogen 73,775 135 (3%) 405,891 611 (25%) 

Ethylene Glycol 0 0 186,118 249 (10%) 

Nitrogen, Nitrate Total (As N) 0 0 3,441,214 213 (9%) 

Conventionals 182,297 1 0 0 

BOD5 77,341 – – – 

TSS 74,414 – – – 

Oil and Grease 30,542 – – – 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges in PCS and TRI are low. 

Generally, a few facilities contribute the bulk of the TWPE estimates from both TRI and PCS. 

For comparison purposes, Tables 5-145 and 5-146 present the TWPE for electrical and electronic 

component facilities along with the industries reporting the highest discharges in each database. 

Table 5-145 presents the information reported to PCS and Table 5-146 presents the information 

reported to TRI. For a description of the derivation of the values in these tables, see the 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

memorandum in the public docket titled Description and Results of EPA Methodology to 

Synthesize Screening Level Results for the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004, which is 

available through Edocket at document number OW-2003-0074-0391. 

Table 5-145. Electrical and Electronic Components TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to 

Industries with the 10 Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category PCS-Reported TWPE PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

469 Electrical and Electronic Components 23,714 17 

Table 5-146. Electrical and Electronic Components TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to 

Industries with the 10 Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category TRI-Reported TWPE TRI Rank 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber Products Processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum Refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber Manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic Molding and Forming 106,189 10 

469 Electrical and Electronic Components 9,789 27 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.6.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Control of toxic organics is achieved through solvent management. End-of-pipe 

treatment generally consists of neutralization and precipitation/clarification. 

Facilities that manufacture electrical and electronic components use large 

amounts of ultra-pure water (UPW) in their processes. Since production of UPW is expensive, 

pollution prevention efforts in this industry have focused on water efficiency and reuse. Table 

5-147 presents water conservation and pollution prevention alternatives for this industry. 

Table 5-147. Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives for the Electrical 

and Electronic Components Category 

Process Water Conservation/Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Rinsing C Evaluate number of rinses and duration based on level of contamination to eliminate 

C

unnecessary rinses. 

Use countercurrent or spray rinsing to improve efficiency. 

C Switch from continuous flow to on-demand rinsing. 

Water reclamation/ C Use membrane technologies (microfiltration, ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, and 

materials recovery electrodialysis) to recycle and recover process water. 

C Recover reusable materials, such as copper and chromium, from process wastewater. 

C Treat spent rinse water at the DI water generating plant and reuse in process. 

Once-through C Use air-cooled models to eliminate water-usage for single-pass cooling. 

cooling 

Source: Energy and Water Efficiency for Semiconductor Manufacturing, Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention 

Resource Center, 2000. 

5.5.6.5 Industry Trends 

As shown in Table 5-148, U.S. Economic Census data indicate that, between 

1992 and 1997, there was an almost 16-percent decrease in the number of electron tube 

manufacturing facilities and an almost 20-percent increase in the number of facilities 

manufacturing semiconductors and related devices. Value of goods shipped increased in both 

sectors, by almost 23 percent for electron tubes and by 144 percent for semiconductors. As 

shown in Table 5-149, advance comparative statistics for 1997 to 2002 for the broader category 

represented by NAICS code 334 (facilities that manufacture computer and electronic products) 

show an almost 10-percent decrease in the number of establishments and a 19-percent decrease 

in the value of shipments (not adjusted for inflation). 

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Table 5-148. 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

SIC 

Code Industry Sector 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Shipped Goods 

(billions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

3671 Electron Tubes 159 189 -15.9 3.9 3.1 22.7 

3674 Semiconductors & 

related devices 

1,099 920 19.5 0.079 0.032 144 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

Table 5-149. 1997 and 2002 Census Data 

NAICS 

Code Industry Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(billions of dollars) 

2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 

334 Computer and Electronic 

Product Manufacture 

15,698 17,435 - 9.96 354 439 - 19.4 

Source: 2002 U.S. Economic Census. 

5.5.6.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

This subsection discusses stakeholder and EPA regional issues. EPA primarily 

received input from stakeholders and EPA Regional staff prior to the Preliminary Effluent 

Guideline Plan. EPA did not receive any comments to the Preliminary Plan pertaining to the 

electrical and electronic component industry. 

Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

Several groups surveyed by the Agency in the 2004 annual review provided input 

on the Electrical and Electronic Components category. Their suggestions are summarized 

below. 

Permitting Authorities (Section 2.5 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation 

and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-

0074-0329)) 

EPA permitting authorities suggest that these guidelines need to be revised due to 

significant changes since they were promulgated. EPA permitting authorities also suggest that 

the semiconductor manufacturing portion of this industry be evaluated because there have been 

major changes in the industry. Two new circumstances in this portion of the industry raise 

concerns: 1) the industry is moving from aluminum to the more toxic copper to build internal 

components; and 2) the industry is increasingly using new process operations, one of which is 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

chemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) (a polishing step resulting in the abrasive removal of 

metals), which generates more or different pollution than the processes considered during the 

development of the existing ELGS. 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments its receives, EPA cannot address 

thesesuggestions without adequate supporting data. Information in PCS and TRI does not 

indicate that electrical and electronic component facilities are discharging significant quantities 

of copper relative to other industries (Tables 5-150 and 5-151). In the event that stakeholders 

provide additional data and supporting information on these or any of the issues identified above, 

EPA will reevaluate them at that time. 

Table 5-150. Copper Discharges Reported to TRI by Electrical and Electronic Component 

Manufacturing Facilities 

SIC 

Code Sector # Facilities Pollutant 

Discharge 

Status Pounds TWPE 

3671 Electron Tubes 1 Copper Compounds Direct 31 19 

1 Copper Compounds Indirect 14 8.6 

3674 Semiconductors and 

Related Devices 

1 Copper Indirect 1.4 0.86 

2 Copper Compounds Indirect 160 100 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

Table 5-151. Copper1 Discharge Data in PCS for Electrical and Electronic Component 

Manufacturing Facilities 

SIC 

Code Sector # Facilities Pounds TWPE 

3671 Electron Tubes 1 45 28 

3674 Semiconductors and Related Devices 3 2,901 1,819 

Source: EPA PCSLoads2000. 1

Copper is reported as Copper, Total as Cu.

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.6.7 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from electrical 

and electronic component facilities are low relative to other industrial categories. In addition, 

generally, a few facilities contribute the bulk of the TWPE estimates from both TRI and PCS. 

Stakeholders and EPA staff identified various issues associated with discharges 

from electrical and electronic component facilities. The information in the docket on the 2004 

annual review does not at this time support the concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders 

provide additional data and supporting information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will 

reevaluate them at that time. 

5.5.6.8 References 

1. Pendergast, James F. and Sheila E. Frace. Permitting Guidance for 

Semiconductor Manufacturing Facilities. Memorandum to regional water 

management division directors. April 1998. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.7 Metal Molding and Casting (Part 464) 

During the screening-level review phase of the 2004 annual review, metal 

molding and casting was one of eight industrial categories identified solely through Factor 4 

concerns. Issues driving the concerns include: 1) discharges of phenol, 2) changes to the 

industry since the guidelines promulgated, 3) applicability to aluminum die casters, and 4) 

discrepancies between limits set for these guidelines and those set for the same pollutants by the 

guidelines for metal finishing. 

5.5.7.1 Industry Description 

The Metal Molding and Casting Point Source Category is regulated at 40 CFR 

Part 464. This point source category includes facilities reporting under SIC industry group 33: 

Primary Metal Industries, and the subgroups 332: Iron and Steel Foundries and 336: Nonferrous 

Foundries. Specifically, it includes SIC codes 3321 (Gray and Ductile Iron Foundries), 3325 

(Steel Foundries Not Elsewhere Classified), 3364 (Nonferrous Die-Castings, Except Aluminum), 

3365 (Aluminum Foundries), 3366 (Copper Foundries), and 3369 (Nonferrous Foundries Except 

Aluminum and Copper). No specific subcategories were identified during the Factor 4 analysis. 

Below is a description of the SIC codes for this category: 

C SIC code 3321 - Gray and Ductile Iron Foundries. Establishments 

primarily engaged in manufacturing gray and ductile iron castings, 

including cast iron pressure and soil pipes and fittings. 

C SIC code 3322 - Malleable Iron Foundries. Establishments primarily 

engaged in manufacturing malleable iron castings. 

C SIC code 3324 - Steel Investment Foundries. Establishments primarily 

engaged in manufacturing steel investment castings. 

C SIC code 3325 - Steel Foundries, Not Elsewhere Classified. 

Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing steel castings, not 

elsewhere classified. 

C SIC code 3364 - Nonferrous Die-Castings, Except Aluminum. 

Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing nonferrous metal diecastings, except aluminum. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C SIC code 3365 - Aluminum Foundries. Establishments primarily engaged 

in manufacturing aluminum (including alloys) castings, except diecastings. 

C SIC code 3366 - Copper Foundries. Establishments primarily engaged in 

manufacturing copper (including alloys) castings, except die-castings. 

C SIC code 3369 - Nonferrous Foundries, Except Aluminum and Copper. 

Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing nonferrous metal 

castings (including alloys), except all die-castings and other castings of 

aluminum or copper. 

Facility Counts 

EPA obtained Information on the number of facilities in the Metal Molding and 

Casting Point Source Category from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, 

TRIReleases2000, and PCSLoads2000. TRI includes facilities reporting discharges to any 

media. In contrast, PCS includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface 

waters. Table 5-152 lists the number of facilities from these sources. 

Table 5-152. Number of Facilities in the Metal Molding and Casting Category 

SIC 

1997 U.S. 

Economic 

PCS TRI 

Major Minor Total No Reported Direct Indirect Both Direct 

Code Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Reporters Discharge Discharge Discharge & Indirect 

3321 669 31 4 27 200 137 28 22 13 

3322 28 4 0 4 8 5 2 1 0 

3324 159 2 0 2 43 23 3 10 7 

3325 288 8 2 6 99 72 15 8 4 

3364 279 6 0 6 20 14 0 6 0 

3365 626 14 2 12 74 60 8 4 2 

3366 312 0 0 0 72 49 10 8 5 

3369 141 6 0 6 58 32 6 14 6 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000, TRIReleases2000. 

Of the 189 facilities reporting discharges to PCS or TRI, over 50 percent (95) are concentrated in 

six states: Ohio (21), Pennsylvania (17), Wisconsin (16), Indiana (14), Michigan (14), and 

Alabama (13). The rest are located in 30 states around the country. 

5.5.7.2 Regulatory Background 

The current ELGS for the Metal Molding and Casting Point Source Category, 40 

CFR Part 465, contain four subcategories (Subparts A - D). Effluent limitations were first 

proposed November 1982. Final versions of the effluent limitations for Subparts A - D were 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

promulgated October 30, 1985. EPA established no limitations for the magnesium casting 

subcategory as the Agency determined they were not achievable economically for existing 

plants. BCT was reserved for all subparts (A-D). NSPS are equal to BAT; PSNS are equal to 

PSES. 

Effluent limitations guidelines are mass-based on the basis of metric ton (kkg) of 

metal poured or sand reclaimed, or standard cubic meters (Sm3

) of air scrubbed. Limitations 

were established based on a subcategorization and production process segmentation scheme. 

Separate limitations were developed for facilities with intermittent or noncontinuous discharge. 

Table 5-153 presents the 30-day averages for BPT and for BAT/NSPS/PSES/PSNS. 

The technology basis of existing regulations is recycle, lime precipitation and 

sedimentation for BPT and recycle, lime precipitation and sedimentation, and filtration for BAT, 

NSPS, PSES and PSNS. “No discharge of process wastewater” is the basis of limitations for 3 

of the 28 regulated process segments. These processes are the grinding scrubber process for the 

aluminum, copper, and ferrous casting subparts. 

Table 5-153. Effluent Guidelines for Metal Molding and Casting – Continuous Direct 

Dischargers (kg/kkg) 

Pollutant Parameter 

BPT 

30-day Averages 

BAT/NSPS/PSES/PSNS

 30-day Averages 

TSS 0.13-165 0.104-1652 

Oil and Grease 0.0864-110 0.0864-1102 

Total Phenols1 0.0026-1.17 0.0026-1.173 

Total Toxic Organics not regulated for BPT 0.0064-8.294 

Copper 0.036-4.63 0.0036-4.633 

Lead 0.0034-4.3 0.0022-4.33 

Zinc 0.0037-6.17 0.0025-4.743 

pH 7.0-10.0 Not regulated 

1

Phenols not regulated at BPT for casting cleaning and quench, investment casting, mold cooling, or slag quench. 2

NSPS.

3

BAT, NSPS, PSES, PSNS.

4

PSES and PSNS.

5.5.7.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge outfall flow rates. Table 

5-154 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for metal molding and casting facilities. Facilities not 

reporting a flow were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-154 are 

based on major dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-154. Wastewater Flows in Metal Molding and Casting 

SIC 

Code 

Number of Major Facilities 

Reporting Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility 

Flow in 2000 

(MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows in 2000 

(MGY) 

Total Flow in 2000 

(MGY) 

3321 4 709 315-7008 8,740 

3322 NA NA NA NA 

3324 NA NA NA NA 

3325 2 431 57-805 862 

3364 NA NA NA NA 

3365 2 90 89-92 180 

3366 NA NA NA NA 

3369 NA NA NA NA 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

NA - PCS data were not available for the SIC code.

Wastewater pollutant loads from facilities in this industry depend on water usage, 

type of metal being cast, and the production process used. Suspended solids and metals loading 

are higher in scrubber wastewaters than in mold cooling wastewaters. Oil and grease and 

organic priority pollutant loadings are higher in die casting wastewaters than in casting quench 

wastewaters. A major portion of the wastewater from die casting operations is water used as a 

carrier solution for oily die casting lubricants. Table 5-155 presents the sources of process 

wastewater in this category. Approximately 80 percent of the regulated wastewater from this 

industry is generated by wet air pollution control devices 

Table 5-155. Sources of Process Wastewater in Metal Molding and Casting 

Process Wastewater Pollutants 

Casting cleaning Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics 

Casting quench Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics 

Die casting Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics, phenols 

Dust collection scrubber Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics, phenols 

Grinding scrubber Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, total toxic organics 

Investment casting Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics 

Melting furnace scrubber Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics, phenols 

Mold cooling Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics 

Slag quench Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics 

Wet sand reclamation Metals, suspended solids, oil and grease, toxic organics, phenols 

Source: EPA, Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Metal Molding and 

Casting (Foundries) Point Source Category (Final) (EPA 440-1-85-070), 1985 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Pollutants Discharged 

Table 5-156 lists the pollutants reported to PCS for metal molding and casting 

facilities that reported discharges to PCS by major dischargers in 2000. In addition, Table 5-156 

lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or for metal molding and casting 

facilities that reported to TRI for 2000. This table presents the number of facilities that reported 

each chemical and the total pounds of chemical discharged to surface waters. Indirect 

discharging facilities reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW removal efficiencies, 

EPA estimated the amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see DCN 00618, Evaluation 

of RSEI Model Runs, for more information). Therefore, the TWPE estimates in this table have 

been adjusted to account for POTW treatment 

Table 5-156. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI 

Pollutant Category 

& Primary Pollutants1 

PCS 

(Pounds) PCS TWPE 

TRI 

(Pounds) TRI TWPE 

All Pollutants 2,253,343 5,834 284,419 45,182 

Nonconventionals 2,008,818 561 257,189 31,399 

Sodium Nitrite – – 78,062 29,143 (93%) 

Chlorine, Total Residual 817 398 (71%) 2,600 1,266 (4%) 

Molybdenum 517 104 (19%) – – 

Conventionals 233,663 0 0 0 

Oil and Grease 133,461 – – – 

TSS 91,425 – – – 

BOD5 8,777 – – – 

Priority 10,862 5,273 27,230 13,783 

Lead 1,714 3,840 (73%) 3,173 7,108 (52%) 

Polychlorinated Biphenyls 0.053 677 (13%) – – 

Copper 532 333 (6%) 8,380 5,254 (38%) 

1

The majority of each pollutant type is discharged by facilities in SIC code 3321. 

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges in PCS and TRI are low. 

Generally, a few facilities contribute the bulk of the TWPE estimates from both TRI and PCS. 

For comparison purposes, Tables 5-157 and 5-158 present the TWPE for metal molding and 

casting along with the industries reporting the highest discharges in each database. Table 5-157 

presents the information reported to PCS and Table 5-158 presents the information reported to 

TRI. For a description of the derivation of the values in these tables, see the memorandum in the 

public docket titled Description and Results of EPA Methodology to Synthesize Screening Level 

Results for the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004, which is available through Edocket 

at document number OW-2003-0074-0391. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-157. Metal Molding and Casting TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to 

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category PCS-Reported TWPE PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

464 Metal Molding and Casting 5,834 26 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Table 5-158. Metal Molding and Casting TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to 

Industries Reporting Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category TRI-Reported TWPE TRI Rank 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber Products Processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum Refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber Manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic Molding and Forming 106,189 10 

464 Metal Molding and Casting 45,173 16 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.5.7.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Standard treatment may include chemical precipitation and sedimentation, oil 

removal, and filtration. Pollution prevention activities focus on reducing waste sand, waste 

electric arc furnace dust and desulfurization slag, and increasing energy efficiency. Table 5-159 

presents water conservation and pollution prevention alternatives for this industry. 

Table 5-159. Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives for the Metal 

Molding and Casting Category 

Processes To 

Reduce Water Conservation/Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Solid Waste 

or 

Air Pollution 

C

C

C

C

Use vacuum molding, which holds the sand in the shape of the pattern after pattern is 

removed. No shakeout equipment required and almost no waste sand is generated. 

Reclaim and reuse waste sand and metal through waste segregation, screening, dry 

scrubbing, or thermal reclamation. 

Improve furnace efficiency. 

Install induction furnaces, which are 75-80% energy efficient and emit 75% less dust and 

fumes. 

C

C

C

C

Minimize metal melting by reducing excess melted metal. 

Use alternative furnace fuels (e.g., natural gas, lower grade/low sulfur or low nitrogen 

fuel-oil). 

Maintain furnaces properly to reduce air emissions. 

Recycle electric arc furnace (EAF) dust to original process or reuse outside original 

C

C

process. 

Use charge material containing lower concentrations of lead, zinc, and cadmium (e.g., 

charge modification program to develop reliable sources of high-grade scrap metal). 

Minimize hazardous desulfurizing slag (e.g., alternative desulfurization agents). 

Water Uses C Reduce phenols by substituting synthetic oils or water-based materials, segregating waste 

and/or 

Water Pollution C

streams at point of generation. 

Use cooling water recycling systems. 

C

C

Optimize deburring operations to minimize total suspended solids. 

Use fewer additives, such as biocides, or additives containing no VOCs or HAPs. 

C Use alternative die lubricants. 

Source: OECA Sector Notebook: Profile of the Metal Casting Industry, 1998. 

5.5.7.5 Industry Trends 

As shown in Table 5-160, U.S. Economic Census data indicate an overall increase 

in the number of metal molding facilities between 1992 and 1997. Value of goods shipped has 

also increased by 15 percent or more for bituminous coal during the same time period. As 

shown in Table 5-161, advance comparative statistics for 1997 to 2002 for NAICS code 331 

(industries that smelt and/or refine metals using electrometallurgical processes) show a 17.6-

percent increase in the number of establishments and a 19-percent decrease in the value of 

shipments (not adjusted for inflation). 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-160. 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

Value of Goods Shipped 

SIC 

Code Industry Sector 

Number of Establishments (billions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

3321 Gray and Ductile Iron Foundries 669 709 -6 11.9 7.7 53 

3322 Malleable Iron Foundries 28 24 17 0.35 0.25 42 

3324 Steel Investment Foundries 159 152 5 2.3 1.7 35 

3325 Steel Foundries, Not Elsewhere 

Classified 

288 287 0.3 2.9 2.1 40 

3364 Nonferrous Die-Casting, Except 

Aluminum 

279 263 6 2.0 1.0 101 

3365 Aluminum foundries 626 591 6 3.9 1.9 101 

3366 Copper Foundries 312 329 -5 0.86 0.74 15 

3369 Nonferrous Foundries, Except 

Aluminum & Copper 

141 119 19 0.96 0.46 109 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census. 

Table 5-161. 1997 and 2002 Census Data 

NAICS 

Code 

Industry 

Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(billions of dollars) 

2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 

331 Primary Metal 

Manufacturing 

5,952 5,059 17.6 136 168 -19 

Source: 2002 U.S. Economic Census. 

5.5.7.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

This subsection discusses stakeholder and EPA Regional issues. EPA primarily 

received input from stakeholders prior to the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Plan. EPA 

received one comment on the Preliminary Plan pertaining to the metal molding and casting 

industry. This commenter expressed concern that the final regulation and technical development 

document had inconsistencies. However, the commenter did not provide any specifics on these 

inconsistencies. 

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Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

Several groups surveyed by the Agency in the 2004 annual review provided input 

on the Metal Molding and Casting category. Their suggestions are summarized below. 

Comments on the Draft Strategy (Section 2.2 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: 

Implementation and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” 

(Edocket OW-2003-0074-0329)) 

A stakeholder asserts that the effluent guidelines should be reevaluated to address 

the discrepancy of metals limits between this category and those in the Metal Finishing ELGS. 

The ELGS for the Metal Molding and Casting category are production-based, and when the 

appropriate values are applied and calculations performed to convert these into equivalent 

concentration limits, the resulting discharge limits for metals are orders of magnitude lower than 

the metal finishing ELGS. This suggests there is a problem either with the metal finishing 

regulations (which EPA recently reviewed during development of the MP&M regulation 

development) or ELGS for the Metal Molding and Casting category. 

Previous Suggestions (Section 2.4 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329)) 

Specific activities of concern identified by responders include fastener 

manufacturing, job shop galvanizers, and jewelry manufacturing. Phenol was identified as a 

pollutant of concern. 

Permitting Authorities (Section 2.5 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation 

and Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-

0074-0329)) 

EPA permitting authorities have found cyanide to be an issue when molten slag is 

allowed to come into contact with the quench water in the quenching process. EPA permitting 

authorities also identified the following concerns with implementing the guidelines for the 

aluminum die casters subcategory: 1) the ELGS are confusing (e.g., the applicability of the 

regulations cover only part of the casting process); 2) the ELGS should allow permit writers to 

determine additional fundamentally different factors (FDF); and 3) permit writers have problems 

calculating limits attainable by permitted facilities using the formulas provided in the guidelines 

(specifically for total phenols and oil and grease). Expanding on this last item, EPA permitting 

authorities explain that the building-block method for determining allowances, when applied to 

small facilities, results in a low limit on total phenols. EPA permitting authorities assert that it is 

difficult to find a technology to meet these low limits, resulting in a number of facilities being 

unable to meet a limit that was neither reasonable nor necessary to protect the POTW. Although 

protecting POTWs is not one of the 304(m) evaluation criteria, EPA permitting authorities note 

that the resulting noncompliance forces control authorities to choose between escalating 

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enforcement actions for a relatively minor infraction or ignoring the violation if they are 

convinced that all reasonable efforts have been made to meet the limits. Possible solutions to the 

problem could include: 1) using production as a limiting factor to provide relief to smaller 

facilities, and 2) allowing control authorities to apply concentration-based standards, similar to 

the approach used in Porcelain Enameling (40 CFR Part 466). Permitting authorities also 

asserted that EPA removed the phenol limits from the pretreatment standards of the Organic 

Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers effluent guidelines (40 CFR Part 414) after finding that 

phenol did not pass through POTWs (i.e., indirect dischargers do not need to meet stringent 

phenol limits). 

AMSA and ASIWPCA (Section 2.6 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329)) 

ASIWPCA stakeholders identified several effluent guidelines that are out of date 

relative to available technology, including those for metal molding and casting. 

Additional Concerns Identified Post-Proposal 

In addition, in an e-mail collection of suggestions, four state pretreatment 

coordinators discussed implementation and efficiency issues. One coordinator noted that having 

die casting limits based on production results in a lot of small shops often being out of 

compliance because they can’t meet the limits at their low production volumes. A second 

coordinator reported that die casters have constant problems with the total phenols and oil and 

grease limits. During follow-up discussions, an additional pretreatment coordinator explained 

that the problem usually occurs in small facilities where their only allowance for phenol came 

from the tiny amount provided for die casting, which is insufficient to account for background 

levels of phenol. 

Another coordinator noted that casting cleaning operations (listed in the 

aluminum casting and ferrous casting subcategories) does not occur and cannot occur given the 

definitions and conditions of the regulation. All subcategories have a casting quench operation, 

but the definitions make it clear that the standard applies only to precooling operations. Because 

of the way the definitions are written at 464.02 (a) “Aluminum Casting” and 464.02 (b) “Ferrous 

Casting,” cleaning operations are not captured by the regulation. A simple solution is to correct 

the general definitions, as suggested below. Another option is to eliminate the allocations for 

casting cleaning from these subcategories since it applies to an operation that cannot exist under 

this regulation the way it is written. 

For the aluminum casting definition, insert the underlined text “Processing 

operations following the cooling of castings not covered under aluminum forming, except for 

grinding scrubber operations and casting cleaning operations, which are covered here, are 

covered under electroplating and metal finishing point source categories (40 CFR Part 413 & 

433).” For the ferrous casting definition, insert the underlined text “Except for grinding scrubber 

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operations and casting cleaning operations which are covered here, processing operations 

following the cooling of castings are covered under electroplating and metal finishing point 

source categories (40 CFR Part 413 & 433).” 

A fourth coordinator noted that in the aluminum forming subcategory, production 

standards result in extremely low permit limits. Whenever production changes by as little as 20 

percent, permit limits have to be changed accordingly. Concentration-based standards would 

save the endless modification and the associated administrative burden. It also seems 

inconsistent to require metal finishers to discharge a pollutant at the ppm level while the 

production based industry is required to meet a ppb level. 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments it receives, EPA cannot address these 

suggestions without adequate supporting data. Some stakeholders noted that metal molding and 

casting limitations are often more stringent than metal finishing limitations. EPA notes that 

limitations and standards for each industrial category consider the best available technology 

economically achievable for a particular subcategory of a particular industry. As a result of 

differences in wastewater characteristics, treatment and pollution prevention technologies, and 

economic considerations, limitations vary from one industrial category to the next. In the event 

that stakeholders provide additional data and supporting information, on these or any of the 

issues identified above, EPA will reevaluate them at that time. EPA notes that in some cases 

commenters raised implementation issues rather than guideline revision issues. EPA will 

continue to consider implementation issues raised by these stakeholders. 

5.5.7.7 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from metal 

molding and casting facilities are low relative to other industrial categories. In addition, 

generally, a few facilities contribute the bulk of the TWPE estimates from both TRI and PCS. 

Stakeholders and EPA staff identified various issues associated with discharges 

from metal molding and casting facilities. The information in the docket on the 2004 annual 

review does not at this time support the concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders provide 

additional data and supporting information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will reevaluate 

them at that time. 

5.5.8 Mineral Mining and Processing (Part 436) 

During the screening-level review phase of the 2004 annual review, mineral 

mining and processing was one of eight industrial categories identified solely through Factor 4 

concerns. Issues driving the concerns include: 1) pollutants not covered by the guidelines 

(specifically TSS), and 2) consistent application of the guidelines by permit writers. 

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5.5.8.1 Industry Description 

The Mineral Mining Point Source Category is regulated at 40 CFR Part 436. This 

point source category includes facilities reporting under two SIC industry groups: 14 – Mining 

and Quarrying of Nonmetallic Minerals, except fuels, and 32 – Stone Clay, Glass, and Concrete 

Products. See Attachment C for the applicability and regulatory background. Specifically, the 

category includes SIC codes 1422 (Crushed and broken limestone), 1442 (Construction sand and 

gravel), 1459 (Clay, ceramic, and refractory minerals not elsewhere classified), 1475 (Phosphate 

rock), 1479 (Chemical and fertilizer mineral mining not elsewhere classified), 1481 (Nonmetallic 

minerals services, except fuels), and SIC 3295 (Minerals and Earths, Ground or Otherwise 

Treated). All of these SIC codes are represented by dischargers reporting to the PCS but not 

TRI. It also includes SIC code 3275 (Gypsum Products), which was reported in PCS and was 

the only SIC code represented in the TRI. No specific subcategories were identified during the 

Factor 4 analysis; however, two subcategories were discussed in comments on the Preliminary 

Plan: Crushed Stone Subcategory B (40 CFR Part 436.20), and Construction Sand and Gravel 

Subcategory C (40 CFR Part 436.30), covered by SIC 1442. 

C SIC code 1411 - Dimension Stone. Establishments primarily engaged in 

mining or quarrying dimension stone. Also included are establishments 

engaged in producing rough blocks and slabs. Establishments primarily 

engaged in mining dimension soapstone or in mining or quarrying and 

shaping grindstones, pulpstones, millstones, burrstones, and sharpening 

stones are classified in SIC code 1499. Establishments primarily engaged 

in dressing (shaping, polishing, or otherwise finishing) blocks and slabs 

are classified in Manufacturing, SIC code 3281. Nepheline syenite mining 

operations are classified in SIC code 1459. 

C SIC code 1422 - Crushed and Broken Limestone. Establishments 

primarily engaged in mining or quarrying crushed and broken limestone, 

including related rocks, such as dolomite, cement rock, marl, travertine, 

and calcareous tufa. Also included are establishments primarily engaged 

in the grinding or pulverizing of limestone, but establishments primarily 

engaged in producing lime are classified in Manufacturing, SIC code 

3274. 

C SIC code 1423 - Crushed and Broken Granite. Establishments primarily 

engaged in mining or quarrying crushed and broken granite, including 

related rocks, such as gneiss, syenite, and diorite. 

C SIC code 1429 - Crushed and Broken Stone, Not Elsewhere Classified. 

Establishments primarily engaged in mining or quarrying crushed and 

broken stone, not elsewhere classified. 

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C SIC code 1442 - Construction Sand and Gravel. Establishments primarily 

engaged in operating sand and gravel pits and dredges, and in washing, 

screening, or otherwise preparing sand and gravel for construction uses. 

C SIC code 1446 - Industrial Sand. Establishments primarily engaged in 

operating sand pits and dredges, and in washing, screening, and otherwise 

preparing sand for uses other than construction, such as glassmaking, 

molding, and abrasives. 

C SIC code 1455 - Kaolin and Ball Clay. Establishments primarily engaged 

in mining, milling, or otherwise preparing kaolin or ball clay, including 

china clay, paper clay, and slip clay. 

C SIC code 1459 - Clay, Ceramic, and Refractory Minerals, Not Elsewhere 

Classified. Establishments primarily engaged in mining, milling, or 

otherwise preparing clay, ceramic, or refractory minerals, not elsewhere 

classified. 

C SIC code 1474 - Potash, Soda, and Borate Minerals. Establishments 

primarily engaged in mining, milling, or otherwise preparing natural 

potassium, sodium, or boron compounds. Establishments primarily 

engaged in mining common salt are classified in SIC code 1479. 

C SIC code 1475 - Phosphate Rock. Establishments primarily engaged in 

mining, milling, drying, calcining, sintering, or otherwise preparing 

phosphate rock, including apatite. Establishments primarily engaged in the 

production of phosphoric acid, super-phosphates, or other manufactured 

phosphate compounds or chemicals are classified in manufacturing, SIC 

major group 28. 

C SIC code 1479 - Chemical and Fertilizer Mineral Mining, Not Elsewhere 

Classified. Establishments primarily engaged in mining, milling, or 

otherwise preparing chemical or fertilizer mineral raw materials, not 

elsewhere classified. Establishments primarily engaged in milling, 

grinding, or otherwise preparing barite not in conjunction with mining or 

quarry operations are classified in Manufacturing, SIC code 3295; similar 

establishments preparing other minerals of this industry are included here. 

Establishments primarily engaged in producing salt by evaporation of sea 

water or brine are classified in Manufacturing, SIC code 2899. 

C SIC code 1481 - Nonmetallic Minerals Services, Except Fuels. 

Establishments primarily engaged in the removal of overburden, strip 

mining, and other services for nonmetallic minerals, except fuels, for 

others on a contract or fee basis. Establishments primarily engaged in 

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performing hauling services are classified in Division E, Transportation 

and Public Utilities. 

C SIC code 1499 - Miscellaneous Nonmetallic Minerals, Except Fuels. 

Establishments primarily engaged in mining, quarrying, milling, or 

otherwise preparing nonmetallic minerals, except fuels. This industry 

includes the shaping of natural abrasive stones at the quarry. 

Establishments primarily engaged in the production of blast, grinding, or 

polishing sand are classified in SIC code 1446, and those calcining 

gypsum are classified in Manufacturing, SIC code 3275. 

C SIC code 3275 - Gypsum Products. Establishments primarily engaged in 

manufacturing plaster, plasterboard, and other products composed wholly 

or chiefly of gypsum, except articles of plaster of paris and papier-mache. 

C SIC code 3295 - Minerals and Earths, Ground or Otherwise Treated. 

Establishments operating without a mine or quarry and primarily engaged 

in crushing, grinding, pulverizing, or otherwise preparing clay, ceramic, 

and refractory minerals; barite; and miscellaneous nonmetallic minerals, 

except fuels. These minerals are the crude products mined by 

establishments of Industry Groups 145 and 149, and by those of SIC code 

1479 mining barite. Also included are establishments primarily crushing 

slag and preparing roofing granules. The beneficiation or preparation of 

other minerals and metallic ores, and the cleaning and grading of coal, are 

classified in Division B, Mining, whether or not the operation is 

associated with a mine. 

Facility Counts 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the Mineral Mining Point 

Source Category from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, TRIReleases2000, and 

PCSLoads2000. TRI includes facilities reporting discharges to any media. In contrast, PCS 

includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface waters. Table 5-162 lists the 

number of facilities from these sources. 

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Table 5-162. Number of Facilities 

SIC 

1997 

Economic 

PCS TRI 

Major Minor No Reported Direct Indirect Both Direct 

Code1 Census Total Dischargers Dischargers Total Discharge Discharge Discharge and Indirect 

1411 178 8 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 

1422 1435 173 6 167 0 0 0 0 0 

1423 290 14 0 14 0 0 0 0 0 

1429 459 39 0 39 0 1 0 0 0 

1442 2367 139 4 135 1 1 0 0 0 

1446 140 17 0 17 0 0 0 0 0 

1455 35 7 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 

1459 132 23 3 20 0 0 0 0 0 

1474 27 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 

1475 20 22 18 4 0 0 0 0 0 

1479 45 9 3 6 0 0 0 0 0 

1481 172 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 

1499 216 34 0 34 0 0 0 0 0 

3275 208 11 0 11 18 17 1 0 0 

3295 388 31 0 31 50 44 3 1 2 

Source: PCSLoads2000, TRIReleases2000. 1

Facilities in SIC code 14, (Mining and Quarrying of Nonmetallic Minerals Except Fuels) are not required to report to TRI. Facilities in SIC

codes 3275 and 3295 that meet the employee requirements and chemical use thresholds are required to report.

Of the 42 reporting facilities, 48 percent (20) are located in Florida. Another 17 

percent (7) are located in Michigan. The rest are located in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, 

Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, Ohio and Wisconsin. 

5.5.8.2 Regulatory Background 

The current ELGS for the Mineral Point Source Category, 40 CFR Part 436, 

contain 38 subcategories (Subparts A - AL). Interim final regulations were published on 

October 16, 1975 for Subparts E, F, G, J, K, L, N, O, S, V, W, X, Y, Z, AF, and AL. Proposed 

regulations were issued June 10, 1976 for Subparts B, C, D, E, F, G, J, K, L, M, N, O, R, S, V, 

W, X, Y, Z, AF, and AL. The effluent limitations for Subparts B, C, D, and R were promulgated 

July 1979. National amendments were made to the effluent guidelines on December 28, 1979. 

Limitations for BAT are the same as for BPT for all subcategories except 

industrial sand HF floatation; rock salt; sulphur (frasch process, salt dome operations); feldspar 

flotation; and talc (heavy media and flotation). Limitations for NSPS are the same as for BAT. 

EPA established no requirements for PSES or PSNS. 

The following processes are required to achieve no discharge of processgenerated wastewater pollutants to navigable waters: 

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C A. Dimension Stone; 

C B. Crushed Stone (dry process only);

C C. Construction Sand and Gravel (dry process only);

C D. Industrial Sand (dry process only);

C E. Gypsum; 

C F. Asphaltic Minerals:

— Bituminous limestone, 

— Oil impregnated diatomite, and 

— Gilsonite;

C G. Asbestos and Wollastonite;

C H. Lightweight Aggregates:

— Perlite, 

— Pumice, and 

— Vermiculite; 

C I. Mica and Sericite: 

— Mica and sericite (dry process), 

— Mica (wet process, grinding process), and 

— Mica (wet beneficiation process); 

C J. Barite (dry process only); 

C K. Fluorspar (heavy media separation process only); 

C M. Borax; 

C N. Potash; 

C O. Sodium Sulfate; 

C P. Trona; 

C S. Sulfur (anhydrite only); 

C T. Mineral Pigments; 

C V. Bentonite;

C W. Magnesite;

C X. Diatomite;

C Y. Jade;

C Z. Novaculite;

C AA. Fire Clay;

C AB. Fuller’s Earth (montmorillonite and attapulgite);

C AC. Kyanite;

C AD. Shale and Common Clay;

C AE. Aplite;

C AF. Tripoli;

C AG. Kaolin (general purpose grade);

C AH. Ball Clay;

C AI. Feldspar (nonflotation processes); and

C AJ. Talc Group (dry and washing processes).

The concentration-based limitations presented in Table 5-163 apply to discharges 

from wet processes, flotation processes, mine dewatering, and dredging for the crushed stone, 

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construction sand and gravel, and industrial sand subcategories of 40 CFR Part 436. Dry 

processes for these subcategories are required to achieve no discharge of process wastewater. 

Table 5-164 presents concentration-based limits for other subcategories of Part 436. 

Table 5-163. Effluent Guidelines for Crushed Stone, Construction Sand and Gravel, and 

Industrial Sand Subcategories of Part 436 

Parameter BPT 30-day Averages (mg/L) BPT Daily Maximum (mg/L) 

TSS1 25 45 

pH within range of 6 to 9 within range of 6 to 9 

1

BPT limits for industrial sand HF flotation for TSS are 0.023kg/kkg (monthly avg) and 0.046 kg/kkg (daily 

maximum), and 0.003 kg/kkg (monthly avg) and 0.006 kg/kkg (daily maximum) for fluoride. BAT requires no 

discharge. 

Table 5-164. Effluent Guidelines for Other Subcategories of Part 4361 

Parameter BPT 30-day Averages (mg/L) BPT Daily Maximum (mg/L) 

TSS 10 to 50 20 to 100 

Total iron2 1 to 3.5 2 to 7 

Sulfide3 1 to 5 2 to 10 

Zinc4 0.25 0.50 

1

Subcategories include barite mine dewatering, phosphate rock, sulfur (frasch, salt dome operations), fire clay acid

mine drainage, kaoline (wet process), talc (mine dewatering), and graphite.

2

Total iron limits for barite mine dewatering, fire clay acid mine drainage, and graphite only. 3

Sulfide limits for sulfur (frasch, salt dome operations) only. BAT limits for sulfur are 1 to 2 mg/L (monthly avg)

and 2 to 4 mg/L (daily maximum).

4

Zinc limits for kaolin wet processing only.

The limitations guidelines in Table 5-165 are normalized on the basis of metric ton (kkg) of raw 

material. 

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Table 5-165. Normalized Effluent Guidelines for Subcategories of Part 4361 

Parameter BPT 30-day Averages (kg/kkg) BPT Daily Maximum (kg/kkg) 

TSS2,3 0.02 to 1.5 0.04 to 3.0 

Fluoride4 0.175 0.35 

Dissolved fluoride5 0.2 0.4 

1

Subcategories include feldspar floatation; talc, steatite, soapstone, and pyrophyllite (heavy media separation and

flotation); mica wet beneficiation process (ceramic grade clay by-product); fluorspar flotation; and rock salt. 2

BAT limits for TSS for talc (heavy media and flotation) are 0.3 kg/kkg (monthly avg) and 0.6 kg/kkg (daily

maximum).

3

BAT limits for TSS for rock salt are 0.002 kg/kkg (monthly avg) and 0.004 kg/kkg (daily maximum).

4

Fluoride limits for feldspar flotation only. BAT limits for fluoride are 0.13 kg/kkg (monthly avg) and 0.26 (daily

maximum).

5

Dissolved fluoride limits for fluorspar flotation only.

5.5.8.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

Most major facilities reporting to PCS report discharge pipe flow rates. Table 

5-166 presents the total annual flow (in millions of gallons) for 2000, median annual discharge 

flow, and the range of annual flows for mineral mining facilities. Facilities not reporting a flow 

were not included in the median calculation. Data presented in Table 5-166 are based on major 

dischargers reporting to PCS for 2000. 

Table 5-166. Wastewater Flows 

SIC 

Code 

Number of Major 

Facilities Reporting 

Nonzero Flows 

Median Facility Flow 

In 2000 (MGY) 

Range of Facility 

Flows In 2000 (MGY) 

Total Flow In 2000 

(MGY) 

1422 5 2,644.20 913-8499 19,175.60 

1442 3 1,334.96 2-3291 4,628.54 

1459 3 241.49 100-950 1,291.73 

1475 15 429.20 3-3072 10,839.13 

1479 2 8,845.50 8,044-9,647 17,691.00 

1481 1 4,802.40 NA 4,802.40 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

NA - No range was calculated because only one facility reported a nonzero flow.

Wastewater quantities and content vary day to day, and are affected by rainfall 

and exposure to surface and underground water. Composition of the wastewater depends on the 

mineral being mined and the raw materials required for processing. The most important 

pollutant parameter for this industry is suspended solids. 

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Many facilities achieve zero discharge by recycling wastewater through the 

process. Most facilities use settling ponds to control TSS. Aside from pH adjustment, chemical 

treatment is not common for this industry. 

There are three major classifications of wastewater from mining operations: 

C Mine dewatering;

C Process water; and

C Rain water runoff. 

Process wastewater includes water used to transport minerals from one operation to another, 

water used in separation processes such as flotation and heavy media separation, air pollution 

control, and dust control. The pollutants of concern for mineral mining wastewater are 

suspended and dissolved solids. Table 5-167 presents sources of wastewater for each step of the 

mining process. 

Table 5-167. Process Sources of Wastewater 

Mining Process Wastewater 

Mineral Extraction Surface runoff, groundwater seepage 

Mineral Transportation Transport water 

Mineral Processing Transport water, wash water, dust control water, classification water, heavy 

media separation water, flotation water, solution water, air emissions control 

water, floor wash down 

Source: Sector Notebook for Non-Fuel, Non-Metal Mining, 1995. 

Pollutants Discharged 

Table 5-156 lists the pollutants reported to PCS for mineral mining facilities that 

reported discharges to PCS by major dischargers in 2000. In addition, Table 5-168 lists the 

pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or for mineral mining facilities that reported to 

TRI for 2000. This table presents the number of facilities that reported each chemical and the 

total pounds of chemical discharged to surface waters. Indirect discharging facilities reported 

transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW removal efficiencies, EPA estimated the amount of 

pollutant discharged to surface water (see DCN 00618, Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs, for 

more information). Therefore, the TWPE estimates in this table have been adjusted to account 

for POTW treatment. 

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Table 5-168. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI 

Pollutant Category and Primary Pollutants PCS (Pounds) 

PCS 

TWPE 

TRI 

(Pounds) 

TRI 

TWPE 

All Pollutants 95,892,593 29,402 479,076 1,137 

Nonconventionals 91,767,088 28,215 477,573 109 

Total Dissolved Solids 67,076,047 0 0 0 

Total Fluoride 759,269 26,574 0 0 

Barium 0 0 17,793 35 

Nitrogen, Nitrate Total (As N) 32 0 443,398 27 

Conventionals 4,116,305 0 0 0 

Total Suspended Solids 4,082,539 99% – – 

Oil and Grease 33,766 1% – – 

Priority 9,200 1,187 1,503 1,029 

Lead 200 449 184 412 

Zinc 8,764 410 312 15 

Copper 100 63 750 470 

Chromium 0 0 257 132 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

Relative to other industries evaluated, TWPE discharges reported in PCS and TRI 

are low. Generally, a few facilities contribute the bulk of the TWPE estimates from both TRI 

and PCS. For comparison purposes, Tables 5-169 and 5-170 present the TWPE for mineral 

mining along with the industries reporting the highest discharges in each database. Table 5-169 

presents the information reported to PCS and Table 5-170 presents the information reported to 

TRI. For a description of the derivation of the values in these tables, see the memorandum in the 

public docket titled Description and Results of EPA Methodology to Synthesize Screening Level 

Results for the Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004, which is available through Edocket 

at document number OW-2003-0074-0391. 

Table 5-169. Mineral Mining TWPE Reported to PCS Compared to Industries Reporting 

Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category PCS-Reported TWPE PCS Rank 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 2,933,209 1 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 1,805,928 2 

422 Phosphate Manufacturing 1,095,321 3 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 853,568 4 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 434,925 5 

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Table 5-169 (Continued) 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category PCS-Reported TWPE PCS Rank 

440 Ore Mining and Dressing 383,560 6 

410 Textile Mills 296,601 7 

419 Petroleum Refining 198,251 8 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 178,977 9 

418 Fertilizer Manufacturing 116,464 10 

436 Mineral Mining 29,402 15 

Source: EPA, PCSLoads2000. 

Table 5-170. Mineral Mining TWPE Reported to TRI Compared to Industries 

Reporting Highest Discharges 

40 CFR 

Part Point Source Category TRI-Reported TWPE TRI Rank 

414 Organic Chemicals, Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 7,303,782 1 

423 Steam Electric Power Generation 1,856,645 2 

421 Nonferrous Metals Manufacturing 978,450 3 

430 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard (Phase II) 628,785 4 

415 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing 624,250 5 

429 Timber Products Processing 404,926 6 

419 Petroleum Refining 385,347 7 

455 Pesticide Chemicals Manufacturing, Formulating 324,393 8 

428 Rubber Manufacturing 166,343 9 

463 Plastic Molding and Forming 106,189 10 

436 Mineral Mining 1,137 33 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000. 

5.5.8.4 Treatment Technology and Pollution Prevention 

Solids Removal 

The predominant treatment technique for solids removal is settling ponds. Other 

treatment technologies that may be used include flocculation, filters, clarifiers, and thickeners. 

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Neutralization/Chemical Precipitation 

This treatment technology is often used to remove dissolved solids such as 

fluoride, iron, sulfides, and zinc. 

Recycle 

Facilities recycle settled wastewater to the process. 

Pollution Prevention 

Table 5-171 lists water conservation and pollution prevention alternatives for this 

industry. 

Table 5-171. Water Conservation and Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Process Water Conservation/Pollution Prevention Alternatives 

Surface runoff Use diversion systems to channel runoff away from exposed mine pits and waste 

dumps. 

Dust control Reuse contaminated wastewater for dust elimination in the mineral extraction 

process. 

Groundwater seepage Use subsurface drainage systems and barriers to collect or deflect groundwater prior 

to contact with exposed mine pits. 

Source: Sector Notebook for Non-Fuel, Non-Metal Mining, 1995. 

5.5.8.5 Industry Trends 

U.S. Economic Census data presented in Table 5-172 illustrates industry trends in 

number of establishments and value of goods shipped between 1992 and 1997. Depending on 

the sector, changes in the number of establishments range from a 36-percent increase to a 

36-percent decrease. The change in the value of good shipped also varied by sector, and in 

general increased. 

NAICS code 212 covers mining (except oil and gas) of metallic minerals and 

nonmetallic minerals, including coal. As shown in Table 5-173, advance comparative statistics 

for 1997 to 2002 for NAICS code 212 show a 2-percent decrease in the number of 

establishments and a 6-percent increase in the value of shipments (not adjusted for inflation). 

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Table 5-172. 1992 and 1997 Census Data 

Value of Goods Shipped 

SIC 

Code Industry Segment 

Number of Establishments (billions of dollars) 

1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 1997 1992 

Percent 

Change 

1411 Dimension Stone 178 NA NA 0.13 0.10 27.0 

1422 Crushed and Broken Limestone 1,435 1,322 8.5 4.5 3.2 40.7 

1423 Crushed and Broken Granite 290 247 17.4 1.5 0.90 69.0 

1429 Crushed and Broken Stone, NEC. 459 428 7.2 1.3 0.93 35.5 

1442 Construction Sand and Gravel 2,367 2,430 -2.6 3.5 2.8 26.2 

1446 Industrial Sand 140 149 -6.0 0.51 0.41 24.5 

1455 Kaolin and Ball Clay 35 NA NA 0.94 0.78 20.3 

1459 Clay, Ceramic, and Refractory 

Minerals, NEC. 

132 148 -10.8 0.619 0.620 0.1 

1474 Potash, Soda, and Borate 

Minerals 

27 NA NA 1.7 1.5 12.4 

1475 Phosphate Rock 20 NA NA 1.0 1.2 -14.5 

1479 Chemical and Fertilizer Mineral 

Mining, NEC. 

45 70 -35.7 0.36 0.42 -14.5 

1481 Nonmetallic Minerals Services, 

Except Fuels 

172 NA NA 0.191 0.189 1.1 

1499 Misc. Nonmetallic Minerals, 

Except Fuels 

216 270 -20.0 0.632 0.596 6.0 

3275 Gypsum Products 208 153 35.9 4.4 2.1 109.0 

Source: 1997 U.S. Economic Census.

NA - Comparable data were not available.

Table 5-173. 1997 and 2002 Census Data 

NAICS 

Code Industry Segment 

Number of Establishments 

Value of Goods Shipped 

(billions of dollars) 

2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 2002 1997 

Percent 

Change 

212 Mining (except oil 

& gas) 

7,173 7,348 -2 54 51 6 

Source: 2002 U.S. Economic Census. 

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5.5.8.6 Stakeholder and EPA Regional Issues 

This section discusses stakeholder and EPA Regional issues. EPA primarily 

received input from stakeholders prior to the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Plan. In addition, 

EPA received comments on the Preliminary Plan asserting that the existing ELGS are adequate. 

Concerns Identified Pre-Proposal 

Several groups surveyed by the Agency in the 2004 annual review provided input 

on the Mineral Mining and Processing category. Each group and their suggestions are 

summarized below. 

Previous Suggestions (Sec. 2.4 of the “Factor 4 Analysis: Implementation and 

Efficiency Considerations - Status of Screening Level Review Phase” (Edocket OW-2003-0074-

0329)) 

Responders suggested the need for more complete ELGS, including the addition 

of TSS limits, and were concerned that the existing guidelines are inconsistently applied. 

Concerns Identified in Comments to Proposal 

For the crushed stone subcategory and the construction sand and gravel 

subcategory, a commenter asserted that the existing effluent guidelines established by the EPA 

for the aggregates industry are adequate. The pollutants discharged from aggregate operations 

are limited, and no new processes have developed within the aggregates industry over the past 

several decades that would increase the amount of pollutants discharged. These conclusions are 

supported by the findings of two reports that indicate that the existing guidelines are adequate: 

1) the National Stone Association (NSA) April 1993 report, An Analysis of the EPA Effluent 

Guidelines and Standards For the Mineral Mining Industrial Category as Related to the 

Requirements of the EPA NPDES Storm Water Regulations and 2) U.S. EPA’s June 1982 report 

from the Office of Water & Waste Management, The Effects of Discharges from Limestone 

Quarries on Water Quality and Aquatic Biota. 

EPA appreciates all comments and suggestions provided by the stakeholders and 

EPA Regional staff. However, as with any comments it receives, EPA cannot address these 

suggestions without adequate supporting data. The major issue raised concerned a lack of TSS 

limitations. Contrary to this stakeholder’s assertion, the effluent guidelines for the Mineral 

Minding category contain TSS limits for 3 of the 21 subcategories. For 16 of the remaining 18 

subcategories, limits are set at no discharge of process wastewater with the exception of 

stormwater and certain cases (see Part 436). The sand and gravel subcategory and the industrial 

sand category have limits only for pH. In the event that stakeholders provide additional data and 

supporting information on these or any of the issues identified above, EPA will reevaluate them 

at that time. 

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5.5.8.7 Conclusions 

Based on information reported to TRI and PCS, toxic discharges from mineral 

mining facilities are low relative to other industrial categories. In addition, generally only a few 

facilities contribute most of the TWPE estimates in both TRI and PCS. 

Stakeholders and EPA staff identified various issues associated with discharges 

from mineral mining facilities. The information in the docket at this time does not support the 

concerns raised. In the event that stakeholders provide additional data and supporting 

information during subsequent review cycles, EPA will reevaluate them at that time. 

5.5.9 Oil and Gas Extraction (40 CFR Part 435) 

5.5.9.1 Industry Description 

The Oil and Gas Extraction Point Source Category (40 CFR Part 435) comprises 

facilities in the following SIC codes: 

C SIC code 1311 - Crude Petroleum and Natural Gas. Establishments 

primarily engaged in operating oil and gas field properties. Such activities 

may include exploration for crude petroleum and natural gas; drilling, 

completing, and equipping wells; operation of separators, emulsion 

breakers, desilting equipment, and field gathering lines for crude 

petroleum; and all other activities in the preparation of oil and gas up to 

the point of shipment from the producing property. This industry includes 

the production of oil through mining and extraction of oil from oil shale 

and oil sand and the production of gas and hydrocarbon liquids through 

gasification, liquefaction, and pyrolysis of coal at the mine site. Also 

included are establishments that have complete responsibility for 

operating oil and gas wells for others on a contract or fee basis. 

C SIC code 1381 - Drilling Oil and Gas Wells. Establishments primarily 

engaged in drilling wells for oil or gas field operation for others on a 

contract or fee basis. This industry includes contractors that specialize in 

spudding in, drilling in, redrilling, and directional drilling. 

C SIC code 1382 - Oil and Gas Field Exploration. Establishments primarily 

engaged in performing geophysical, geological, and other exploration 

services for oil and gas on a contract or fee basis. 

C SIC code 1389 - Oil and Gas Field Services, Not Elsewhere Classified. 

Establishments primarily engaged in performing oil and gas field services, 

not elsewhere classified, for others on a contract or fee basis. Services 

included are excavating slush pits and cellars; grading and building of 

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foundation at well locations; well surveying; running, cutting, and pulling 

casings, tubes, and rods; cementing wells; shooting wells; perforating well 

casings; acidizing and chemically treating wells; and cleaning out, bailing, 

and swabbing wells. 

EPA had difficulty in estimating pollutant discharges from this industrial sector. 

The oil and gas extraction industry does not report discharges to TRI.6 Additionally, there is 

very little information in PCS about discharges from facilities in this industry as most are 

regulated under general permits. Overall, discharge monitoring data for this sector is not 

incorporated into PCS. Table 5-174 lists the facilities in the oil and gas extraction industry as 

reported in PCS and TRI. As shown in Tables 5-175 and 5-176, EPA previously estimated the 

number of offshore and coastal oil and gas extraction wells and facilities. These estimates are 

significantly higher than the number of facilities that report to either PCS or TRI. At the current 

time, EPA is unable to accurately estimate the pollutant loadings associated with this industrial 

sector using TRI or PCS. 

Table 5-174. Number of Facilities in the Oil and Gas Extraction Category 

PCS TRI 

Total No 

SIC 1997 Major Minor Reporting Reported Direct Indirect Both direct 

Code Census Total Dischargers Dischargers to TRI Discharge Discharge Discharge and indirect 

1311 7,784 178 5 173 1 1 1 0 0 

1381 1,628 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 

1382 1,197 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 

1389 6,082 11 0 11 0 0 0 0 0 

Total 16,691 190 5 185 0 0 0 0 0 

Source: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

6

 EPA identified that oil and gas extraction is believed to conduct significant management activities that involve 

EPCRA section 313 chemicals. In its proposed rule (June 27, 1996; 61 FR 33592), EPA deferred action on this 

industry group “because of questions regarding how particular facilities should be identified.” EPA further stated 

that “EPA will be addressing these issues in the future.” 

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Table 5-175. Number of Wells Drilled Annually, 1995 - 1997, by Geographic Area 

Shallow Water Deep Water 

(<1,000 ft) (> 1,000 ft) Total 

Data Source Development Exploration Development Exploration Wells 

Gulf of Mexico1 

MMS: 1995 557 314 32 52 975 

1996 

1997 

Average Annual 

617 

726 

640 

348 

403 

355 

42 

69 

48 

73 

104 

76 

1,080 

1,302 

1,119 

RRC 5 3 NA NA 8 

Total Gulf of Mexico 645 358 48 76 1,127 

Offshore California1 

MMS: 1995 

1996 

4 

15 

0 

0 

15 

16 

0 

0 

19 

31 

1997 

Average Annual 

14 

11 

0 

0 

14 

15 

0 

0 

28 

26 

Coastal Cook Inlet1 

AOGC: 1995 12 0 0 0 12 

1996 

1997 

5 

5 

1 

2 

0 

0 

0 

0 

6 

7 

Average Annual 7 1 0 0 8 

Source: Technical Development Document for the Final Phase I 316(b) Cooling Water Intake Structure Regulations,

EPA-821-R-01-036, Chapter 6, November 2001.

NA -Not applicable.

MMS - Mineral Management Service.

1

Gulf of Mexico figures do not include wells within state bay and inlet waters (considered “coastal” under 40 CFR

Part 435) and state offshore waters (0-3 miles from shore). In August 2001, there were 1 and 23 drilling rigs in bay

and inlet waters of Texas and Louisiana, respectively. There were also 19 and 112 drilling rigs in state offshore

waters (0-3 miles from shore), respectively.

Table 5-176. Identification of Oil and Gas Extraction Fixed Facilities in the Gulf of 

Mexico Outer Continental Study 

Category Count Remaining Count 

All structures 5,026 5,026 

Abandoned structures 1,403 3,623 

Structures classified as production structures ( i.e., with no 

well slots and production equipment) 

245 3,378 

Structures known not to be in production 688 2,690 

Structures with missing information on product type (oil or 

gas or both) 

309 2,381 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-176 (Continued) 

Category Remaining Count 

Structures whose drilled well slots are used solely for 

injection, disposal, or as a water source 

0 

Count 

2,381 

Source: Technical Development Document for the Final Phase I 316(b) Cooling Water Intake Structure Regulations,

EPA-821-R-01-036, Chapter 6, November 2001.

Note: These figures do not include mobile offshore drilling units that are also subject to the oil and gas effluent

guidelines. Depending on drilling activity, there are approximately between 100 to 200 of these facilities in the Gulf

of Mexico.

Note: Most offshore oil and gas extraction facilities are located in the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, there are 37 oil

and gas extraction facilities offshore of California and 17 oil and gas extraction facilities in Cook Inlet, Alaska.

EPA will attempt to better quantify discharges from these facilities in future 

annual reviews. In particular, EPA will coordinate its annual reviews of effluent guidelines with 

the Integrated Compliance Information System (ICIS).7

 This new system will integrate data that 

is currently located in more than a dozen separate data systems including the PCS database. 

ICIS will feature desktop access and real-time entry and retrieval of discharge monitoring data. 

The current schedule is to expand core enforcement and compliance data to support a broader 

range of CWA programmatic needs by 2006. For example, EPA will add state and federal CWA 

permitting and state enforcement data, include data requirements for new programs, and develop 

permit application and calculation tools. 

5.5.9.2 Regulatory Background 

EPA promulgated BPT limitations on April 13, 1979 (44 FR 22069) for this point 

source category. The Agency promulgated BAT and BCT limitations and NSPS for the offshore 

subcategory (March 4, 1993; 58 FR 12454) and coastal subcategory (December 16, 1996; 61 FR 

66086). More recently, EPA established BAT limitations and NSPS for nonaqueous drilling 

fluids within the offshore and coastal subcategories (January 22, 2001; 66 FR 6850). These 

recent effluent guidelines revisions did not consider any other wastestreams (e.g., produced 

waters, drilling cuttings associated with aqueous drilling fluids) in these two subcategories. The 

applicability of these effluent guidelines includes: 

C Subpart A: Offshore Subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are 

applicable to those facilities engaged in field exploration, drilling, well 

production, and well treatment in the oil and gas industry that are located 

in waters that are seaward of the inner boundary of the territorial seas 

("offshore") as defined in section 502(g) of the Clean Water Act. 

7

 See http://www.epa.gov/oeca/planning/data/modernization/index.html. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Subpart C: Onshore Subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are 

applicable to those facilities engaged in the production, field exploration, 

drilling, well completion, and well treatment in the oil and gas extraction 

industry which are located landward of the inner boundary of the 

territorial seas as defined in 40 CFR Part 125.1(gg) and which are not 

included within Subparts D, E, or F, provided, however, that the 

applicability of this subpart to (a) facilities in existence on April 13, 1979 

or thereafter engaged in the production, field exploration, drilling, well 

completion, and well treatment in the oil and gas extraction industry 

which are located on land and which would have been considered 

“coastal” as defined under the interim final regulations for this industry 

(40 CFR Part 435.41, 41 FR 44942, October 13, 1976) or which are (b) 

located in the Santa Maria Basin of California is suspended. 

C Subpart D: Coastal Subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are 

applicable to those facilities engaged in field exploration, drilling, well 

production, and well treatment in the oil and gas industry in areas defined 

as "coastal." The term "coastal" shall mean: 

— Any location in or on a water of the United States landward of the 

inner boundary of the territorial seas, or 

— Any location landward from the inner boundary of the territorial 

seas and bounded on the inland side by the line defined by the 

inner boundary of the territorial seas eastward of the point defined 

by latitude and longitude boundaries listed in the regulation. 

C Subpart E: Agricultural and Wildlife Water Use Subcategory. The 

provisions of this subpart are applicable to those onshore facilities located 

in the continental United States and west of the 98th meridian for which 

the produced water has a use in agriculture or wildlife propagation when 

discharged into navigable waters. These facilities are engaged in the 

production, drilling, well completion, and well treatment in the oil and gas 

extraction industry. 

C Subpart F: Stripper Subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are 

applicable to those onshore facilities which produce 10 barrels per well 

per calendar day or less of crude oil and which are operating at the 

maximum feasible rate of production and in accordance with recognized 

conservation practices. These facilities are engaged in production, and 

well treatment in the oil and gas extraction industry. There are no effluent 

guidelines for facilities in this subcategory. 

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C Subpart G: General Provisions. This subpart is intended to prevent oil 

and gas facilities, for which effluent limitations guidelines and standards, 

new source performance standards, or pretreatment standards have been 

promulgated under this part, from circumventing the effluent limitations 

guidelines and standards applicable to those facilities by moving effluent 

produced in one subcategory to another subcategory for disposal under 

less stringent requirements than intended by this part. 

EPA also evaluated whether industrial operations not currently regulated by 

existing effluent guidelines should be addressed as a potential additional subcategory under an 

existing point source category rather than as a new industrial category. EPA compared the 

processes, operations, wastewaters, and pollutants addressed by each existing point source 

category to the processes, operations, wastewaters, and pollutants of the potential additional 

subcategory. If these processes, operations, wastewaters, and pollutants were sufficiently 

similar, EPA included those similar industrial operations not currently regulated by existing 

effluent guidelines in the Agency's review of existing effluent guidelines. Due to the similar 

processes, operations, and wastewater sources, EPA reviewed coalbed methane (CBM) 

extraction as part of the Oil and Gas Extraction Point Source Category review. Section 5.5.9.7 

provides more information on this review. 

5.5.9.3 Wastewater Characteristics and Pollutant Sources 

The primary wastestreams in the oil and gas industry are those associated with 

drilling wastes and produced water. Drilling wastes are cuttings (rock fragments) and muds that 

are brought to the surface in the drilling fluid. Produced water is the water brought to the surface 

with the oil. 

Produced water is the largest volume waste produced by oil and gas extraction. 

Nearly 8 barrels of produced water are brought to the surface for every one barrel of oil 

produced. The pollutants present in produced water vary from region to region and depend of 

the depth of the production zone and the age of the well, among other factors. Typically, 

produced water contains: 

C High concentrations of chloride, sodium, magnesium, potassium; 

C Organic compounds such as benzene, naphthalene, toluene, phenanthrene, 

and oxygen-demanding compounds; 

C Inorganics such as lead, arsenic, barium, antimony, sulfur and zinc; and 

C Radionuclides including uranium, radon, and radium. 

Table 5-177 lists the processes and associated wastewaters produced in the oil and 

gas extraction industry. 

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Table 5-177. Process Wastewater Sources for the Oil and Gas Extraction Industry 

Process Process Wastewater 

Well Development Drilling muds, organic acids, alkalis, diesel oil, crankcase oils, acidic 

stimulation fluids (hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid). 

Production Produced water possibly containing heavy metals, radionuclides, dissolved 

solids, oxygen-demanding organic compounds, and high level of salts. Also, 

may contain additives including biocides, lubricants, corrosion inhibitors. 

Wastewater containing glycol, amines, salts, and untreatable emulsions. 

Maintenance Completion fluid, wastewater containing well-cleaning solvents (detergents 

and degreasers), paint, stimulation agents. 

Abandoned Wells, Spills, and Escaping oil and brine. 

Blowouts 

Source: Profile of the Oil and Gas Extraction Industry, EPA Office of Compliance Sector Notebook Project. 

EPA/310-R-99-006. October 2000. 

Produced water has been found to be anoxic and contain high concentrations of 

oxygen-demanding pollutants. Both soluble and dispersed oil that is contained in produced 

water have been found to contribute oxygen-demanding pollutants to receiving waters.8,9 The oil 

contained in produced water is also a major source of total organic carbon and chemical oxygen 

demand in the discharge (1). Metabolic pathways utilized to degrade hydrocarbons by different 

organisms include oxidative phosphorylation or respiration by heterotrophic bacteria, fungi, and 

heterotrophic phytoplankton, nitrate reduction by denitrifying bacteria, and sulfate reduction.10 

The oil contained in produced water is also a major source of Total Organic Carbon and 

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) in the discharge (1). Produced water has been found to have 

concentrations of COD and BOD in the ranges of 400 to 3,000 mg/L and 370 to 1,920 mg/L, 

respectively (1). 

5.5.9.4 Pollutants of Concern Identified 

As previously mentioned, PCS and TRI contain limited information for this 

industrial sector. Table 5-178 presents the available pollutant information from the PCS and TRI 

databases for the pollutants composing the top 95 percent of the TWPE for this industry. 

8

 Stephenson, M., A Survey of Produced Water Studies, Produced Water, Edited by J. Ray and F. Engelhart, 

Plenium Press, New York, 1992. 

9

 Development Document for Interim Final Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Proposed New Source Performance 

Standards for the Oil and Gas Extraction Point Source Category, EPA 440/1-76/055-a, United States Environmental 

Protection Agency, September, 1976. 

10 National Research Council, Oil in the Sea III, Inputs, Fates, and Effects, The National Academies, 2002. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-178. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS and TRI for 2000 

Number of Cumulative 

Facilities Percentage of Percentage of 

SIC Reporting Total Load Total Total SIC Total SIC 

Code Pollutant Pollutant (lbs/yr) TWPE/yr Code TWPE Code TWPE 

PCS Data 

1311 Chlorine, 

total residual 

4 527 256 96% 96% 

PCS Total 5 597,255 267 

TRI Data 

1311 Benzene 1 255 4.7 62% 62% 

1311 Toluene 1 255 1.4 19% 81% 

1311 Xylene 1 255 1.1 14% 95% 

(mixed 

isomers) 

TRI Total 1 1,020 7.6 

Source: EPA, TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. 

EPA also reviewed the Technical Development Documents for the offshore and 

coastal effluent guidelines and the following two documents to identify pollutants of concern for 

this category: (1) A White Paper Describing Produced Water from Production of Crude Oil, 

Natural Gas, and Coal Bed Methane, U.S. DOE, Veil et al., 2004; and (2) Bioaccumulation in 

Marine Organisms: Effect of Contaminants from Oil Well Produced Water, Battelle, J.M. Neff, 

2002. EPA will continue to evaluate these and other data sources in the next annual effluent 

guidelines review to identify pollutants of concern. 

5.5.9.5 Offshore Subcategory (Subpart A) 

This subsection discusses available data and technology options for the offshore 

subcategory of the oil and gas extraction industry. 

Data Summary 

Because of the limited PCS data obtained during the screening-level review, EPA 

requested offshore oil and gas PCS data from the four EPA Regional offices that issue permits 

for the Outer Continental Shelf (e.g., EPA Regions 4, 6, 9, and 10). As a result of this data 

collection effort (see DCN 00929, 00930, 00931, 00932, or 00952; section 3.01), only one 

facility, Union Oil Company of California (NPDES permit GMG290128), provided data, which 

are presented in Table 5-179. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-179. 2000 Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR) Data for the Union Oil 

Company of California. 

Parameter Unit 

Reported Measurement Values 

Average Range 

Produced Water, Radium 226, Total pci/l 360 0 - 1,540 

Produced Water, Radium 228, Total pci/l 261 0 - 1,145 

Produced Water Toxicity 7 Day NOEC ppm 5,391 0 - 43,200 

Drilling Fluid Toxicity ppm 591,573 0 - 1,000,000 

Well Fluids, Oil and Grease mg/L 16 0 - 457 

Cadmium (Cd), in Barite, Dry Weight mg/kg 0.7 0 - 2 

Mercury (Hg) in Barite, Dry Weight mg/kg 0.5 0 - 1 

Drilling Fluids, Free Oil days 0.03 0 - 1 

Drilling Fluids, Discharge Rate barrel/hr 346 0 - 875 

Drill Cutting, Free Oil days 0 0 

Deck Drainage, Free Oil days 0.02 0 - 1 

Produced Water, Oil and Grease mg/L 27 0 - 109 

Produced Water, Flow MGD 0.1 0 - 0.8 

Well Fluids, Free Oil days 0 0 

Sanitary Waste, Solids days 0 0 

Domestic Waste, Solids days 0 0 

Misc. Free Oil in Western GOM days 0 0 

Technology Options 

In the 1993 rulemaking for this subcategory, EPA set the BAT limitations and 

NSPS for produced water [oil and grease limits for produced water at 29 mg/L (maximum 

average of daily values for one month) and 42 mg/L (daily max)] based on improved operating 

performance of gas flotation technology. At the time it promulgated these ELGs, EPA rejected 

setting BAT limitations and NSPS for produced water based filtration systems as these 

technologies were still under development and not in widespread use. 

However, new technologies, including filtration systems, are now available for 

produced water treatment, in which produced waters are treated by a secondary treatment 

process before final discharge overboard. More stringent regulation of oil and gas extractions 

wastes (including produced water) in other countries has led to the development of many 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

advances in cuttings and produced water treatment technologies and management options. For 

example, the Norwegian sector of the North Sea is moving towards "zero discharge" of harmful 

materials. 

This subsection summarizes preliminary information on potential technology 

treatment options for produced water. Three produced water treatment technologies are 

currently used by industry in the U.S.: (1) Macro Porous Polymer Extraction System (MPPE); 

(2) Symons Adsorption Media (SAM); and (3) Cetco’s Polishing System. Other produced water 

treatment technologies are used in other countries and include: (1) CTour Process; (2) Epcon 

CFU; (3) Mare's Tail®; and (4) Total Oil Remediation and Recovery (TORR®). Two produced 

water treatment technologies (CTour and Epcon CFU) are scheduled for installation on oil and 

gas extraction facilities after full-scale field trials. 

Macro Porous Polymer Extraction System (MPPE) 

In this system, the hydrocarbon contaminated water is passed through a column 

packed with MPPE particles.11,12 An extraction liquid within the column removes the 

hydrocarbons from the water in a single pass. The purified water then passes out to be reused or 

discharged. 

The extraction liquid is regenerated periodically using low-pressure steam. The 

process removes the hydrocarbons the MPPE particles by steam stripping and retains the 

extraction liquid in the pores of the polymer. After condensing, the waste stream divides into an 

organic and an aqueous phase in a gravity separator. The aqueous condensate is returned to the 

extraction column and the organic phase is separated for reuse or removal. The use of two 

interchangeable columns allows a continuous process (one performing extraction and one 

undergoing regeneration). There is no flow rate restriction in this technology. The MPPE 

system removes 99.9 percent of hydrocarbons from water. 

Symons Adsorption Media (SAM) 

Symons developed a state-of-the-art media adsorption system to remove dispersed 

and emulsified hydrocarbons as well as heavy metals from produced water.13 

11 Azko Nobel. Macro Porous Polymer Extraction System. 2004. See: 

http://www.environmental-center.com/technology/akzonobel/mppe.htm#process. 

12 Meijer, D.T. and C.A.T. Kuijvenhoven. May 2001. Field-Proven Removal of Dissolved Hydrocarbons from 

Offshore Produced Water by the Macro Porous Polymer Extraction Technology. Presented at the 2001 Offshore 

Technology Conference in Houston, TX. See: 

http://www.environmental-center.com/articles/article1058/article1058.htm. 

13 Symon Ltd. Produced Water Treatment Polishing System. 2003. See: http://www.symons.co.uk/PWT.pdf. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Symons absorption media is granular, organic material with a surfactant. This 

media material can adsorb about 50 to 200 percent of its own weight of oil and 99 percent of all 

emulsified and dissolved oils in one pass. The media is contained in canisters that have extended 

axial flow paths, which offer a deeper adsorption bed. The spent media can be used as fuel. 

Benefits of SAM over activated carbon are: (1) up to 10 times the adsorption capacity; and (2) 

one-third to one-half the cost of activated carbon. SAM can be used to remove aromatics, free 

oil, emulsified oil, PCBs, PAHs and phenols. 

Cetco’s Polishing System 

Cetco developed a media adsorption system to remove dispersed and emulsified 

hydrocarbons and dissolved heavy metals from produced water.14 This technology includes a 

resin, polymer, and clay media packed in canisters. The Cetco polishing system consists of the 

following components: 

C Solids filtration and chemical treatment: Prior to contact with the 

canisterized adsorption media, the produced water is passed through 

conventional filtration to remove solids such as scale, sand, silt, clay, and 

chemical flocculants. The water is also chemically treated to prevent scale 

or build-up within the mechanical filtration equipment. 

C Canisters: The standard filter for polishing produced water is an 11’ X 

11’ canister, which is filled with about 25 pounds of adsorbent media. 

The canister is designed for radial flow through an exterior filter cloth, the 

media bed, and an inner filter cloth. A large accumulation area at the top 

of each vessel collects coalesced oil droplets that accumulate on the 

exterior filter cloth. Entrained gases, which also accumulate in the top 

region, are removed during the purge phase. 

C Adsorption Media: The patented Crudesorb® adsorption media is of the 

organoclay family and can adsorb oil molecules when oily salt water flows 

through the media. As the oil molecules start coating the surface of the 

media granules, surrounding water molecules are displaced. Various 

forces hold the oil molecules to the surface of the media, thus making it an 

irreversible process. The spent media passes the EPA Toxicity 

Characteristics Leaching Procedure and can be classified as oilfield or 

nonhazardous waste. 

14 Darlington, J.W. and J.J. Smith. Produced Water Polishing: Filtration and Filter Monitoring System Promotes 

Compliance During Conventional Treatment Upsets. Presented at EPA’s Best Available Technology Conference in 

February 2003. See: 

http://www.muddog.net/papers/CETCO%20PAPER%20FOR%20EPA%20BEST%20AVAIL.%20TECH.%20CON 

FERENCE%20Feb.%202003.pdf. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

C Smart CanisterTM Technology: The “smart canisterTM” continually 

monitors media adsorption capacity and alerts the platform operators when 

the media is nearly spent. The smart canisterTM contains an embedded 

probe that electrically measures the media adsorption and relays the 

information to a nearby alarm panel. 

Cetco’s polishing system can reduce water soluble organics by more than 50 

percent. 

CTour Process 

The CTour technology is a liquid-liquid extraction process.15 In this process, a 

liquid condensate is used to extract liquid for the dissolved components in produced water. The 

condensate also helps remove dispersed oil by coalescing with small oil droplets. 

The CTour process includes the following steps: 

C Harvest a suitable condensate stream from production; 

C Inject condensate in liquid form into the produced water stream; 

C Mix and disperse the condensate into the water; 

C Allow for adequate contact time between condensate and water; 

C Separate the contaminated condensate from the water in a separation 

process; and 

C Cycle the condensate, containing contaminants, back to the production 

stream. 

Field trials have been performed on the Ctour process. The process can remove 

approximately 70 percent of dispersed oil and PAHs, as well as up to 70 percent of most phenols. 

Epcon CFU 

The Epcon Compact Floatation Unit (CFU) technology can remove hydrocarbons, 

hydrophobic substances, and particles.10 The Epcon CFU acts as a 3-phase water/oil/gas 

separator and is based on the principal of oil coalescence. Centrifugal forces and gas floatation 

techniques aid in the oil-water separation process. The Epcon CFU is a vertical vessel that has a 

15 Knudsen, B.L. et al. Meeting the Zero Discharge Challenge for Produced Water. Presented at Society of 

Petroleum Engineers Conference in March 2004 in Calgary, Canada. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

pipe suspended from the top of the vessel to extract gas, oil, and some water. Treated water 

exists the vessel at the bottom of the vessel. 

Field trials have shown that the Epcon CFU system can produce a 50 to 75 

percent reduction in dispersed oil, 32 to 44 percent reduction of PAHS, and a 17 percent 

reduction in naphthalene. 

Mare’s Tail® 

Opus Plus Ltd. has patented a technology called Mare’s Tail®, which is basically 

an inline coalescer consisting of polypropylene media upstream of a hydrocylcone.10 The Mare’s 

Tail® process coalesces small dispersed oil droplets in the produced water, thus providing better 

working conditions for the hydrocyclone process, which is a commonly used process for 

removing dispersed oil in offshore produced water. 

A field trial of the Mare’s Tail® demonstrated that the reduction of oil in water 

from a hydrocyclone can be increased by 25 percent with Mare’s Tail®. The Mare’s Tail® 

technology also enhances the removal efficiency of naphthalene, PAHs, and alkylated phenols. 

Total Oil Remediation and Recovery (TORR®) 

In the TORR® process, the oil-water emulsion to be treated flows through beds of 

reusable petroleum adsorbent (RPA) separated by gravity settling compartments.16 The number 

of beds may vary from 6 to 12 per system. The oil droplets adhere to the free surface of the RPA 

and also coalesce with each other. As more oil droplets are retained, they are stripped from the 

RPA. The droplets are entrapped in the interbed compartments where they settle on the top. 

This is a continuous process that does not end even when the media is completely saturated with 

oils; therefore, it does not generate oil-saturated wastes or other by-products. 

The TORR process can remove oil from water to achieve effluent concentrations 

of 10 mg/L oil content. 

5.5.9.6 Coastal Subcategory (Subpart D) 

This subsection discusses available data and technology options for the Coastal 

subcategory of the oil and gas extraction industry. EPA received comments on the Preliminary 

Effluent Guidelines Plan from two Cook Inlet native villages and Cook Inlet Keeper stating that 

EPA should eliminate the existing exemption from zero discharge for facilities in Cook Inlet, 

Alaska. In addition, these commenters requested that EPA extend this subcategory to include the 

Lower Cook Inlet, which is in the Offshore subcategory (Subpart A). EPA reviewed data 

16 Le Foll, P. et al. Field Trials for a Novel Water Deoiling Process for the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry. 

Presented at the Society of Petroleum Engineers Conference in March 2004 in Calgary, Canada. 

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submitted by these commenters for the 2004 annual review of these effluent guidelines and 

consulted with representatives from the two Cook Inlet native villages. 

Data Summary 

All facilities regulated by the Coastal subcategory effluent guidelines, except for 

facilities in Cook Inlet, AK, are prohibited from discharging drill cuttings, produced waters, and 

all other drilling wastes. Based on the record for the 1996 Coastal effluent guidelines, EPA 

determined that onsite injection and other zero discharge options were not feasible throughout 

Cook Inlet, Alaska.17 Consequently, EPA determined in 1996 that zero discharge for drill 

cuttings and produced waters was not BAT and set the effluent guidelines for operators in 

Coastal Cook Inlet as equivalent to the effluent guidelines for operators in the Offshore 

Subcategory (Subpart A of 40 CFR Part 435). The rationale is described in a Federal Register 

Notice (see 61 FR 66125, Dec. 16, 1996). Therefore, only oil and gas extraction facilities in 

Cook Inlet are currently allowed to discharge drill cuttings and produced water. 

EPA used DMR data for 2001 and 2002 to estimate pollutant discharges for Cook 

Inlet facilities. As shown in Table 5-180, EPA used these data to estimate pollutant loads in 

pounds and TWPE (see Section 4.2.3 and 4.2.4 for a description of how EPA estimated TWPE). 

Table 5-180. Estimated TWPE from Oil and Gas Extraction Facilities in Cook Inlet, AK 

2001 TWPE1 2002 TWPE1 

Produced Drilling Produced Drilling 

Operator Facility Water Waste Total Water Waste Total 

Unocal Anna Platform 243 243 173 173 

Baker Platform 10 10 8 8 

Bruce Platform 4 4 3 3 

Dillon Platform 521 521 487 487 

Dolly Varden Platform 0 0 0 0 

Granite Pt. Platform 0 0 0 0 

Granite Pt. Prod. Fac. 2 2 6 6 

Grayling Platform 0 0 0 0 

King Salmon Platform 0 0 0 0 

Monopod Platform 0 554 554 0 398 398 

Steelhead Platform 0 2,217 2,217 0 0 

Trading Bay Trmt. Fac 9,198 9,198 9,521 9,521 

17 Coastal Technical Development Document, EPA-821-R-96-023, Section 5.10.3. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-180 (Continued) 

2001 TWPE1 2002 TWPE1 

Produced Drilling Produced Drilling 

Operator Facility Water Waste Total Water Waste Total 

XTO 

Energy 

East Foreland Treatment 

Facility 

195 195 195 195 

Platform A 290 290 0 0 

Platform C 0 0 1,755 1,755 

Phillips 

Oil 

Tyonek A Platform No data 0 0 

Forest Oil Osprey PF- NRs 0 217 217 

Total 10,172 3,061 13,233 10,394 2,370 12,763 

1

A zero indicates that the facility reported zero discharge to PCS. A blank field indicates that the facility did not 

report any toxic pollutants. 

Drilling Fluids and Drill Cuttings 

This section summarizes the technical and economic considerations for 40 CFR 

Part 435, Subpart D, for BAT and NSPS for drilling fluids and drill cuttings in Cook Inlet, AK. 

Rationale EPA Used in the Coastal Effluent Guidelines to Reject Zero Discharge 

for BAT/NSPS 

EPA examined several technologies to achieve zero discharge of drilling fluids 

and drill cuttings in Cook Inlet: (1) grinding and injection; (2) annular disposal; and (3) onshore 

disposal. EPA estimated that 89,000 barrels of drilling wastes would be generated annually from 

coastal Cook Inlet facilities.18 

The first technology involves grinding the drilling fluid, drill cuttings, and 

dewatering effluent into a slurry that can be injected into a dedicated disposal well. To use this 

option, however, operators must have different formation zones available with appropriate 

porosity and permeability to accept the injected wastes. These formation zones cannot be the 

producing formations because the injected wastes may interfere with hydrocarbon recovery. The 

North Slope, Alaska, and the coastal region along the Gulf of Mexico have subsurface geology 

containing relatively porous substrata and formations for injection that are readily available. In 

contrast, the geology in Cook Inlet is highly fragmented. EPA received comments on the 

proposed rule that provided several examples where attempts to grind and inject drilling wastes 

and annular disposal failed in the Cook Inlet area and information in the record indicates that 

formations for injection may not be available throughout Cook Inlet (61 FR 66096). 

18 See December 16, 1996. 61 FR 66093. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

At promulgation of the Coastal effluent guidelines, two operators in Cook Inlet 

had access to on-land disposal sites for drilling wastes. Other operators had no access to on-land 

disposal sites in Alaska, and EPA estimated the costs for transport and disposal of drilling wastes 

at an on-land oil and gas waste disposal site in Oregon. These costs considered the limited 

storage space available on platforms and harsh safety- and weather-related conditions for 

transport. 

EPA did not select injection because formations may not be available throughout 

Cook Inlet. EPA considered the onshore disposal as not economically achievable. 

Current Review of Zero Discharge 

As detailed in Table 5.4.9-2, the declining fields in coastal Cook Inlet means that 

fewer wells are being drilled and reconditioned than in 1996. This also means that few drill 

cuttings are being generated now than projected in the Coastal effluent guidelines. Based on the 

Discharge Monitoring Report data submitted to EPA for 2001 and 2002, less than 14,000 barrels 

of drilling wastes are generated annually. 

As previously discussed, EPA did not identify injection of drill cuttings as the 

basis for BAT limitations or NSPS because of the uncertainties regarding the availability of 

geologic formations suitable for injection. While the Cook Inlet geology has not changed, newer 

geological prospecting techniques may make it possible to better identify suitable formations. 

Newer technology may also make injection of drill cuttings more available. 

Specifically, Unocal (Bruce Platform, 2002) and Marathon (Kenai Gas Field, 

1999) recently opened grind and inject facilities. Additionally, recent technological 

developments to prevent injection well plugging might mean that it is more feasible to inject 

drilling wastes. EPA also reviewed a U.S. Department of Energy report on slurry injection 

projects, Evaluation of Slurry Injection Technology for Management of Drilling Wastes, May 

2003. This report describes several ways in which drilling wastes have been injected into 

underground formations for permanent disposal and focuses on injection at pressures exceeding 

the fracture pressure (referred to as slurry injection). The report details how these slurry 

injection projects are conducted and monitored, the geological conditions that favor slurry 

injection, and typical costs. The report includes a database describing more than 330 actual 

slurry injection jobs including four in coastal Cook Inlet. This report states that it is the most 

comprehensive publicly available source of information on the drilling waste slurry injection 

jobs. Oilfield wastes injected at these four slurry injection projects include: (1) water-based 

cuttings (very large particle size); (2) oil-based cuttings; and (3) deck drainage. Volume of 

material injected ranges from 20,000 to 221,400 barrels of slurry waste at injection rates of 1 to 4 

barrels per minute. 

In the 2001 synthetic-based drilling fluids (SBF) effluent guidelines, EPA 

identified that, under most circumstances, operators in coastal Cook Inlet are able to achieve zero 

discharge with their wastes associated with nonaqueous drilling fluids, drill cuttings, and 

dewatering effluent. Consequently, under most normal circumstances, operators in coastal Cook 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Inlet are required to meet the same standards (zero discharge) for nonaqueous drilling fluids, 

drill cuttings, dewatering effluent as other operators regulated by the Coastal subcategory.19 

EPA established a three-test procedure in the SBF effluent guidelines for allowing the discharge 

of SBF drill cuttings in coastal Cook Inlet. Operators in Cook Inlet are prohibited from 

discharging SBF drill cuttings except when they are unable to dispose of their SBF cuttings 

through: (1) on-site injection (annular disposal or Class II UIC); (2) injection using a nearby 

coastal or offshore Class II UIC disposal well; or (3) onshore disposal using a nearby Class II 

UIC disposal well or land application. Coastal Cook Inlet operators are required to demonstrate 

to the NPDES permit authority that none of the above three disposal options are technically 

feasible in order to qualify for the alternate BAT limitation (see January 22, 2001; 66 FR 6867). 

Operators that qualify for the alternate BAT limitation are allowed to discharge SBF drill 

cuttings at the same BAT limitations as operators in the Offshore subcategory. 

With respect to economic factors associated with a zero discharge requirement for 

drill cuttings, existing oil and gas extraction projects are unlikely to be in better financial 

condition in 2004 than they were in 1996 when the coastal effluent guidelines were promulgated. 

Although oil and gas prices have undergone a recent spike, the fields have experienced eight 

years of declining production associated with depleting a natural resource. Comparing the 

production figures from 1995 (the baseline for the Coastal Cook Inlet analysis) and historic and 

projected data from the state of Alaska (with 2002 as the last full year of historic data) shows the 

following: 

C Trading Bay Field production has declined about 92 percent; 

C Granite Point Field production has declined at least 70 percent; 

C Middle Ground Field production has declined about 17 percent; and 

C Tyonek production (counted with Kenai Field onshore production) has 

declined at least 75 percent from 1995. 

In the Coastal effluent guidelines, EPA estimated that one platform would shut-in 

(close) under a zero discharge option. However, EPA’s review of current economic information 

indicates that all Cook Inlet facilities should now be considered marginal due to declining 

production. Since promulgation of the Coastal effluent guidelines, no new coastal oil and gas 

disposal sites have opened in the Cook Inlet. Therefore, the costing assumptions for transporting 

the wastes to a disposal site in the contiguous U.S. not changed since 1996; however, the volume 

of drilling waste is lower than projected in 1996. 

19 Development Document for Final Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for Synthetic-Based Drilling 

Fluids and Other Non-Aqueous Drilling Fluids in the Oil and Gas Extraction Point Source Category, 

EPA-821-B-00-013, Chapter VII.5.4 (Page VII-62) and Chapter X.3.3.1 (Page X-3), 

http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/guide/sbf/final/eng.html, December 2000. 

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With respect to existing coastal Cook Inlet oil and gas extraction facilities, EPA 

does not know how widely new injection techniques and technologies can be used across all 

Cook Inlet facilities. Moreover, given that all existing coastal Cook Inlet oil and gas extraction 

facilities are considered marginal, it is unclear whether the incremental compliance costs 

associated with a zero discharge requirement would cause these facilities to shut in. EPA will 

examine the economic and technological progress of these injection technologies in future 

annual reviews of this industrial sector. 

Additionally, since promulgation of the Coastal effluent guidelines, there is only 

one new oil and gas facility in Cook Inlet. The Osprey Platform is the first new platform 

established in Cook Inlet in about 16 years and currently disposes of its drilling wastes through 

annular disposal or Class II injection in approved wells. Thus, EPA has determined zero 

discharge of drilling wastes to be economically and technically achievable for this project. Part 

of that decision might rest on the availability of a suitable formation for disposal at that site. As 

previously discussed, EPA does not know how widely these new zero discharge techniques and 

technologies for drill cuttings can be used across all Cook Inlet facilities. 

Given the 16-year lag between NSPS projects, the ability of the permit writer to 

require an operator to demonstrate that zero discharge is not technically feasible for a specific 

project, and the relatively low toxicity of the discharges, EPA decided not to revise effluent 

guidelines for drill cuttings discharges in this subcategory at this time. 

Produced Water 

This subsection summarizes the technical and economic considerations for 40 

CFR Part 435, Subpart D for BAT and NSPS for produced water in Cook Inlet, AK. 

Rationale EPA Used in the Coastal Effluent Guidelines to Reject Zero Discharge 

for BAT/NSPS 

EPA examined injection technology to achieve zero discharge of produced water 

in Cook Inlet in the 1996 Coastal effluent guidelines. As previously mentioned, Cook Inlet is 

different from other coastal regions in that the production formation is usually the only formation 

available for the injection of produced water. For existing projects in Cook Inlet, EPA estimated 

the costs of piping produced water from existing production facilities to existing waterflood 

injection sites. EPA’s economic analysis in the Coastal effluent guidelines estimated that 1 of 13 

platforms would close and 2 additional platforms would incur severe economic impacts. 

Consequently, EPA rejected zero discharge in the Coastal effluent guidelines as not 

economically feasible for Cook Inlet. 

EPA rejected zero discharge of produced water for NSPS for Cook Inlet because 

of uncertainties regarding the availability of geologic formations suitable for receiving injected 

produced water. Because the location and availability of formations for a new source in Cook 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Inlet are unknown, EPA could not estimate the maximum cost associated with piping produced 

water from the wellhead to the nearest injection well. 

Current Review of Zero Discharge 

As mentioned previously, Osprey is the first new platform set in Cook Inlet in 

about 16 years. It is the first platform in Cook Inlet designed to reinject all produced water from 

the platform.20 Thus, EPA has determined zero discharge of drilling wastes to be economically 

and technically achievable for this project. Part of that decision might rest on the availability of 

a suitable formation for disposal at that site. In addition, the Osprey platform qualified for a 

special royalty reduction incentive offered by the state of Alaska. The reduced royalty is 5 

percent (in contrast to the more typical 12.5 percent) and production must have started by 

January 1, 2004.21 If zero discharge of produced water is technically feasible for a new project, 

whether it is economically feasible will depend on the royalty rates, potential incentives offered 

by the state, and oil and gas prices at that time. 

Newer injection technology might also make injection of produced water more 

available. However, EPA does not know how widely these newer technologies can be used 

across all Cook Inlet facilities. EPA will examine the progress of these technologies in future 

annual reviews. Given the 16-year lag between NSPS projects, the ability of the permit writer to 

require an operator to demonstrate that zero discharge is not technically feasible for a specific 

project, and the relatively low toxicity of the discharges, EPA decided not to revise effluent 

guidelines for produced water in this subcategory at this time. 

Summary 

At this time, EPA concluded it should not identify these effluent guidelines for 

revision in the current effluent guidelines plan. EPA will examine the progress of newer zero 

discharge technologies for drill cuttings and produced waters in future annual reviews. 

Additionally, in response to public comments that it should revise the 

applicability section of the Coastal subcategory, EPA has decided not to reclassify lower Cook 

Inlet as part of the Coastal subcategory because that would change a long-standing definition 

relying on “the inner boundary of the territorial seas” as a line between coastal and offshore. See 

EPA’s Response to Public Comments on Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the 

Coastal Subcategory of the Oil and Gas Extraction category, October 30, 1996 (“EPA Response 

to Comments”), R. IIIB.(c) 1, Topic Code H, pp. H-1 – H-17. Rather than revise the 

applicability criteria for these effluent guidelines, EPA will evaluate available and affordable 

technologies for 

20 K. Nelson, “Money, time, an assist from the Legislature were all required to bring Redoubt Shoal online,” 

Petroleum News, Vol. 7, No. 52. December 2002. www.ptroleumnews.com/pnarchpop/021229-12.html. 

21 See http://www.dog.dnr.state.ak.us/oil/products/publications/otherreports/2002_annual_report/ 

2002_annual_report.pdf. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

facilities in upper Cook Inlet (regulated by the Coastal effluent guidelines) and in lower Cook 

Inlet (regulated by the Offshore effluent guidelines). Currently, there are no oil and gas 

extraction facilities in lower Cook Inlet. 

5.5.9.7 Coal Bed Methane Extraction 

This section discusses a potential additional subcategory of the oil and gas 

extraction industry, coalbed methane (CBM) extraction. EPA determined that CBM extraction is 

appropriately considered an additional subcategory of the Oil and Gas Extraction category (Part 

435). EPA based this determination on the similarity of processes, operations, wastewater, and 

treatment technology options of CBM extraction to those of oil and gas extraction regulated by 

the existing ELG. EPA did not consider CBM production in developing the 1979 national 

technology-based effluent limitations guidelines for the Onshore and Agricultural and Wildlife 

Water Use subcategories of the Oil and Gas Extraction category (40 CFR Part 435, Subparts C 

and E) because there was no significant CBM production in 1979.22 

Additionally, EPA did not consider CBM production in developing the coal 

mining effluent guidelines. EPA established effluent guidelines for coal mining operations based 

on the use of BPT for existing sources in the Coal Mining Point Source Category (40 CFR Part 

434) on April 26, 1977 (42 FR 21380). These effluent guidelines were revised on October 9, 

1985 (50 FR 41296). More recently, EPA revised these ELGs again on January 23, 2002 (67 FR 

3370) by adding two new subcategories to address preexisting discharges at coal remining 

operations and drainage from coal mining reclamation and other nonprocess areas in the arid and 

semi-arid western United States. None of these rulemakings considered coalbed methane 

extraction in any of the supporting analyses or records. 

Therefore, permit writers develop technology-based limits for the CBM NPDES 

discharge permits using a best professional judgment (BPJ) basis (see 40 CFR Part 125.3(c)(2)). 

NPDES permit writers can develop BPJ limits by using one of two different methods. A permit 

writer can either transfer numerical limitations from an existing source such as from a similar 

NPDES permit or an existing set of effluent guidelines, or derive new numerical limitations.

 Impacts to surface water from discharge of CBM water can be severe depending 

upon the quality of the CBM water. Neil et al. (1980) report that saline discharges have variable 

effects depending on the biology of the receiving stream and the instream concentration of 

produced water. Some water bodies and watersheds may be able to absorb the discharged water 

while others are sensitive to large amounts of low-quality CBM water. Aquatic and benthic 

communities can be adversely impacted (e.g., decrease in species diversity, density) by the 

constituents in CBM water (e.g., TDS, chloride, metals, organics). Discharge of this water may 

also cause erosion and in some cases irreversible soil damage from high TDS concentrations. 

This may limit future agricultural and livestock uses of the water and watershed. 

22 Letter from Thomas P. O'Farrell, EPA's Industrial Technology Division, to Constance B. Harriman, Steptoe & 

Johnson. June 1, 1989. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

In outreach and in public comments, environmental advocacy groups and surface 

rights groups (e.g., farmers, ranchers) requested that EPA establish effluent guidelines for this 

industry. 

Industry Description 

As plant material is progressively converted to coal, large quantities of methanerich gas are generated that are stored within the coal. Coalbed methane is held in place in the 

coal seam by the water pressure of natural underground aquifers. Drilling and pumping these 

aquifers is necessary to reduce the water pressure exerted by the aquifers and produce coalbed 

methane. By pumping the aquifers, the methane is separated from the water in the borehole and 

flows to the pipeline. The natural gas consists of approximately 96 percent methane, 3.5 percent 

nitrogen, and trace amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). 

Exploration costs for CBM are low, and the wells are cost-effective to drill. 

Methane occurs in most coals, and the location of the Nation’s coal resources is already well 

known. Table 5.4.9-8 identifies the most significant sources of current CBM production. 

Large amounts of water, sometimes saline, are produced from CBM wells. 

Coalbed gas wells have a distinctive production history characterized by an early stage, in which 

large amounts of water are produced to reduce reservoir pressure, which in turn encourages 

release of gas; a stable stage, in which quantities of produced gas increase as the quantities of 

produced water decrease; and a late stage, in which the amount of gas produced declines and 

water production remains low. In addition, EPA notes that recent court actions confirm that 

CBM water is a pollutant subject to regulation under the CWA.23 

Table 5-181. Current Sources of CBM Production 

Basin Name 

Year of 

Initial 

Production States 

Total Number of 

CBM Wells 

(1999) 

Cumulative Production 

1981 - 1999 

(billion cubic feet) 

Black Warrior 1980 AL 2,989 1,079.02 

San Juan 1979 NM, CO 3,311 6,648.44 

Powder River 1993 WY, MT 1,657 119.78 

Wind River recent WY 0 0 

Greater Green River 1999 WY, CO 2 1.93 

23 In August 2002, the Federal District Court in Montana granted summary judgment that CBM-produced water is 

not a pollutant within the meaning of the CWA (Fidelity Exploration Co. v. Northern Plains Resource Council). In 

April 2003, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed this decision and reaffirmed that, "unaltered groundwater 

produced in association with methane gas extraction, and discharged into the river, is a pollutant within the meaning 

of the CWA." In October 2003, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review the decision by the Court of Appeals. 

This action lets stand the decision of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals (i.e., "The plain language of the CWA requires 

the conclusion that CBM water is a pollutant subject to regulation under the CWA."). 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-181 (Continued) 

Basin Name 

Year of 

Initial 

Production States 

Total Number of 

CBM Wells 

(1999) 

Cumulative Production 

1981 - 1999 

(billion cubic feet) 

Raton 1995 CO, NM 405 67.77 

Uinta-Piceance ~1995 CO, UT 410 156.05 

Central Appalachian Coal 

Basin 

N/A KY, TN, VA, 

WV 

N/A 5,0001 

Northern Appalachian 

Coal Basin 

N/A PA, WV, 

OH, KY, MD 

N/A 61,0001 

Western Interior Coal 

Region 

N/A AK, OK, KS, 

MO, NE, IA 

N/A >15,0001 

Western Washington Coal 

Regions 

N/A WA,OR N/A 300 - 24,0001 

Sources: 

North American Coalbed Methane Resource Map (Gas Technology Institute. 2001).

Draft Evaluation of Impacts to Underground Sources of Drinking Water by Hydraulic Fracturing of Coalbed

Methane Reservoirs, Horsley & Witten, Inc., September 19, 2001.

N/A - Not available.

1

Figure represents estimated amount of CBM and not cumulative production.

Note: EPA also summarized available information on coalbed methane operations in Alaska.

Pollutants of Concern 

The principal environmental problem associated with production of CBM is 

disposal of large quantities of produced water (i.e., billions of gallons per year). The major 

pollutant of concern is total dissolved solids (TDS) and the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR). 

CBM- produced water TDS concentrations range from below 500 to 30,000 mg/L. Table 5-182 

presents the estimated raw pollutant loadings and discharged pollutant loadings from CBM 

operations. 

Table 5-182. Estimated CBM Industry Pollutant Loadings 

Pollutant 

Raw Waste Loadings Discharge Loadings 

(Thousand lb/yr) 

(Thousand 

TWPE/yr) (Thousand lb/yr) 

(Thousand 

TWPE/yr) 

Total Nonconventional 347,830 - 10,294,325 327 - 12,240 95,660 - 4,746,985 1.2 - 142 

TDS 222,833 - 5,245,180 NA 68,667 - 2,348,250 NA 

Iron 57,917 - 2,169,780 324 - 12,150 10 - 15,152 0.06 - 85 

Chloride 38,101 - 1,427,405 0.9 - 35 2,043 - 1,166,996 0.05 - 28 

Sodium 26,170 - 1,007,104 0.1 - 6 22,433 - 852,012 0.1 - 5 

Calcium 1,696 - 68,119 0.05 - 2 1,532 - 59,037 0.04 - 2 

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Table 5-182 (Continued) 

Pollutant 

Raw Waste Loadings Discharge Loadings 

(Thousand lb/yr) 

(Thousand 

TWPE/yr) (Thousand lb/yr) 

(Thousand 

TWPE/yr) 

Potassium 671 - 23,719 0.7 - 25 603 - 6,143 0.6 - 6 

Magnesium 346 - 18,446 0.3 - 16 310 - 15,378 0.3 - 13 

Sulfate 59 - 332,511 0.0003 - 2 45 - 283,486 0.0003 - 2 

Barium 35 - 2,061 0.07 - 4 17 - 535 0.03 - 1 

Priority and conventional pollutants are not present in CBM water in significant quantities. 

Source: U.S. EPA, 2003. Analysis of Discharge Data for Six Industry Categories, DCN 00632, Section 3.0. 

NA - Not applicable. 

Wastewater Treatment and Disposal 

Water management options may include several zero discharge options (e.g., 

injection, discharge to evaporation ponds, irrigation) and treatment and discharge to surface 

waters. Injection wells, which require suitable formations for disposal, are the preferred method 

of disposal in the San Juan Basin and central Appalachian basin24, whereas discharge into 

surface streams, after treatment in ponds to meet water-quality regulations, occurs in the Black 

Warrior basin, Alabama.25 

This section summarizes preliminary information on potential technology 

treatment and disposal options for produced water. Treatment and disposal methods used to 

treat, dispose, or otherwise manage CBM-produced water include: surface-water discharge with 

beneficial reuse, storage/evaporation ponds, injection into a subsurface aquifer, iron oxidation, 

reverse osmosis, ion exchange, electrodialysis, precipitation, downhole gas/water separation, 

freeze/thaw evaporation, and the Harmon SO2 Generator. 

EPA developed capital and operating costs associated with these water disposal or 

treatment methods and used them in an economic impact model of CBM production in the 

Powder River Basin26. The economic analysis uses a financial model based on a discounted 

cash-flow approach that has been used for the economic analyses of several oil and gas industryrelated effluent guidelines. The general approach takes a number of model projects that are 

24 Rice, 1995. 

25 Rogers, 1994. 

26 EPA prepared a draft report “Guidance for Developing Technology-Based Limits for Coalbed Methane 

Operations: Economic Analysis of the Powder River Basin” to provide guidance for EPA Region 8 to use for its 

“best professional judgment” to prepare CWA NPDES permits on Indian lands that are under Region 8 jurisdiction. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

specified on the basis of gas and water production volumes, using data and assumptions about 

costs of gas production, royalty and severance tax rates, price of gas, costs of project 

construction, number of wells per project, and other information. Costs of CBM-produced water 

management are used in the model to prepare a number of scenarios, including a baseline 

(current practice) scenario against which all other scenarios are compared. For more information 

about costing, please see DCN 01093, Section 3.01. 

Surface Discharge 

Surface discharge is the most common and least costly practice to dispose of 

CBM-produced water in the Powder River Basin. Controls on the discharge of produced water 

are often selected and approved by the regulatory agencies based on the quality and volume of 

water produced. Facilities typically transport the wastewater to the discharge location via buried 

flowlines. Facilities often use surface discharge in combination with aeration methods to 

precipitate iron from the water in order to reduce or eliminate staining in the stream beds and 

preserve the aesthetic quality of the receiving stream. Water typically flows over rip-rap before 

entering the stream bed to reduce erosion and further precipitate iron from the water. Facilities 

may also use spray nozzles, educators, and bubble diffusers to aerate the water before discharge. 

Storage/Evaporation Ponds 

Many CBM operators in the Powder River Basin use unlined earthen storage 

ponds for evaporation and infiltration in conjunction with surface discharge to minimize the 

amount of water reaching outfalls to surface water. Ponds are typically constructed by 

excavating a rectangular pit with sloped sides and berms around the perimeter. Water is 

eliminated via infiltration, evaporation, and transport to irrigated cropland and pasture land 

without return flows to drainages.27 Evaporation rates depend largely upon the characteristics of 

the pond. Evaporation from small shallow ponds is usually quite different than from large 

reservoirs due to the differences in heating and cooling rates of the water. In semi-arid regions 

such as Wyoming, hot dry air moving from a land surface over a water body will result in higher 

evaporation for smaller water bodies.28 

Two types of storage ponds are used: in-channel and off-channel. In-channel 

ponds are located within an existing drainage basin, including all perennial, intermittent, and 

ephemeral defined drainages, lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands. Off-channel ponds are located on 

upland areas, outside of natural drainages and alluvial deposits associated with these natural 

drainages.22 Most of the storage ponds in the Powder River Basin are off-channel and are 

designed to contain all CBM-produced water without discharge to Class 2 waters.23 

27 O&G Environmental Consulting. 2002. Coalbed methane producers information survey results. O&G 

Environmental Consulting, Englewood, CO. January. 

28 Pochop, L., K. Warnaka, J. Borrelli, and V. Hasfurther. 1985. Design information for evaporation ponds in 

Wyoming. WWRC-85-21. See: www.wrds.uwyo.edu/library/wrp/85-21/85-21.html. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

When groundwater and soil contamination from lower quality CBM-produced 

water are a concern, impervious barriers or liners can be used to reduce seepage through the 

pond bottom and sides. Soil that is at least 10 percent clay can be compacted with a sheepsfoot 

roller to create a suitable impervious barrier. If the soil is not at least 10 percent clay, a liner or 

soil amendment could be used to achieve impermeable barrier restrictions. The following site 

conditions may also require seepage reduction beyond what is provided by compacting the 

natural soil: a shallow underlying aquifer, an underlying aquifer that is ecologically important or 

used as a domestic water source, or highly permeable underlying bedrock or soil. Three options 

are available to provide additional seepage reduction: the soil can be mixed with bentonite or a 

soil dispersant and then compacted; clay can be imported and compacted along the bottom and 

side walls; or concrete or synthetic materials such as geomembranes or geosynthetic liners can 

be used. Concrete and synthetic liners are usually the most expensive. The method chosen to 

line the pond depends on the type of soil, site geography and location, available materials, and 

costs of alternatives. Ponds with liners, however, will have to be significantly larger than 

unlined ponds because no infiltration into the substrate occurs. Evaporation becomes the only 

mechanism for reducing the water levels in these lined, impermeable storage ponds. 

Injection 

Injection of produced water from oil and gas operations into Underground 

Injection Control (UIC) Class II wells is the predominant (greater than 90 percent by volume) 

form of produced-water management in the continental United States.29 Class II wells are 

regulated by the UIC and are used to inject fluids associated with the production of oil and 

natural gas. Injection into UIC Class II wells is also the predominant disposal option for CBMproduced water in the San Juan Basin because of high TDS. 

An injection well may be installed by either drilling a new hole or by converting 

an existing well. The types of existing wells that may be converted include: marginal oilproducing wells, plugged and abandoned wells, and wells that were never completed (dry holes). 

Drilling a new injection well may be similar to drilling a CBM-production well except that 

injection wells may need to be drilled deeper. 

In the conventional oil and gas industry, well conversions are most commonly 

performed as part of an enhanced recovery (water flood) project, and on wells whose 

hydrocarbon production rates have or soon will diminish to the point where they are no longer 

economical to operate as production wells (i.e., they have been depleted). Wells that were never 

completed (dry holes) and old plugged and abandoned wells may also be used, but may require 

more work at greater expense.30 The most common method of conversion involves recompleting 

29 Lawrence, A.W. 1993. Coalbed methane produced-water treatment and disposal options. Quarterly Review of 

Methane From Coal Seams Technology 11:2. Gas Research Institute. December. 

30 Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. No date. Draft recommended off-channel, unlined CBM 

produced water pit siting guidelines. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

the well at a shallower depth into a nonhydrocarbon-producing formation. In such a case, the 

lower portion of the well is cemented and sealed off. 

Some of the technical issues that may be associated with subsurface injection of 

produced water include formation plugging and scaling, formation swelling, corrosion, and 

incompatibility of injected produced waters with receiving formation fluids. In general, these 

issues can be avoided or remedied through engineering and operational applications such as the 

use of treatment chemicals.31 

An advantage of using Class II injection wells for disposal of CBM-produced 

water is that the water is returned to a geologic zone in which the natural quality of the water is 

usually worse than the injected produced water. If the well is properly designed, maintained, and 

operated, there is little risk of ground-water contamination from produced water. A potential 

disadvantage of using Class II injection wells is the possible need for pretreatment to prevent 

plugging of the injection well. It is also necessary to periodically clean crusted material from the 

injection well perforations. Well cleanings require temporary suspension of injection operations, 

and nearby temporary storage or alternative disposal facilities.32 

Pretreatment may include removing iron and manganese by precipitation. Iron 

and manganese form oxides upon exposure to air, which may lead to clogging in the well. 

Settling tanks with splash plates are used to aerate the produced water, which will oxidize iron 

and manganese to insoluble forms that can precipitate in the tank. The water can then be 

injected. Biocides may also be added to the produced water prior to injection to control 

biological fouling. 

Iron Oxidation 

CBM-produced water often has a high concentration of iron (e.g., 2 mg/L), which 

can be treated by exposing the water to air. As the water mixes with air, ferric/ferrous iron is 

oxidized to the ferrous/ferric state and precipitate out as a red/orange solid. Iron oxidation, 

however, can cause aesthetic problems when the produced water is discharged. To prevent this 

problem, iron oxidation can be enhanced before the discharge point by using simple oxidation 

methods such as spray nozzles, educators, bubble diffusors, and surface aerators to help 

oxygenate the water and precipitate the iron before the CBM effluent stream reaches surface 

waters. Chemical oxidation methods may also be used to remove iron. CBM operators in the 

Powder River Basin often use iron oxidation methods to eliminate staining of the receiving 

streams. 

31 U.S. EPA. 1996a. Development document for final effluent limitations guidelines and standards for the coastal 

subcategory of the oil and gas extraction point source category. EPA/821/R-96/023. Washington, DC. 

32 Zimpfer, G.L., E.J. Harmon, and B.C. Boyce. 1988. Disposal of production waters from oil and gas wells in the 

northern San Juan Basin, Colorado. In: Fassett, J.E. Fassett, ed. Geology and coal-bed methane resources of the 

northern San Juan Basin, New Mexico and Colorado, 1988 Coalbed Methane Symposium. Denver, CO: Rocky 

Mountain Association of Geologists. pp. 183-198. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Reverse Osmosis 

Reverse osmosis is a pressure-driven membrane separation process that can 

separate dissolved solutes from a solvent, usually water. The solute may be organic or inorganic 

and range in size from 1 to 10 Angstroms or less. Reverse osmosis membranes may consist of 

cellulose acetate, polyamides, or other polymers. The ability of reverse osmosis membranes to 

reject organic substances depends upon the molecular weight, geometry of the solute, and other 

factors. A well-designed reverse osmosis system can remove 90 to 99 percent of most dissolved 

organic and inorganic compounds. Most current reverse osmosis applications are related to 

water treatment for commercial, industrial, municipal, agricultural, and military facilities.33 

The process of reverse osmosis is based on the principal that when a salt solution 

is separated from demineralized water by a semipermeable membrane, the higher osmotic 

pressure of the salt solution causes demineralized water to flow into the salt solution 

compartment. Water will continue to flow and rise in the salt solution compartment until the 

increase in water height equals the osmotic pressure of the salt solution. If pressure is exerted on 

the salt solution compartment, water can be made to flow in the reverse direction; this is called 

osmotic pressure. Other membrane separation processes, such as microfiltration, nanofiltration, 

and ultrafiltration, use physical separation of solutes and all insoluble compounds based on 

membrane pore size, not osmotic pressure. 

In a typical reverse osmosis system, a pump applies pressure to the feed stream 

(e.g., CBM-produced water) to move water from the more concentrated to the less concentrated 

side of a membrane. The influent stream is separated into a permeate stream of treated water and 

a reject stream containing the concentrated salts. The reject stream is often disposed of through 

deep well injection and the permeate stream is often surface discharged. 

The greatest challenge in constructing a reverse osmosis system is packaging the 

greatest area of a fragile membrane in a relatively inexpensive housing that can operate at 

differential pressures of up to 1,000 psig. Two element designs, spiral wound elements and 

hollow fine fiber elements, have been developed to address this challenge. The spiral wound 

element consists of two sheets of membrane separated by a porous support material. This 

material supports the membrane against the operating pressure and provides a flow path for the 

product water. This unit is sealed around three sides with glue while the fourth edge is sealed to 

a hollow plastic tube that has perforations inside the edge seal area so that product can be 

removed from the porous support material. The units are rolled up about the central tube along 

with a mesh spacer that separates the membrane surfaces and promotes turbulence of the feed 

water as it passes through the element. Up to six elements may be connected in series and 

housed in a single pressure vessel.28 Reverse osmosis units can be constructed on mobile 

platforms to allow operators to relocate the units after water production declines in any particular 

area. 

33 Desalination Systems, Inc. 1986. Technical bulletin: reverse osmosis fundamentals. Desalination Systems, Inc. 

October. 

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The most critical problem confronting operators of reverse osmosis systems is 

fouling. Foulants consist of four major classes of substances: metal hydrozides (e.g., iron, 

manganese, aluminum hydroxides); colloidal and particulate foulants; precipitates of sparingly 

soluble salts (e.g., calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate); and biological or organic foulants (e.g., 

bacteria, bacterial by-products). Colloidal and metal hydroxide foulants enter in the feedwater 

and are driven to membrane surfaces by the permeate flow. Organic foulants and bacteria also 

enter in the feedwater. Given a suitable substrate, bacteria are capable of attaching and growing 

on membrane surfaces. Precipitates form when the solubility of sparingly soluble salts is 

exceeded within the system.28 

Membrane cleaning is usually effective in removing the majority of foulants, but 

it is not 100 percent effective in removing all foulant deposits and some cleaners may, with 

frequent use, cause a loss in salt rejection. However, with adequate pretreatment, reverse 

osmosis systems should not have to be cleaned more than several times per year and membranes 

should last approximately three years.28 

Although reverse osmosis has not often been used to treat large amounts of CBMproduced water for high TDS content, it has been and continues to be pilot-tested by CBM 

operators and is currently being used in Utah. Talon Resources is currently operating a reverse 

osmosis treatment unit in the Ferron Coalbed Gas Fairway in Orangeville, Utah. This unit is 

processing about 15,000 gallons of CBM-produced water per day and surface discharging about 

10,000 gallons per day. In the San Juan Basin, Phillips installed a reverse osmosis system at a 

pilot plant in 1992 at Pump Mesa. The pilot plant operated for only two months and was shut 

down due to delays in obtaining a surface discharge permit.34 BP is currently working with US 

Filter and Hydrometrics to develop pilot-scale reverse osmosis treatment. Pilot tests are also 

expected to begin in the Powder River Basin. 

Ion Exchange Technology 

The Higgins Loop ion exchange system uses cation and/or anion resins to remove 

sodium, chloride, sulfate, and other ions from CBM water. The CBM water must be degassed of 

methane prior to entering the system facility for personal safety reasons. This can be 

accomplished using a gas separator or a small receiving pit. The CBM water enters a small 

influent tank used as a feed tank to the system. Once the water enters the system, it moves 

through the adsorption zone, where a strong acid cation exchange resin (Dow G-26 resin) is used 

to remove the cations from CBM water. The cations in the CBM water are replaced by 

hydronium ions from the resin beads. This lowers the pH level of the CBM water and 

bicarbonate ions begin to react with the hydronium ions to form carbon dioxide gas. The treated 

water is then discharged to a neutralizing bed where the excess hydronium ions and residual 

bicarbonate ions (or carbon dioxide gas in solution, depending the pH) can react with selected 

calcium minerals to achieve the desired final pH. The selection of the neutralizing agent varies 

34 Cox, D.O., A.D. Decker, and S.H. Stevens. 1993. Analysis of fruitland water production treatment and disposal, 

San Juan Basin. Prepared by Advanced Resources International, Inc., for Gas Research Institute. June. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

with the desired final pH and the intended use of the treated water. Typically, limestone is used 

as the neutralizing agent.35 

As the CBM water is being treated, cations are removed from the resin in the 

regeneration section of the system. Hydrochloric or sulfuric acid is injected into the system, 

which moves countercurrent to the resin. This regeneration process restores the resin to its 

hydronium form. The hydrochloric acid is transported to the treatment facility and stored in poly 

tanks designed for hydrochloric acid containment and have a vapor scrubber in line. A chemical 

feed pump is used to pump the hydrochloric acid into the ion exchange system. Once the acid 

enters the system, it is diluted down to 14 percent and introduced directly into the regeneration 

phase of the system. The regenerated resin is rinsed with water to remove any residual acid 

before reentering the adsorption zone. This process generates a concentrated brine, which is 

removed for disposal.30 

The concentrated brine volumes range from 0.8 percent to 2 percent of the 

influent CBM water volume, depending on the cation loading that is removed from the treated 

water. The concentrated brine is typically stored on site until there is enough for a truck load. 

Then, it is transported to a commercial disposal facility, where it is disposed using an injection 

well.30 

As the upper layer of the adsorption zone becomes loaded with sodium, the ion 

exchange system is designed to interrupt the flow to the system to allow the resin to pulse in the 

opposite direction of the water flow. Once the resin pulsing is completed, the water flow into the 

system is restarted. In addition, the system is designed to backwash any solids out of the resin. 

The solids and small amounts of resin are backwashed into the resin recovery tank. Periodically, 

the operator will remove the resin from this tank and add it back into the system. If silts 

accumulate in the resin recovery tank, the operator removes them.30 

This system is effective at reducing total dissolved solids (TDS) levels of 1,600 to 

1,800 milligrams per liter (mg/L) to below 500 mg/L. The limitations of the system are 

determined by the total cation load of the CBM water. The system is engineered to operate at 

optimum with cation levels at a sodium equivalency of 500 mg/L but is efficient to any level 

below 500 mg/L and up to levels above 1,500 mg/L. The life span of the ion exchange system is 

typically 15 to 20 years. The system is capable of treating CBM water with 13 percent solids; 

therefore, pretreatment is not required.30 

The Higgins LoopTM has been a viable system for many years and has a history of 

97 percent or greater up time or continuous runtime. The design of the system allows for most of 

the required maintenance (e.g., replacement of small control valves) to be replaced during 

operation. Most of the down time that has been experienced is related to temperature generator 

power failure.30 

35 EMIT (2003), Report on Coal Bed Natural Gas Produced Water Treatment Utilizing Continuous Countercurrent 

Ion Exchange (CCIX) Technology. EMIT Water Discharge Technology, LLC. September. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Electrodialysis 

Electrodialysis is a membrane technology that can remove ionic constituents in 

CBM- produced water. In electrodialysis, salts and minerals are removed from a stream of saline 

water through special plastic membranes by the action of a direct electrical current. These salts 

and minerals pass through the membrane in the form of positively and negatively charged ions. 

The water from which these ions have been removed flows between the membranes and is 

collected as a partially demineralized product by manifolds cut through the membranes. The 

salts and minerals removed from the product screen pass through the membranes into another 

stream of water that continuously washes the other side of each membrane and emerges through 

manifolds as a more concentrated waste stream. The amount of electrical current and membrane 

surface required to desalt a given quantity of water by electrodialysis and the cost depends on the 

amount and type of mineral to be removed.36 

An electrodialysis cell consists of alternating anion-permeable and cationpermeable membranes that form compartments. Cations pass through the cation-permeable 

membrane toward the cathode and are trapped by the membrane, which is permeable only to 

anions. The anions travel in the opposite direction toward the anode and are trapped by the 

cation-permeable membrane. The feed stream becomes depleted of ions as they become trapped 

between the anion- and cation-specific membranes. 

Although electrodialysis is technically capable of treating CBM-produced water 

with a high TDS content, no commercial applications of this technology are known for treating 

this type of wastewater. 

Precipitation 

Chemical precipitation is a separation technology in which adding chemicals 

during treatment causes insoluble solid precipitates to form from the organic or inorganic 

compounds in the wastewater. Chemical precipitation is generally carried out in four phases: (1) 

addition of the chemical to the wastewater; (2) rapid (flash) mixing to distribute the chemical 

evenly into the wastewater; (3) slow mixing to promote growth by various flocculation 

mechanisms; and (4) filtration to remove the flocculated solid particles. Precipitation is caused 

by adding chemical reagents that adjust the pH of the water to the minimum solubility of the 

metal. The standard reagents include lime (calcium hydroxide), caustic (sodium hydroxide), 

magnesium hydroxide, soda ash (sodium carbonate), trisodium phosphate, sodium sulfide, and 

ferrous sulfide. These reagents precipitate metals as hydroxides, carbonates, phosphates, and 

36 Corbitt, R.A. 1990. Standard handbook of environmental engineering. New York: McGraw-Hill, Inc. R.R. 

Donnelley & Sons Company. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

sulfides. Metals commonly removed from solution by precipitation include arsenic, barium, 

cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, nickel, selenium, silver, thallium, and zinc.37 

In a typical precipitation process, a chemical precipitant is added to the metalcontaining water in a stirred reaction vessel. The dissolved metals are converted to an insoluble 

form by a chemical reaction between the soluble metal and the precipitant. The suspended 

particles are then flocculated and either settled in the batch tank or passed to a membrane filter. 

Granular media filtration can be used to remove any suspended metal precipitates that do not 

settle in the reaction tank. 

Hydroxide precipitation is the most common type of chemical precipitation. 

Hydroxide precipitation normally uses calcium hydroxide (lime), sodium hydroxide (caustic), or 

magnesium hydroxide as a precipitant to remove metals as insoluble metal hydroxides. The 

effluent metals concentration achieved by hydroxide precipitation depends upon the metals 

present, precipitant used, the reaction conditions (especially pH), and the presence of other 

materials that may inhibit precipitation. Hydroxide precipitation can achieve effluent metal 

concentrations of less than 1 mg/L, and sometimes less than 0.1 mg/L. The solubility of the 

metal is directly related to the pH of its environment. Many metals can form low solubility 

hydroxides in the pH range of 8.5 to 11.5. Removal of precipitated metals typically involves 

adding flocculating agents or polymers to destabilize the hydrodynamic forces that hold the 

particles in suspension.32 

CBM operators are not currently using chemical precipitation to treat produced 

water. This technique, however, could be combined with another treatment option if metal 

contaminants in the water are identified as a problem. 

Downhole Gas/Water Separation 

Downhole gas/water separation (DGWS) is an emerging technology for managing 

and disposing of produced water. This type of technology separates the water and gas below the 

surface and disposes of the water in a nonproduction zone without bringing the water to the 

surface. DGWS can reduce produced water management costs and increase the productive life 

and profitability of a well. This technology is not currently being used by CBM operators. 

DGWS requires a disposal zone that is isolated from the production zone so that 

the injected water will not interfere with gas production. The disposal zone must also be capable 

of handling the quantities of water pumped during gas production. A study of DGWS by Radian 

International38 that looked at 53 DGWS installations in conventional gas fields in the United 

37 U.S. EPA. 2000a. Development document for the proposed effluent limitations guidelines and standards for the 

iron and steel manufacturing point source category. EPA/821/B-00/011. Washington, DC. December. 

38 Gas Technologies Information. 1999. Technology Assessment and Economic Evaluation of Downhole Gas/Water 

Separation and Disposal Tools. GRI-99/0218, report prepared for the Gas Research Institute by Radian 

International. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

States and Canada showed mixed results. Poor performance was due to low injectivity in the 

disposal zone, insufficient zone isolation (recycling the water through the production zone), and 

poor well-bore integrity. Additional studies show that DGWS systems perform better when 

installed in a well with a competent cement sheath, minimal sand production, soft water, water 

production of at least 25 to 50 barrels per day, disposal costs of greater than $25 to $50 per day, 

and a low-pressure, high-injectivity disposal zone below the producing interval.39 

Freeze-Thaw/Evaporation Process 

Freezing is a crystallization process that can be used to purify water. When salts 

or other constituents are dissolved in water, the freezing point of the solution is lowered below 

32°F, the freezing point of pure water. Partial freezing occurs when the solution is cooled to a 

point below 32o

F but still above the freezing point of the solution. At this point, relatively pure 

ice crystals form, along with an unfrozen brine. The brine has a higher density than the ice and 

is readily separated. The relatively pure water that results when the ice melts can be directly 

utilized for a variety of beneficial uses, or discharged with a NPDES permit.40 

To allow more widespread application, the freezing technique has been coupled 

with evaporation to allow year-round application. Although EPA does not endorse any specific 

technology or vendor, the U.S. Department of Energy, Gas Research Institute, and several oil 

and gas operators have been conducting research since 1992 to develop a commercial, natural 

freeze-thaw/evaporation purification process for produced waters. This technology is being 

tested as part of an automated produced-water treatment and disposal facility in northwestern 

New Mexico’s San Juan Basin. The tests show that the process has potential in areas where costs 

for conventional disposal is high or where the treated water or concentrated brine is of value.34 

A freeze-thaw/evaporation process is suitable for portions of the country with climates that range 

below freezing. 

Harmon SO2 Generator 

Harmon Systems International, LLC developed an SO2 generator which can be 

used to treat CBM production water.41,42 The Harmon SO2 Generator is a sulfur burner that 

controls and maintains pH, carbonates, bicarbonates, and sodium absorption ratio (SAR) in water 

and soil. The system oxidizes sulfur into sulfur dioxide gas (SO2) by burning elemental sulfur 

with a propane torch in the presence of pressurized water and air. The sulfur dioxide gas is 

combined with the CBM produced water to produce sulfurous acid (H2SO3). Sulfurous acid 

39 Rudolph, J. 2001. Downhole produced water disposal improves gas rate. GasTIPS 7(3). 

40 Gas Research Institute. 1997. Treating produced waters in the San Juan Basin with the freeze-thaw/evaporation 

process. See: www.gri.org. 

41 Memorandum from Gong, T.R. of Harmon Systems International to Carey Johnston of EPA. May 19, 2004. 

42 Harmon Systems International, LLC website. See: http://www.harmonso2generators.com. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

neutralizes the buffering effects of bicarbonates and carbonates in the water, reducing the 

alkalinity of the water. The water produced as a result of this process is slightly acidic, similar 

to rain water, and can be land applied as irrigation for crops. Since the alkalinity of the water 

has been lowered, and bicarbonates and carbonates have been reduced, lime will no longer form 

in the soil. Also, additional acidity can be released as the water reacts with bacteria, organic 

matter, and dissolved oxygen in the soil. This additional acidity allows lime native to the soils to 

dissolve and promote deeper water infiltration in the soil. Salts leach to deeper depths, 

preventing salt accumulation on the surface soil. 

Summary 

At this time, EPA concluded it should not identify this industry for an effluent 

guidelines rulemaking. EPA is developing a guidance document for its permitting 

responsibilities on Indian lands in Region 8. This guidance will be available for state permitting 

authorities to consider using in their permitting efforts. EPA believes that, at this time, the best 

approach to controlling pollutant discharges from CBM operations is through use of this 

guidance document. This approach will allow EPA to gather additional data on this industry in 

order to better assess the hazards and risks associated with these discharges. The guidance 

document might also result in pollutant reductions in the near term as compared to pollutant 

reductions that may occur at the end of an effluent guideline rulemaking, which typically takes 

three to five years. If EPA receives new information on this industry in the future, it will 

reconsider this decision as part of future annual reviews. 

5.5.9.8 References 

1 U.S. EPA. Development Document for Interim Final Effluent Limitations 

Guidelines and Proposed New Source Performance Standards for the Oil and 

Gas Extraction Point Source Category. EPA-440/1-76/055-a. Washington, D.C. 

September 1976. 

5.6 Group V Industries 

Group V industries are those for which EPA has promulgated new or revised 

effluent guidelines within the past seven years. EPA suspects that many categories with effluent 

guidelines that have recently been promulgated, but not yet implemented, will appear on the lists 

of categories generated in the screening level analysis. In these instances, unless EPA has 

information indicating that the specific sources that are driving the identification were not 

addressed by the new guidelines, further study of these categories would not be a priority. 

Therefore, to focus its inquiry during the 2004 annual review, EPA generally excluded 

categories for which it promulgated effluent guidelines within the past seven years. EPA chose 

seven years because of the time it takes for effluent guidelines to be incorporated as enforceable 

effluent limitations into NPDES permits when they are renewed, which could be up to five years 

after the effluent guidelines are promulgated. This time period also allows for the pollutant 

reductions associated with recently-promulgated guidelines to be reflected in discharge 

monitoring data and 

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TRI reports, so that the Agency can assess the potential for remaining risks or hazards. Table 

5-183 lists the Group V industries. 

However, as explained in the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Plan, in cases 

where EPA is aware of the growth of a new segment within a category for which EPA had 

recently revised effluent guidelines, or where new concerns are identified for pollutants 

discharged by facilities within the industrial category, EPA may review a recently promulgated 

industrial category. Stakeholders raised issues relating to the Metal Products and Machinery 

(MP&M) (Part 438), Metal Finishing (Part 433), and Electroplating (Part 413) rulemakings. 

Finally, Commenters also raised issues on Subparts D and E of the Pulp and Paperboard ELG 

(Part 430). As a result, EPA reviewed the aforementioned recently promulgated regulations as 

part of its 2004 review. Each of these are discussed below. 

Table 5-183. Effluent Guidelines Recently Established, Revised, or Reviewed 

CFR 

Part Title 

Promulgation Date 

(FR Citation) 

Subparts 

Established/Revised/Reviewed 

451 Aquatic Animal 

Production 

June 30, 2004 

(69 FR 51891) 

BMPs for Subpart A (Flow-through and Recirculating 

Systems) and Subpart B (Net Pen) were established 

for BPT, BAT, and NSPS. 

432 Meat and Poultry 

Products 

February 26, 2004 The following subparts were revised: 

Subparts A-D: Meat First Processors (Non-small) 

Subparts F-I: Meat Further Processors (Non-small) 

Subpart J: Independent Renderers 

Subpart K: Poultry First Processors 

Subpart L: Poultry Further Processors 

438 Metal Products & 

Machinery 

May 13, 2003

 (68 FR 25686) 

The following subpart was established within this 

new point source category: 

Subpart A: Oily Waste 

The following industry sectors were reviewed: 

Railroad Line Maintenance 

Facilities (no effluent guidelines) 

Shipbuilding Dry 

Docks (no effluent guidelines) 

Metal Finishing (Part 433) 

Electroplating (Part 413) 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-183 (Continued) 

CFR 

Part Title 

Promulgation Date 

(FR Citation) 

Subparts 

Established/Revised/Reviewed 

412 Concentrated 

Animal Feeding 

Operations 

February 12, 2003 

(68 FR 7176) 

The following subpart was revised: 

Subpart A: Horses and Sheep 

The following subpart was reviewed: 

Subpart B: Ducks 

The following subparts were established: 

Subpart C: Dairy Cows and Cattle Other 

Than Veal Calves 

Subpart D: Swine, Poultry, and Veal 

Calves 

Note: Subparts C and D were previously included in 

Subpart A 

420 Iron & Steel October 17, 2002 

(67 FR 64216) 

The following subpart was established within this 

existing point source category: 

Subpart M: Other Operations 

The following subparts were revised within this 

existing point source category: 

Subpart A: Cokemaking 

Subpart B: Sintering 

Subpart C: Ironmaking 

Subpart D: Steelmaking 

The following subparts were reviewed within this 

existing point source category: 

Subpart E: Vacuum Degassing 

Subpart F: Continuous Casting 

Subpart G: Hot Forming 

Subpart H: Salt Bath Descaling 

Subpart I: Acid Pickling 

Subpart J: Cold Forming 

Subpart K: Alkaline Cleaning 

Subpart L: Hot Coating 

434 Coal Mining January 23, 2002 

(67 FR 3370) 

The following subparts were established within this 

existing point source category: 

Subpart G: Coal Remining 

Subpart H: Western Alkaline Coal

 Mining 

435 Oil and Gas 

Extraction 

January 22, 2001 

(66 FR 6850) 

BAT limitations and NSPS for nonaqueous drilling 

fluids were revised within the following subcategories 

within this existing point source category: 

Subpart A: Offshore 

Subpart D: Coastal 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-183 (Continued) 

CFR 

Part Title 

Promulgation Date 

(FR Citation) 

Subparts 

Established/Revised/Reviewed 

437 Centralized Waste 

Treatment 

December 22, 2000 

(65 FR 81242) 

The following subparts were established within this 

new point source category: 

Subpart A: Metals Treatment and

 Recovery 

Subpart B: Oils Treatment and Recovery 

Subpart C: Organics Treatment and

 Recovery 

Subpart D: Multiple Wastestreams 

442 Transportation 

Equipment 

Cleaning 

August 14, 2000 

(65 FR 49666) 

The following subparts were established within this 

new point source category: 

Subpart A: Tank Trucks and Intermodal

 Tank Containers Transporting

 Chemical and Petroleum

 Cargos 

Subpart B: Rail Tank Cars Transporting

 Chemical and Petroleum

 Cargos 

Subpart C: Tank Barges and Ocean/Sea

 Tankers Transporting

 Chemical and Petroleum

 Cargos 

Subpart D: Tanks Transporting Food

 Grade Cargos 

444 Waste 

Combustors 

January 27, 2000 

(65 FR 4360) 

The following subpart was established within this 

new point source category: 

Subpart A: Commercial Hazardous

 Waste Combustor 

445 Landfills January 19, 2000 

(65 FR 3007) 

The following subparts were established within this 

new point source category: 

Subpart A: RCRA Subtitle C Hazardous

 Waste Landfill 

Subpart B: RCRA Subtitle D

 Nonhazardous Waste Landfill 

441 Industrial 

Laundries 

August 18, 1999 

(64 FR 45072) 

The following point source category was reviewed: 

Facilities that launder industrial textile items from off 

site as a business activity. 

439 Pharmaceutical 

Manufacturing 

September 21, 1998 

(63 FR 50388) 

The following subparts were revised within this 

existing point source category: 

Subpart A: Fermentation Products 

Subpart B: Extraction Products 

Subpart C: Chemical Synthesis 

Subpart D: Mixing/Compounding and

 Formulation 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

CFR Promulgation Date Subparts 

Part Title (FR Citation) Established/Revised/Reviewed 

430 Pulp, Paper, and 

Paperboard 

April 15, 1998 

(63 FR 18504) 

The following subparts were revised within this 

existing point source category: 

Subpart B: Bleached Papergrade Kraft and

 Soda 

Subpart E: Papergrade Sulfite 

5.6.1 Metal Products and Machinery, Metal Finishing, and Electroplating (Parts 

438, 413, and 433) 

5.6.1.1 Background 

The metal finishing effluent guidelines (40 CFR Part 433) were promulgated in 

1983 and regulate a wide variety of industries performing various metal finishing operations. 

EPA estimates that there are approximately 44,000 facilities performing various metal finishing 

operations that discharge process wastewater directly to surface waters or indirectly to surface 

waters through POTWs.43 Most of these 44,000 facilities are indirect dischargers and are 

regulated by the metal finishing effluent guidelines. EPA recently reviewed these effluent 

guidelines as part of the MP&M effluent guidelines (see May 13, 2003; 68 FR 25686). Due to a 

variety of factors identified in the preamble to the final MP&M rule, EPA did not revise the 

metal finishing effluent guidelines. 

A number of POTWs and metal finishing facilities suggested in public comments 

on the Preliminary Plan (see December 31, 2003; 68 FR 75515) that iron phosphate conversion 

coating should excluded from the list of core operations in the metal finishing effluent 

guidelines. Phosphate conversion coating is defined as a “core”operation under the metal 

finishing effluent guidelines (Part 433.10(a)). Facilities that perform a core operation are subject 

to the metal finishing effluent guidelines. Consequently, metal finishing facilities performing 

phosphate conversion coating operations are currently subject to the metal finishing effluent 

guidelines. 

The metal finishing effluent guidelines do not distinguish among the various types 

of phosphate conversion coating operations (e.g., iron, zinc, nickel). All phosphate conversion 

coating operations are regulated as a “core”operation under the metal finishing effluent 

guidelines (Part 433.10(a)). However, some phosphate conversion coating baths contain high 

concentrations of toxic metals (e.g., zinc or nickel) while other phosphate conversion coating 

processes use a phosphoric acid or phosphate salt solution that contain much lower 

concentrations of toxic metals. The rinses from iron phosphate conversion coating operations 

contain very low concentrations of toxic metals and are often well below the metal finishing 

effluent guidelines. 

43Metal Products and Machinery Final Rule, Technical Development Document, EPA-821-B-03-001, Page 4-2. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

5.6.1.2 Public Comments 

A number of POTWs and metal finishing facilities suggested in public comments 

on the Preliminary Plan that iron phosphate conversion coating should be excluded from the list 

of core operations in the metal finishing effluent guidelines. Commenters cite EPA’s more recent 

MP&M rulemaking record (including analytical wastewater sampling data) that identifies iron 

phosphate conversion coating as an industrial operation with low concentrations of metals. EPA 

documented for the MP&M rulemaking that iron phosphate conversion coating does not require 

metals treatment (e.g., chemical precipitation and settling) and can be adequately treated by oily 

wastewater treatment (e.g., emulsion breaking and oil-water separation). 

Commenters cited several benefits for taking such an action. First, commenters 

suggest a pollution prevention benefit. If EPA were to exclude iron phosphate conversion 

coating from the list of regulated “core”operations under the metal finishing effluent guidelines, 

some metal finishing facilities might wish to lower their monitoring and record-keeping costs 

and switch from zinc or nickel phosphate conversion coating to iron phosphate conversion 

coating. This switch would have an added benefit of potentially reducing metals discharges. 

Second, commenters suggest that revising the list of core metal finishing operations might help 

lower the oversight burden for POTW pretreatment control program and focus more of their 

inspection and monitoring budgets on facilities with higher toxic pollutant loadings. The third 

benefit identified by commenters is that POTWs would not necessarily be required to develop a 

pretreatment control program if they accept iron phosphate conversion coating wastewaters. 

Commenters suggest that this may help focus more attention on facilities with higher toxic 

pollutant loadings and help lower the state and EPA oversight burden of POTW pretreatment 

control programs. 

5.6.1.3 EPA Review of Available Data 

EPA attempted to quantify the number of metal finishing facilities that perform 

iron phosphate conversion coating and whether the wastewaters from these facilities are directly 

or indirectly discharged to surface waters. EPA reviewed unit processes (UP) data from the 

MP&M database to answer the following questions: 

1. What are the national estimates of direct and indirect discharging facilities 

subject to metal finishing and/or electroplating (Part 413 or 433) 

performing: (1) iron phosphate conversion coating; and (2) other 

phosphate conversion coating (e.g., zinc, nickel)? 

2. What are the national volume estimates of wastewater (MGY) associated 

with the following operations: (1) iron phosphate conversion coating; and 

(2) other phosphate conversion coating (e.g., zinc, nickel)?

3. What are the national estimates of POTWs accepting wastewaters from: 

(1) iron phosphate conversion coating; and (2) other phosphate conversion

coating (e.g., zinc, nickel)? 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

There were significant data limitations in reviewing MP&M data. Specifically, 

only 5 of the 196 MP&M survey sites performing conversion coating without chromium (UP-14) 

responded in a way that allowed EPA to differentiate between iron phosphate conversion coating 

and other types of phosphate conversion coating. All five of these MP&M survey sites are 

indirect dischargers. EPA estimates that some of the remaining 191 sites also perform iron 

phosphate conversion coating. Consequently, the answers to the above three questions are 

provided below as a ranges. 

National Estimates of Metal Finishers Performing Conversion Coating Without 

Chromium 

Using information from the 196 MP&M survey sites, EPA estimates that 

nationally there are 3,617 facilities regulated by either Part 413 or 433 that perform conversion 

coating without chromium (UP-14). Of these 196 survey sites, 180 are indirect dischargers and 

16 are direct dischargers. EPA estimates that these 180 and 16 survey sites represent national 

estimates of 3,420 indirect dischargers and 197 direct dischargers, respectively. As previously 

stated, none of the five MP&M survey sites clearly identified as performing iron phosphate 

conversion coating were direct dischargers. However, it is possible that some of the 16 survey 

sites (197 national estimate) perform only iron phosphate conversion coating. Using information 

from the 180 indirect discharging MP&M survey sites, the national estimate of metal finishing 

indirect dischargers performing iron phosphate conversion coating ranges between 213 and 

3,420 facilities. 

National Volume Estimates of Wastewater 

For both direct and indirect dischargers at the national level (3,617 facilities), 

EPA estimates 6,100 MGY of process and rinse wastewater are generated from conversion 

coating without chromium (UP-14). Using information from the 180 indirect discharging 

MP&M survey sites, the national wastewater estimate from metal finishing indirect dischargers 

performing iron phosphate conversion coating ranges between 96 MGY and 6,100 MGY. EPA 

was unable to estimate the national wastewater estimate from metal finishing direct dischargers 

performing iron phosphate conversion coating, as EPA did not clearly identify any metal 

finishing direct dischargers performing iron phosphate conversion coating. 

National Estimates of POTWs Accepting Conversion Coating Without Chromium 

Wastewater 

To estimate the number of POTWs accepting wastewater from iron phosphate 

conversion coating operations, EPA used a conservative assumption that each metal finisher 

discharges to a separate POTW (i.e., one POTW per metal finisher). This assumption will likely 

overestimate the number of POTWs accepting wastewater from iron phosphate conversion 

coating operations but does help provide an upper bound estimate. Using information from the 

180 indirect discharging MP&M survey sites, the national estimate of POTWs accepting 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

wastewater from iron phosphate conversion coating operations ranges between 213 and 3,420 

POTWs. 

5.6.1.4 Conclusions 

As previously stated, EPA did not clearly identify any metal finishing direct 

dischargers perform iron phosphate conversion coating. However, it appears that most metal 

finishing facilities performing iron phosphate conversion coating are indirect dischargers. 

Consequently, EPA will address the issue of iron phosphate conversion coating and potential 

revisions to the Metal Finishing (Part 433) effluent guidelines in its CWA Section 304(g) 

pretreatment standards planning process. 

5.6.2 Pulp and Paperboard (Part 430) 

5.6.2.1 Technology Basis for Phase I 

EPA promulgated effluent limitations guidelines and standards for Phase I of the 

Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard category in 1998. Phase I includes Subpart B, Bleached 

Papergrade Kraft and Soda, and Subpart E, Papergrade Sulfite. EPA divided Subpart E into 

three segments. The technology basis of promulgated regulations for the calcium-, magnesium-, 

or sodium-based sulfite segment was totally chlorine free (TCF) bleaching. 

The technology basis of promulgated regulations for Subpart B, Bleached 

Papergrade Kraft and Soda was elemental chlorine free (ECF) bleaching, consisting of 

conventional pulping followed by complete substitution of chlorine dioxide for elemental 

chlorine, as well as the following nine elements: 

(i) Adequate chip thickness control; 

(ii) Closed brownstock pulp screen room operation, such that screening 

filtrates are returned to the recovery cycle; 

(iii) Use of dioxin- and furan-precursor-free defoamers (i.e., water-based 

defoamers or defoamers made with precursor-free oils); 

(iv) Effective brownstock washing, i.e., washing that achieves a soda loss of 

less than or equal to 10 kg Na2SO4 per ADMT of pulp (equivalent to 

approximately 99 percent recovery of pulping chemicals from the pulp); 

(v) Elimination of hypochlorite, i.e., replacement of hypochlorite with 

equivalent bleaching power in the form of additions of peroxide and/or 

oxygen to the first extraction stage and/or additional chlorine dioxide in 

final brightening stages; 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

(vi) Oxygen- and peroxide-enhanced extraction, which allows elimination of 

hypochlorite and/or use of a lower kappa factor in the first bleaching 

stage; 

(vii) Use of strategies to minimize kappa factor and dioxin- and furanprecursors in brownstock pulp; 

(viii) High shear mixing during bleaching to ensure adequate mixing of pulp 

and bleaching chemicals; and 

(ix) Efficient biological wastewater treatment, achieving removal of 

approximately 90 percent or more of influent BOD5. 

EPA considered another technology option, Option B, which was identical to the 

basis of the promulgated BAT, with the addition of extended delignification (oxygen 

delignification and/or extended cooking). EPA also considered a TCF option for BAT and 

NSPS. 

EPA determined that no technology option other than the promulgated BAT was 

both available and economically achievable or resulted in greater reductions in effluent loadings 

for dioxin, furan and other significant pollutants of concern. 

EPA estimated that the cost of the promulgated BAT was $966 million vs $2.1 

billion for Option B (1995 dollars) . EPA estimated the costs for a TCF option ranged from $3 

billion to $5.6 billion. 

EPA concluded that neither Option B nor a TCF option was economically 

achievable for the Bleached Papergrade Kraft and Soda subcategory as a whole. However, in 

addition to BAT, EPA promulgated voluntary alternative BAT limitations and PSES based on 

Option B and TCF bleaching processes in order to encourage mills to use these technologies 

whenever possible. 

Group VI Industries 

Group VI industries are those that ranked low in terms of potential hazard or risk 

in EPA’s screening-level analysis. In addition, none of these industries were identified by 

stakeholders during EPA’s 2003 effluent guidelines review. For its 2004 effluent guidelines 

review, EPA considered whether it had any reason to believe that the information it relied upon 

in its 2003 annual review had changed significantly. EPA determined that it didn’t have any 

reason to believe the information has changed, nor did commenters or stakeholders provide any 

rationale for revising its earlier conclusions. Therefore, EPA did not conduct any additional 

analysis with respect to these Group VI industries in its 2004 annual review. Table 5-184 lists 

the Group VI industries. 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

Table 5-184. Low Ranked Industries Not Identified by Stakeholders 

Industrial Category 

40 CFR 

Part 

TRI 

TWPE 

TRI Point 

Source Category 

Ranking 

PCS 

TWPE 

PCS Point Source 

Category 

Ranking 

Aluminum Forming 467 25,000 19 100,000 11 

Asbestos Manufacturing 427 6 44 N/A N/C 

Battery Manufacturing 461 8,000 29 0 40 

Carbon Black Manufacturing 458 0 45 N/A N/C 

Cement Manufacturing 411 11,000 26 15,000 22 

Copper Forming 468 22,000 23 5,600 27 

Explosives Manufacturing 457 381 35 5,600 28 

Ferroalloy Manufacturing 424 22,000 22 8,800 24 

Glass Manufacturing 426 1,900 31 0 42 

Grain Mills Manufacturing 406 8,900 28 479 35 

Gum and Wood Chemicals 454 50 39 42,000 14 

Hospitals 460 720 NA 5 NA 

Ink Formulating 447 51 38 N/A N/C 

Leather Tanning and Finishing 425 29,000 18 5,500 29 

Nonferrous Metals Forming and Metal 

Powders 

471 100,000 12 15,000 23 

Paint Formulating 446 920 34 N/A N/C 

Paving and Roofing Materials 443 35 40 710 34 

Pesticide Chemicals 455 320,000 8 180,000 9 

Photographic 459 N/A N/C 0 41 

Plastic Molding and Forming 463 110,000 10 3,700 31 

Porcelain Enameling 466 92,000 13 54,000 13 

Rubber Manufacturing 428 170,000 9 8,700 25 

Soaps and Detergent Manufacturing 417 360 36 164 37 

Sugar Processing 409 280 37 16,000 21 

NA - Rank not applicable. Point source category excluded because ELG recently developed.

N/A - Not available.

N/C - Not calculated due to lack of PCS or TRI data.

However, EPA notes that, as part of this review, it considered developing 

additional subcategories for three of the above regulations: Soaps and Detergent Manufacturing 

(417), Paint formulating (446), and Ink Formulating (447). As part of its review of OCPSF, EPA 

reviewed the chemical formulator packaging and repackaging (CFPR) industry. EPA studied 

this industry in 1997. At the time of that study, EPA included SIC codes 2841, 2851, and 2893 

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Section 5 - Existing Industry Review 

because a portion of the facilities reporting these SIC codes are not specifically included in 

existing applicabilities of Parts 417, 446, or 447 and could be considered part of the CFPR 

industry. Due to data limitations, EPA had no way to differentiate facilities that were included in 

existing point source categories and facilities that were part of CFPR. Therefore, EPA included 

all facilities reporting SIC codes 2841, 2851, and 2893 in the 1997 CFPR study. However, for 

this review, EPA considered any operations outside of the current applicability of existing 

effluent guidelines as potential new subcategories of the respective category. Consequently, 

these SIC codes were included in the review of Parts 417, 446, and 447 and not considered part 

of the CFPR industry evaluated as part of the OCPSF review. 

EPA notes that the total TWPE estimates for Parts 417, 446, and 447 include all 

facilities that report SIC codes 2841, 2851, or 2893, respectively. Therefore, the TWPE 

estimates for these categories include discharges from facilities that may not be specifically 

included in the existing applicabilities of Parts 417, 446, and 447. As indicated above, even with 

these potential new facilities, these categories rank low in terms of potential toxic wastewater 

pollutant indicating additional subcategorization is not warranted. EPA recommends permit 

writers subject such facilities to the applicable existing limitations on a BPJ basis. Permit 

writers may also want to review and consider pollution prevention alternatives described in 

EPA’s Pollution Prevention (P2) Guidance Manual: Implementing the P2 Alternative (EPA821-B-98-017, June 1998) developed for Pesticide Formulating Packaging and Repackaging 

(PFPR) facilities. Because many of the operations and wastewater sources at these facilities are 

similar to those at PFPR facilities, EPA believes the pollution prevention practices identified for 

PFPR facilities may also be applicable. 

Medical and Dental Laboratories 

Stakeholders in previous outreach identified independent and stand alone 

laboratories for new ELG development. This industry may be identified by various SIC codes 

including 8071, 8072, 8731, and 8734. The SIC code description for each is described below: 

C SIC code 8071: Medical Laboratories. Establishments primarily engaged 

in providing professional analytic or diagnostic services to the medical 

profession, or to the patient on prescription of a physician. 

C SIC code 8072: Dental Laboratories. Establishments primarily engaged 

in making dentures, artificial teeth, and orthodontic appliances to order for 

the dental profession. Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing 

artificial teeth, except to order, are classified in SIC code 3843, and those 

providing dental X-ray laboratory services are classified in SIC code 

8071. 

C SIC code 8731: Commercial Physical and Biological Research. 

Establishments primarily engaged in commercial physical and biological 

research and development on a contract or fee basis. Noncommercial 

research establishments funded by endowments, grants, or contributions 

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are classified in SIC code 8733. Separate establishments of aircraft, 

guided missile, or spacecraft manufacturers primarily engaged in research 

and development on these products are classified in Manufacturing, SIC 

Major Group 37. 

C SIC code 8734: Testing Laboratories. Establishments primarily engaged 

in providing testing services. Establishments primarily engaged in 

performing clinical laboratory testing for the medical profession are 

classified in SIC code 8071. 

EPA reviewed the applicability of existing ELGs to determine if discharges from 

stand- alone and independent laboratories were already subject to existing ELGs. EPA found 

that there are no ELGs that currently apply to discharges from stand-alone and independent 

laboratories. 

Next, EPA evaluated whether discharges from medical laboratory facilities (SIC 

code 8071) and dental laboratory facilities (SIC code 8072) should be addressed as a potential 

new subcategory under Hospitals (40 CFR Part 460). Part 460 applies to the wastewater 

discharges from a variety of activities at hospitals including on-site medical laboratories. 

Operations included as part of SIC code 8071, medical laboratories, are health care related. 

Many of the operations present at these facilities are similar to operations present at hospitals (xrays, blood analysis, etc). Operations classified as part of SIC code 8072, dental laboratories, 

produce mercury as the main pollutant of concern. Mercury is also a pollutant of concern for 

hospital wastewater. Therefore, EPA determined medical and dental laboratories are 

appropriately considered as a potential new subcategory of 40 CFR Part 460. 

In this review, EPA also considered whether it should consider develop 

limitations and standards for additional subcategories of this ELG for medical laboratory 

facilities (SIC code 8071) and dental laboratory facilities (SIC code 8072). EPA concluded it 

was not appropriate to develop new ELGs for these subcategories because discharges rank low 

relative to other industrial categories. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

SECTION 6 ORGANIC CHEMICALS, PLASTICS, AND SYNTHETIC FIBERS 

DETAILED REVIEW 

Introduction 

EPA selected the Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers (OCPSF) 

Point Source Category (40 CFR Part 414) for further review because it ranked highest among all 

point source categories in toxic, priority, and nonconventional pollutant discharges (in pounds) 

in the screening-level analysis for 2000. Also in the screening-level analysis, EPA found that, by 

far, the toxic pollutant loadings are driven by three pollutants: polycyclic aromatic compounds 

(PACs), aniline, and dioxin. EPA reviewed the facilities that reported discharging these 

pollutants and identified groups of facilities with common manufacturing processes that 

discharged the same pollutants. In the case of PACs, EPA identified coal tar refiners; for aniline, 

EPA identified aniline and dye manufacturers; and for dioxin, EPA identified vinyl chloride 

manufacturers and other organic chemicals manufacturers. 

For the detailed review of OCPSF, EPA further verified Toxic Release Inventory 

(TRI) and Permit Compliance System (PCS) data, collected and analyzed additional industry 

data, reviewed the existing regulations for this industrial category, and evaluated potential new 

subcategories to be considered. In addition, for the three groups of facilities identified above, 

EPA analyzed current discharges, treatment in place, and industry trends. 

EPA also analyzed data associated with facilities that formulate, package, and 

repackage chemicals into products for end use or for further processing to determine if new 

subcategories of OCPSF should be identified and further studied for this sector. 

This section discusses EPA’s analysis of the OCPSF category and its conclusions 

in the following order: 

C Section 6.2 discusses data sources used, EPA’s verification of the data, 

and the data source limitations; 

C Section 6.3 discusses the OCPSF industry profile and EPA’s identification 

of three focus industries; 

C Section 6.4 discusses the current OCPSF effluent limitations guidelines 

and standards (40 CFR Part 414); 

C Section 6.5 discusses other federal regulations affecting OCPSF; 

C Section 6.6 discusses EPA’s analysis and findings for coal tar refiners; 

C Section 6.7 discusses EPA’s analysis and findings for aniline dischargers; 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Section 6.8 discusses EPA’s analysis and findings for dioxin dischargers; 

C Section 6.9 discusses control of dioxin-laden wastewater, including 

pollution prevention and wastewater treatment technologies; 

C Section 6.10 discusses EPA’s findings on chemical formulating, 

packaging, and repackaging (CFPR) operations; and 

C Section 6.11 includes the list of references. 

6.2 Data Sources 

This section discusses the following data sources specifically as they pertain to 

the OCPSF detailed review: 

C Section 6.2.1 discusses TRI data limitations and verification; 

C Section 6.2.2 discusses PCS data limitations and verification; 

C Section 6.2.3 discusses data obtained from the Chlorine Chemistry 

Council; 

C Section 6.2.4 discusses data obtained from the Vinyl Institute; 

C Section 6.2.5 discusses data obtained from EPA’s Office of Solid Waste 

(OSW) rule on chlorinated aliphatics manufacture; 

C Section 6.2.6 discusses data obtained from EPA’s Office of Air and 

Radiation (OAR) rule on mercury emissions from mercury cell chlor 

alkali plants; and 

C Section 6.2.7 discusses other sources that EPA used for this review. 

Section 4.2 of this Technical Support Document discusses TRI and PCS. Section 

4.2.4 discusses the calculation of toxic-weighted pound equivalents (TWPE) for certain data 

sources. 

6.2.1 Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 

All OCPSF facilities that meet the employee criterion (i.e., 10 or more 

employees) and the chemical threshold(s) must submit reports to EPA’s TRI program. Of the 

1,570 OCPSF facilities operating in the United States (U.S.) in 2000 (1), 992 (63 percent) 

reported to TRI in 2000. EPA used data reported to TRI to estimate pollutant loadings and 

identify treatment in place for this category. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

For the OCPSF detailed review, EPA verified TRI data, particularly for those 

facilities and pollutants with high TWPE. For example, facilities may estimate releases in a 

number of ways when reporting to TRI. If a chemical is not detected in the effluent, facilities 

may estimate the discharge by using one-half of the detection limit. This may overestimate the 

amount of chemical discharged, which particularly affected the amount of PACs discharges 

reported for the OCPSF industry, as discussed below. 

Facilities report some chemicals as groups to TRI, including the 21 chemicals 

included in the PAC category. Facilities are required to report the combined mass of PACs 

released to TRI. They do not identify which compounds are released and they do not report 

releases of individual PAC compounds to TRI. EPA looked to other data sources to identify the 

individual PACs that may be present in OCPSF discharges. Benzo(a)pyrene was the only PAC 

reported in PCS by OCSPF facilities. Therefore, to calculate the TWPE of the PACs reported in 

TRI, EPA used the toxicity weighting factor (TWF) for benzo(a)pyrene to represent all PACs. 

Because the TWF for benzo(a)pyrene is higher than any other PAC, this represents a worst-case 

scenario. 

Another TRI chemical group that contributes significantly to EPA’s estimate of 

toxic pounds discharged is dioxin. Facilities are required to report the combined mass of dioxin 

and dioxin-like compounds released, and they are given the opportunity to report a facilityspecific congener distribution. The congener distribution provided by the facility represents 

releases of dioxin to all media (e.g., air and solids) and may not accurately reflect the specific 

congeners discharged to surface water. Section 6.8 of this section discusses dioxin TWPE for 

OCPSF Focus Group 3 (Dioxin Dischargers) in more detail. See also Section 4.2.4.2 for a more 

detailed discussion on dioxins and the calculation of TWPE for dioxin. 

To verify the data reported to TRI, EPA performed the following activities: 

C Contacted certain facilities to discuss reported discharges, discussed in 

Section 6.2.1.1; 

C Reviewed comments submitted in response to the December 31, 2003 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, FRN FRL-7604-7, 

discussed in Section 6.2.1.2; 

C Removed TWPE from polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides, 

discussed in Section 6.2.1.3; and 

C Used industry-provided data to compare pollutant discharges, discussed in 

Section 6.2.4 (Chlorine Chemistry Council Data). 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.2.1.1 Facility-Specific Verification of TRI Data 

For facilities that contributed significantly to the overall TWPE estimate for this 

industry or for facilities for which EPA received specific comment, EPA verified the TRI data. 

ExxonChemical reported the following releases of PACs to surface water from its 

Baton Rouge plant: 1,801 pounds (7.7 million TWPE) in 2000 and 8,324.9 pounds (36 million 

TWPE) in 2001. EPA contacted ExxonChemical to 1) verify the discharge of PACs for 2000 

and 2001 and determine what caused the increase and 2) determine the primary constituents in 

the PACs discharges from this facility. 

As stated in a letter dated August 21, 2003 in response to EPA’s questions, 

ExxonChemical analyzed wastewater samples collected in 2000 and 2001 (see DCN00336) for 

PACs, but never detected these compounds. Although analytical data demonstrate PACs were 

not detected in wastewater from this facility, the facility chose to calculate the PAC discharge 

using one-half of the detection limit for the concentration estimates. As explained in Section 

4.2.1, this is consistent with guidance provided by EPA in reporting to TRI. 

Based on this information, for the purpose of this analysis, EPA set the PAC 

pounds released to surface water from ExxonChemical’s Baton Rouge plant to zero for 2000 and 

2001 in TRIReleases2000. (TRIReleases2000 is the database that EPA created for analyses for 

the 2004 annual review. Please see Section 4.2.1 of this TSD for more information.) 

6.2.1.2 Data Submitted with Comments 

EPA published a Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan on December 31, 

2003 for public comment. EPA received no TRI-related data from commenters and no 

comments from facilities requesting corrections to 2000 TRI data. EPA did receive comments 

that OCPSF facilities reduced their pollutant discharges since 2000, and that 2002 data would 

more accurately reflect the current discharges. Also, EPA received dioxin data from some 

facilities in the Chlorine Chemistry Council under the National Program Chemicals Division, 

which is discussed in Section 6.2.4. 

6.2.1.3 Correction for PCBs and Pesticides 

For the screening-level analysis, EPA assigned pollutant loadings to point source 

categories based on the primary SIC code that facilities reported. Facilities might have mainly 

OCPSF operations, but also some co-located pesticide operations. Some facilities reported 

discharges of picloram and total carbaryl, but discharges from picloram and total carbaryl 

manufacturing are subject to Effluent Limitations Guidelines for the Pesticides Chemical Point 

Source Category (40 CFR Part 455). For the detailed analysis, EPA included the pollutant loads 

associated with these pesticides with the Pesticide Chemicals category instead of OCPSF. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

PCBs are no longer in commerce, and the mass reported discharged to TRI is 

most likely not being generated by current processes. Therefore, EPA removed all TWPE 

associated with PCBs in TRIReleases2000 for this analysis. 

6.2.2 Permit Compliance System (PCS) 

As explained in Section 4.2.2, states submit data from facilities’ discharge 

monitoring reports (DMRs) to EPA’s PCS. The data from each DMR will vary depending on the 

facility’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements. 

Two of the pollutants with the highest TWPE – dioxins and aniline – are not 

currently regulated by 40 CFR Part 414. Monitoring of these pollutants is not generally required 

by NPDES permits. Therefore, EPA only has PCS data from facilities where additional state or 

local limits apply, as discussed in Sections 6.7 and 6.8. 

To verify the data reported to PCS, EPA performed the following activities: 

C Reviewed comments submitted in response to the December 31, 2003 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, FRN FRL-7604-7, 

discussed in Section 6.2.2.1, and 

C Removed TWPE from polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides, 

discussed in Section 6.2.2.2. 

6.2.2.1 Data Submitted with Comments 

In response to the December 31, 2003 Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program 

Plan, EPA received a request from the American Chemistry Council (ACC) for corrections to 

PCS data for the Celanese Acetate LLC plant in Rock Hill, South Carolina (NPDES Permit ID 

SC0001783). ACC provided information from the facility verifying that all data except for 

ammonia and two metals (nickel and zinc) were reported as not detected, and that Celanese 

Acetate previously submitted a request for correction to PCS. In this case, EPA corrected the 

PCSLoads2000 database to reflect the facility-verified data. 

General Electric and DuPont submitted comments that they generally disagreed 

with EPA’s methodology regarding concentrations measured below detection limits in PCS. The 

commenters stated that EPA’s methodology overestimated PCS loads because of detection limit 

considerations. For example, as explained in Section 4.2.2, if a facility never detects a pollutant 

in a year, EPA sets the load to zero for that pollutant in PCSLoads2000. However, if a pollutant 

is detected at any point during the year, EPA calculates annual pollutant loads using the detected 

values and one half the method detection limit for months with no detects. Although DuPont and 

General Electric provided qualitative data, they did not provide analytical data to support their 

assertions. These commenters instead gave general information (e.g., all pollutant loads, except 

for ammonia and nickel, should be zero for their OCPSF facilities). In these cases, where 

6-5
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

companies did not provide specific monitoring data, EPA did not change the PCSLoads2000 

database. 

6.2.2.2 Correction for PCBs and Pesticides 

For the screening-level analysis, as with TRI data, EPA assigned pollutant 

loadings to point source categories based on the primary SIC code that facilities reported. 

Facilities may have mainly OCPSF operations, but also some co-located pesticide operations. 

Some facilities reported discharges of picloram and total carbaryl, but discharges from picloram 

and total carbaryl manufacturing are covered by Effluent Limitations Guidelines for the 

Pesticides Chemical Point Source Category (40 CFR Part 455). For this analysis of PCS data, 

EPA included the pollutant loads associated with these pesticides with the Pesticide Chemicals 

category instead of OCPSF. 

PCBs are no longer in commerce, and the mass reported discharged to PCS is 

most likely residual – not being generated by current processes. Therefore, EPA removed all 

TWPE associated with PCBs in PCSLoads2000. 

6.2.3 Economic Census 

The 1997 U.S. Economic Census provides an upper bound on the number of 

facilities performing operations that fall under the OCPSF category. The census may overstate 

the number by including nonproduction facilities, such as sales locations. For these reasons, EPA 

used census data only as a point of reference in the OCPSF detailed review. 

6.2.4 The Chlorine Chemistry Council 

As stated on its web page (http://www.c3.org), the Chlorine Chemistry Council 

(CCC) is a national trade association representing the manufacturers and users of chlorine and 

chlorine-related products. It is also a business council of the ACC. Members of the CCC 

provide media-specific data to the public on their dioxin discharges on the CCC web page, in 

part because the CCC is concerned that TRI reporting requirements overstate the amount of 

dioxin discharged. As of June 2004, the CCC posts data for 2000, 2001, and 2002. 

Facilities provided media-specific dioxin release data to the CCC. The congener 

distribution can greatly affect the estimated toxicity of a dioxin discharge. For example, the 

2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo(p)dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD) congener (TWF = 421,600,000) is much 

more toxic than the 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-octachlorodibenzofuran (OCDF) congener (TWF = 67,367). 

Also, the congener distribution of dioxin in air can differ greatly from that in water, and the 

media-specific data can differ greatly from the TRI congener distribution that is intended to 

apply to all media. EPA revised the TWFs for dioxins in 2004. The memorandum entitled 

Revisions to TWFs for Dioxin and its Congeners and Recalculated TWPEs for OCPSF and 

Petroleum Refining (available in the docket) presents the estimated TWPE for OCPSF facilities 

using the revised TWFs. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

For this detailed review, EPA used all available CCC dioxin data, which included 

facility-specific data from the following companies: 

C Dow Chemical;

C Occidental Chemical (as well as joint ventures OxyVinyls and Oxychem);

C PPG;

C Vulcan;

C Formosa;

C Georgia Gulf; and

C Borden Chemicals and Plastics.

In addition, the CCC voluntarily provided more specific, verified dioxin discharge 

data to EPA’s National Program Chemicals Division (NPCD) for the 2000 EPA Dioxin 

Inventory. Section 6.8, the Dioxin Dischargers section, discusses these data in more detail. 

6.2.5 The Vinyl Institute 

According to its web site (http://www.vinylinstitute.org), the Vinyl Institute is a 

U.S. trade association representing the leading manufacturers of vinyl, vinyl chloride monomer 

(VCM), vinyl additives and modifiers, and vinyl packaging materials. The Vinyl Institute 

published a report entitled, “The Vinyl Institute Dioxin Characterization Program” on July 1, 

2002. From this report, EPA identified the facilities that manufacture ethylene dichloride 

(EDC), VCM, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). EPA also used data presented in the report from an 

industry study that tested wastewater from EDC/VCM and PVC manufacturing and PVC resins 

for dioxin, presented in Section 6.8. The study concluded that PVC products such as pipes do 

not contain dioxin and are safe to use, but that dioxin may be found in wastewater from EDC, 

VCM, and PVC manufacture. 

6.2.6 Office of Solid Waste Chlorinated Aliphatics Rule 

EPA’s Office of Solid Waste (OSW) promulgated a hazardous waste rule on 

Chlorinated Aliphatics Production Wastes on November 8, 2000. As part of the analysis 

supporting the rulemaking, OSW collected sampling data on six types of waste (19): 

C Wastewaters generated from the production of VCM using mercuric 

chloride catalyst in an acetylene-based process (VCM-A wastewaters, not 

listed); 

C Wastewaters from the production of chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons, 

except for wastewaters generated from the production of VCM using 

mercuric chloride catalyst in an acetylene-based process (proposed as 

K173 waste but not listed); 

C Wastewater treatment sludges from the production of VCM using 

mercuric chloride catalyst in an acetylene-based process (listed as K175); 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Wastewater treatment sludges from the production of EDC or VCM (listed 

as K174); 

C Wastewater treatment sludges from the production of methyl chloride (not 

listed); and 

C Wastewater treatment sludges from the production of allyl chloride (not 

listed). 

OSW sampled untreated wastewater effluent at the point of entry into biological 

treatment for K173 waste (chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons). In the Best Demonstrated 

Available Technology (BDAT) report, OSW presents the results for the plants that had 

EDC/VCM wastewater (15). EPA used these data in the OCPSF detailed review to determine 

the source of dioxin in OCPSF wastewater. 

6.2.7 Office of Air and Radiation NESHAPs Rule for Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali 

Plants 

On December 19, 2003, EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) promulgated 

National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Mercury Emissions from Mercury 

Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants. As part of this rule, OAR collected manufacturing data from chloralkali plants in the United States. EPA used the manufacturing information about the chloralkali plants in the OCPSF detailed review. 

6.2.8 Other Data Sources 

In addition to those sources discussed above, EPA also used the following: 

C Company web pages available on the Internet; 

C The June 2003 Chlorine Institute publication entitled, North American 

Chlor-Alkali Industry Plants and Production Data Report; 

C National Safety Council’s “Chemical Backgrounders,” available via its 

web site (http://www.nsc.org); 

C The Innovation Group (TIG) Chemical Profiles, available via its web site 

(http://www.the-innovation-group.com/welcome.htm); and 

C Other related web pages available on the Internet, such as news web 

pages, economic statistics web pages, and state and local regulatory 

agency web pages. 

6-8 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.3 General Industry Profile and Identification of Focus Industries 

EPA’s initial review of the OCPSF category used data from the Development 

Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines, New Source Performance Standards, and 

Pretreatment Standards for the Organic Chemicals and the Plastics and Synthetic Fibers Point 

Source Category (October 1987) (17), the TRIReleases2000 database, and the PCSLoads2000 

database. Initially, EPA identified OCPSF facilities by their primary SIC code. 

As EPA continued its review, it became clear that analyzing discharges by 

primary SIC code was insufficient to support a detailed review. EPA realizes that the OCPSF 

category is a large group of many industries. To simplify the review, EPA identified segments 

of the industry with common processes and/or wastewater characteristics. Next, EPA identified 

focus industries: those groups of facilities with common manufacturing processes that reported 

discharge of the pollutants with the highest TWPE. The remainder of this section describes the 

OCPSF category in general, and the identification of focus industries in the following order: 

C Section 6.3.1 presents a general overview of the facilities in the OCPSF 

category, including the types of products manufactured; 

C Section 6.3.2 discusses the manufacturing processes used by OCPSF 

facilities; 

C Section 6.3.3 discusses general wastewater characteristics and treatment; 

C Section 6.3.4 discusses the identification of focus industries and SIC code 

analysis; and 

C Section 6.3.5 discusses EPA’s decision not to further consider facilities 

reporting SIC codes 2823 and 2824 in the detailed review. 

6.3.1 General Overview of the OCPSF Category 

The OCPSF category includes many chemical industries producing hundreds of 

end products, such as polypropylene, vinyl chloride and PVC, chlorinated solvents, rubber 

precursors, styrofoam additives, and polyester (to name a few). Some OCPSF facilities are 

extremely complex and produce hundreds of chemicals, where others are simpler, producing one 

or two end products (17). 

Wastewater discharges from OCPSF operations are regulated under 40 CFR Part 

414. In 1989, EPA promulgated Best Practicable Control Technology Currently Available 

(BPT) for subcategories based on product type, which is similar to the SIC code structure. Table 

6-1 lists the subcategories identified for BPT regulation. EPA also promulgated BAT and PSES 

for subcategories based on type of wastewater treatment, not product type, in Subparts I, J, and 

K. Section 6.4 discusses the regulation in more detail. 

6-9 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-1. OCPSF Subcategories for BPT (40 CFR Part 414) 

Subpart Name Description 

A General General definitions 

B Rayon Fibers Manufacture of rayon fiber by the viscose process only 

C Other Fibers Manufacture of products classified under SIC 2823, except rayon, and SIC 

2824 (specific list provided) 

D Thermoplastic Resins Manufacture of products classified under SIC 28213 - thermoplastic resins 

(specific list provided) 

E Thermosetting Resins Manufacture of products classified under SIC 28214 - thermosetting resins 

(specific list provided) 

F Commodity Organic 

Chemicals 

Manufacture of specific commodity organic chemicals and chemical 

groups classified under SIC 2865 and 2869 (specific list provided) 

G Bulk Organic 

Chemicals 

Manufacture of specific bulk organic chemicals and chemical groups 

classified under SIC 2865 and 2869 (specific list provided) 

H Specialty Organic 

Chemicals 

Manufacture of specific organic chemicals and chemical groups not 

defined as commodity or bulk classified under SIC 2865 and 2869 

The OCPSF industry includes establishments engaged in manufacturing organic 

chemicals, plastics, and synthetic fibers, but does not include rubber manufacturing, gum and 

wood chemicals manufacturing, pesticide chemicals manufacturing or formulating/packaging/ 

repackaging, or miscellaneous plastics (e.g., plastics molding and forming). Table 6-2 lists 

examples of chemicals produced by the OCPSF industry. 

Table 6-2. Examples of Chemicals Produced by OCPSF Facilities 

Organic Chemicals Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 

Derivatives of benzene, toluene, naphthalene, anthracene, Cellulose acetate, phenolic, and other tar acid 

pyridine, carbazole, and other cyclic chemical products resins 

Synthetic organic dyes and pigments Urea and melamine resins, vinyl acetate resins, 

polyethylene resins, polypropylene resins, rosin 

modified resins 

Cyclic (coal tar) crudes, such as light oils and light oil Cellulosic man-made fibers, including cellulose 

products, coal tar acids, products of medium and heavy oil acetate, rayon, triacetate fiber, styrenes 

(e.g., creosote oil), aniline 

Noncyclic organic chemicals (e.g., acetic acid, metallic Noncellulosic synthetic organic fibers, including 

salts, formaldehyde) acrylic, fluorocarbon, nylon, olefin, polyester, and 

polyvinyl 

Solvents (e.g., amyl, butyl, and ethyl alcohols, carbon Silicones 

disulfide) 

Polyhydric alcohols and their esters, amines, etc. Other Products Manufactured from Purchased 

Refinery Products 

Synthetic perfume and flavoring materials Benzene 

6-10
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-2 (Continued) 

Organic Chemicals Plastics and Synthetic Fibers 

Rubber processing chemicals and plasticizers Toluene 

Synthetic tanning agents Mixed xylenes 

Fatty and other acids Aliphatic hydrocarbons 

The OCPSF category includes the following five SIC codes: 

1. SIC 2821: Plastic Materials, Synthetic Resins, and Nonvulcanizable 

Elastomers; 

2. SIC 2823: Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers; 

3. SIC 2824: Synthetic Organic Fibers, Except Cellulosic; 

4. SIC 2865: Cyclic Crudes and Intermediates, Dyes, and Organic Pigments; 

and 

5. SIC 2869: Industrial Organic Chemicals, Not Elsewhere Classified. 

The organic chemicals sector is geographically diverse, with high concentrations 

in the Gulf States, Great Lakes area, and New Jersey. For the majority of organic chemicals, 

production has increased between 2 and 30 percent since 1992. In the synthetic fibers sector, 

however, cellulosic fiber production has dropped almost 10 percent since 1992. Production of 

noncellulosic fiber has stayed essentially the same since 1992 (2). 

The plastics sector has a presence in every state, but the top 10 states in 2001 

accounting for almost 60 percent of employment were: California, Ohio, Michigan, Texas, 

Illinois, Pennsylvania, Indiana, New York, North Carolina, and Wisconsin (13). The plastics 

materials and resins industry is concentrated on the Gulf Coast, which has abundant raw 

materials and an excellent petrochemical infrastructure. Texas tops the list in employment for 

this sector. Plastics production increased 2 to 3 percent compared to late 1980s and about 5 

percent since 1992 (2). 

OCPSF facilities reporting to TRI discharge directly and indirectly, and some 

have zero water discharge. Table 6-3 lists the number of facilities in each SIC code, based on 

data sources available. 

6-11
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-3. SIC Codes in OCPSF 

1997 U.S. 

TRI 2000 

No Water Total PCS 2000

SIC Economic Direct Indirect Discharge Reporting to Direct 

Code Census Dischargers Dischargers Both Reported TRI (Majors) 

2821 529 93 135 17 218 429 92 

2823 6 4 1 1 1 5 4 

2824 100 8 7 0 7 22 5 

2865 195 36 56 7 22 107 24 

2869 740 139 147 24 167 429 118 

Total 1,570 280 346 49 415 992 243 

6.3.2 OCPSF Manufacturing Processes 

Because of the complexity of the OCPSF category, EPA focused the detailed 

review of manufacturing processes on certain industries. Section 6.3.4 discusses how EPA 

identified the focus industries. Sections 6.6, 6.7, and 6.8 describe the manufacturing processes 

of these focus industries. The remainder of this section discusses general production information 

for the OCPSF category. 

OCPSF facilities range in size and production type. Some facilities produce large 

volumes of chemicals in continuous processes; others produce small volumes of specialty 

chemicals in batch processes (17). Facilities use a variety of feedstocks and process types. 

Product mixes may change on a weekly or daily basis, depending on customer specifications 

(17). Table 6-4 below lists the generic processes used by OCPSF facilities, as identified in the 

1987 TDD. 

Table 6-4. Examples of Generic OCPSF Processes Identified in the 1987 TDD 

Alkoxylation Amination (ammonolysis) Phosgenation 

Condensation Nitration Extraction 

Halogenation Sulfonation Distillation 

Oxidation Ammoxidation Hydration 

Polymerization Carbonylation Hydrodealkylation 

Hydrolysis Hydrohalogenation Dehydrogenation 

Hydrogenation Dehydration Catalytic cracking 

Esterification Dehydrohalogenation Alkylation 

Pyrolysis Oxyhalogenation Hydrofluorination 

6-12
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

OCPSF facilities use feedstock from petroleum refineries, cokemaking plants, 

pulp mills, and other sources (17). Table 6-5 lists some of the primary feedstocks and associated 

end products identified in the 1987 TDD. 

Table 6-5. Examples of Feedstock and End Products Identified in the 1987 TDD 

Example Feedstock End Product 

Benzene Nitrobenzene, aniline, maleic anhydride, cyclohexane, cyclohexanone, caprolactam, 

cyclohexanol, adipic acid, cumene, phenol, bisphenol A, acetone, propylene oxide, 

styrene, ethylbenzene, chlorophenols, chlorobenzenes 

Propylene Polypropylene resins, polypropylene fiber 

Cellulose Rayon fiber, cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate fiber 

Ethylene Ethylbenzene, styrene, acetaldehyde, acetic acid, acetic anhydride, ethylene oxide, 

ethylene glycol, ethoxylates, EDC, VCM, tetrachlorethylene, carbon tetrachloride, 

1,1,1-trichloroethane, ethyl acrylate, ethanol 

Methane Methyl chloride, methylene chloride, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, methanol, 

formaldehyde, acetic acid, methyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate 

Propylene Cumene, phenol, propylene oxide, acetone, methacrylic acid, propylene glycol, 

polyethers, isopropanol, n-butanol, b-butyl acrylate, acrylic acid, n-butyraldehyde, 

2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, allyl chloride, epichlorohydrin, acrolein, allyl 

alcohol, glycerin, acrylonitrile 

Toluene Dinitrotoluene, toluene diamine, tolylene diisocyanate, trinitrotoluene 

Xylenes Terephthalic acid, dimethylterephthalate 

6.3.3 General Wastewater Characteristics and Treatment 

This section discusses general wastewater characteristics (Section 6.3.3.1) and 

wastewater treatment (Section 6.3.3.2) from data provided in the 1987 TDD, the 2000 TRI, and 

2000 PCS. Sections 6.6, 6.7, and 6.8 provide more detail on the manufacturing processes and 

wastewater characteristics of the focus industries. 

6.3.3.1 General Wastewater Characteristics 

The 1987 TDD contains flow and pollutant information on untreated wastewater. 

The average per facility flow rate for direct dischargers was 1.31 million gallons per day (MGD), 

and the average per facility flow rate for indirect dischargers was 0.25 MGD. Table 6-6 presents 

untreated wastewater concentrations for direct and indirect dischargers. 

6-13
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-6. Untreated Wastewater Characteristics for Direct and Indirect Dischargers in 

the OCPSF Category 

Pollutant 

Raw Pollutant Concentrations (1987) 

Direct Dischargers (mg/L) Indirect Dischargers (mg/L) 

BOD5 1,088 1,784 

COD 2,908 4,571 

TOC 1,041 973 

TSS 579 624 

Toxic organic pollutants See Technical Development Document, Table V-46 

Source: EPA, 1987 TDD, Volume I. 

The 1987 TDD linked certain products with the discharge of certain priority 

pollutants. For example, wastewater sampling data showed that manufacturing acetone from 

benzene and propylene feedstocks generates aromatic priority pollutants. Table 6-7 lists some 

additional examples of the types of pollutants found in wastewater from the manufacturing of 

certain products. 

Table 6-7. Examples of Pollutants Discharged from the Manufacturing of Certain 

Products 

Product Priority Pollutants Detected in Process Wastewater 

Acetone Aromatics 

Acrylic fibers Acrylonitrile 

Acrylic resins (latex) Acrylonitrile, acrolein 

Aniline Aromatics 

Caprolactam Aromatics 

Carbon tetrachloride Chloromethanes, chlorinated C2s 

Cellulose acetate Isophorone 

Polyester Phenol, aromatics 

High density polyethylene resin Aromatics 

Methylene chloride Chloromethanes, chlorinated C2s 

Trichloroethylene Chlorinated C2s, chloromethanes 

Toluene (from coal tar light oil) Aromatics, polyaromatics, phenols, cyanide 

Styrene – butadiene resin Aromatics 

Vinyl chloride Chlorinated C2's, chloromethanes 

Source: EPA, 1987 TDD, Volume I.

Notes:

Chlorinated C2s: Long-chain hydrocarbons with 40-49 percent chlorination by weight.

6-14 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

EPA used TRI and PCS data to evaluate annual pollutant loads discharged to 

surface water, using the methodology described in Section 4.2.4 of this Technical Support 

Document to estimate TWPE. Table 6-8 lists the estimated pounds and TWPE for each SIC 

code. 

Table 6-8. OCPSF Pollutant Load Discharged to Surface Water in 2000 by SIC Code1 

SIC TRI PCS 

Code SIC Code Name Pounds TWPE Pounds TWPE 

2821 Plastic Materials, Synthetic Resins, and 

Nonvulcanizable Elastomers 

5,000,000 112,000 252,000,000 489,000 

2823 Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers 438,000 29,200 499,000,000 60,700 

2824 Synthetic Organic Fibers, Except 

Cellulosic 

1,740,000 2,420 13,100,000 3,290 

2865 Cyclic Crudes and Intermediates, Dyes, 

and Organic Pigments 

2,470,000 950,000 54,100,000 324,000 

2869 Industrial Organic Chemicals, Not 

Elsewhere Classified 

44,400,000 6,110,000 1,590,000,000 1,280,000 

Total Reported TWPE for OCPSF Category 54,000,000 7,200,000 2,410,000,000 2,110,000 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000.

Notes: Numbers updated from SIC code totals from the proposed Notice, 12/31/03, because of data corrections

described in Section 2.0 of this section.

1

The pollutant load discharged to surface water was estimated by TRI Releases 2000 using pollutant releases directly

to surface water and transfers to publicly-owned treatment works (POTWs), taking POTW removals into account. 

EPA also used PCS data to determine the volume of wastewater discharge (which 

is not reported in TRI); however, the total flow rates reported to PCS may include stormwater 

and noncontact cooling water, as well as process wastewater. In some cases, the PCS database 

identifies the type of wastewater being discharged; however, most reported flow rates do not 

indicate the type of wastewater. Table 6-9 lists the flows reported for each SIC code. 

Table 6-9. OCPSF Annual Wastewater Flows by SIC Code as Reported to PCS in 2000 

Median Average 

Number Range of Facility Facility Flow, Facility Flow, Total for 

SIC of Flows, MGY MGY MGY SIC code, 

Code SIC Code Name Facilities1 (MGD) (MGD) (MGD) MGY 

2821 Plastic Materials, Synthetic 91 0.648 to 168,489 619 4,961 451,444 

Resins, and Nonvulcanizable (0.002 to 462 ) (1.69 ) (13.6 ) 

Elastomers 

2823 Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers 4 0.0000108 to 9,926 

(<0.001 to 27.2 ) 

4,692 

(12.9 ) 

4,828 

(13.2 ) 

19,310 

2824 Synthetic Organic Fibers, 5 32.4 to 60,020 543 12,352 61,762 

Except Cellulosic (0.09 to 164 ) (1.49 ) (33.8 ) 

2865 Cyclic Crudes and 22 14.1 to 33,176 360 3,570 78,534 

Intermediates, Dyes, and (0.039 to 90.9 ) (0.987 ) (9.78 ) 

Organic Pigments 

6-15
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-9 (Continued) 

Median Average 

Number Range of Facility Facility Flow, Facility Flow, Total for 

SIC of Flows, MGY MGY MGY SIC code, 

Code SIC Code Name Facilities1 (MGD) (MGD) (MGD) MGY 

2869 Industrial Organic 113 1.20 to 367,185 1202 12,378 1,398,663 

Chemicals, Not Elsewhere (0.003 to 1,006 ) (3.29 ) (33.9 ) 

Classified 

Notes:

Source: PCS Loads 2000.

MGY - Million gallons per year.

1

 Number of Major Facilities Reporting Nonzero Flows.

The median per facility flows range from 0.987 MGD for facilities in SIC code 

2865 to 12.9 MGD for facilities in SIC code 2823. These flows are somewhat higher than the 

average flow for direct dischargers reported in the 1987 TDD (1.31 MGD). This suggests either 

that facilities have greater water use than in 1987 (perhaps concurrent with greater production) 

or that flows reported to PCS include nonprocess wastewaters such as noncontact cooling water 

and stormwater runoff. 

6.3.3.2 General Wastewater Treatment 

EPA collected on-site wastewater treatment data from the 2000 TRI. Table 6-10 

summarizes this information. 

Table 6-10. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported by OCPSF Facilities 

TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Wastewater Treatment Process 

Number of Facilities Reporting Use 

Direct1 (213 facilities) Indirect1 (176 facilities) 

Biological Treatment 207 60 

Settling/Clarification 136 59 

Equalization 120 65 

Neutralization 101 90 

Filtration 75 34 

Stripping (air and steam) 50 54 

Chemical precipitation 42 31 

Adsorption 32 33 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 1

Of the facilities that provided information on their wastewater treatment operations in TRI 2000, 213 facilities 

reported direct releases, 176 facilities reported transfers to POTWs, and 20 facilities reported both direct releases and 

transfers to POTWs. 

6-16 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.3.4 Focus Industry Identification and SIC Code Analysis 

For the screening-level analysis, EPA examined the pollutant discharges reported 

to TRI and PCS for the five SIC codes in the OCPSF category (see Table 6-8). After the 

screening analysis, EPA focused the detailed review of the OCPSF category on the most toxic 

pollutant discharges as measured by TWPE. Section 6.3.4.1 discusses how EPA identified three 

focus industries with the most toxic pollutant discharges. Section 6.3.4.2 discusses how EPA 

identified two SIC codes that would not be further investigated at this time: 2823 and 2824 (the 

fiber manufacturers). 

6.3.4.1 Focus Industry Identification 

Using 2000 TRI and PCS data, EPA determined which pollutants were discharged 

with the greatest TWPE for the OCPSF category. Table 6-11 shows the most toxic pollutants, by 

TWPE, for the OCPSF category: 

Table 6-11. Top Pollutants Reported Discharged in 2000 for the OCPSF Category 

Pollutant Reported Data Source Pounds Reported TWPE Reported 

Dioxin and dioxin-like compounds TRI 3.27 (1,480 grams) 5,700,000 

Polycyclic aromatic compounds TRI 2,020 941,000 

Aniline TRI 85,600 120,400 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 

EPA examined the highest pollutant discharges at the SIC code level and 

determined that: 

C In SIC code 2865, the facilities that reported PACs to TRI all perform coal 

tar refining; 

C In SIC code 2865, the facilities that reported aniline to TRI either 

manufacture aniline or produce dyes; and 

C In SIC codes 2821 and 2869, the facilities that reported releases of dioxin 

and dioxin-like compounds are mainly manufacturers of EDC/VCM/PVC, 

with some also having co-located chlor-alkali plants. 

EPA reviewed in more detail these three groups of facilities, referred to as 

OCPSF focus industries: coal tar refiners, aniline dischargers, and dioxin dischargers. Sections 

6.6, 6.7, and 6.8 of this section discuss the focus industries in greater detail. 

6-17
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.3.4.2 No Further Consideration of SIC Codes 2823 and 2824: Fiber Manufacturers 

In reviewing the reported pollutant dischargers for 2000, EPA noted that the fiber 

manufacturing process does not discharge as many toxic pounds of chemicals as other OCPSF 

manufacturing processes (17). Based on 2000 TRI and PCS data, facilities in SIC codes 2823 

(Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers) and 2824 (Synthetic Organic Fibers, Except Cellulosic) contribute 

less than 3 percent of the TWPE reported discharged by the OCPSF category. Both fiber 

manufacturing SIC codes (2823 and 2824) have fewer facilities in the 1997 U.S. Census and 

fewer pounds and toxic pounds of pollutants reported to TRI and PCS, compared with other 

OCPSF SIC codes. 

Synthetic Fiber Production 

Facilities in SIC codes 2823 and 2824 manufacture cellulosic and other manmade fibers, as opposed to naturally occurring fibers such as cotton, wood, or silk. Synthetic 

fibers produced using cellulose (wood- or other plant-based) feedstock fall in SIC code 2823; 

those produced from petroleum or other chemical feedstocks fall in SIC code 2824. Synthetic 

cellulosic fibers include rayon (including Tencel® and Lyocell) and acetate. Synthetic 

noncellulosic fibers include (26): 

C Nylon;

C Modacrylic;

C Olefin;

C Acrylic;

C Acrylonitrile rubber;

C Polyester;

C Vinyon;

C Saran;

C Spandex;

C Aramid;

C Polybenzimidazole (PBI); and

C Sulfar.

The manufacturing process for fiber production varies per type of fiber. 

Manufacturing of cellulosic fibers such as rayon begins with production of viscose, a syrupy 

liquid made from cellulose in sodium hydroxide solution. The viscose is passed through fine 

holes to become threads, collected in a dilute acidic medium, such as sulfuric acid. For nylon 

manufacturing, a petroleum-based synthetic fiber, adipic acid is reacted with hexamethylene 

diamine to form an amide structure polymer. The resulting polyamide is forced through fine 

holes, forming threads of nylon (Tools for Teaching). 

Facilities in SIC Codes 2823 and 2824 

Table 6-12 lists all facilities that reported SIC codes 2823 or 2824 as their 

primary SIC codes in the 2000 TRI and/or PCS 2000. 

6-18
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-12. Facilities in SIC Codes 2823 and 2824 in the 2000 TRI and/or PCS 2000 

Facility Name Location 

SIC Code 2823: Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers 

Acordis Cellulosic Fibers Inc. Axis, AL 

BASF Enka Enka, NC 

Celanese Acetate Celriver Plant Rock Hill, SC 

Eastman Chemical Co. Tennessee Operations Kingsport, TN 

North American Fibers Corporation Elizabethton, TN 

Lenzing Fibers Corporation Lowland, TN 

SIC Code 2824: Synthetic Organic Fibers, Except Cellulosic 

Solutia Inc. Decatur, AL 

Hexcel Corporation Decatur, AL 

Solutia Inc. Cantonment, FL 

Sterling Fibers, Inc. Pace, FL 

Globe Manufacturing Corporation Fall River, MA 

Honeywell International Inc. Moncure, NC 

DuPont Fibers Kinston Kinston, NC 

Arteva Specialties/KOSA Salisbury, NC 

Globe Manufacturing Corporation Gastonia, NC 

BASF Corporation Clemson Site Central, SC 

DuPont Camden-May Plant Camden, SC 

Arteva Specialties/KOSA Spartanburg, SC 

Wellman Inc./Palmetto Plant Darlington, SC 

BASF Corporation Fiber Products Division Anderson, SC 

Du Pont Chattanooga Plant Chattanooga, TN 

Polyloom Corporation Of America Dayton, TN 

Hexcel Corporation Salt Lake City, UT 

Du Pont Spruance Plant Richmond, VA 

Honeywell International Inc. Hopewell, VA 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

Table 6-13 lists the four facilities that reported their primary SIC code as 2821 

(Plastic Materials, Synthetic Resins, and Nonvulcanizable Elastomers) in TRI but are classified 

as SIC code 2824 (Synthetic Organic Fibers, Except Cellulosic) in PCS. 

6-19
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-13. Facilities with Primary SIC Code 2824 in PCS and 2821 in TRI 

Facility Name Location 

Primary SIC Code 

TRI PCS 

DuPont Fibers Kinston Kinston, NC 2821 2824 

DuPont Camden-May Plant Camden, SC 2821 2824 

Sterling Fibers, Inc. Pace, FL 2821 2824 

Wellman Inc./Palmetto Plant Darlington, SC 2821 2824 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

Table 6-14 lists the five facilities classified as SIC codes 2821 (Plastic Materials, 

Synthetic Resins, and Nonvulcanizable Elastomers), 2869 (Other Organic Chemicals, NEC), 

2281 (Yarn Spinning Mills) or 5169 (Chemical Wholesale Distributors) in PCS but that reported 

their primary SIC code as 2824 to TRI. 

Table 6-14. Facilities with Primary SIC Code 2824 in TRI and Other in PCS 

Facility Name Location 

Primary SIC Code 

TRI PCS 

Arteva Specialties S.A.R.L. (dba Kosa Spartanburg) Spartanburg, SC 2824 2821 

BASF Corporation Fiber Producers Anderson, SC 2824 2281 

BASF Corporation, Clemson Site Central, SC 2824 2821 

Honeywell International, Inc. Moncure, SC 2824 5169 

Solutia Cantonment, FL 2824 2869 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

For the screening-level review, EPA included discharge loads as they were 

reported. For example, the DuPont Kinston plant TRI-reported releases were included in the 

totals for SIC code 2821, while the PCS-reported discharges were included in SIC code 2824. 

For more information on how SIC code totals were calculated, see Section 4.2.4 in this Technical 

Support Document. 

Some facilities that reported to TRI are not in PCS Loads 2000, because they are 

either indirect dischargers or minor direct dischargers. 

Pollutants of Concern for SIC Codes 2823 and 2824 

The 1987 TDD sampling data show that effluent from synthetic fiber 

manufacturers contained the following priority pollutants at significant concentrations: 

acrylonitrile, isophorone, phenol, and other aromatics. The sampling data showed that effluent 

from other OCPSF operations, such as plastics and commodity, bulk, and specialty organic 

chemicals manufacturing, contained greater numbers of priority pollutants at significant 

6-20
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

concentrations compared to synthetic fiber manufacturers. The 1987 TDD also shows that 

wastewater effluent from synthetic fiber manufacturers contained pollutants in lower 

concentrations compared to wastewater from other OCPSF manufacturing processes. 

Table 6-15 lists the pollutants with the highest TWPE for both synthetic fiber SIC 

codes based on 2000 TRI data. For both SIC codes, the discharges of each pollutant (except 

carbon disulfide) are from only one facility, and one facility accounts for the majority of the 

discharged TWPE: 

C SIC code 2823 

— Eastman Chemical, Kingsport, TN accounts for 76 percent of the 

TRI TWPE, and 

— Acordis Fibers, Axis, AL accounts for 94 percent of the PCS 

TWPE. 

C SIC code 2824 

— Solutia, Cantonment, FL accounts for 57 percent of the TRI 

TWPE, and 

— Solutia, Decatur, AL accounts for 93 percent of the PCS TWPE. 

Table 6-15. Pollutants with Highest TWPE Based on 2000 TRI Data 

Pollutants With 

Highest TWPE Pounds/Year TWPE/Year 

Percentage of Total 

TWPE for SIC Code 

Number of Facilities 

Reporting Pollutant 

SIC Code 2823: Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers 

Lead compounds 2,400 5,376 18% 1 

Aniline 3,600 5,061 17% 1 

Arsenic compounds 810 2,810 10% 1 

Carbon disulfide 1,730 4,844 16% 2 

Quinone 1,400 1,742 6% 1 

Manganese compounds 18,000 1,268 4% 1 

SIC Code 2824: Synthetic Organic Fibers, Except Cellulosic 

Copper 1,403 880 36% 1 

Cadmium 260 679 28% 1 

Vanadium compounds 795 495 20% 1 

Ammonia 79,000 119 5% 1 

Nitrate compounds 1,500,000 93 4% 1 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 

Table 6-16 lists the pollutants with the highest TWPE for both SIC codes based 

on PCS data. 

6-21 
6.4 

Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-16. Pollutants with Highest TWPE Based on PCS 2000 Data 

Pollutants With 

Highest TWPE Pounds/Year TWPE/Year 

Percentage of Total 

TWPE for SIC Code 

Number of Facilities 

Reporting Pollutant 

SIC Code 2823: Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers 

Carbon disulfide 19,250 53,900 89% 1 

Total zinc 41,225 1,927 3% 1 

SIC Code 2824: Synthetic Organic Fibers, Except Cellulosic 

Total manganese 13,151 926 28% 1 

Total recoverable iron 151,124 846 26% 1 

Ammonia as nitrogen 306,443 561 17% 1 

Total cyanide 430 463 14% 1 

Total iron 37,489 210 6% 1 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 

From the data presented in Tables 6-15 and 6-16, EPA was unable to identify a 

pollutant of concern discharged by a significant number of facilities, at high volume, or with 

high TWPE relative to the rest of the OCPSF category. 

6.3.4.3 Decision for No Further Investigation 

SIC codes 2823 (Cellulosic Man-Made Fibers) and 2824 (Synthetic Organic 

Fibers, Except Cellulosic) represent a relatively small part of the OCPSF category, by number of 

facilities, pounds of pollutant discharged, and TWPE discharged. Furthermore, a single facility 

in each SIC code drives the estimate of the total TWPE discharged for all facilities in each SIC 

code. Therefore, EPA did not further analyze these SIC codes for this review. Rather, EPA may 

offer permit support for the few facilities driving the TWPE estimates. 

Current Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards 

Effluent limitations guidelines and pretreatment standards for the OCPSF 

category, codified at 40 CFR Part 414, were promulgated in 1987 and amended in 1992. Table 

6-17 summarizes the existing regulations. 

6-22
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-17. Summary of Existing Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Pretreatment 

Standards (40 CFR Part 414) 

Pollutants Controlled 

BPT, NSPS BCT BAT, NSPS PSES, PSNS 

BOD5 

TSS 

pH 

(For all 

subcategories) 

Reserved List of 62 priority pollutants (for 

Subcategory I) 

List of 58 priority pollutants (for 

Subcategory J) 

List of 45 priority pollutants (for 

Subcategory K) 

Implementation 

Limitations are concentration-based. 

Each plant’s limits are derived from formulae that prorate limitations based on production in each subpart. 

BAT is applicable only to operations producing >5 million pounds of OCPSF products per year. 

Subcategories 

B. Rayon Fibers 

C. Other Fibers 

D. Thermoplastic Resins 

E. Thermosetting Resins 

F. Commodity Organic Chemicals 

G. Bulk Organic Chemicals 

H. Specialty Organic Chemicals 

I. Direct Discharge Point Sources That Use End-of-Pipe Biological 

Treatment 

J. Direct Discharge Point Sources That Do Not Use End-of-Pipe 

Biological Treatment 

K. Indirect Discharge Point Sources 

See 40 CFR Part 414, Subparts I, J, and K for the BAT chemical-specific 

limitations. 

The technology basis for the BPT limitations (conventional pollutants only) is 

biological treatment with clarification, preceded by appropriate in-plant process controls and 

treatment. 

EPA promulgated Best Available Technology Economically Available (BAT) 

limitations for two subcategories: facilities with biological treatment and facilities without 

biological treatment. For BAT Subcategory I, the wastewater treatment technology basis was 

end-of-pipe biological treatment with in-plant controls such as steam stripping (for volatile and 

semi-volatile pollutants), activated carbon (for certain base/neutral priority pollutants), 

hydroxide precipitation (for metals), and alkaline chlorination for cyanide. For BAT 

Subcategory J, the wastewater treatment technology was physical/chemical end-of-pipe 

treatment, with the same in-plant controls listed for Subcategory I. 

The technology basis for the Pretreatment Standards for Existing Sources (PSES) 

and Pretreatment Standards for New Sources (PSNS) limitations is the same as the technology 

basis for BAT Subcategory J: facilities without biological treatment. New Source Performance 

Standards (NSPS) limitations are based on BAT Subcategory I: facilities with biological 

treatment. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.5 Other Regulations Affecting OCPSF Facilities 

EPA’s sector notebook, Profile of the Organic Chemical Industry 2nd Edition, 

2002 (22) lists regulations affecting OCPSF facilities. The OCPSF category is regulated by 

nearly all federal environmental statutes, as well as state and local regulations (not listed here). 

6.5.1 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) 

Over 50 materials generated in OCPSF manufacturing processes are listed 

hazardous waste from specific sources (K wastes). Additional OCPSF wastes are nonspecific 

hazardous wastes (F wastes) or hazardous waste by characteristic (D wastes). Some OCPSF 

wastes are banned from land disposal (land disposal restrictions are set forth at 40 CFR Part 

268). RCRA regulates hazardous waste generation, transport, storage, and disposal at 40 CFR 

Part 262. 

Depending on the quantity and type of hazardous waste generated, facilities are 

classified as either small or large quantity generators. If facilities store hazardous wastes beyond 

set RCRA accumulation time limits (e.g., 90 or 180 days), RCRA regulates them as treatment, 

storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs). TSDFs have additional permit requirements (40 CFR 

Part 262.34). 

The remainder of this section discusses the listed hazardous waste pertaining to 

the focus industries. For the dioxin-discharging focus industry, the following are listed 

hazardous waste: 

C K019 - Heavy ends from EDC distillation columns; 

C K020 - Heavy ends from VCM distillation columns; 

C K071 - Brine purification muds from chlor-alkali plants (listed for 

mercury constituent); 

C K073 - Chlorinated hydrocarbon waste from diaphragm cell purification 

(listed for chlorinated hydrocarbon constituents); 

C K106 - Mercury cell wastewater treatment sludge (listed for mercury 

constituent); 

C K174 - Wastewater treatment sludge from EDC, EDC/VCM, or VCM 

processes (listed for dioxins and furans constituents); and 

C K175 - Wastewater treatment sludge from VCM produced from acetylene 

gas (listed for mercury constituent). 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

In 1999, EPA proposed listing K173 (wastewater from the EDC, EDC/VCM, and 

VCM wastewater processes). For the final RCRA Chlorinated Aliphatics Rule promulgated in 

2000, however, EPA ultimately decided that the risk from K173 waste was not high enough to 

require listing it as hazardous waste. 

For coal tar refiners, the following wastes are listed hazardous waste: 

C K147 – Tar storage tank residues from coal tar refining; and 

C K148 – Residues from coal tar distillation, including but not limited to, 

still bottoms. 

For aniline dischargers, the following wastes are listed hazardous waste:

C K083 – Distillation bottoms from aniline production;

C K103 – Process residues from aniline extraction from the production of

aniline; and 

C K104 – Combined wastewater streams generated from nitrobenzene/ 

aniline production. 

6.5.2 Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act 

(CERCLA) 

Part of CERCLA regulates underground storage tanks (USTs), which may be in 

place at OCPSF facilities. The UST regulations apply to facilities with either petroleum products 

or hazardous substances (but not hazardous waste) identified under CERCLA. The UST 

regulations require tanks made of certain materials, record keeping, and monitoring. 

6.5.3 Clean Air Act (CAA) 

The CAA regulates air emissions from both unit operations at OCPSF and supporting equipment 

(e.g., boilers, storage tanks) under New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), the National 

Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPs), and the State Implementation 

Plans (SIP). Also, new or modified sources that are considered "major" under the CAA are 

subject to new source review (NSR). 

For OCPSF operations, the following emission points may be regulated, 

depending on the characteristics of each unit operation and the applicability requirements of each 

rule: 

C Process vents; 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Volatile organic liquid storage vessels (regulates applicable storage tanks 

containing volatile organic liquids, including petroleum liquid storage 

vessels); 

C Equipment leaks (vapor leaks from pumps, valves, connectors, etc.); 

C Transfer operations; 

C Heat exchangers; 

C Wastewater processes; and 

C Benzene waste operations. 

The following sections discuss the air regulations that apply to OCPSF facilities: 

NESHAPs program, NSPS, Consolidated Air Rule, State Implementation Plans, New Source 

Review, and Title VI Stratospheric Ozone Protection. 

6.5.3.1 NESHAPs Program 

The NESHAPs program sets standards to control toxic air releases. HON is one 

of many NESHAPs but is the predominant rule that will affect most facilities in the synthetic 

organic chemical manufacturing industry (SOCMI). HON regulations (40 CFR Part 63 Subparts 

F, G, H, and I) cover emissions of hazardous air pollutants from process vents, transfer 

operations, storage vessels, wastewater, and equipment leaks at certain high-volume chemical 

processes. Like all NESHAPs, the HON applies to "major sources," which are defined as 

facilities that emit or have the potential to emit 10 tons per year or more of any hazardous air 

pollutant (HAP) or 25 tons per year or more of any combination of HAPs. 

The Miscellaneous Organic NESHAP (MON) regulates OCPSF unit operations 

that are not regulated by the HON: batch processes and small volume organic chemicals. Also, 

there are NESHAPs that apply to polymer and resin manufacturing, cooling towers, and 

boilers/process heaters (The final rule for boilers/heaters has been signed but had not appeared in 

the Federal Register as of August 2004). 

The HON, MON, polymer, and boiler NESHAPs are all technology-based air 

standards, and typically are referred to as Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) 

standards. These are all codified at 40 CFR Part 63. Other NESHAPs that cover emissions from 

OCPSF facilities are based on preventing risks to public health. The risk-based NESHAPs that 

apply to OCPSF facilities are: 

C Vinyl chloride manufacturers (40 CFR Part 61 subpart F);

C Benzene equipment leaks (40 CFR Part 61 subpart J);

C Equipment leaks (fugitive emission sources) (40 CFR Part 61 subpart V);

C Benzene storage vessels (40 CFR Part 61 subpart Y);

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Benzene transfer operations (40 CFR Part 61 subpart BB); and 

C Benzene waste operations (40 CFR Part 61 subpart FF). 

6.5.3.2 NSPS 

The NSPS program sets emission standards for new, modified, or reconstructed 

sources of criteria pollutants. The standards reflect the degree of emission reduction achievable 

through application of best demonstrated control technology, considering the cost and any nonair 

health and environmental impacts and energy requirements. For OCPSF, the NSPS regulate 

volatile organic compound emissions from process vents, storage tanks, and equipment leaks at 

synthetic organic chemical and polymer manufacturing plants. The NSPS also regulate NOx, 

SO2, and PM emissions from boilers. 

6.5.3.3 Consolidated Air Rule (CAR) 

The CAR is an optional rule aimed to reduce the burden and potential confusion 

of complying with multiple air regulations for the same process equipment. The purpose of the 

CAR, codified at 40 CFR Part 65, is to consolidate overlapping regulatory requirements of the 

SOCMI NSPS, HON, and the Part 61 risk-based NESHAP into a single set of regulatory 

requirements that will satisfy all these rules, while achieving equivalent or better emission 

reduction. Facilities can choose to comply with the CAR in lieu of the following rules: 

C 40 CFR Part 60, subparts A, Ka, Kb, VV, DDD, III, NNN, and RRR;

C 40 CFR Part 61, subparts A, V, Y, and BB; and

C 40 CFR Part 63, subparts A, F, G, and H.

6.5.3.4 State Implementation Plans (SIP) 

An OCPSF facility also may be required to comply with SIP regulations. The SIP 

regulations contain emission standards adopted by each state to ensure compliance with National 

Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). NAAQS has been established for sulfur dioxide, 

nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, lead, and ozone (SIPs regulate volatile 

organic compounds and nitrogen oxides to control ozone). 

6.5.3.5 New Source Review 

New source review is a preconstruction permit program that is designed to ensure 

that industrial growth does not cause new air pollution problems. New or modified major 

sources that are located in areas that comply with the NAAQS must obtain a Prevention of 

Significant Deterioration (PSD) permit. Sources in nonattainment areas must obtain a more 

stringent Nonattainment NSR permit. Among other requirements, these permits require 

installation of state-of-the-art emission controls, which are determined on a case-by-case basis 

by the permitting authority. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.5.3.6 Title VI Stratospheric Ozone Protection 

Many organic chemical facilities operate industrial process refrigeration units, 

such as chillers for chlorine dioxide plants. For those units that utilize ozone-depleting 

chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), facilities are required under Title VI to follow 

leak repair requirements. 

6.5.4 Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) 

Under TSCA, EPA collects data on chemicals to evaluate, assess, mitigate, and 

control risks that may be posed by their manufacture, processing, and use. Pesticides, defined in 

the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), are not included in the 

definition of a "chemical substance" when manufactured, processed, or sold for use as a 

pesticide. TSCA affects many OCPSF chemicals, including new chemicals currently under 

development. 

The following list includes some of the TSCA regulations that affect OCPSF 

facilities: 

C Section 4: High Production Volume Rule. One example is EPA’s 

analysis of the use and manufacture of polybrominated diphenyl ether 

compounds (40 CFR Parts 766, 790-799); 

C Section 5: Premanufacture Notices (40 CFR Parts 700, 720-725, 747); 

C Section 6: Regulates or bans the chemical uses that present unreasonable 

risks, such as asbestos, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), lead, and PCBs (40 

CFR Parts 747, 749, 761, and 763); 

C Section 8: Inventory Update Rule (IUR) (40 CFR Parts 710-717); 

C Section 8(a): The Preliminary Assessment Information Rule (PAIR), 

which requires facility information on manufacturing or importing any 

chemicals listed in 40 CFR Part 712.30 for commercial purposes; 

C Section 8(c): Allegations of Significant Adverse Reactions Rule; 

C Section 8(d): Unpublished Health and Safety Studies Rule; 

C Section 8(e): Substantial Risk Information Requirement; 

C Section 12: TSCA chemical exporter requirements; and 

C Section 13: Chemical importer requirements (40 CFR Part 707 and 19 

CFR Parts 12.118-12.128). 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.5.5 Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) 

EPCRA includes TRI reporting (Section 313), emergency planning (Section 304), 

and emergency notification of extremely hazardous substance release (Section 302(a)). Most 

OCPSF facilities are required to report to TRI annually (see also Section 4.2.1 of this Technical 

Support Document). Under Section 302(a), OCPSF facilities that produce, use, or store 

“hazardous substances” must report information to the state. Under Section 304, OCPSF 

facilities that unintentionally spill or release a reportable quantity of an extremely hazardous 

substance must report that release to the state emergency planning commission and the local 

emergency planning commission. 

6.5.6 Pending and Proposed Regulatory Requirements 

Additional regulations affecting facilities in the OCPSF category are not yet 

finalized. The NSPS for SOCMI wastewater is proposed to control air emissions of VOCs from 

wastewater treatment operations. Under RCRA, EPA may create a Standardized Permit for 

RCRA Hazardous Waste Management Facilities for facilities that generate waste and routinely 

manage the waste at their site in tanks, containers, and containment buildings. The goal of the 

standardized permit is to streamline the permit process. 

6.6 Focus Group 1: Coal Tar Refiners 

Coal tar refiners distill tar from by-product cokemaking operations. The end 

products from coal tar refining include industrial pitches and other by-product chemicals. This 

section discusses EPA’s findings on the coal tar refining industry in the following subsections: 

C Section 6.6.1 presents the facilities identified as coal tar refiners; 

C Section 6.6.2 describes the process of coal tar refining and the sources and 

type of wastewater generated by coal tar refiners; 

C Section 6.6.3 lists the pollutants of concern identified based on available 

data; 

C Section 6.6.4 lists the wastewater treatment in place based on available 

data;

C Section 6.6.5 describes industry trends; and

C Section 6.6.6 presents EPA’s conclusions.

6.6.1 Facilities 

EPA identified three U.S. coal tar refining companies (10 facilities) operating in 

2000. Table 6-18 lists these facilities. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-18. Coal Tar Refiners in the United States 

Company Location Facility Operations/Status 

Discharge 

Status 

Honeywell 

Inc. 

Birmingham, AL Coal tar refiner. Facility closed June 2003. Direct/Major 

Ironton, OH Coal tar refiner. Facility closed 2002. Direct/Major 

Detroit, MI Coal tar refiner. Facility closed January 2004. Indirect/Minor 

Clairton, PA Coal tar refiner, producing creosote, naphthalene, and 

industrial pitches. Primary SIC code in TRI is 2865. 

Direct/Minor 

Koppers 

Follansbee, WV Coal tar refiner, producing creosote, naphthalene, and 

industrial pitches. Primary SIC code in TRI is 2865. 

Direct/Major 

Industries 

Inc. 

Cicero, IL Location also known as Stickney. Coal tar refiner, 

producing creosote, naphthalene, and industrial pitches. 

Primary SIC code in TRI is 2865. 

Indirect 

Dolomite, AL Location also known as Woodward Plant. Coal tar refiner, 

producing roofing pitch and tar sealer. 

Direct/Major 

Reilly Tar 

& 

Chemical 

Granite City, IL Coal tar refiner. Indirect 

Cleveland, OH Coal tar refiner. Facility closed (date believed to be 2000). Indirect 

Co. Lone Star, TX Coal tar refiner. Indirect 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000, American Coke and Coal Chemicals Company web page, and

company web pages.

Italics denote facilities no longer in operation. 

Since 2000, Honeywell, Inc. closed all three of its coal tar refining operations, 

and Reilly Tar & Chemical Company closed one of its locations. As of the date of this report, 

six facilities owned by two companies continue to refine coal tar in the United States. 

6.6.2 Process Description and Wastewater Sources 

Coal tar refiners process tar from by-product cokemaking through a distillation 

column. The tar is formed as a by-product during coking, which is producing metallurgical coke 

from baking coal at high temperatures. The primary product of coking is coke, but heating of the 

coal also forms coke oven gas, light oil, coal tar, and other by-products. 

Coal tar refiners pass the coal tar through a still, and recover the bottoms as 

industrial pitches. Applications for coal tar pitches include the following: 

C Binder for petroleum coke to make pre-baked anodes for primary 

aluminum manufacturers; 

C Tar-based road binders; 

C Roofing; 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Damp-proofing (e.g., for waterproofing basement walls); 

C Waterproofing; and 

C Hot-applied tar-based coatings (pipeline enamels). 

In addition, coal tar refiners may recover naphthalene, creosote, and other 

chemicals from higher up in the still or after further processing. Figure 6-1 shows a simplified 

process flow diagram for coal tar refining (4). 

Steam 

Byproduct Chemicals 

Recovered for Sale, 

Including Naphthalene 

and Creosote 

Distillation 

Tower 

Distillate Stream to Wastewater Treatment 

Coal 

Tar 

Heater 

Coal Tar from 

Byproduct 

Cokemaking 

Industrial Pitch 

Figure 6-1. Coal Tar Refining Process Flow Diagram 

Wastewater is generated from the distillate stream, which is passed through a 

decanter. Light oil is decanted in this step, and the liquor, or decant bottoms, are sent to 

wastewater treatment. The following coal tar residues (e.g., sludges) are listed hazardous waste: 

C K148: Residues from coal tar distillation, including but not limited to, still 

bottoms; and 

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C

Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

K147: Tar storage tank residues from coal tar refining. 

The coal tar residues are K-listed because they fail the toxicity characteristic for 

benzo(a)anthracene, benzo(a)pyrene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, benzo(k)fluoranthene, 

dibenzo(a,h)anthracene, and indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene (40 CFR Part 261), all of which are 

included in the TRI PACs chemical category. 

6.6.3 Pollutants of Concern 

EPA used TRI and PCS data to determine the pollutants of concern for the 

OCPSF Focus Group 1 facilities: coal tar refiners. 

6.6.3.1 TRI Data 

Five of the 10 facilities listed in Table 6-18 reported PACs releases to wastewater 

or transfers to POTWs in 2000 and/or 2001. (See Section 4.2.4.3 for a list of the 21 individual 

PACs compounds). Of the other five facilities, four did not report wastewater PACs releases but 

reported releases of other chemicals. The remaining facility, Reilly Tar & Chemical Company in 

Cleveland, shut down, and no TRI data are available for that facility after 1999. PACs account 

for more than 99.9 percent of the TWPE of wastewater releases reported to TRI by these 

facilities. Table 6-19 shows the PACs releases reported to TRI in 2000 and 2001, taking POTW 

removals into account, and the corresponding TWPE calculated by EPA. As explained in 

Section 6.2.1, EPA used the TWF for benzo(a)pyrene to calculate TWPEs for the TRI PAC 

category. Because coal tar residues also contain other individual PAC constituents and because 

benzo(a)pyrene is the most toxic individual PAC constituent, this results in an overestimate. 

Table 6-19. PACs Water Discharges Reported to TRI for 2000 and 2001 

Company Location 

2000 Discharges 2001 Discharges Percent 

Change from 

Pounds TWPE Pounds TWPE 2000

Koppers Industries Inc. 

Woodward Plant 

Dolomite, AL 63 269,864 16 68,537 -75% 

Koppers Industries Inc. Follansbee, WV 0 0 5 21,418 NA 

Honeywell Inc. Birmingham, AL 6 25,701 6 25,701 0% 

Honeywell Inc. Ironton, OH 120 514,027 102 436,923 -15% 

Reilly Tar & Chemical Co. Granite City, IL 0.591 2,522 0.771 3,298 31% 

Source: TRIReleases2000.

NA - Not applicable. Koppers in Follansbee reported discharging zero pounds of PACs in 2000.

1

The pounds of PACs discharged for Reilly Industries reflects POTW treatment. EPA estimated that the POTW

removed 93 percent of the PACs generated at the facility.

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.6.3.2 PCS Data 

PCS data were available for four coal tar refining facilities; the other facilities are 

either indirect dischargers (five) or minor dischargers (one). Generally, NPDES permits require 

facilities to monitor for individual pollutants, rather than the group of pollutants, PACs, as 

reported to TRI. Of the four facilities with PCS data, three reported discharging any of the 

individual PACs at detectable levels for 2000. The fourth facility, Honeywell’s Birmingham 

facility, did not detect any individual PACs in their wastewater in 2000. Table 6-20 shows the 

PCS PACs discharge data for 2000. Each of the three facilities listed in Table 6-20 reported 

more pounds of PACs to TRI than of individual PACs in their monitored discharges, suggesting 

that the PACs reported to TRI may be over-estimated. 

Table 6-20. PACs Wastewater Discharges Reported to PCS in 2000 

Company Location Chemical 

2000 Discharges 

Pounds TWPE 

Koppers Industries Inc. Follansbee, WV Benzo(a)pyrene 2.1 9,148 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 2.0 854 

Benzo(a)anthracene 0.83 151 

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 1.0 42 

Chrysene 1.3 2.7 

Fluoranthene 1.3 1.0 

Pyrene 1.4 0.15 

Koppers Industries. Inc. 

Woodward Tar Plant 

Dolomite, AL Benzo(a)pyrene 0 0 

Chrysene 0 0 

Fluoranthene 0 0 

Benzo(a)anthracene 0 0 

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 0.26 11 

Honeywell Inc. Ironton, OH Benzo(b)fluoranthene 0 0 

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 0 0 

Benzo(a)pyrene 0 0 

Chrysene 0 0 

Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 0 0 

Benzo(a)anthracene 0 0 

Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 0 0 

Fluoranthene 2.6 2.1 

Honeywell Inc. Birmingham, AL Benzo(k)fluoranthene 0 0 

Benzo(a)pyrene 0 0 

Chrysene 0 0 

Fluoranthene 0 0 

Benzo(a)anthracene 0 0 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-21 presents the range and median concentrations of PACs reported to 

PCS in 2000. These pollutants were discharged at concentrations below the minimum level – 

generally an order of magnitude lower. The concentration of PACs in OCPSF Focus Group 1 

wastewaters is at or near BAT concentrations. EPA did not identify additional wastewater 

treatment capable of further reducing PAC concentrations. 

Table 6-21. Concentrations of PACs Reported to PCS 

Chemical 

Concentration Range, 

mg/L 

Median 

Concentration, 

mg/L 

Effluent 

Limitation, 

mg/L1 

Minimum 

Level mg/L2 

Benzo(a)pyrene 0 - 0.00367 0.00183 0.023 0.020 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 0 - 0.00352 0.00176 0.023 0.020 

Benzo(a)anthracene 0 - 0.00135 0.000676 0.022 0.020 

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 0 - 0.00350 0.00181 0.022 0.020 

Chrysene 0 - 0.00202 0.00101 0.022 0.020 

Fluoranthene 0.00220 - 0.00400 0.00310 0.025 0.020 

NA - Not applicable.

1

BAT effluent limitation for Subcategory I, direct dischargers with biological treatment in place. 2

Source: EPA, Development Document for the Central Waste Treatment Point Source Category, 2000.

For the five facilities listed in Tables 6-19 and 6-20, EPA reviewed TRI and PCS 

data for additional pollutants discharged by the facilities (pollutants of concern). These 

pollutants, listed in Table 6-22, account for 95 percent of the TWPE for Focus Group 1. 

Table 6-22. Pollutants of Concern for Coal Tar Refiners 

Pollutant 

2000 Discharges Percentage of 

Total TWPE 

for Source 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Pollutant 

Median per 

Facility 

Load 

Pounds TWPE (lb/yr)

TRI Data 

Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds 190 812,115 99.94% 4 35 

PCS Data 

Benzo(a)pyrene 2.1 9,148 80.7% 1 NA 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 2.0 854 7.5% 1 NA 

Acrylonitrile 414 353 3.1% 1 NA 

3,4-Benzofluoranthene 0.68 285 2.5% 1 NA 

Cyanide, Total (As CN) 210 226 2.0% 3 64 

Sources: TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

All of the pollutants of concern in Table 6-22 are regulated by the existing 

OCPSF effluent guideline, except for PACs. Some individual PACs compounds are regulated by 

OCPSF. 

6.6.4 Wastewater Treatment 

EPA obtained wastewater treatment data from the TRI database for coal tar 

refiners. Of the nine coal tar refining facilities that reported to TRI for 2000, six reported 

wastewater treatment. All six reported having biological treatment. Also, EPA contacted four of 

these six facilities and asked what type of biological wastewater treatment was in place. These 

four facilities use conventional biological treatment, including primary clarification, activated 

sludge systems, and secondary clarification. See the telecons in the docket for complete 

documentation of the phone conversations. 

6.6.5 Industry Trends 

Four of the 10 plants presented in Table 6-18 have shut down since 2000, and 

other data indicate a decline by-product cokemaking in the United States. Koppers authored two 

similar articles documenting the declining availability of coal tar in North America, entitled, 

Developing Coal Tar Pitches and Strategies for a Declining North American Coal Tar Supply. 

Table 6-23 shows the Koppers estimates of coal tar raw material availability for 1997 - 1999, 

and the Koppers projected trends for 2000, 2001, and 2003. 

Table 6-23. Production Trend for Cokemaking and Coal Tar Pitch 

Year North American Coal Tar Available, 1,000 metric tons/year 

1997 1302 

1998 1141 

1999 1141 

2000 1141 

2001 1027 

2003 1027 

Source: Koppers. 

In its articles, Koppers also reports on the possibility of switching feedstock from 

coking coal tar to a blend of coking and petroleum coal tar. The articles conclude that coal tar 

pitch quality is not affected by switching to a coke/petroleum coal tar blend, but different ratios 

will affect burning temperature. Although the availability of coal tar may be declining, the 

demand for coal tar pitch may be met with new feedstocks. Therefore, the coal tar refining 

industry may not decrease its production, but the changed feedstock may generate different 

pollutants. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.6.6 Conclusions 

The screening-level analysis showed high TWPE discharges from this industry 

group, based on releases of PACs reported to TRI. However, PCS data show that discharge 

concentrations for individual PACs are at levels close to or less than the minimum level and less 

than the current BAT limitations. The BAT limitations are already close to the minimum level, 

and EPA would likely not be able to lower them once analytical variability is taken into account. 

Furthermore, this industry is currently declining. Therefore, based on the pollutants of concern 

identified and their low discharge concentrations, the small number of facilities currently 

operating, and the apparent decline in the industry, EPA has determined that it should not revise 

effluent limitations guidelines and standards (ELGs) for the coal tar refining sector of the 

OCPSF industry at this time. If EPA receives data during subsequent annual reviews that 

indicate otherwise, EPA might reconsider this sector of OCPSF for revision at that time. 

6.7 Focus Group 2 - Aniline Dischargers 

Aniline releases were reported to TRI by 15 facilities that manufacture aniline or 

dyes, particularly diazo dyes. Aniline (C6H5NH2) is a benzene molecule with an amino 

substitution. Aniline is not a priority pollutant, and there is no OCPSF limitation or standard for 

aniline. This section discusses EPA’s findings on the aniline dischargers in the following 

subsections: 

C Section 6.7.1 presents the facilities identified as aniline dischargers; 

C Section 6.7.2 describes the process of aniline manufacturing and dye 

manufacturing and the sources and type of wastewater generated by 

aniline and dye manufacturing; 

C Section 6.7.3 lists the pollutants of concern identified based on available 

data; 

C Section 6.7.4 lists the wastewater treatment-in-place based on available 

data; and 

C Section 6.7.5 presents EPA’s conclusions. 

6.7.1 Facilities

 EPA estimates that 8 facilities manufacture aniline (11) and 38 facilities 

manufacture dyes (1). EPA obtained discharge data from 15 facilities that reported discharging 

aniline to TRI in 2000. (The remaining facilities did not report aniline discharges to TRI). 

These facilities report under SIC code 2865, Cyclic Organic Crudes and Intermediates, and 

Organic Dyes and Pigment. EPA determined the types of products manufactured at each facility 

through telephone calls and searches of company web pages, in addition to the National Safety 

Council (NSC) Chemical Backgrounder on aniline (which lists aniline manufacturers). Two 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

facilities reported aniline discharge information to PCS. Table 6-24 lists the facilities with TRI 

data (which includes the two facilities with PCS data). 

Table 6-24. OCPSF Aniline Dischargers in the United States 

Company Location Product Type1 Discharge Status 

BASF Corporation Huntington, WV Alkali blue. Indirect 

Buffalo Color Corporation Buffalo, NY Dyes and pigments. Indirect 

Chicago Specialties LLC Chicago, IL Styrene, printing ink and 

pigments, organic dyes and 

pigments, nitriles, aromatics. 

Indirect 

Sun Chemical Corporation 

Muskegon Plant 

Muskegon, MI Organic pigments, cosmetics, 

plastics, printing inks. 

Indirect 

Crompton Colors Inc. Newark, NJ Olefins and styrenic additives; 

petroleum additives. 

Indirect 

CIBA Specialty Chemicals 

Corporation 

Newport, DE Commodity organic chemicals: 

phenol, acetone, bis-phenol(a). 

No longer manufacture aniline 

(did in 2000). No manufacture of 

pigments, inks, or dyes at this 

location. 

Indirect 

H & S Chemical Company Inc. Wallington, NJ Pigments, dyes, other organic 

chemicals. 

Indirect 

First Chemical Corporation Pascagoula, MS DuPont runs this plant. 

Manufactures aniline, 

nitrotoluene (various isomers), 

and other specialty and 

commodity chemicals. 

Indirect 

Orient Corporation of America Seaford, DE Pigments, dyes, other organic 

chemicals. 

Indirect 

Aristech Chemical Corporation Haverhill, OH Aniline, other organic chemicals. Direct 

Bayer Corporation Bushy Park 

Plant 

Goose Creek, SC Pigments, dyes, other organic 

chemicals. 

Direct 

Nation Ford Chemical Co. Fort Mill, SC Pigments and dyes, mainly 

carbazole violet pigment #23 and 

diazo dyes. Also isopropyl 

alcohol. 

Indirect 

Morton International Inc. 

Paterson Facility 

Paterson, NJ Pigments, dyes, other organic 

chemicals. 

Indirect 

Merisol USA LLC Houston, TX Pigments, dyes, other organic 

chemicals. 

Direct 

6-37
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-24 (Continued) 

Company 1 Discharge Status 

Muskegon, MI Indirect 

Location Product Type

Lomac LLC Pigments, dyes, other organic 

chemicals. 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 1

EPA determined the type of product made at each facility through telephone calls, searches of company web pages,

and the National Safety Council Chemical Backgrounder for aniline.

6.7.2 Process Description and Wastewater Sources 

Aniline discharges result from the manufacture of aniline as well as the 

manufacture of certain dyes, azo dyes in particular. Section 6.7.2.1 discusses aniline production 

and Section 6.7.2.2 discusses azo dye production. 

6.7.2.1 Aniline Production 

The most common method for industrial production of aniline is nitrobenzene 

hydrogenation. The reaction may be carried out in a liquid- or vapor-phase. 

Nitrobenzene Hydrogenation Reaction: 

NO2 NH2 

+ 3H2 + 2H2O 

Nitrobenzene Aniline 

In the vapor-phase process, nitrobenzene (C6H5NO2) vapor and hydrogen are fed 

into a fluidized bed reactor. Copper or copper on silica are typical catalysts for this reaction. A 

filter at the top of the reactor recovers catalyst particles from the product. The nitrobenzene 

hydrogenation reaction produces a gas containing aniline, water vapor, and residual hydrogen. 

The gas is condensed and sent to a phase separator. Residual hydrogen is recycled, and the 

water phase is sent to wastewater treatment. The aniline is fed to a distillation column for further 

purification (3). Figure 6-2 presents the vapor-phase process for producing aniline. 

6-38
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Hydrogen Recycle 

Aniline 

Product 

Fluidized 

Bed 

Reactor 

Filter 

Nitrobenzene 

Hydrogen 

Phase 

Seperator 

Distillation 

Reaction Water to 

Wastewater T reatment 

Condenser 

Tars 

(K083) 

Gas stream 

Liquid stream 

Wastewater stream 

Key 

Figure 6-2. Vapor-Phase Aniline Manufacturing Process 

DuPont produces aniline in a liquid-phase reaction, using nitric acid (HNO3) and 

benzene as feedstocks. As a first step, nitric acid and benzene react to form mononitrobenzene 

(MNB). DuPont has a unique dehydrating system to remove the water that is produced from the 

reaction. An inert gas passes through the reactor and removes the reaction water. The 

humidified gas stream is condensed to remove the water, and the inert gas is recycled through 

the reactor. Crude MNB is washed and distilled. Residual benzene is removed during this 

distillation step and recycled to the feed. MNB and hydrogen are fed into a plug flow reactor. 

Typically, noble metal catalysts, such as platinum or palladium, are used in this reaction. The 

product stream is sent to a dehydration column to remove water formed during the reaction. A 

second column removes heavy ends from the aniline product (Hydrocarbon Processing). Sources 

of wastewater in this process include inert gas condensates, MNB wash water, and reaction water 

removed in the dehydration column. Figure 6-3 presents the DuPont/KBR liquid-phase process. 

In aniline production, the following waste streams are listed as hazardous wastes: 

C K083: Distillation bottoms from aniline production; 

6-39 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthe

Benzene 

Benzene Recycle Nitric

Acid

Cooler 

Condenser Dehydrating

Nitration

System

Plug 

Distillation Dehydration 

Reactor 

Flow 

Inert Gas 

Wash T ank 

Mononitrobenzene

(MNB) MNB 

Hydrogen Gas 

Wastewater to Treatment (K

6-40 

Gas stream Liquid stream Wastewater stream 

Key 

Figure 6-3. Dupont/KBR Liquid-Phase Aniline Process 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C K103: Process residues from extraction of aniline during aniline 

production; and 

C K104: Combined wastewater streams generated from nitrobenzene/aniline 

production. 

These wastes were listed because they failed the toxicity characteristic for aniline, 

diphenylamine, nitrobenzene, and phenylenediamine (all three wastes), and K104 also failed for 

benzene. RCRA requires facilities to manage their K104 wastewater in certain ways. For 

example, wastewater treatment systems used to treat K104 waste may need permitting, and 

facilities must ensure no media transfer of pollutants occurs. However, the RCRA regulation of 

K104 waste does not apply to effluent wastewater quality, which is regulated by Clean Water 

Act regulations, including the ELGs for OCPSF. 

6.7.2.2 Azo Dye Manufacturing 

Azo dyes are formed by diazotization and coupling reactions. In the diazotization 

reaction, an aromatic amine and nitrous acid react to form a diazonium salt. An example of these 

reactions is shown below using 4-nitroaniline as the aromatic amine and 2-naphthol as the 

nucleophilic reagent. 

Diazotization and Coupling Reactions: 

O2N 

NO2 NO2

2

OOC 

HO

N=N

NaNO 

HCl 

NH2 N=N 2-Naphthol

OH

4-Nitroaniline Diazonium Salt Diazo Dye 

In the dye manufacturing process, shown in Figure 6-4, the diazotization reaction 

takes place in a liquid-phase reactor. The reactor effluent is treated in a clarifier prior to the 

coupling reactor, where the diazonium salt is converted to a diazo dye by a nucleophilic 

substitution reaction. Depending on the specific dye being produced, the product stream from 

the coupling reaction might be sent through esterification or isolation. A filter press removes 

water from the dye product. The final processing steps involve grinding and packaging the dye. 

Sources of wastewater include spent scrubber liquid, mother liquor, plant run-off, and equipment 

washdown (16). 

6-41
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthe

Vent 

6-42 

Feed Clarifier Diazotization Reactor 

Coupling 

Reactor Feed Esterification 

Water 

Filter Press Drying, Grinding, and Packaging Product 

Wet Air 

Pollution 

Control 

Wet Air 

Pollution 

Control 

Vent 

Gas stream Liquid stream Wastewater stream 

Key 

Solid 

Spent Scrubber Liquid 

Spent Scrubber 

Liquid 

Filter Press

Press Cake 

Figure 6-4. Azo Dye Manufacturing Process 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.7.3 Pollutants of Concern 

EPA obtained aniline discharge data, presented in Table 6-25, from 15 facilities 

that reported to TRI 2000. PCS includes aniline discharge information for two facilities: Buffalo 

Color and Aristech Chemical. The other facilities either do not have permit limits for aniline 

(there is no OCPSF limitation or standard for aniline) or are indirect dischargers. 

Table 6-25. Aniline Discharges Reported to TRI and PCS in 2000 for SIC Code 2865 

Name Location 

TRI 

(lbs/yr)1,2 

TRI 

(TWPE/yr)1,2 

PCS3 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS3 

(TWPE/yr) 

BASF Corporation Huntington, WV 37,223 52,332 

Buffalo Color Corporation Buffalo, NY 16,394 23,049 

255 359 594 835 

Chicago Specialties LLC Chicago, IL 6,478 9,107 

Sun Chemical Corporation, 

Muskegon Plant 

Muskegon, MI 2,610 3,670 

Crompton Colors Inc. Newark, NJ 2,432 3,419 

CIBA Specialty Chemicals 

Corporation 

Newport, DE 2,179 3,064 

H & S Chemical Co. Inc. Wallington, NJ 225 316 

First Chemical Corporation Pascagoula, MS 216 304 

Orient Corporation of 

America 

Seaford, DE 51 72 

Aristech Chemical 

Corporation 

Haverhill, OH 22 31 0 0 

Bayer Corporation, Bushy 

Park Plant 

Goose Creek, SC 2 3 

Nation Ford Chemical Co. Fort Mill, SC 1 2 

Fort Mill, SC 1 1 

Morton International Inc., 

Paterson Facility 

Paterson, NJ 1 2 

Merisol USA LLC Houston, TX 1 1 

Lomac LLC Muskegon, MI 1 1 

Source: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 1

The TWPE loads presented for indirect dischargers represent the estimated discharge to the receiving stream. For

indirect dischargers, EPA estimated that POTWs would remove 92.1 percent of aniline in wastewater.

2

Two facilities, Buffalo Color and National Ford Chemical, reported both direct and indirect discharges. 3

Only two facilities reported aniline discharges in PCS, and one of these discharges was reported as zero.

Italics denote facilities no longer in operation.

Table 6-26 presents the aggregated TRI data. 

6-43 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-26. Aniline Discharges Reported to TRI 

Number of Facilities1 Aniline TWPE Total TWPE 

Direct Dischargers 3 35 1,380 

Indirect Dischargers2 12 118,000 121,000 

Total 15 119,000 123,000 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 1

Two direct dischargers reported some indirect discharge of aniline to TRI, which was insignificant compared to the

direct discharge amount.

2

The TWPE loads presented here represent the estimated discharge to the receiving stream. For indirect dischargers,

EPA estimated that POTWs would remove 92.1 percent of aniline in wastewater.

As discussed in Section 6.3.4.1, EPA determined that aniline was the pollutant 

with the third largest TWPE in the OCPSF category. In addition, all 15 aniline dischargers were 

in SIC code 2865 and manufactured either aniline or dyes. For the 15 facilities in Table 6-21, 

EPA determined the other pollutants of concern that were reported as discharged to TRI and 

PCS. Table 6-27 shows the pollutants reported with the highest TWPE, noted as the pollutants 

of concern for Focus Group 2 – Aniline Dischargers. Note that the PCS data for Focus Group 2 

show that benzo(a)pyrene, reported by one direct discharge facility, contributes 84 percent of the 

TWPE for Focus Group 2, whereas aniline is an insignificant part (less than 0.1 percent) of the 

TWPE. These data show that besides aniline, these facilities do not discharge a uniform set of 

pollutants of concern with high TWPE. 

Table 6-27. Pollutants of Concern for Aniline Dischargers 

Pollutant 

Discharge 

(lb/yr) TWPE 

Percentage of 

Total TWPE 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Pollutant 

Median per 

Facility Load 

(lb/yr) 

TRI Data 

Aniline 84,745 119,143 97.0% 15 216 

PCS Data 

Benzo(a)pyrene 25 106,385 83.8% 1 NA 

3,4-Benzofluoranthene 25 10,465 8.2% 1 NA 

Aniline 2 35 <0.1% 1 NA 

Source: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

6.7.4 Wastewater Treatment 

Most Focus Group 2 facilities are indirect dischargers, meaning their wastewater 

goes through a municipal wastewater treatment plant that uses biological treatment. 

Approximately 80 percent (12 out of 15) of the facilities reporting aniline releases to TRI in 

2000 reported indirect discharges. Biological treatment is expected to effectively remove greater 

6-44
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

than 90 percent of aniline in wastewater, as confirmed in the U.S. EPA National Risk 

Management Research Labs (NRMRL) treatability database (20) and vendor information. 

EPA generally establishes pretreatment standards if a pollutant interferes with or 

passes through POTWs. In previous effluent guidelines, EPA found that aniline did not require 

pretreatment standards. For example, for the pharmaceuticals industry effluent guideline, based 

on biological treatment, EPA found that aniline does "not pass through POTWs or interfere with 

the treatment works." (63 FR 50387 to 50437, September 21, 1998). 

To determine if aniline discharges from OCPSF operations caused problems at 

POTWs, EPA contacted five POTWs that receive discharges of aniline from seven of the anilinedischarging facilities. EPA selected the POTWs that receive the greatest pounds of aniline 

reported to TRI. These included both large and small POTWs. EPA asked the POTWs what 

aniline discharges they were aware of receiving, and if any of these discharges interfere with 

POTW operation. Table 6-28 lists the facilities that discharge indirectly and their respective 

POTWs. EPA received responses from all five POTWs. All five POTWs reported that, although 

aniline is detected in wastewater from dye and aniline manufacturers (at concentrations ranging 

from approximately 300 to 1,200 mg/L), they have not had interference problems, and the aniline 

appears adequately treated. 

Table 6-28. Facilities That Discharge Indirectly and Their Respective POTWs 

Company Location POTW Name 

POTW 

Flow 

(MGD) 

Information 

Request Sent to 

POTW? 

BASF Corporation Huntington, WV Huntington POTW 14 Yes 

Buffalo Color Corporation Buffalo, NY Buffalo POTW 0.54 Yes 

Chicago Specialties LLC Chicago, IL Chicago POTW 32 

Sun Chemical Corporation 

Muskegon Plant 

Muskegon, MI Muskegon County 

POTW 

65 Yes 

Crompton Colors Inc. Newark, NJ Passaic Valley POTW NA Yes 

CIBA Specialty Chemicals 

Corporation 

Newport, DE Wilmington, DE 

POTW 

83 Yes 

H & S Chemical Co. Inc. Wallington, NJ Passaic Valley POTW NA Yes 

First Chemical Corporation Pascagoula, MS Pascagoula POTW 4.4 

Orient Corporation of America Seaford, DE Seaford POTW 1.1 

Nation Ford Chemical Co. Fort Mill, SC Rock Hill POTW 8.8 

Morton International Inc. Paterson 

Facility 

Paterson, NJ Passaic Valley POTW NA Yes 

6-45
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-28 (Continued) 

Company Location POTW Name 

POTW 

Flow 

(MGD) 

Information 

Request Sent to 

POTW? 

Lomac LLC Muskegon, MI Muskegon County 

POTW 

65 

Sources: TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000 (for POTW flow data).

NA - Indicates that no POTW flow data were available in PCS.

Note: Three facilities reported discharges to the Passaic Valley POTW, and two reported discharges to the

Muskegon POTW.

6.7.5 Conclusions 

The screening-level analysis showed high TWPE discharges from OCPSF Focus 

Group 2 relative to other OCPSF discharges, and the TWPE was driven by aniline discharges. 

Most of these facilities are indirect dischargers. EPA contacted five POTWs who receive 

discharges from some of the facilities in Table 6-24, and three of these POTWs reported no 

known interferences with their treatment systems. Because of the high treatability of aniline and 

the lack of POTW interference, EPA determined that it should not consider revising pretreatment 

standards for the aniline-discharging focus group (i.e, aniline manufacturers and dye 

manufacturers) of the OCPSF industry at this time. 

In addition, because only three facilities discharge aniline directly and because 

these discharges appear to be low relative to the other facilities in this sector, EPA determined 

that it should not consider revising direct discharge requirements for the aniline discharging 

focus group at this time. 

EPA notes, however, that if it receives data during subsequent annual reviews that 

indicate otherwise, EPA may reconsider this sector of OCPSF for revision at that time. 

6.8 Focus Group 3: Dioxin Dischargers 

Based on analysis of TRI and PCS data, as well as information from industry 

studies, EPA identified the manufacture of the following products as possible sources of dioxin 

discharges: ethylene dichloride (EDC), vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), and polyvinyl chloride 

(PVC). EPA refers to these collectively as vinyl chloride manufacturing. Further, EPA found that 

the largest dioxin discharges (97 percent of the toxic pound equivalents) occur at large integrated 

facilities that also operate chlor-alkali plants. Wastewaters from chlor-alkali plants are subject to 

the Inorganic Chemicals effluent guidelines (Part 415). Dioxin discharges are also significant at 

facilities that manufacture vinyl chloride without co-located chlor-alkali plants and at standalone chlor-alkali plants. EPA also found that some reported dioxin discharges are associated 

with organic chemicals manufacturing processes other than vinyl chloride manufacturing and 

chlor-alkali plants, including chlorinated solvents production. 

6-46
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

EPA identified various products manufactured by OCPSF facilities that discharge 

dioxins. EPA found that most dioxin dischargers manufactured one or more of three products: 1) 

chlor-alkali, 2) EDC/VCM, and 3) PVC. Therefore, for Focus Group 3, EPA reviewed those 

facilities with chlor-alkali, EDC/VCM, and/or PVC manufacturing processes. 

This section discusses EPA’s findings on the dioxin dischargers in the OCPSF 

category in the following subsections: 

C Section 6.8.1 presents the facilities identified as chlorine manufacturers 

(including those with chlor-alkali plants), EDC/VCM manufacturers, PVC 

manufacturers, and manufacturers of other organic chemicals including 

chlorinated solvents; 

C Section 6.8.2 describes the chlor-alkali, EDC/VCM, and PVC processes; 

C Section 6.8.3 describes sources and type of wastewater generated by 

chlor-alkali, EDC/VCM, and PVC processes; 

C Section 6.8.4 lists the pollutants of concern identified based on available 

data; 

C Section 6.8.5 lists the wastewater treatment-in-place based on available 

data; and 

C Section 6.8.6 describes industry trends. 

6.8.1 Facilities 

EPA identified the manufacturing processes of the following products as sources 

of dioxin: 

C Chlor-alkali;

C EDC/VCM;

C PVC; and

C Other organic chemicals including chlorinated solvents.

EPA identified facilities in Focus Group 3 from the TRI and PCS databases and 

the CCC web page, as well as reports from the Vinyl Institute and Chlorine Institute. EPA 

identified the following manufacturing groups and the number of facilities in each group: 

C Stand-alone chlor-alkali facilities: 24; 

C Integrated chlor-alkali and EDC/VCM facilities (may also produce PVC): 

12; 

6-47
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Stand-alone EDC/VCM facilities (may also produce PVC): 2; and 

C Stand-alone PVC facilities: 18. 

Table 6-29 lists facilities in Focus Group 3 and the products they manufacture. 

Note that OCPSF facilities that reported the highest discharges of dioxin to TRI have multiple 

operations, including chlor-alkali plants and EDC/VCM operations. 

Table 6-29. OCPSF Dioxin Dischargers in the United States 

Company Location Product Type Discharge Status 

Ashta Ashtabula, OH Chlorine No reported discharge1 

Bayer Baytown, TX Chlorine Direct/Major 

Certainteed Corporation Westlake, LA PVC Direct/Major 

Colorite Specialty Resins Burlington, NJ PVC Direct/Major 

Dow Chemical Freeport, TX2 Chlorine, EDC Direct/Major 

Plaquemine, LA Chlorine, EDC Direct/Major 

Texas City, TX PVC Indirect 

DuPont Niagara Falls, NY Chlorine Direct/Major 

Formosa Plastics Baton Rouge, LA Chlorine, EDC, VCM, PVC Direct/Major 

Delaware City, DE PVC Direct1

/Major 

Illiopolis, IL3 PVC Direct/Major 

Point Comfort, TX Chlorine, EDC, VCM, PVC Direct/Major 

GE Plastics Burkville, AL Chlorine Direct1

/Major 

Mount Vernon, IN Chlorine Direct/Major 

Geismar Vinyls Geismar, LA4 EDC, VCM, PVC Direct/Major 

Georgia Gulf Aberdeen, MS PVC Indirect 

Oklahoma City, OK PVC Direct1

/Major 

Plaquemine, LA Chlorine, EDC, VCM, PVC Direct/Major 

Westlake, LA EDC, Transfer to Sasol North 

America 

Georgia Pacific Green Bay, WI Chlorine Direct1

/Major 

Muskogee, OK5 Chlorine Direct/Major 

Rincon, GA Chlorine Direct/Major 

Keysor Century Geismar, LA6 PVC Indirect 

Kuehne Kearny, NJ Chlorine Direct1

/Minor 

6-48
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-29 (Continued) 

Company Location Product Type Discharge Status 

Occidental Chemical 

Company 

Convent, LA Chlorine, EDC Direct/Major 

Delaware City, DE Chlorine Direct/Major 

Ingleside, TX Chlorine, EDC Direct/Major 

Hahnville, LA Chlorine Direct/Major 

Mobile, AL Chlorine Direct1

/Major 

Niagara Falls, NY Chlorine Both /Major 

Pottstown, PA PVC Indirect 

Olin Augusta, GA Chlorine Direct/Minor 

Charleston, TN Chlorine Direct/Major 

McIntosh, AL7 Chlorine No reported discharge1 

Niagara Falls, NY Chlorine Direct1/Major 

OxyVinyls Deer Park, TX8 Chlorine, EDC, VCM, PVC Direct/Major 

LaPorte, TX Chlorine, EDC, VCM, PVC Direct1

/Major 

Louisville, KY PVC No reported discharge1 

Pasadena, TX PVC Direct/Major 

Pedricktown, NJ PVC Direct/Major 

Oxychem Muscle Shoals, AL Chlorine Direct1

/Major 

Pioneer Henderson, NV Chlorine Direct1

/Major 

St. Gabriel, LA Chlorine Direct 

Tacoma, WA9 Chlorine Direct1

/Major 

Polyone Corporation Burlington, NJ10 PVC Direct1

/Minor 

Henry, IL PVC No reported discharge1 

PPG Industries, Inc. Lake Charles, LA Chlorine, EDC Direct 

Natrium, WV Chlorine Direct 

Shintech Inc. Addis, LA11 PVC Direct1

/Major 

Freeport, TX PVC Direct/Minor 

Vulcan Geismar, LA Chlorine, EDC Direct 

Port Edwards, WI Chlorine No reported discharge1 

Wichita, KS Chlorine No reported discharge1 

Vygen Ashtabula, OH12 PVC No reported discharge1 

6-49
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-29 (Continued) 

Company Location Product Type Discharge Status 

Westlake Monomers Calvert City, KY Chlorine, EDC Direct1/Major 

Pensacola, FL13 PVC No reported discharge1 

Sources: Chlorine Chemistry Council web page, Chlorine Institute Report, Vinyl Institute Report, Innovation Group

web page, Chemical Backgrounders web page, TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000, and individual company web

pages.

Italics indicate that the facility has been idled or closed. 1

No releases of TRI chemicals to surface water or transfers to POTWs were reported to TRI for 2000. 2

Dow Chemical Oyster Creek is considered part of the Freeport plant. 3

Formosa Plastics purchased the Illiopolis plant from Borden in 2002.

4

Giesmar Vinyls, an affiliate of Westlake Group, purchased Borden's vinyl operations. Plants were idled in 2002. 5

The Georgia Pacific Muskogee, OK plant was idled, according to a phone conversation with Steve Landers, 6/9/04. 6

Keysor Century closed in 2003.

7

Olin’s McIntosh, AL site also includes the Sunbelt joint venture chlor-alkali plant.

8

The Oxy Vinyls Deer Park, TX chlor-alkali plant was idled December 2001.

9

The Pioneer Tacoma, WA plant was idled February 2002 according to Chlorine Institute.

10Polyone’s Burlington, NJ site appears to be a vinyl compounding site. It was closed in 2002.

11Shintech purchased Borden’s Addis plant in 2002.

12The Vygen Ashtabula plant appears to be shut down as of 1993.

13The Westlake Pensacola plant appears to be shut down.

EPA also identified 11 OCPSF facilities reporting dioxin discharges that 

manufacture organic chlorine chemicals other than EDC, VCM, or PVC. The products made by 

the facilities listed in Table 6-30 could not be classified into a single group. The total dioxin 

TWPE from these 11 facilities is 120,000 lb-equivalent, which is less than 1 percent of the 5.7 

million TWPE from Focus Group 3 (based on 2000 TRI data). 

EPA also conducted economic analyses of portions of the OCPSF industry. For 

information about EPA’s small business analysis of the chlor-alkali and vinyl chloride industries, 

see the August 3, 2004 Memorandum entitled OCPSF: Number of Small Businesses in ChlorAlkali and Vinyl Chloride Industries (located in the docket). For information about EPA’s 

economic analysis of OCPSF dioxin dischargers, see the August 13, 2004 Memorandum entitled 

Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fiber Focus Group 3: Dioxin Dischargers—Industry 

Profile (located in the docket). 

Table 6-30. Facilities Reporting Dioxin Discharges to TRI that Manufacture Other 

Organic Chemicals in the United States 

Company Location Product Type 

Discharge 

Status 

Atofina Petrochemicals La Porte, TX Polypropylene. Direct/Major 

Celanese Acetate Narrows, VA Cellulose acetate, flake, filament, tow. Direct/Major 

Condea Vista Baltimore,MD Aluminum chloride LAB, muriatic acid 

(hydrochloric acid), specialty alkylates. 

Both/Minor 

6-50
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-30 (Continued) 

Company Location Product Type 

Discharge 

Status 

Cytec Industries Wallingford, CT Aliphatic isocyanate resins, polyurethane, 

meta diisopropenybenzene, adhesion 

polymers, formaldehyde resins, crosslinking 

monomers, aerosol surfactants, coating 

chemicals. 

Direct/Major 

Dover Chemical Dover, OH Chlorinated paraffins, surfactants, and 

lubricants. 

No reported 

discharge1 

Dow Chemical Midland, MI Wide range of chemical products. Direct/Major 

DuPont Chamber 

Works 

Deepwater, NJ Fluorochemicals, elastomers, Hytrel 

polyester elastomer. 

Direct/Major 

Oxychem Castle Hayne, NC Copper chromated arsenate. Direct/Major 

Lake Charles, LA Ethylene and propylene and by-products 

including crude butadiene, pyrolysis 

gasoline, hydrogen. 

No reported 

discharge1 

Sasol North America, 

Inc. 

Westlake, LA Alcohols, alumina, ethylene, LAB, solvents, 

paraffins, ethoxylates. 

Direct/Major 

Velsicol Chemical Memphis, TN Benzoate esters, polymerics, and 

monomerics. 

Indirect 

Sources: TRIReleases2000, individual company web pages. 1

No water discharges were reported to TRI for 2000. 

6.8.2 Process Descriptions 

This section discusses the processes used to manufacture the following products: 

C Chlor-alkali; 

C EDC/VCM; and 

C PVC. 

6.8.2.1 Chlor-Alkali 

The chlor-alkali process is the most common method of producing chlorine, 

accounting for more than 95 percent of the world chlorine production (28). In addition to the 

chlor-alkali process, chlorine may also be produced as a co-product or by-product by four other 

methods (21): 

C Downs Sodium Process: Molten salts, instead of brine, are electrolytically 

converted to chlorine; 

C Uhde HCl Decomposition Process: HCl, instead of brine, is 

electrolytically converted to chlorine; 

6-51
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Potassium Nitrate Production: Nonelectrolytic nitric acid/salt process 

produces chlorine as a co-product; and 

C Magnesium Production: Electrolytic process produces chlorine as a byproduct. 

Since chlor-alkali accounts for the majority of chlorine production, and has been 

identified as a source of dioxin, the remainder of this section will focus on the chlor-alkali 

process. The process produces chlorine gas and sodium hydroxide (caustic) by passing an 

electric current through a sodium chloride brine solution. Although less common, potassium 

chloride may also be used as the feed stock to produce chlorine and potassium hydroxide. The 

chlor-alkali process uses three electrolytic technologies: mercury cell, asbestos diaphragm cell, 

and membrane cell. The diaphragm cell is the predominant technology used in the United States 

(5, 28).

 The mechanism for separating chlorine and sodium products depends on the type 

of cell used (14). In the mercury cell process, mercury forms an amalgam with the sodium. The 

amalgam flows from the cell to the decomposer, where it reacts with water to form sodium 

hydroxide, hydrogen gas, and mercury. Figure 6-5 shows the chlor-alkali process using a 

mercury cell. 

In the asbestos diaphragm process, sodium ions selectively permeate an asbestos 

barrier. The membrane cell process is similar to the diaphragm cell process except that an ion 

exchange membrane replaces the diaphragm. In both processes, sodium ions react with water to 

form sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. Figure 6-6 shows the chlor-alkali process using a 

diaphragm or membrane cell. 

Prior to its use in the electrolytic cell, the sodium chloride brine is treated to 

remove any metal impurities. The metals are precipitated using caustic solutions and exit the 

brine preparation system as a slurry. This slurry is filtered, and the water is sent to wastewater 

treatment (21). The solid waste is called “brine muds” and is a listed hazardous waste for 

mercury and diaphragm cells. In the chlorine production process, the following wastes are listed 

hazardous wastes: 

C K071: Brine purification muds from the mercury cell process in chlorine 

production, where separately prepurified brine is not used; 

C K073: Chlorinated hydrocarbon waste from the purification step of the 

diaphragm cell process using graphite anodes in chlorine production; and 

6-52
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthe

Na+Cl- ö 2 

2O ö

Na+ OH- 2

( ) 

(

( ) 

( ) 

Caustic 

Filtration 

System 

Electrolytic Cell 

 + Hg Na:HG + 1⁄2Cl Decomposer 

Hg:Na + H

 + 1⁄2H + Hg 

Acid 

Chlorine 

Purification 

System Hydrogen 

Purification 

System 

Caustic 

Product 

Metal 

Precipitates 

Wastewater Treatment Effl

Condensates 

Wet 

Demister 

Indirect 

Contact H.E. 

Cooler

Chlorine 

Product 

Mercury 

Brine 

Preparation 

Caustic Solutions, Sodium Carbonate 

added to raise pH of Brine) 

Heat 

Exchanger 

Cell Room Sump 

Waters 

Indirect 

Contact H.E. 

Cooler

Hg to Cell 

Brine Slurry 

Filtration System 

Sludge K106

Liquid or gas stream Wastewater stream 

Key 

6-53 

Figure 6-5. Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Process 
Chlorine 

Purification System 

Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthe

Chlorine

Product

6-54 

Brine 

Preparation 

Brine 

Dechlorination 

Brine Slurry 

Filtration System 

Anode Cathode 

Cooling 

Hydrogen 

Purification 

System 

Hydroge

By-Produ

Caustic 

Purification 

System 

Caus

Produ

Metal 

Precipitates 

Wastewater Treatment 

Cell Room Sump 

Waters 

Effluent 

Brine Feed 

Condensates 

Figure 6-6. Membrane or Diaphragm Cell Chlor-Alkali Process 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C K106: Wastewater treatment sludge from the mercury cell process in 

chlorine production. 

6.8.2.2 Ethylene Dichloride and Vinyl Chloride Monomer 

More than 80 percent of the EDC produced in the U.S. is used for the production 

of VCM. The process of producing VCM, where EDC production is an intermediate step, is 

known as the “balanced process,” shown in Figure 6-7. In the balanced process, EDC is 

produced by direct chlorination and oxychlorination: 

1) Direct Chlorination: 

Cl2 + C2H4 ÷ C2H4Cl2 

Chlorine Ethylene EDC 

2) Oxychlorination: 

C2H4 + O2 + HCl ÷ C2H4Cl2 + H2O 

Ethylene Oxygen Hydrochloric Acid EDC Water 

In direct chlorination, ethylene is reacted with chlorine gas in the presence of a 

catalyst (usually iron chloride) at temperatures ranging from 50°C to 70°C (25). This reaction 

typically occurs in a liquid-phase reactor. 

In oxychlorination, the reaction utilizes the HCl by-product from VCM 

production, conserving the use of raw materials such as chlorine gas. Reactors are typically 

fixed or fluidized beds with a copper chloride catalyst. The exothermic reaction is carried out in 

three steps at temperatures exceeding 200°C (9): 

1) Chlorination of ethylene: 

2CuCl2 + C2H4 ÷ 2CuCl + C2H4Cl2 

2) Oxidation of CuCl: 

2CuCl + 1/2O2 ÷ Cu2OCl2 

3) Rechlorination with HCl: 

2HCl + Cu2OCl2 ÷ 2CuCl2 + H2O 

The reactor effluent is quenched and condensed before combining with the EDC 

produced from direct chlorination. The combined crude EDC product is fed through a series of 

distillation columns before it is sent to the EDC cracking furnace to produce VCM. All VCM 

plants using the EDC cracking reaction are integrated with EDC production facilities (25). The 

EDC cracking reaction (dehydrochlorination), shown below, is carried out in a furnace at 

temperatures ranging from 450°C to 650°C (25): 

6-55
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthe

6-56

Waste Gas to

HCl Recovery

R R

Chlorine Direct

Chlorination C R 

Pure EDC to 

VCM Production Crude 

Light EDC Heavy Tars to Heavy Ethylene Ends Ends Ends Storage on Column Column HCl Recovery 

C (K019) 

R R 

Quench 

Oxygen Oxychlorination Column Reactor

HCl Wa

Tre

Dryer HCl to Oxychlorination

S

C C (K

Gas stream Liquid stream Wastewater stream 

Key 

C = Condenser R = Reboiler EDC = Ethylene Dichloride VCM = Vinyl Chloride Monomer 

Pure VCM Cracking Product C Furnace 

VCM HCl 

 Column Column 

R R 

EDC Recycle to

EDC Purification

Figure 6-7. Flow Diagram for EDC/VCM Balanced Process 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Dehydrochlorination:

C2H4Cl2 ÷ C2H3Cl + HCl

EDC VCM Hydrochloric Acid

The dehydrochlorination reaction produces a gas containing vinyl chloride, 

unconverted EDC, and HCl. This gas is quenched and condensed before passing through a series 

of distillation columns. HCl is removed in the first column and recycled to the oxychlorination 

reaction. Unconverted EDC is removed in the second column and recycled through EDC 

purification before reentering the cracking furnace. 

The heavy and light ends from the distillation columns in the EDC and VCM 

purification trains contain halogenated hydrocarbons. Most of this waste is incinerated on site, 

but a portion is transferred to nonvinyl facilities for by-product recovery. Chlorinated solvents, 

such as perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene, are manufactured from these hydrocarbon 

byproducts that are recovered from the EDC/VCM process (25). 

In the EDC/VCM process, the following wastes are listed hazardous wastes: 

C K174: Wastewater treatment sludges from ethylene dichloride or vinyl 

chloride monomer production from the balanced process; and 

C K175: Wastewater treatment sludges from vinyl chloride monomer 

production using an acetylene-based process (not discussed in this report). 

6.8.2.3 Polyvinyl Chloride 

Purified VCM is fed to a polymerization step to produce PVC. Polymerization 

processes that are used in the U.S. to produce PVC include: 

C Suspension;

C Dispersion (emulsion);

C Bulk (mass); and

C Solution.

Since suspension polymerization accounts for approximately 87 percent of U.S. 

production (25), the remainder of this section focuses on that process. 

In PVC production, polymerization is induced by adding free radical initiators. 

The initiators are soluble in VCM and typically include peresters, peroxycarbonates, peroxides, 

or azo compounds. The polymerization reaction, shown below, occurs in a batch reactor at 

temperatures ranging from 52° to 70°C (12). 

6-57
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

H H H H H H H H H H 

I C C I C C. + C C I C C C C. 

H Cl H Cl H Cl H Cl H Cl 

(VCM) (PVC) 

The reactor effluent contains residual VCM and a PVC slurry. Residual VCM 

might be in a gas or liquid phase or trapped in the PVC resin. Steam stripping can remove 

residual VCM which is recovered and recycled through the polymerization process. The PVC 

slurry is mixed with other PVC batches and sent through a dewatering process, where the 

polymer is separated from the process water. Water might be either recycled through the process 

or sent to wastewater treatment. As a last step, the PVC product is dried and screened to remove 

oversize and undersize particles. Figure 6-8 shows the PVC process. 

6.8.3 Wastewater Sources 

The chlor-alkali process involves three major purification pathways: chlorine 

purification, caustic purification, and hydrogen gas by-product purification. The wastewaters 

from these steps are combined prior to treatment. EPA did not identify any major sources of 

contact wastewater in the hydrogen gas purification steps. The caustic product from the mercury 

cell process is filtered to remove any residual mercury, and backwash from this filtration step is 

a source of wastewater. The chlorine gas stream exiting the mercury cell is cooled in an indirect 

contact heat exchanger followed by a wet demister. Dioxin might form as chlorine gas reacts 

with organic impurities in the process equipment (14). Thus, EPA believes the chlorine 

condensate wastewater stream is the main source of dioxin discharged from the chlor-alkali 

process. 

The EDC/VCM process can produce dioxin during the oxychlorination reaction 

(14). This reaction can produce dioxin by combining hydrochloric acid as a source of chlorine, 

ethylene as the organic matter, temperatures over 200°C, the CuCl2 catalyst, and oxygen as a 

reactant. EPA concludes that the most likely source of dioxins released to wastewater is the postoxychlorination quenching step, when the gaseous product stream comes into contact with 

quench water. 

6-58
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthe

6-59 

/ 

= 

VCM Recovery 

System 

Blend Tank 

Dewatering

Centrifuge 

VCM to Recovery 

VCM and 

Initiators 

PVC 

Steam 

Stripper 

PVC 

Drye

Polymerization 

Reactor 

Liquid or gas stream Wastewater stream 

Key 

Polyvinyl Chloride 

Vinyl Chloride Monomer 

PVC 

VCM = 

Figure 6-8. Process Flow Diagram for Suspension PVC Productions 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Wastewater sources in the PVC process include the polymer dewatering operation 

and VCM recovery. The Vinyl Institute Dioxin Characterization program detected dioxin in 

wastewater from facilities that produce only PVC (see Section 6.8.4.2). Therefore, EPA has also 

identified the vinyl chloride polymerization step as another potential source of dioxin. 

6.8.4 Pollutants of Concern 

This section discusses the pollutants of concern for Focus Group 3. By far, dioxin 

is the most toxic pollutant in wastewater discharges from this group. Other toxic pollutants also 

discharged by Focus Group 3 that rank high in terms of toxic-weighted pounds, include sulfide, 

total residual chlorine, and hexachlorobenzene. Section 6.8.4.1 presents the pollutants of 

concern identified for each product group. Section 6.8.4.2 focuses on dioxin discharges. 

6.8.4.1 Pollutants of Concern by Product Group 

EPA reviewed pollutant discharges reported to TRI and PCS, and ranked 

pollutants based on TWPE estimates for the following groups of facilities: 

C Stand-alone chlor-alkali manufacturers; 

C Stand-alone manufacturers of EDC/VCM (may also produce PVC); 

C Integrated chlor-alkali and EDC/VCM manufacturers (may also produce 

PVC); and 

C Stand-alone manufacturers of PVC. 

Tables 6-31 through 6-34 present the pollutants that rank high in terms of toxicweighted pounds for each group. 

EPA identified 36 facilities that produce chlorine using the chlor-alkali process. 

Of these facilities, 24 are not integrated with a vinyl chloride process. Table 6-31 presents the 

most toxic pollutant discharges reported by these facilities to TRI and PCS for 2000. 

Table 6-31. Pollutants of Concern for 24 Stand-Alone Chlor-Alkali Manufacturers1 

2000 Discharges Percentage of 

Total TWPE 

for Source Pollutant 

Median per 

Facility Load 

Pounds TWPE (lb/yr)

TRI Data 

Dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds 

0.0086 98,618 89 3 0.0019 

Mercury 69 8,078 7 5 12 

Chlorine 3,578 1,742 2 2 1,789 

6-60
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-31 (Continued) 

2000 Discharges Percentage of 

Total TWPE 

for Source Pollutant 

Median per 

Facility Load 

Pounds TWPE (lb/yr)

Sodium nitrite 3,000 1,120 1 1 NA 

PCS Data 

Sulfide, Total as S 21,944 61,456 53 1 NA 

Total residual chlorine 46,043 22,422 19 10 328 

Mercury, Total as Hg 165 19,314 17 8 20 

Chloride 166,221,615 4,047 4 3 39,583,393 

Benzo(a)pyrene 0.90 3,855 3 1 NA 

Copper, Total as Cu 3,705 2,322 2 7 76 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000.

NA - A median load was not calculated because only one facility reported the pollutant.

1

May manufacture additional chemicals, but do not manufacture EDC, VCM, or PVC.

EPA identified 14 facilities that produce EDC/VCM. Of these facilities, two are 

not integrated with a chlor-alkali process. Table 6-32 presents the most toxic pollutant 

discharges reported by these nonintegrated facilities to TRI and PCS for 2000. 

Table 6-32. Pollutants of Concern for Stand-Alone EDC/VCM Manufacturers (No Chlor 

Alkali) 

Pollutant 

2000 Discharges Percentage of 

Total TWPE for 

Source 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Pollutant 

Median per 

Facility Load 

Pounds TWPE (lb/yr)

TRI Data 

Dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds 

0.0013 2,477 89 1 NA 

Chlorine 347 169 6 1 NA 

PCS Data 

Copper, Total as Cu 51 32 71 1 NA 

Chromium, Total as Cr 102 8 17 1 NA 

Zinc, Total as Zn 108 5 11 1 NA 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000.

NA - A median load was not calculated because only one facility reported the pollutant.

EPA identified 12 chlor-alkali/EDC/VCM integrated sites. Table 6-33 presents 

the most toxic pollutant discharges reported by these integrated facilities to TRI and PCS for 

2000. 

6-61 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-33. Pollutants of Concern for Integrated Chlor-Alkali and Vinyl Facilities 

(Manufacturers of Chlor-Alkali and EDC/VCM, May Also Produce PVC) 

Pollutant 

2000 Discharges Percentage of 

Total TWPE 

for Source 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Pollutant 

Median per 

Facility Load 

Pounds TWPE (lb/yr)

TRI Data 

Dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds 

3.24 5,576,624 >99 9 0.051 

Hexachlorobenzene 41 29,691 0.53 3 18 

Chlorine 9,399 4,577 0.08 6 568 

Copper compounds 3,345 2,097 0.04 4 163 

PCS Data 

Total residual chlorine 43,608 21,237 46 9 723 

Vinyl chloride 49,982 5,793 13 1 NA 

Chromium, hexavalent 10,614 5,433 12 1 NA 

Copper, total as Cu 5,060 3,172 7 11 228 

Phenolics, total recoverable 82,460 2,309 5 1 NA 

Mercury, total recoverable 12.2 1,425 3 1 NA 

Mercury, total as Hg 11.7 1,368 3 3 1.9 

Lead, total as Pb 582 1,303 3 4 81 

Chloride 46,191,749 1,125 2 1 NA 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000.

NA - A median load was not calculated because only one facility reported the pollutant.

EPA identified 18 facilities that operate a stand-alone PVC process. Table 6-34 

presents the most toxic pollutant discharges reported by these facilities to TRI and PCS for 2000. 

None of the 18 stand-alone PVC manufacturers reported dioxin discharges to TRI in 2000. The 

Vinyl Institute, however, reported dioxin discharges to wastewater from PVC manufacturing (see 

Table 6-34). 

Table 6-34. Pollutants of Concern for Stand-Alone Manufacturers of Polyvinyl Chloride 

2000 Discharges Percentage of 

Total TWPE 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Median per 

Facility Load 

Pollutant Pounds TWPE for Source Pollutant (lb/yr) 

TRI Data 

Hydroquinone 71 90 58 1 NA 

Acetaldehyde 7,509 15 10 2 3,755 

Butyraldehyde 2,823 12 8 1 NA 

Vinyl Chloride 94 11 7 8 9.5 

6-62
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-34 (Continued) 

2000 Discharges Percentage of 

Total TWPE 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Median per 

Facility Load 

Pollutant Pounds TWPE for Source Pollutant (lb/yr) 

PCS Data 

Benzo(a)pyrene 0.396 1,696 70 1 NA 

Mercury, total as Hg 1.80 211 9 1 NA 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 0.396 167 7 1 NA 

Benzo(a)anthracene 0.396 71.7 3 1 NA 

Copper, total as Cu 102 63.7 3 2 50.8 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000.

NA - A median load was not calculated because only one facility reported the pollutant.

6.8.4.2 Dioxin as a Pollutant of Concern 

Based on information in TRI and information obtained in industry studies, EPA 

estimates that OCPSF facilities discharged 22 million toxic weighted pounds of dioxin in 2000. 

This section discusses dioxin reporting and how TWPE were calculated for dioxin and presents 

the dioxin discharge data obtained from TRI, PCS, the Vinyl Institute, the CCC, EPA’s Office of 

Solid Waste’s study of chlorinated aliphatics manufacturing, and industry responses to EPA’s 

2004 request for dioxin data. 

Dioxin Reporting 

Dioxin reporting is discussed in detail in Section 4.2.4.2. The term “dioxins” 

refers to17 polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (CDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans 

(CDFs), referred to as dioxin congeners. The toxicity of the congeners varies greatly. In this 

report, the term “dioxins” is used to refer to all 17 of the 2,3,7,8-substituted CDDs and CDFs. 

EPA uses Toxic Equivalency Factors (TEFs) to simplify risk assessment and regulatory control 

of exposures to dioxins and still account for the relative toxicities of the 17 compounds. TEFs 

are order-of-magnitude estimates of the toxicity of a compound relative to 2,3,7,8-TCDD. EPA 

uses TEFs, along with the measured concentration of dioxin congeners, to calculate toxic 

equivalent (TEQ) concentrations. 

For OCPSF Focus Group 3, EPA estimated TWPE for data from TRI, PCS, the 

CCC, and industry responses to EPA’s 2004 information request. Data from these various 

sources are provided differently (TM17, TEQ, measured congener concentrations). Where 

possible for each data source, EPA calculated the TWPE using the EPA TWFs for the 17 dioxin 

congeners. EPA revised the TWFs for dioxins in 2004. The memorandum entitled Revisions to 

TWFs for Dioxin and its Congeners and Recalcuated TWPEs for OCPSF and Petroleum 

Refining (available in the docket) presents the estimated TWPE for OCPSF facilities using the 

6-63
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

revised TWFs. The following paragraphs discuss the method used to calculate dioxin TWPE 

using each data source. Later in the section, the resulting TWPE are presented. 

For TRI, facilities report the total mass of the 17 dioxin and dioxin-like 

compounds released to the environment every year. This combined mass is referred to as TM17. This reporting method does not account for the relative toxicities of the 17 compounds. 

However, reporting facilities are given the opportunity to report a facility-specific congener 

distribution. Note that the dioxin congener distribution for a facility is not media specific: it 

reflects the distribution for all air, water, and solid waste releases from the facility. 

For facilities reporting a congener distribution to TRI, EPA used the reported 

distribution to estimate the mass of each congener in the facility’s wastewater releases. EPA 

calculated dioxin TWPE by multiplying the estimated mass of each congener by its TWF. If no 

congener distribution was reported, EPA used an average congener distribution to calculate the 

mass of each congener. EPA calculated an average congener distribution for each of the four 

Focus Group 3 product groups: stand-alone chlor-alkali manufacturers, chlor-alkali/EDC/VCM 

manufacturers, stand-alone EDC/VCM manufacturers (may also produce PVC), and stand-alone 

PVC manufacturers. 

Only one nonzero dioxin discharge load was included in PCS 2000 for an OCPSF 

facility. This was 0.00011 lbs of “chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, effluent” for Dover Chemical 

Corporation. This facility manufactures chlorinated paraffins, surfactants, and lubricants (6), 

and EPA considers it as part of the “Other Organics” dioxin discharging facilities. To calculate 

the TWPE, EPA applied the average congener distribution derived from TRI data for the “Other 

Organics” product group to estimate the mass of each congener in the reported PCS discharge. 

EPA then applied the TWF of each congener to calculate the TWPE discharged by the Dover 

Chemical facility. 

Data from the CCC are reported as grams TEQ, and no congener distribution is 

available. Because the grams TEQ unit represents the toxicity of all dioxin congeners detected 

relative to 2,3,7,8-TCDD (24), EPA used the TWF for 2,3,7,8-TCDD to calculate the TWPE. 

Section 4.2.4.2 of this TSD discusses TEQ, TEF, and TWPE for dioxin in more detail. 

In response to EPA’s 2004 information request, seven OCPSF Group 3 

companies provided measured dioxin discharge data. These data included the concentration of 

each of the 17 dioxin congeners measured in wastewater samples and the flow of the sampled 

discharge. To calculate the TWPE associated with these reported discharges, EPA used the 

congener-specific TWF. No assumption on congener distribution was necessary. 

6-64
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

TRI Dioxin Data 

Table 6-35 presents the TRI-reported dioxin wastewater discharges for 2000 and 

2001 and TWPE estimates for all OCPSF Focus Group 3 facilities: chlor-alkali, EDC, VCM, 

PVC manufacturers, and facilities that manufacture other organic chemicals. Some of these 

facilities reported zero dioxin discharge to TRI for 2001, but others reported increased dioxin 

discharges. Table 6-43 at the end of Section 6.8 lists data in conjunction with product type by 

facility. 

Table 6-35. Dioxin Releases Reported by OCPSF Facilities to TRI for 2000 and 2001, 

Adjusted for POTW Removals 

Company Location 

Discharge 

Status 

2000 2001 

2000 Basis for 

g TM17 TWPE g TM17 TWPE Estimate

Atofina 

Petrochemicals 

La Porte, TX Direct 0.079 1,161 0 0 O 

Celanese Acetate Narrows, VA Direct 0.014 200 0 0 C, M, O 

Condea Vista Baltimore, MD Direct 0.010 147 0 0 M, O 

Indirect 0.0034 50 0 0 M, O 

Cytec Industries Wallingford, CT Direct 3.00 44,092 1.00 20,729 M, O 

Dow Chemical Freeport, TX Direct 562.12 1,774,442 708 2,424,883 M, O 

Midland, MI Direct 5.69 52,421 2 9,773 C, M, O 

Plaquemine, LA Direct 745.86 1,553,042 512 1,103,903 M, O 

DuPont Chamber 

Works 

Deepwater, NJ Direct 0.20 2,939 0 0 M, O 

Formosa Plastics Point Comfort, 

TX 

Direct 0.61 1,563 0 0 M 

Baton Rouge, LA Direct 0.0018 7.1 0 0 M, O 

Geismar Vinyls 

(Borden) 

Geismar, LA Direct 0.61 2,477 0 0 C, M, O 

Georgia Gulf Plaquemine, LA Direct 82.78 872,310 0 0 M, O 

Occidental 

Chemical 

Convent, LA Direct 0.80 34,502 0 0 O, M 

Occidental 

Chemical 

Corporation 

Ingleside, TX Direct 1.60 2,734 1 2,090 M 

Hahnville, LA Direct 0.86 8,127 14 761,115 M, O 

Niagara Falls, NY Direct 0.24 2,265 0 0 M, O 

Indirect 0.00054 5.1 0 0 M, O 

Oxy Vinyls La 

Porte VCM Plant 

La Porte, TX Direct 2.33 41,958 1 36,022 M, O 

PPG Industries, 

Inc. 

Lake Charles, LA Direct 74.79 1,296,066 42 683,841 M, O 

Natrium, WV Direct 2.81 88,221 2 62,874 M 

6-65
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-35 (Continued) 

Company Location 

Discharge 

Status 

2000 2001 

2000 Basis for 

g TM17 TWPE g TM17 TWPE Estimate

Sasol North 

America, Inc. 

Westlake, LA Direct 0.20 2,974 0 0 E, M, O 

Velsicol Chemical 

Corporation 

Memphis, TN Indirect 4.14 16,872 5 24,901 DNR 

Source: TRIReleases2000 and 2001 National TRI Data.

Notes:

DNR indicates that the facility did not respond to this question in the 2000 TRI.

M— Estimate is based on monitoring data or measurements.

C— Estimate is based on mass balance calculations, such as calculation of the amount of wastes entering and

leaving process equipment.

E— Estimate is based on published emission factors, such as those relating release quantity to through-put or

equipment type (e.g., air emission factors).

O— Estimate is based on other approaches such as engineering calculations (e.g., estimating volatilization using

published mathematical formulas) or best engineering judgment. This would include applying an estimated removal

efficiency to a treatment, even if the composition of the waste before treatment was fully identified through

monitoring data.

PCS Dioxin Data 

Four facilities in Focus Group 3 are required by their NPDES permits to monitor 

their effluent for 2,3,7,8-TCDD, and one facility is required to monitor for chlorinated dibenzop-dioxins. According to PCSLoads2000, 2,3,7,8-TCDD was never detected in 2000. Table 6-36 

presents the data obtained from the PCSLoads2000 database for dioxin. Of the four facilities in 

Table 6-36, only Dow, Midland has data both in the PCS and TRI databases. For TRI, the 

Midland facility reported 5.69 grams total for all 17 dioxin congeners. For PCS, they reported 

no 2,3,7,8-TCDD detected. 

Table 6-36. Dioxin Loads Reported by OCPSF Facilities to PCS for 2000 

Facility Parameter lbs/yr PCS TWPE 

Formosa Plastics Corporation, La 

Porte, TX 

2,3,7,8-TCDD ND ND 

Dow Chemical Midland, MI 2,3,7,8-TCDD ND ND 

Oxychem Lake Charles Plant 2,3,7,8-TCDD ND ND 

Dover Chemical Corporation 2,3,7,8-TCDD ND ND 

Chlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins, Effluent 0.00011 418 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 

ND - Not detected. 

6-66 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Vinyl Institute Dioxin Data 

In April and May of 1995, The Vinyl Institute conducted a Dioxin 

Characterization Program. Treated wastewater samples were taken from one integrated 

EDC/VCM/PVC site, three integrated EDC/VCM sites, and six PVC-only sites. Dioxins were 

detected in all four of the samples taken from integrated sites and in two of the samples taken 

from PVC-only sites. The Vinyl Institute developed wastewater “mean emission factors” to 

estimate how much dioxin is generated in wastewater from these manufacturing processes. The 

Vinyl Institute used production rates for EDC and PVC from 1995 to calculate a total release 

estimate. Table 6-37 summarizes the results presented in the final report. 

Table 6-37. Wastewater Emission Factors and Estimated Releases for PVC-Only and 

EDC/VCM/PVC Manufacturing Facilities 

Product 

Basis of 

Estimate 

Mean Emission 

Factor1 

(ug I-TEQDF/ 1,000 

metric tons product)2 

1995 

Production 

(1,000 metric 

tons) 

Estimated 1995 Dioxin 

Release 

(g I-TEQDF)

2 

Estimated 1995 

TWPE (Based on 

1995 Production)2 

PVC 2.3 to 29 5,212 0.011 to 0.15 10,000 to 140,000 

EDC 2.9 to 15 11,115 0.032 to 0.17 30 ,000 to 160,000 

Source: Vinyl Institute Dioxin Characterization Program, 2001.

1

Mean emission factors were derived from treated wastewater samples. 2

I-TEQDF means “International Toxic Equivalents, dioxin and furan.” The range of I-TEQDF values represent

emission factors estimated based on ND = 0 and ND = 1⁄2 method detection limit (MDL). The MDLs for all

congeners except octachlorodibenzo dioxin (OCDD) and octachlorodibenzo furan (OCDF) were 10 pg/L or less. 

MDLs for OCDD and OCDF were 50 pg/L or less.

Chlorine Chemistry Council (CCC) Dioxin Data 

The CCC is a national trade association for manufacturers and users of chlorine 

and chlorine-related products. The CCC web page provides dioxin release data for major 

industrial producers and users of chlorine. The data represent releases of dioxin reported to TRI 

for 2000 in grams toxic-equivalents (TEQ) for each media release (air, water, and solid waste). 

In addition to providing more specifics on TRI data, the CCC and independent consultants 

performed site visits and further data verification at 16 facilities, to re-estimate dioxin releases to 

air, water, and land for the year 2000. Table 6-38 presents CCC data for 25 facilities, with the 

further-verified data for 16 facilities in bold. 

6-67
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-38. CCC Data for Dioxin Discharges from Facilities Manufacturing Chlorine or 

Chlorine-Related Products for 2000 

Company Location 

Dioxin 

Water 

Release 

(g TEQ) TWPE 

Dow Chemical Plaquemine, LA 7.71 7,165,568 

Dow Chemical Freeport, TX 6.91 6,425,964 

Dow Chemical Midland, MI 0.037 34,359 

Formosa Plastics Delaware City, DE 0 0 

Formosa Plastics Point Comfort, TX 0 0 

Formosa Plastics Corporation Louisiana Baton Rouge, LA 0 0 

Geismar Vinyls Geismar, LA 0 0 

Georgia Gulf Plaquemine, LA 0.023 21,177 

Georgia Gulf Lake Charles LLC Westlake, LA 0 0 

Occidental Chemical Convent, LA 0.00204 1,894 

Occidental Chemical Company Delaware City, DE 0.00013 120 

Occidental Chemical Corporation and 

Oxymar Ingleside, TX 0.181 168,434 

Occidental Chemical Corporation Hahnville, LA 1.08 1,003,972 

Occidental Chemical Corporation Mobile, AL 0.000036 34 

Occidental Chemical Corporation Niagara Falls, NY 0.01 9,296 

Oxy Vinyls, Deer Park Chlor-alkali Plant Deer Park, TX 0.54 501,774 

Oxychem Muscle Shoals, AL 0.000000087 0.0804 

Oxychem Castle Hayne, NC 0 0 

OxyChem Grand Island, NY1 0 0 

OxyVinyls, Battleground Chlor-alkali Plant LaPorte, TX 0.000483 449 

Oxyvinyls, Deer Park VCM Deer Park, TX 0.0308 28,649 

Oxyvinyls, La Porte VCM Plant La Porte, TX 0.00643 5,979 

PPG Industries, Inc. Lake Charles, LA 8.98 8,345,703 

PPG Industries, Inc. Natrium/New Martinsville, WV 0.193 178,978 

Vulcan Chemical Geismar, LA 0 0 

Wichita, KS 0 0 

Sources: CCC web page, individual CCC reports.

1

The Oxychem Grand Island facility is not included in the OCPSF Dioxin Discharging Group because it is an R&D

center. The facility was closed in December 2001.

6-68 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Office of Solid Waste (OSW) Dioxin Data 

In 1999, EPA proposed to list, but did not list, wastewaters from the production of 

chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons as hazardous waste (K173). EDC/VCM process wastewaters 

from distillation and purification processes, scrubbers, washings, phase separation, rainwater, 

and equipment washdowns would have been classified as K173. EPA did not promulgate 

regulations for these wastes; however, OSW analyzed untreated wastewater from eight facilities 

manufacturing EDC and VCM, testing the wastewater for toxicity characteristics (TC). Table 

6-39 shows the dioxin congeners that were detected in the raw wastewater, demonstrating that 

EDC and/or VCM manufacturing generates dioxin in wastewater. Also, using the TEFs, EPA 

calculated that the toxicity of the mixture relative to 2,3,7,8-TCDD, was 1,537,000 pg (0.0015 

mg) TEQ for each liter of wastewater generated (based on the maximum concentration detected). 

Table 6-39. Dioxin Congeners Detected in Raw Wastewater from EDC/VCM Operations1 

Dioxin Congener Detected Maximum Concentration2 (pg/L) Toxic Equivalency Factor3 

1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD 880,000 0.01 

1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF 43,000,000 0.01 

1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF 12,000,000 0.01 

1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD 52,000 0.1 

1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD 91,000 0.1 

1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD 110,000 0.1 

1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF 5,300,000 0.1 

1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF 1,200,000 0.1 

1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF 1,200,000 0.1 

2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF 430,000 0.1 

2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF 230,000 0.5 

2,3,7,8-TCDD 17,000 1 

2,3,7,8-TCDF 82,000 0.1 

Toxic Equivalency of Mixture, maximum (pg TEQ/L) 1,537,000 

1

Source: EPA, Best Demonstrated Available Technology (BDAT) Background Document for Chlorinated Aliphatics 

Production Wastes - K173, K174, K175, OSW, July 1999 (16). 2

Maximum concentration detected in wastewater from six facilities. EPA OSW sampled the influent to biological 

treatment from chlorinated aliphatics manufacturers, all of which manufacture EDC/VCM in addition to other 

chlorinated aliphatics. The samples were analyzed using EPA Method 1613. 

3

Toxic Equivalency Factors, TEFs, are a relative potency value that is based on the results of several in vivo and in 

vitro studies. TEFs are order of magnitude estimates of the toxicity of a compound relative to 2,3,7,8-TCDD. TEFs 

along with the measured concentration of dioxin congeners are used to calculate toxic equivalent (TEQ) 

concentrations (24). 

6-69
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Industry-Supplied Data 

In May 2004, EPA requested process information and wastewater dioxin and flow 

data from eight companies that operate 20 facilities in Focus Group 3. As of August 11, EPA 

had received responses from eight companies (19 facilities). Thirteen of the 19 facilities 

provided analytical data on dioxin in treated effluent wastewater: some provided analytical data 

from a single sampling episode, and others provided multiple years of data. Nine facilities 

reported flows corresponding to the analytical data. Dioxin congeners were detected in the 

effluent wastewater of all thirteen facilities providing analytical data. 

Nine facilities provided data on dioxin in untreated process wastewater. Four 

companies (six facilities) claimed their data as confidential business information (CBI), and EPA 

omitted data from presentations in this document where necessary, to protect CBI. See DCNs 

00897 - 00899, 01027, and 01034-01037 for detailed facility data and DCN 01046 for EPA 

calculation methodology, all in Section 4.4 of the docket. Table 6-40 shows the range and 

median concentrations of dioxin in untreated and treated wastewater by process type, as well as 

the associated wastewater flows reported. 

Table 6-40. Focus Group 3 Industry Analytical Data on Dioxin in Wastewater 

Type of Wastewater 

Number of 

Facilities 

with Data 

Concentration, pg-TEQ/L Range of Flows, 

MGD1 Range Median 

Raw Wastewater 

Chlorine gas condensates, prior to 

wastewater treatment 

9 238 - 35,674 6,198 0.008 - 0.217 

EDC quench water, prior to wastewater 

treatment 

2 10,231 - 18,537 14,384 0 - 0.194 

Treated Effluent Wastewater 

Treated process wastewater effluent, 

including chlor-alkali wastewater only 

8 0.508 - 535 120 1.49 -17.2 

Treated process wastewater effluent, 2 0.000104 - 110 55.2 11.6 

including chlor-alkali, EDC, VCM, and 

other organics operations 

Treated process wastewater effluent 6 3.12 - 174 34.3 0.77 - 39.4 

including EDC, VCM, and other organic 

operations 

Treated process wastewater effluent, 

including PVC operations only 

1 0.333 NA NA 

Source: Industry Responses to May 2004 EPA Data Request.

NA - when only one value is presented, the range and median are not provided.

1

Flows from four facilities were excluded from flow ranges to protect confidential business information. Also, some

facilities providing flow data did not provide dioxin concentration data, and visa versa.

6-70 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

For the nine facilities that submitted analytical and flow data on dioxin in effluent 

wastewater, EPA calculated the grams of dioxin released per year and the associated TWPE. In 

all cases, EPA had actual congener concentrations and used the congener-specific TWF to 

calculate TWPE. For facilities with multiple years of data, EPA presents the mean annual dioxin 

discharge. See DCN 01046 in Section 4.4 of the docket for details on how EPA calculated the 

annual dioxin discharge. Table 6-41 presents the estimated dioxin TWPE by product group. 

Table 6-41. Wastewater Dioxin Discharges from Focus Group 3 Based On Industry Data 

Product Type 

Number of Facilities 

with Data 

Total Annual Dioxin Discharge 

grams TEQ TWPE1 

Stand-alone manufacturers of 

chlor-alkali 

2 1.76 285,000 

Stand-alone manufacturers of 

EDC, VCM, and other organic 

operations 

0 NR NR 

Integrated manufacturers of chloralkali, EDC, VCM, and other 

organics operations 

7 10.1 2.1 million 

Manufacturers of PVC only 0 NR NR 

Source: Industry Responses to May 2004 EPA Data Request.

NR - none reported.

1

TWPE were calculated using measured congener concentrations; therefore, the grams TEQ were not used to

calculate the TWPE. For concentrations below detection limits, EPA assumed the concentration to be zero.

6.8.5 Comparison of Dioxin Release Data for OCPSF Focus Group 3 

As discussed in Section 6.8.4, EPA has dioxin discharge data for OCPSF Focus 

Group 3 from the TRIReleases2000, CCC, and industry responses to EPA’s May 2004 data 

request. TRI and CCC data represent 2000 dioxin discharges. In response to EPA’s 2004 data 

request, industry provided data representing various years. EPA used the reported data to 

calculate an annual average. Table 6-42 compares the estimated grams and TWPE discharged 

per year for each of these data sources. In all three data sets, the integrated chlor-alkali and 

EDC/VCM product group accounts for more than 87 percent of the OCPSF Focus Group 3 

dioxin discharges. The total TWPE estimated for OCPSF Focus Group 3 from dioxin ranges 

from 2.4 - 24 million TWPE (depending on the source). EPA notes that the number and identity 

of facilities contributing to the TWPE estimates from each data source in Table 6-42 are not the 

same. 

6-71
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-42. Comparison of Wastewater Dioxin Discharges from Focus Group 3 

TRI (2000 Data) CCC (2000 Data) Industry Responses1 

Number of Number of Number of 

Facilities g Facilities Facilities 

Product Type Reporting TM-17 TWPE Reporting g TEQ TWPE Reporting g TEQ TWPE2 

Stand-alone 

chlor-alkali 

3 3.91 98,618 7 1.28 1.2 

million 

2 1.76 285,000 

Stand-alone 

EDC/VCM 

1 0.61 2,477 2 0 0 0 NC NC 

Integrated chlor­ 9 1,470 5.6 11 24 23 7 10.1 2.1 

alkali and million million million 

EDC/VCM 

Stand-alone 

PVC 

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 NC NC 

Total 13 1,480 5.7 

million 

21 26 24 

million 

9 12 2.4 

million 

Sources: TRIReleases2000, CCC, Industry Responses to May 2004 EPA Data Request.

NC - not calculated. The facilities providing concentration data did not provide flows; therefore, grams of dioxin discharged could not be

estimated.

1

Some facilities provided one year of data (not necessarily for 2000), and others provided multiple years of data. See DCN 01046 in the docket

for details on how EPA calculated annual discharge.

2

TWPE were calculated using measured congener concentrations; therefore, the grams TEQ were not used to calculate the TWPE.

Table 6-43 lists all OCPSF Focus Group 3 facilities, grouped by product type: 

• Stand-alone chlor-alkali manufacturers; 

• Chlor-alkali and EDC/VCM manufacturers (may also manufacture PVC); 

• Stand-alone EDC/VCM manufacturers (may also manufacture PVC); and 

• Stand-alone PVC manufacturers. 

To protect CBI, EPA can not present the facility-specific industry response data. 

However, Table 6-43 presents the reported TRI and CCC data (where available) by facility. 

6.8.6 Wastewater Treatment in Place 

Nine of the facilities in OCPSF Focus Group 3 reported wastewater treatment 

information to TRI. Of these, five reported having biological treatment for their dioxincontaining wastestream in conjunction with other treatment, such as solids removal. 

From the CCC, EPA obtained general wastewater treatment in place data from 

three facilities: a chlor-alkali plant, an integrated chlor-alkali/EDC/VCM plant, and a stand-alone 

EDC/VCM plant. All of these facilities are direct dischargers and are discussed in the following 

subsections. 

6-72
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Sy

Table 6-43. List of Facilities Manufacturing Chlor Alkali, EDC, VCM, and PVC 

6-73

Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds R

Product(s) Manufactured for 2000 

Potassium 

and 

Recover 

Chlorine by TRI CCC

Discharge Chlor Alkali Chlorine Other 

Site Name Location Type (Na and Cl) (K and Cl) Means EDC VCM PVC g/yr TWPE/yr g/yr TEQ TW

Stand-Alone Chlor-Alkali Manufacturers Ashta Ashtabula, OH Mercury 

cell 

Bayer Baytown, TX Membrane & 

HCl cells 

DuPont Niagara Falls, NY Downs 

sodium 

GE Plastics Burkville, AL Diaphragm & 

membrane cells 

GE Plastics Mount Vernon, IN Diaphragm cell Kuehne Kearny, NJ Membrane cell Occidental Delaware City, Mercury cell 0.00013 Chemical DE Company 

Occidental Hahnville, LA Direct Diaphragm & 0.86 8,127 1.08 1,Chemical membrane cell Corporation 

Occidental Mobile, AL Direct Membrane cell Membrane 0.0000364 Chemical cell Corporation 

Occidental Niagara Falls, NY Direct and Diaphragm cell 0.24 2,270 0.01 Chemical Indirect Corporation (dioxin 

reported as indirect) 

Olin Augusta, GA Mercury cell Olin Charleston, TN Mercury cell 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Sy

Table 6-43 (Continued) 

6-74

Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds R

Product(s) Manufactured for 2000 

Potassium 

and 

Recover 

Chlorine by TRI CCC

Discharge Chlor Alkali Chlorine Other 

Site Name Location Type (Na and Cl) (K and Cl) Means EDC VCM PVC g/yr TWPE/yr g/yr TEQ TW

Olin McIntosh, AL Diaphragm cell Sunbelt/Olin McIntosh, AL Olin Niagara Falls, NY Membrane cell Oxychem Muscle Shoals, Mercury cell Mercury 0.00000008 

AL cell 65

Pioneer Henderson, NV Diaphragm cell Pioneer St. Gabriel, LA Mercury cell Pioneer: IDLED Tacoma, WA Diaphragm & 2002 membrane cell 

PPG Industries, Inc. 

Natrium/New Martinsville, WV 

Direct Diaphragm & 

mercury cell 

2.81 88,221 0.193 1

Vulcan Port Edwards, WI Mercury cell Vulcan Wichita, KS Direct Diaphragm & 

membrane cells 

0 

Georgia Pacific Green Bay, WI Diaphragm cell Georgia Pacific Muskogee, OK Membrane cell Georgia Pacific Rincon, GA Membrane cell Chlor-Alkali and EDC/VCM Manufacturers (May Also Manufacture PVC) Dow Plaquemine, LA Direct Diaphragm cell Yes Yes 747 1,553,042 7.71 7,Dow Freeport, TX Direct Diaphragm & Magnesium Yes Yes 563 1,774,442 6.91 6,

membrane cells 

Georgia Gulf Plaquemine, LA Direct Diaphragm cell Yes Yes Yes 82.87 872,310 0.0228 2PPG Lake Charles, LA Direct Diaphragm & 

mercury cells 

Yes Yes 75 1,296,066 8.98 8,
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Sy

Table 6-43 (Continued) 

6-75

Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds R

Product(s) Manufactured for 2000 

Potassium 

and 

Recover 

Chlorine by TRI CCC

Discharge Chlor Alkali Chlorine Other 

Site Name Location Type (Na and Cl) (K and Cl) Means EDC VCM PVC g/yr TWPE/yr g/yr TEQ TW

Occidental Chemical Corporation and Oxymar 

Ingleside, TX Direct Diaphragm cell Yes Yes 1.60 2,734 0.181 1

Occidental Chemical 

Convent, LA Direct Diaphragm cell Yes 0.80 34,502 0.002 

Formosa Plastics Point Comfort, TX Direct Membrane cell Yes Yes Y Yes 0.61 1,563 0 Formosa Plastics Baton Rouge, LA Direct Diaphragm cell Yes Yes Yes 0.0018 7 0 Corporation Louisiana Oxy Vinyls, La Porte VCM Plant 

La Porte, TX Direct Yes Yes 2.33 41,958 0.00643 

Oxy Vinyls, Diaphragm cell 0.000483 Battleground Chlor Alkali Plant Oxy Vinyls, Deer Deer Park, TX No reported Yes Park PVC Plant discharge 

Oxy Vinyls, Deer Park VCM 

Direct Yes Yes Yes 0.0308 2

Oxy Vinyls, Deer 0.540 5Park Chlor Alkali Plant Vulcan Geismar, LA Direct Diaphragm cell Yes 0 Vulcan/Mitsui Membrane cell Westlake Monomers 

Calvert City, KY Direct Membrane cell Yes Yes 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Sy

Table 6-43 (Continued) 

6-76

Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds R

Product(s) Manufactured for 2000 

Potassium 

and 

Recover 

Chlorine by TRI CCC

Discharge Chlor Alkali Chlorine Other 

Site Name Location Type (Na and Cl) (K and Cl) Means EDC VCM PVC g/yr TWPE/yr g/yr TEQ TW

Stand-Alone EDC/VCM Manufacturers (May Also Manufacture PVC) Borden Chemical Geismar, LA Direct Yes Yes Yes 0.61 2,477 0 (Geismar Vinyls) 

Georgia Gulf, Lake Charles LLC 

Westlake, LA Transfer to 

Sasol N.A. 

Yes Yes 0 

Stand-Alone PVC Manufacturers Certainteed Corporation 

Westlake, LA Direct Yes 

Colorite Specialty Resins 

Burlington, NJ Direct Yes 

Dow Chemical, Texas City Plant 

Texas City, TX Indirect Yes 

Formosa Plastics Delaware City, 

DE 

No reported discharge 

Yes 0 

Formosa Plastics Illiopolis, IL Direct Yes 

Georgia Gulf Aberdeen, MS Indirect Yes Georgia Gulf Oklahoma City, No reported Yes Chemicals & OK discharge Vinyls LLC Occidental Pottstown, PA Indirect Yes Chemical Corporation Oxy Vinyls Louisville, KY No reported 

discharge 

Yes 

Oxy Vinyls Pedricktown, NJ Direct Yes 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Sy

Table 6-43 (Continued) 

6-77

Dioxin and Dioxin-Like Compounds R

Product(s) Manufactured for 2000 

Potassium 

and 

Recover 

Chlorine by TRI CCC

Discharge Chlor Alkali Chlorine Other 

Site Name Location Type (Na and Cl) (K and Cl) Means EDC VCM PVC g/yr TWPE/yr g/yr TEQ TW

Oxy Vinyls L.P., Pasadena, TX Direct Yes Pasadena PVC Plant Polyone Burlington, NJ No reported Yes Corporation discharge 

Polyone Corporation 

Henry, IL No reported 

discharge 

Yes 

Shin tech Inc. Addis, LA Direct Yes 

Shintech Inc. Freeport, TX Direct Yes Vygen Ashtabula, OH No reported 

discharge 

Yes 

Westlake PVC Corporation 

Calvert City, KY Direct Yes 

Westlake PVC Corporation 

Pensacola, FL No reported 

discharge 

Yes 

Sources: TRIReleases2000; CCC; internet searches; Vinyl Institute’s The Vinyl Institute Report Dioxin Characterization Program, May 15, 2001; EPA, M

TWPE Loads for Dioxin/Dioxin-Like Compounds for the Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Category, September 18, 2003; and personal correspondenc

Cl - Chlorine K - Potassium 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.8.6.1 Chlor-Alkali 

The PPG plant in Natrium, WV is an example of a chlor-alkali manufacturing site 

that does not produce vinyl chloride. The plant produces chlorine and caustic using diaphragm 

cell and mercury cell technologies. Treatment of the wastewaters from the diaphragm cell 

process includes neutralization and chemical precipitation. Wastewaters from the mercury cell 

process are treated using chemical precipitation followed by polishing with activated carbon for 

mercury removal. (See DCN 01035 in the docket). 

6.8.6.2 Integrated Chlor-Alkali/EDC/VCM 

Dow Chemical in Freeport, TX is an example of an integrated chemical plant that 

produces chlorine and caustic using diaphragm and membrane cells, ethylene, EDC using two 

oxychlorination units, VCM, chlorinated solvents, and other chemical products. The wastewater 

treatment facility operates a physical/chemical and biological wastewater treatment system with 

effluent filtration for combined process wastewaters from chlor-alkali, EDC/VCM, and chlorhydrin processes. As of 2001, VCM process wastewater is filtered after steam stripping and 

prior to biological treatment. Wastewater treatment plant sludges, spent oxychlorination EDC 

catalyst, asbestos from chlor-alkali diaphragm cell operations, and other solid wastes are 

disposed of in an on-site landfill. (See DCN 00899 in the docket). 

6.8.6.3 EDC/VCM 

The OxyVinyls LaPorte VCM plant is an example of a stand-alone EDC/VCM 

plant. In 2000, the facility produced EDC using a combination of direct chlorination and 

oxychlorination. The facility shut down its high temperature direct chlorination EDC process in 

April 2002. EDC/VCM process wastewaters are treated using steam stripping followed by 

biological treatment. Wastewater treatment plant sludges and spent oxychlorination EDC 

catalyst are disposed of off-site in secure landfills. (See DCN 01034 in the docket). 

6.8.7 Industry Trends 

This section discusses the trends that EPA observed in the industry based on 

available data. Section 8.7.1 discusses the trend of dioxin discharges from the industry, and 

Section 8.7.2 discusses the production trend of the chlorine industry. 

6.8.7.1 Dioxin Discharge Trends 

The CCC)reviewed information from select CCC member plants to develop year 

2000 release estimates of dioxin for use in EPA’s dioxin reassessment1

. If plants had made 

significant changes, the CCC also presented release estimates for 2002 as indicators of future 

1

EPA is currently collecting data as part of the dioxin reassessment effort, which updates the 1995 Dioxin Inventory. 

For more information, see http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/cfm/dioxin.cfm?ActType=default. 

6-78 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

releases. Table 6-44 compares the CCC data from 2000 and 2002. The data show an overall 

reduction of approximately 16 grams TEQ (15,000,000 lb-eq) of dioxin in water releases from 

2000 to 2002. 

Table 6-44. Vinyl Manufacturing and Chlor-Alkali Facility Dioxins in Wastewater 

Facility Location 2000 g TEQ 2002 g TEQ 

Percent 

Change 

PPG Industries Lake Charles, LA 8.98 0.653 -93 

Dow Chemical Co. Plaquemine, LA 7.71 2.74 -64 

Dow Chemical Co. Freeport, TX 6.91 3.76 -46 

PPG Industries Natrium, WV 0.193 NC NA 

Occidental Chemical Corporation Ingleside, TX 0.181 0.187 3 

Dow Chemical Co. Midland, MI 0.037 NC NA 

Occidental Chemical Corporation Deer Park, TX 0.0308 NC NA 

Georgia Gulf Plaquemine, LA 0.0228 0.024 4 

Occidental Chemical Corporation LaPorte, TX 0.00643 NC NA 

Occidental Chemical Corporation Convent, LA 0.00204 NC NA 

Occidental Chemical Corporation Mobile, AL 0.0000364 NC NA 

Source: CCC Data provided to Dwain Winters, April 2004. All concentrations reported as grams TEQ.

NA - Percent change could not be calculated because comparable data were not available.

NC - 2002 release estimated were not calculated because they are not expected to be significantly different from

2000 release estimates.

CCC observed the largest reductions at the PPG plant in Lake Charles, LA and 

the Dow Chemical facilities in Freeport, TX and Plaquemine, LA. In the CCC report, the PPG 

Lake Charles plant attributes their 93-percent reduction of dioxin water releases to 

environmental control projects implemented since 2000 (see DCN 00899 in the docket). PPG 

expects further reductions of dioxin releases as the plant continues to implement new 

environmental projects. 

In 1995, Dow Chemical announced its plans to implement a program to reduce 

global dioxin releases from its manufacturing plants to air and water by 90 percent by the year 

2005. So far, reductions of approximately 75 percent have been achieved across all media (7). 

The Dow Freeport, TX plant upgraded its oxychlorination EDC technology in 2001. Both Dow 

facilities (Freeport, TX and Lake Charles, LA) installed filtering equipment for partially treated 

EDC/VCM wastewaters. This new treatment, and other process improvements made in 2001 

and 2002, account for the reduction of dioxin water releases (see DCN 00899). Note that 

although the TM-17 dioxin value for Dow Freeport increased from 2000 to 2001 (see Table 6­

35), the dioxin release for 2002 is less than 2000, based on site-verified CCC data. 

6-79
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.8.7.2 Chlorine Industry Trends 

End uses of chlorine manufactured in the U.S. include chemical production, vinyl 

products, water disinfection, and the pulp and paper industry. Approximately 40 percent of the 

chlorine manufactured in the U.S. is used to produce EDC (8). 

The Chlorine Institute tracks the U.S. domestic production of chlorine. Table 

6-45 lists the production for the last 10 years. In general, production increased from 1993 to 

2000. In 2001, however, production slowed because companies closed or idled chlor-alkali 

plants. Since 2001, seven chlor-alkali plants have either been closed or idled, which accounts for 

approximately 10 percent of the U.S. production (8). Demand for chlorine has decreased over 

the last decade. A large portion of the decrease is attributed to the recycle of HCl for the 

oxychlorination process in EDC production. Companies have found additional sources of byproduct HCl, which lowered the chlorine requirements for EDC production. In addition, 

chlorine use in the pulp and paper industry has decreased over the past ten years in response to 

environmental pressures (8). 

Table 6-45. Chlorine Production in the United States 

Year Annual Production, tons/year 

2002 12,666,629 

2001 12,604,865 

2000 14,057,698 

1999 13,807,739 

1998 13,532,559 

1997 13,685,360 

1996 13,168,384 

1995 12,990,066 

1994 12,612,760 

1993 11,983,420 

Source: Chlorine Institute, 2003. 

6.8.8 Conclusions 

Findings of EPA’s detailed study of OCPSF Focus Group 3, dioxin dischargers, 

are summarized below. 

C The term “dioxins,” or polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (CDDs) and 

polychlorinated dibenzofurans (CDFs), refers to the 17 individual 

compounds (congeners) with chlorine substitution of hydrogen atoms at 

the 2, 3, 7, and 8 positions on the benzene rings. 

6-80
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Dioxins are persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) pollutants, 

associated with a range of adverse human health effects, including cancer. 

EPA’s human health-based water quality criterion (water + organism) for 

the most toxic dioxin isomer, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 

(dioxin), is 0.005 pg/L (5x10-9 ug/L) (24). Due to their toxicity and ability 

to bioaccumulate, the various congeners of dioxin have high toxic 

weighting factors (TWFs). Consequently, even small mass amounts of 

dioxin discharges translate into high toxic weighted pounds equivalents 

(TWPEs). 

C OCPSF Focus Group 3 includes facilities that manufacture chlor-alkali, 

EDC/VCM, and/or PVC. Some integrated facilities manufacture several 

of these products. 

C Using data reported to TRI for 2000, EPA estimated that dioxin 

contributes 92 percent of the TWPE for stand-alone chlor-alkali 

manufacturers, stand-alone EDC/VCM manufacturers, and integrated 

chlor-alkali and vinyl facilities. None of the 18 stand-alone PVC 

manufacturers reported dioxin discharges to TRI for 2000. 

C For OCPSF Focus Group 3, EPA has facility-specific dioxin water 

discharge data from the following data sources: TRIReleases2000, the 

CCC, and industry responses to EPA’s 2004 information request. 

C For the TRI, U.S. industrial facilities were first required to report dioxin 

releases for 2000, and facilities report the total mass of the 17 congeners 

released and the congener distribution. For TRI data, EPA calculated 

TWPE of dioxins released using facility-reported congener distributions. 

If a facility did not report a congener distribution, EPA used the product 

group-specific average distribution to calculate the mass of each congener 

released. Using TWFs for each congener and TRI data as reported 

(accounting for POTW removals), EPA estimated that 14 OCPSF 

Focus Group 3 facilities discharged 1,500 grams TM-17 of dioxin (5.7 

million TWPE). 

C In 2000, none of the facilities in Focus Group 3 are required by their 

NPDES permits to monitor their effluent for 2,3,7,8-TCDD or dioxins as a 

group. However, EPA is aware of one facility, Dow Freeport, that has a 

2003 permit monitoring requirement for dioxins as 2,3,7,8-TCDD TEQ. 

Therefore, no PCS data were available for facilities in Group 3 at the time 

of this report. 

C For 2000 CCC data, which generally included data verification, facilities 

reported the total grams TEQ released, which represents the total grams 

relative to the toxicity of 2,3,7,8-TCDD. No congener distribution is 

6-81
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

available. Because the grams TEQ reflects the toxicity of all dioxin 

congeners detected relative to 2,3,7,8-TCDD, EPA used the TWF for 

2,3,7,8-TCDD to calculate the TWPE. EPA estimated that 21 OCPSF 

Group 3 facilities discharged 26 grams TEQ of dioxin (24 million 

TWPE). 

C The CCC also provided 2002 data for some facilities. Out of 11 facilities 

with 2000 data, five provided 2002 data. Comparing 2000 with 2002 data, 

three facilities had significant reductions in dioxin, two had slight 

increases, and six did not provide 2002 data because they did not expect 

that the numbers would be different from 2000. The 2002 CCC data 

show an overall reduction of approximately 16 grams TEQ of dioxin 

(15 million TWPE). Accounting for these reductions, approximately 

10 grams TEQ (9 million TWPE) remain. 

C For industry responses to EPA’s 2004 information request, 18 facilities 

reported concentrations of dioxin detected in the wastewater by congener, 

and usually the associated flow. To calculate the dioxin TWPE discharge 

from facilities, EPA used the congener-specific TWF. No assumption on 

congener distribution was necessary. If facilities provided concentration 

data over multiple years (e.g., 1996 - 2000), EPA averaged the reported 

concentrations to calculate the amount of dioxin released per year. EPA 

estimated that nine OCPSF Group 3 facilities discharged 11.9 grams 

TEQ of dioxin (2.4 million TWPE). 

C EPA also obtained discharge data from the Vinyl Institute, which 

performed a study of dioxin releases from EDC, VCM, and PVC 

manufacturing. The Vinyl Institute detected dioxin in all four wastewater 

samples from facilities with EDC/VCM manufacturing (one facility also 

manufactured PVC). The Vinyl Institute detected dioxin in two of six 

wastewater samples from PVC manufacturers. The Vinyl Institute 

estimated that for 1995, 0.011 - 0.15 grams of dioxin (10,000 - 140,000 

TWPE) were released from PVC manufacturers and 0.032 - 0.17 grams of 

dioxin (30,000 to 160,000 TWPE) were released from EDC/VCM 

manufacturers. 

C EPA’s OSW also studied dioxin concentrations in raw wastewater from 

EDC/VCM processes and detected 13 of 17 dioxin congeners. OSW 

detected concentrations of 2,3,7,8-TCDD at up to 17,000 pg/L and 

1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF at up to 43,000,000 pg/L in raw wastewater. 

C Industry response to EPA’s 2004 information request included measured 

concentrations of dioxin in process wastewater. Industry data indicate 

dioxin, including 2,3,7,8-TCDD, is detected in chlorine gas condensates 

from the chlor-alkali manufacturing process and in EDC quench water. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Industry data indicate that dioxin is not generated in the VCM and PVC 

manufacturing processes. Of the 13 OCPSF Group 3 facilities that 

provided analytical effluent data, dioxin congeners were detected in 

the final effluent of all 13 facilities. 

C OCPSF Group 3, by far, contributes the most significant TWPE compared 

with other industry groups. For example, the OCPSF Group 3 TWPE 

from just dioxin is 24 million TWPE using CCC data (5.7 million TWPE 

using TRI data). The total TWPE from all other industries combined, for 

all pollutants, is just 14.4 million TWPE. 

Based on information from the detailed review, EPA concludes that dioxins are 

generated during manufacture of chlor-alkali and EDC. EPA further concludes that dioxins are 

discharged in treated effluent of facilities that manufacture chlorine by the chlor-alkali process, 

EDC, and/or VCM. Given the toxicity of dioxins and the tendency for bioaccumulation, EPA 

concludes that dioxin discharges from the manufacture of chlor-alkali and EDC warrant further 

study. 

6.9 Control of Dioxin in Wastewater 

This section discusses the wastewater treatment options identified by EPA to 

minimize dioxin in wastewater. Section 6.9.1 discusses new treatment technologies, and Section 

6.9.2 discusses the cost data available on these technologies.

6.9.1 Treatment Technologies for Control of Dioxin in Wastewater 

EPA identified technologies to minimize the amount of dioxin in wastewater from 

data collected in previous effluent guidelines, vendors, and industry. These technologies include 

pollution prevention, in-process wastewater treatment, and end-of-pipe add-on wastewater 

treatment. Section 6.9.1.1 discusses pollution prevention techniques. Section 6.9.1.2 discusses 

in-process wastewater treatment technologies. Section 6.9.1.3 discusses end-of-pipe add-on 

wastewater treatment technologies. 

6.9.1.1 Pollution Prevention 

EPA requested data on pollution prevention from eight companies that 

manufacture chlor alkali, EDC, and VCM. The eight companies responded, providing analytical 

and treatment data; however, no facilities identified pollution prevention methods. For example, 

no facility identified feedstock substitution or process modification to prevent dioxin formation. 

6.9.1.2 In-Process Wastewater Treatment 

As discussed in Section 6.8.5, most of the dioxin dischargers, including those 

producing chlor alkali, EDC, VCM, and/or PVC, have end-of-pipe biological treatment in place. 

Most of the chlor-alkali and vinyl manufacturing facilities produce many chemicals, and 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

wastewater from the entire plant is typically commingled prior to biological treatment. End-ofpipe flows are large, ranging from 0.36 to 40 MGD, and segregating dioxin-containing 

wastewater streams allows for targeted dioxin removal. 

Facilities can control dioxin-containing segregated wastewater streams by 

removing solids or the using granular activated carbon. For the chlor-alkali and vinyl 

manufacturing industry, EPA identified that the following wastewater streams that might contain 

dioxin (see industry responses to EPA’s 2004 information request, DCNs 00897 - 00899, 01027, 

and 01034-01037 in the docket): 

C Chlorinated gas condensates;

C EDC quench water; and

C EDC spent catalyst regeneration water.

Dioxin is hydrophobic and adheres to solids; therefore removing solids or sludges 

is an effective technique to remove dioxin from wastewater (20, 24). (Sludge from wastewater 

treatment of EDC/VCM wastewater is K174 hazardous waste (15)). Some solids removal 

technologies that could be added in process include sand filtration, multimedia filtration, 

ultrafiltration, and clarification. For example, a facility could pass chlorine gas condensates 

through filter cartridges prior to commingling them with other wastewater. 

Similarly, granular activated carbon removes dioxin from wastewater. One 

facility reported passing chlorine gas condensates through granular activated carbon units prior 

to biological treatment, removing an average greater than 90 percent of the dioxin in the chlorine 

gas condensates (see DCN 01035 in Section 4.4 of the docket). Other facilities reported solids 

removal technologies to remove dioxin prior to end-of-pipe treatment as well. 

6.9.1.3 End-of-Pipe Wastewater Treatment 

EPA also considered what add-on end-of-pipe treatment technologies would 

remove dioxin. Solids removal and granular activated carbon would remove dioxin, but the 

large volume of end-of-pipe wastewater may make their application cost prohibitive. Improved 

end-of-pipe treatment could include: PACT® treatment (adding of powdered activated carbon to 

activated sludge systems) or optimized (chemically assisted) clarification. 

6.9.2 Summary of Available Treatment Cost Data and Justification for Not 

Estimating Costs 

To estimate the cost of implementing an in-process or end-of-pipe wastewater 

treatment technology, flow and pollutant concentration data are needed. For example, to size a 

sand filter for a waste stream, the solids content must be known. To design a granular activated 

carbon unit (either bed or canister), flow and chemistry of the influent wastewater determine the 

size and number of units needed. EPA requested data on flow and chemistry of in-process and 

end-of-pipe wastewater from eight companies with chlor-alkali, EDC, VCM, and PVC 

operations. EPA received responses with flow and chemistry data from six companies in July, 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

one month prior to publication of this report. Therefore, at the time of the writing of this report, 

EPA had insufficient data for estimating costs. 

6.10 Chemical Formulators, Packagers, and Repackagers 

In conjunction with the detailed review of the OCPSF category, EPA also 

analyzed data from facilities that formulate, package, and repackage chemicals into products for 

end use or for further processing but are not covered by existing point source categories, to 

determine if new subcategories of OCPSF should be identified for further study. 

This section discusses a potential new subcategory referred to as Chemical 

Formulating, Packaging, and Repackaging (CFPR). CFPR operations are those that mix or blend 

chemicals without intended chemical reaction, and those that package or repackage chemicals 

into products for end use or further packaging. This section discusses EPA’s findings on this 

potential subcategory in the following subsections: 

C Section 6.10.1 presents the facilities identified as having CFPR 

operations; 

C Section 6.10.2 describes the processes and sources of wastewaters at 

CFPR operations; 

C Section 6.10.3 lists the pollutants of concern identified based on available 

data; 

C Section 6.10.4 describes the wastewater treatment at CFPR facilities; and 

C Section 6.10.5 explains EPA’s next action for this group of facilities. 

6.10.1 CFPR Industry Description 

In the 1997 EPA Chemical Formulating, Packaging, and Repackaging Industry 

Special Study (1997 CFPR Study), EPA identified the following industries within major SIC 

group 28 (Chemical and Allied Products) as CFPR industries: 

C SIC 2841 ­ Soap and Detergents, Except Specialty Cleaners; 

C SIC 2842 ­ Specialty Cleaning, Polishing and Sanitation Preparation; 

C SIC 2844 ­ Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Other Toilet Preparations; 

C SIC 2851 ­ Paints, Varnishes, Lacquers, Enamels, and Allied Products; 

C SIC 2891 ­ Adhesives and Sealants; 

C SIC 2893 ­ Printing Ink; and 

C SIC 2899 ­ Chemicals and Chemical Preparations, not elsewhere 

classified. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

EPA conducted this study to determine whether it should develop ELGs for the 

CFPR industry, or some sectors of the industry. The study fulfilled EPA’s obligations under 

section 304(m) of the CWA. 

Three of the SIC codes included in the 1997 CFPR Study contain facilities that 

are covered by existing effluent limitation guidelines: 

C SIC 2841 ­ 40 CFR Part 417, Soap and Detergent Manufacturing; 

C SIC 2851 - 40 CFR Part 446, Paint Formulating; and 

C SIC 2893 ­ 40 CFR Part 447, Ink Formulating. 

EPA included SIC codes 2841, 2851, and 2893 in the 1997 CFPR Study because 

some facilities reporting these SIC codes are not specifically regulated under Parts 417, 446, or 

447 and could be considered part of the CFPR industry. Due to data limitations, EPA could not 

differentiate facilities that were included in existing point source categories and facilities that 

were part of CFPR. Therefore, EPA included all facilities reporting SIC codes 2841, 2851, and 

2893 in the 1997 CFPR Study. However, EPA did not consider facilities in SIC codes 2841, 

2851, and 2893 in this detailed review, which applies to operations being considered only as a 

new subcategory of OCPSF. Instead, EPA is including these SIC codes in the review of Parts 

417, 446, and 447. EPA considered any operations in these SIC codes but outside of the current 

applicability of these categories as potential new subcategories of the respective category. This 

detailed review of CFPR facilities covers only facilities reporting SIC codes 2842, 2844, 2891, 

or 2899. See the documents in the docket entitled, “Toxic Weighted Pound Equivalent (TWPE) 

Loads by Facility and By Pollutant for SIC Code 2841, Soaps and Other Detergents, Except 

Specialty Cleaners, July 21, 2004"; TWPE Loads By Facility and By Pollutant for SIC Code 

2851, Paints, Varnishes, Lacquers, Enamels, and Allied Products, July 14, 2004"; and “TWPE 

Loads By Facility and By Pollutant for SIC Code 2893, Printing Ink, July 14, 2004.” 

EPA identified facilities included in the potential new CFPR subcategory of the 

OCPSF ELG based on their primary SIC codes, as reported to TRI and PCS. Therefore, data 

limitations of the reported SIC codes are particularly relevant to this set of facilities. The 

diversity of the chemical products manufactured and operations used at these facilities makes it 

often difficult to characterize a facility’s discharges under a single point source category. 

Applicable SIC codes for some facilities can span multiple potential point source categories. 

Facilities may also report under different SIC codes for different databases or reporting years. 

For example, Dow Chemical in Midland, MI has several applicable SIC codes. 

Two of the applicable SIC codes are 2899 and 2869. SIC code 2899 is part of the potential new 

CFPR subcategory; SIC 2869 is included in the OCPSF category. Dow Midland reported SIC 

code 2899 to TRI in 2000 as its primary SIC code and SIC code 2869 as its secondary SIC code, 

and reported SIC 2869 to PCS in 2000. Because EPA determined that the toxic pollutants 

associated with dioxin discharge are derived from OCPSF (SIC code 2869) operations, EPA 

included discharges from Dow Midland in the dioxin-discharging group of OCPSF (discussed in 

Section 6.8). Therefore, Dow Midland is not included in the CFPR discussion. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

EPA obtained information on the number of facilities in the SIC codes identified 

as CFPR industries from three sources: the 1997 U.S. Economic Census, the 2000 TRI database, 

and the 2000 PCS database. The 2000 TRI database includes reports of discharges to any media 

from all facilities that meet TRI reporting requirements. In contrast, the 2000 PCS database 

includes only facilities that are permitted for discharge to surface waters. Table 6-46 lists the 

number of CFPR facilities from these sources. The number of facilities reporting discharge to 

TRI for 2000 represents only about 6 percent of the CFPR industry based on the total number of 

facilities in the 1997 U.S. Economic Census. Of the facilities reporting discharge to TRI, 84 

percent are indirect dischargers. The number of facilities reporting discharges to PCS for 2000 

represents about 2 percent of the total industry. Only 14 of the PCS facilities (17 percent of the 

total PCS facilities) are major facilities with loads estimated from PCS data. 

Table 6-46. Counts of CFPR Facilities 

Facility 

Count 

2000 PCS 2000 TRI 

Both Direct 

SIC 

Code 

(1997 U.S. 

Economic 

Census) Total Major Minor Total 

No 

Reported 

Discharge 

Direct 

Discharge 

Indirect 

Discharge 

and 

Indirect 

Discharge 

2842 727 6 1 5 97 57 0 39 1 

2844 737 12 1 11 39 19 0 20 0 

2891 694 17 2 15 158 123 3 31 1 

2899 1,157 47 10 37 284 174 15 82 13 

Total 3,315 82 14 68 578 373 18 172 15 

Sources: PCSLoads2000 and TRIReleases2000. 

Based on information presented in the 1997 study, CFPR operations are located 

across the United States with the largest number of facilities in California, Illinois, New Jersey, 

Ohio, and Texas. Moderate numbers of facilities are located in the Midwest, Indiana, and 

Georgia. 

6.10.2 Process Descriptions and Wastewater Sources 

This subsection discusses the processes and the wastewater sources present at 

CFPR operations. 

6.10.2.1 CFPR Processes 

CFPR operations formulate, package, and repackage a very large variety of 

chemical products. Because of the large number of products a facility may handle, most CFPR 

facilities operate on the principle of “just-in-time” production, which bases production on 

customer demand, to reduce the space needed to keep large inventories on hand. However, 

because the products that are formulated, packaged, or repackaged can vary from day to day and 

from hour to hour, facilities often dedicate an equipment line (e.g., a liquid formulating line) to 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

make multiple products over the course of a day, week, or month. Some facilities, typically 

those producing large volumes of certain products, operate long production campaigns and keep 

some inventory on site. Facilities that run long campaigns tend to generate less wastewater from 

product changeover. However, as customer demands change, such facilities may switch some or 

all production to “just-in-time” operations. 

Operations at CFPR facilities may include: 

C Liquid Formulating - Mixing several raw materials, including a base 

solvent, fragrances, and other inert ingredients such 

as emulsifiers or surfactants; 

C Dry Formulating ­ Mixing powders, dusts, granules, block, 

impregnated solids, compounds that are formed into 

a solid shape, or microencapsulated dusts or 

granules; 

C Liquid Packaging ­ Transferring the liquid final product into a package; 

C Dry Packaging ­ Transferring the dry final product into a package; 

C Aerosol Packaging ­ Placing the product in spray cans that are 

pressurized, and adding a propellant; and 

C Repackaging ­ Transferring a formulated and packaged product 

into a new container. 

6.10.2.2 CFPR Process Wastewater 

Process wastewater in CFPR industries result from cleaning production 

equipment and related process areas. The typical process wastewaters found in the CFPR 

industry include: 

C Interior equipment cleaning rinsate;

C Floor wash;

C Exterior equipment cleaning rinsate;

C Bulk tank rinsate;

C Drum/shipping container rinsate;

C Department of Transportation leak test bath water (for aerosol products);

C Leak and spill cleanup water;

C Air or odor pollution control scrubber water;

C Contact cooling water; and

C Safety equipment wash water.

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.10.3 Pollutants of Concern 

This section presents PCS and TRI data pollutant data and discussions of the 

pollutants of concern in each CFPR sector (SIC codes 2842, 2844, 2891, and 2899). 

6.10.3.1 PCS and TRI Data for the CFPR Industry 

Table 6-47 lists the pollutants reported to TRI as discharged directly or indirectly, 

which account for 95 percent of the total TWPE for CFPR facilities that reported to TRI for 

2000. This table presents the number of facilities that reported each chemical, total pounds of 

chemical discharged to surface waters, and the direct, indirect, and total TWPE for each 

chemical. Indirect discharging facilities reported transfers to POTWs. Using average POTW 

removal efficiencies, EPA estimated the amount of pollutant discharged to surface water (see 

DCN 00618, Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs, for more information). Therefore, EPA adjusted 

the TWPE estimates in this table to account for POTW treatment. As explained in Section 2.1, 

the 2000 TRI database does not include all CFPR facilities or TRI-listed chemicals that are used 

or produced at levels below reporting thresholds. 

Table 6-47. Chemical Releases to Surface Water Reported to TRI for 2000

Number Cumulative 

of 

Facilities 

TRI 

Total 

TRI 

Direct 

TRI 

Indirect 

TRI 

Total 

Percentage of 

Total SIC 

Percentage of 

Total SIC Code 

Pollutant Reporting (lbs/yr) TWPE TWPE1 TWPE Code TWPE TWPE 

SIC 2842 - Specialty Cleaning, Polishing, and Sanitation Preparation 

Sodium Nitrite 2 2,924 - 1,091 1,091 74% 74% 

Chlorine 2 741 - 361 361 24% 98% 

Total 31,943 <1 1,480 1,480 

SIC 2844 - Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Other Toilet Preparations 

Sodium Nitrite 2 18,455 - 6,890 6,890 99.7% 99.7% 

Total 29,395 - 6.908 6,908 

SIC 2891 - Adhesives and Sealants 

Manganese 

Compounds 

1 2,825 - 199 199 45% 45% 

Polycyclic 1 0.4 81 - 81 18% 63% 

Aromatic 

Compounds 

Copper 

compounds 

1 70 - 44 44 10% 73% 

Ammonia 5 27,164 10 31 41 9% 82% 

Chromium 

compounds 

2 61 - 31 31 7% 89% 

Vinyl acetate 9 4,011 - 16 16 4% 92% 

Zinc 

Compounds 

4 181 <1 8 8 2% 94% 

n-Hexane 2 294 8 <1 8 2% 96% 

Total 39,173 105 342 446 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review

Table 6-47 (Continued) 

Pollutant 

Number 

of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI 

Total 

(lbs/yr) 

TRI 

Direct 

TWPE 

TRI 

Indirect 

TWPE1 

TRI 

Total 

TWPE 

Percentage of 

Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage of 

Total SIC Code 

TWPE 

SIC 2899 - Chemicals and Chemical Preparations, Not Elsewhere Classified 

Sodium Nitrite 11 169,267 57,765 5,428 63,193 94% 94% 

Copper 

compounds 

16 1,424 86 807 893 1% 95% 

Total 952,412 58,388 8,969 67,357 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 1

TWPE transferred to POTW that are ultimately discharged to surface waters. Accounts for POTW removals.

Table 6-48 lists the pollutants reported to PCS, which account for 95 percent of 

the total TWPE for CFPR facilities that reported discharges to PCS for 2000. 

Table 6-48. Pollutant Discharges Reported to PCS for 2000

 Pollutant 

Number of 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS Total 

(lbs/yr) 

PCS 

TWPE 

Percentage 

of Total 

SIC Code 

TWPE 

Cumulative 

Percentage of 

Total SIC 

Code TWPE 

SIC 2842 - Specialty Cleaning, Polishing, and Sanitation Preparation 

Total NA NA 

SIC 2844 - Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Other Toilet Preparations 

Copper, Total (as Cu) 1 0.2 0.2 48% 48% 

Nitrogen, Nitrate Total (as N) 1 1,620 0.1 29% 77% 

Nitrogen Ammonia, Total (as NH3) 1 31 0.05 13% 90% 

Zinc, Total (as Zn) 1 0.7 0.03 10% 100% 

Total 47,998 0.3 

SIC 2891 - Adhesives and Sealants 

Chlorine, Total Residual 1 120 58 49% 49% 

Barium, Total (as Ba) 1 21,667 43 37% 86% 

Nitrogen, Ammonia Total (as NH3) 1 6,404 12 10% 96% 

Total 1,950,573 118 

SIC 2899 - Chemicals and Chemical Preparations, Not Elsewhere Classified 

Benzo(a)pyrene 1 6 27,753 79% 79% 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene (3,4-benzo) 1 6 2,730 8% 87% 

Copper, Total (as Cu) 5 1,923 1,206 3% 90% 

Benzo(a)anthracene 3 6 1,173 3% 94% 

Chlorine (as Cl) 4 23,329,838 568 2% 95% 

Total 53,423,544 35,086 

Source: PCSLoads2000.

NA - Not applicable; this facility reported no flow to PCS in 2000.

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

6.10.3.2 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2842 

As shown in Table 6-47, pollutants of concern in SIC code 2842 include sodium 

nitrite and chlorine. Both pollutants were reported in indirect discharges by two facilities. More 

than 99 percent of the TRI TWPE for SIC 2842 is from indirect releases and less than 1 TWPE 

was reported from direct dischargers. 

Only one major facility reported to PCS in 2000 for this industry (see Table 6­

48). This facility reported zero flow; therefore, EPA estimated no loads from this facility. 

6.10.3.3 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2844 

The TRI pollutant of concern in SIC code 2844 is sodium nitrite, as presented in 

Table 6-47. All of the reported TWPE in this industry are from indirect dischargers. 

Only one major facility reported to PCS in 2000 for SIC 2844. As shown in 

Table 6-48, the PCS pollutants of concern for this facility are copper, nitrogen, ammonia, and 

zinc and amounted to 0.3 TWPE/yr. 

6.10.3.4 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2891 

The TRI pollutants of concern in SIC code 2891 include manganese compounds, 

polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs), copper compounds, ammonia, chromium compounds, 

vinyl acetate, zinc compounds, and n-hexane (shown in Table 6-47). Most (77 percent) of the 

TWPE from this industry was reported in indirect discharges. Of the facilities that reported 

water discharges to TRI, 91 percent are indirect dischargers. 

Only two major facilities reported to PCS in 2000 for SIC code 2891. Only one 

facility reported some pollutant discharge. The PCS pollutants of concern for this facility are 

chlorine, barium, and ammonia. 

A 1984 study of the adhesives and sealants industry prepared by E.C. Jordan Co. 

entitled Summary of Findings: Water and Waste Management for the Adhesives and Sealants 

Manufacturing Point Source Category presents pollutant data from a 1978 sampling effort. 

(The January 22, 2004 memorandum Summary of Adhesives and Sealants Industry Study, DCN 

00726, Section 4.17 presents a more detailed review of this study). The pollutants estimated to 

have the highest annual loads in raw wastewater in the 1978 sampling effort include: 

C Zinc;

C Pentachlorophenol;

C Butylbenzyl phthalate;

C Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate;

C Di-n-butyl phthalate;

C Phenol;

C Chromium;

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Toluene; 

C 1,1,1-trichloroethane; 

C Benzene; 

C Trichloroethylene; and 

C Diethyl phthalate. 

However, the pollutant estimates presented in the 1984 study were complicated 

by several fundamental problems including analytical problems in determining concentrations, a 

lack of common industry-wide characteristics that could be used as an industry baseline, a lack 

of complete data for every segment of the industry, and day-to-day and plant-to-plant pollutant 

concentration variations. 

6.10.3.5 Pollutants of Concern for SIC Code 2899 

As shown in Table 6-47, the TRI pollutants of concern in SIC code 2899 are 

sodium nitrite (94 percent of the total TWPE) and copper compounds (1 percent of the total 

TWPE). The TRI TWPE for SIC code 2899 is dominated by one facility; 3M in Cottage Grove, 

MN represents 75 percent of the total CFPR industry TWPE (see Section 6.10.4.1 for a 

discussion of this facility’s permit). 

The PCS pollutants of concern include benzo(a)pyrene, benzo(b)fluoranthene 

(3,4-benzo), copper, benzo(a)anthracene, and chlorine. The PCS TWPE for SIC code 2899 is 

dominated by one facility; Ondeo Nalco in Garyville, LA represents 91 percent of the total 

CFPR TWPE (see Section 10.4.1 for a discussion of this facility’s permit). Ondeo Nalco 

discharges most of the reported releases of PACs. EPA contacted this facility to verify its 

various PACs discharges reported to PCS for 2000. The facility did not detect the compounds; 

the reported discharges were estimated to be half the detection limit. EPA obtained Ondeo 

Nalco monitoring data, which verified that the compounds were not detected during wastewater 

sampling. 

6.10.3.6 Total TWPE for CFPR Operations 

Table 6-49 presents the total PCS and TRI TWPEs by SIC code for all CFPR 

sectors. As shown in the table, SIC code 2899 accounts for about 88 percent of the total TRI 

TWPE and greater than 99 percent of the total PCS TWPE. Also, SIC code 2899 is the only 

industry reporting more direct discharges than indirect discharges to TRI. 

The TRI pollutants of concern for the entire CFPR industry are sodium nitrite, 

copper, manganese, and chlorine. The PCS CFPR pollutants of concern are benzo(a)pyrene, 

benzo(b)fluoranthene, and copper. 

As explained above, the TRI TWPE for SIC 2899 is dominated by a single facility 

(accounting for 75 percent of the total TWPE). Similarly, the PCS TWPE is dominated by a 

separate, single facility (accounting for 91 percent of the total TWPE). See Section 10.4.2 for 

more information on these two facilities. 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

Table 6-49. PCS and TRI TWPEs by SIC Code for CFPR Sectors 

SIC 

Code 

Number of 

Major 

PCS 

Facilities 

Reporting 

PCS 

TWPE 

Number of 

TRI 

Facilities 

Reporting 

TRI 

Total 

TWPE 

Number of 

TRI Direct 

Facilities 

Reporting1 

TRI 

Direct 

TWPE 

Number of 

TRI 

Indirect 

Facilities 

Reporting1 

TRI 

Indirect 

TWPE 

2842 1 0 40 1480 1 <1 40 1,480 

2844 1 0.3 20 6980 0 0 20 6,980 

2891 2 118 35 446 4 105 32 342 

2899 10 35,086 110 67,357 28 58,388 95 8,969 

Total 14 35,204 205 76,191 33 58,492 187 17,699 

1

Includes facilities that report both direct and indirect discharge. 

6.10.4 Wastewater Treatment/Best Management Practices 

This section discusses the wastewater treatment and BMPs in place at CFPR 

operations. 

6.10.4.1 CFPR Wastewater Treatment 

Facilities can report wastewater treatment practices to TRI. In 2000, CFPR 

facilities reported almost 40 different types of wastewater treatment to TRI. Table 6-50 lists the 

types of treatment reported most frequently. 

Table 6-50. Wastewater Treatment Practices at CFPR Facilities 

Treatment 

Number of Direct 

Facilities Reporting 

Treatment 

Number of Indirect 

Facilities Reporting 

Treatment 

Neutralization 10 54 

Settling/Clarification 11 32 

Chemical Precipitation - Lime or Sodium Hydroxide 7 23 

Filtration 6 18 

Equalization 3 16 

Sludge Dewatering (nonthermal) 4 14 

Biological Treatment - aerobic 8 8 

Chemical Precipitation- other 3 7 

Other Chemical Treatment 0 7 

Pollution prevention, recycle, and reuse practices are widely used in CFPR 

operations. These practices include: 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

C Dedicating equipment to one product, to reduce cleaning requirements; 

C Storing of rinsates for reuse in subsequent batches; 

C Using water conservation equipment; 

C Packaging directly into product containers; 

C Scheduling production to minimize cleanouts; and 

C Using good housekeeping practices to prevent and quickly clean up leaks 

and spills. 

6.10.4.2 Permit Review Summary 

EPA obtained surface water discharge permits for 3M, Cottage Grove, MN, and 

Ondeo Nalco, Garyville, LA. These facilities are direct dischargers with manufacturing 

operations in SIC codes that are included in the potential new CFPR subcategory. The following 

summarizes of the basis used to develop the permit limits as described in the permit documents. 

For more detailed information, please see the May 14, 2004 memorandum Review of Top 

Chemical Formulating, Packaging, and Repackaging Facilities. 

C Both facilities report SIC code 2899. 

C Permit limitations for both facilities were based on the OCPSF effluent 

guidelines. 

C The highest TWPE pollutant reported by 3M Cottage Grove, MN to TRI 

for 2000 is sodium nitrite. 

— Limits for nitrite and sodium nitrite are not included in 3M’s 

permit, and 

— Due to the diversity of chemical manufacturing operations in place 

at this facility, it is unclear if sodium nitrite discharges result from 

CFPR processes. 

C The highest TWPE pollutants reported by Ondeo Nalco Garyville, LA to 

PCS for 2000 are individual PACs. 

— Permit limits are assigned for the reported PACs, and 

— Monitoring data show that PACs were not detected in the facility’s 

wastewater, but were reported at one half the method detection 

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Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

limit to PCS. Therefore, PCS data overestimate the facility’s 

TWPE by 31,947 lb-eq. 

6.10.5 Conclusions 

The screening-level review showed that the majority of facilities reporting to TRI 

reported no wastewater discharge. Of the facilities that reported discharge, most transferred their 

wastewater to a POTW. Only 0.5 percent of the facilities in the 1997 U.S. Economic Census 

reported direct wastewater discharge to TRI. Two facilities generate most of the TWPE in this 

industry, and NPDES permits for these facilities are based on OCPSF effluent limitations 

guidelines. Because of the small number of CFPR facilities that discharge significant toxicweighted pounds to waters of the United States, EPA concludes it is not appropriate to develop a 

new CFPR subcategory under the OCPSF ELG at this time. If EPA receives data during 

subsequent annual reviews that indicate otherwise, EPA may reconsider this sector of OCPSF for 

development at that time. 

EPA recommends that permit writers prepare permits for those facilities that 

discharge high TWPE based on existing OCPSF limitations on a BPJ basis. Permit writers might 

also want to review and consider pollution prevention alternatives described in the Pollution 

Prevention (P2) Manual: Implementing the P2 Alternative (23) developed for Pesticide 

Formulating Packaging and Repackaging (PFPR) facilities. Because many of the operations and 

wastewater sources at CFPR facilities are similar to those at PFPR facilities, EPA believes the 

pollution prevention practices identified for PFPR facilities are applicable to CFPR facilities. 

6.11 References 

1. 1997 U.S. Census. Available online at: http://www.census.gov. 

2. American Plastics Council and International Institute of Synthetic Rubber 

Producers. Available online at: http://pubs.acs.org/cen/coverstory/8127/pdf/ 

8127/fandf_production.live.pdf. 

3. Amini, B. and S. Lowenkron. 2003. Aniline and Its Derivatives. Kirk Othmer 

Encylopedia. 

4. Baron, J, C. Kraynik, and R. Wombles. Strategies for a Declining North 

American Coal Tar Supply. Koppers Industries Inc., Technical Center, 

Pittsburgh, PA. 1998. 

5. Chlorine Institute. North American Chlor-Alkali Industry Plants and Production 

Data Report 2003. 

6. Dover Chemicals Web page, http://www.doverchem.com. 

7. Dow Chemical Web page, http://www.dow.com. 

6-95 
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

8. The Innovation Group Web Page, Chemical Profiles. Available online at: 

http://www.the-innovation-group.com/chemprofile.htm. 

9. Lamberti, C., Prestipino, C., Bonino, F., Capello, L., et al. Chemistry of the 

Oxychlorination Catalyst: An In Situ, Time-Resolved, Dispersive Xanes Study. 

Accessed at: http://www.esrf.fr/UsersAndScience/Publications/Highlights/ 

2002/XASMS/SAXMS2/ on February 9, 2004. 

10. Man Made Organic Materials - Part I, Innovision India Web page, 

http://home.att.net/~cat6a/org_mat-I.htm. 

11. National Science Council Chemical Backgrounder for Aniline. Available online 

at: http://www.nsc.org/library/chemical/aniline.htm. 

12. OxyVinyls Web page, http://www.oxyvinyls.com. 

13. The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI), 

http://www.plasticsdatasource.org/impact.htm#topten. 

14. Thornton, J. Environmental Impacts of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Building 

Materials. U.S. Green Building Council Briefing Paper for Center for Maximum 

Potential Building Systems and The Healthy Building Network. Columbia Earth 

Institute, Columbia University. 2002. 

15. U.S. EPA. Best Demonstrated Available Technology (BDAT) Background 

Document for Chlorinated Aliphatics Production Wastes - K173, K174, K175. 

Washington, D.C. July 1999. 

16. U.S. EPA. Best Demonstrated Available Technology (BDAT) Background 

Document For Dye and Pigment Production Wastes - Deferred Wastes K167 and 

K168. Washington, D.C. June 11, 1999. 

17. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines, New 

Source Performance Standards, and Pretreatment Standards for the Organic 

Chemicals and the Plastics and Synthetic Fibers Point Source Category. 

Washington, D.C. October 1987. 

18. U.S. EPA. Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act Section 313 

Guidance for Reporting Toxic Chemicals within the Dioxin and Dioxin-Like 

Compound Category. Washington, D.C. December 2000. 

19. U.S. EPA. Listing Background Document for the Chlorinated Aliphatics Listing 

Determination (Final Rule). Washington, D.C. June 30, 2002. 

6-96
Section 6 - Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers Detailed Review 

20. U.S. EPA. National Risk Management Research Laboratory Treatability 

Database. 

21. U.S. EPA. Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions from Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali 

Plants: Background Information Document for Proposed Standards. 

EPA-453lR-02-007. Washington, D.C. February 2002. 

22. U.S. EPA. Office of Compliance Sector Notebook Project. Profile of the 

Organic Chemical Industry 2nd Edition. EPA/310-R-02-001. Washington, D.C. 

November 2002. 

23. U.S. EPA. Pollution Prevention (P2) Guidance Manual for the Pesticide 

Formulating, Packaging, and Repackaging Industry: Implementing the P2 

Alternative. EPA-821-B-98-017. Washington, D.C. 

24. Van den Berg, et al. “Toxic Equivalency Factors (TEFs) for PCBs, PCDDs, 

PCDFs, for Humans and Wildlife.” Environ. Health Perspect. 106:775-792. 

1998. 

25. Vinyl Institute. The Vinyl Institute Dioxin Characterization Program. Final 

Report. May 15, 2001. 

26. Whole Earth Magazine, http://www.wholeearthmag.com/ArticleBin/113.html. 

27. Wombles, Robert H. (Koppers Industries, Inc.) and Melvin D. Kiser (Marathon 

Ashland Petroleum Company). Developing Coal Tar/Petroleum Pitches. Koppers 

Industries Company web site, http://www.koppers.com. 

28. World Chlorine Council. Turning Salt into Chlorine and Caustic Soda: 

Chlor-Alkali Manufacturing Processes. Accessed at 

http://www.worldchlorine.com. 2002. 

29. Zipf, Lynn, U.S. EPA. Revisions to TWFs for Dioxin and its Congeners and 

Recalculated TWPEs for OCPSF and Petroleum Refining. (EPA Docket Number 

OW-2003-0074). August 10, 2004. 

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7.1 

Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

SECTION 7 PETROLEUM REFINING 

Introduction 

The petroleum refining industry corresponds to Standard Industrial Classification 

(SIC) code 2911 - Petroleum Refining, defined as establishments engaged in producing gasoline, 

kerosene, distillate fuel oils, residual fuel oils, and lubricants, through fractionation or straight 

distillation of crude oil, redistillation of unfinished petroleum derivatives, cracking, or other 

processes. EPA is also considering including operations in SIC code 5171 - Petroleum Bulk 

Stations and Terminals as a new subcategory in the Petroleum Refining Point Source Category. 

EPA selected the Petroleum Refining category for further review because it 

ranked fourth highest among all point source categories for toxic and nonconventional pollutant 

discharges for 2000 in the screening-level analysis (see the December 31, 2003 Notice of the 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, FRN [FRL-7604-7]). The effluent guidelines, 

limitations, and standards (ELGs) for the Petroleum Refining category are codified at 40 CFR 

Part 419 (last revised in 1982). In the screening-level analysis, EPA found that the toxic and 

nonconventional pollutant loadings are driven by three groups of pollutants: polycyclic aromatic 

compounds (PACs), polychlorinated dibenzo-para (p)- dioxins and polychlorinated 

dibenzofurans (referred to as “dioxins” in this report), and metals (specifically vanadium, 

mercury, and selenium). EPA analyzed the reported discharges and specific process sources 

discharging these pollutants. 

For the detailed review of the Petroleum Refining category, EPA verified Toxic 

Release Inventory (TRI) and Permit Compliance System (PCS) data, analyzed additional 

industry data, reviewed current regulations affecting this industrial category, and identified 

pollution prevention and treatment technologies for wastewater discharges. 

EPA also analyzed data from petroleum bulk stations and terminals (PBSTs) to 

determine if a new subcategory of the Petroleum Refining category should be identified and 

further studied. Currently, states determine whether process discharges from PBST operations 

are regulated. Section 7.12 discusses EPA’s findings on this investigation. 

This section discusses EPA’s analysis of the Petroleum Refining category and 

conclusions in the following order: 

C Section 7.2 discusses data sources used, EPA’s verification of the data, 

and the data source limitations; 

C Section 7.3 discusses the petroleum refining industry profile and discharge 

status; 

C Section 7.4 discusses the current petroleum refining ELGs (40 CFR Part 

419) and other major regulations affecting petroleum refineries; 

7-1
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C Section 7.5 discusses wastewater sources, pollutant loadings, and current 

treatment in place at refineries; 

C Section 7.6 discusses EPA’s analysis and findings for PACs discharges 

from petroleum refineries; 

C Section 7.7 discusses EPA’s analysis and findings for dioxin discharges 

from petroleum refineries; 

C Section 7.8 discusses EPA’s analysis and findings for metals discharges 

from petroleum refineries; 

C Section 7.9 discusses EPA’s analysis and findings for other 

nonconventional and conventional pollutant discharges from petroleum 

refineries; 

C Section 7.10 discusses control of wastewater discharges from petroleum 

refineries, including pollution prevention and wastewater treatment 

technologies; 

C Section 7.11 lists references for the petroleum refining detailed study; and 

C Section 7.12 discusses EPA’s findings on PBSTs. 

7.2 Data Sources 

This section describes the data sources used for the petroleum refining industry 

detailed study, as well as data quality limitations and data verification activities performed. 

Sections 4.2.1, 4.2.2, and 4.1.3 of this document describes TRI, PCS, and U.S. Economic Census 

data sources, respectively. This section discusses data sources as they pertain specifically to the 

petroleum refining industry detailed review. 

7.2.1 Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 

All petroleum refineries that meet the employee criteria (i.e., 10 or more 

employees) and the chemical threshold(s) must submit reports to EPA’s TRI program. Of the 

163 petroleum refineries operating in the U.S. in 2000, 154 (94 percent) reported to TRI in 2000. 

EPA used 2000 TRI data, as reported, to estimate pollutant loadings, determine if stormwater 

discharges were an industry issue, and identify treatment in place. 

To estimate pollutant loadings and toxic-weighted pound equivalents (TWPEs), 

EPA developed the TRIReleases2000 database (35); this database includes all data as reported to 

TRI in 2000. The pollutant loadings estimated by TRIReleases2000 uses pollutant releases and 

transfers to publicly-owned treatment works (POTWs), taking POTW removals into account. 

7-2
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Section 4.2.1 discusses the TRIReleases2000 database in further detail. Section 4.2.4 discusses 

TWPE calculations. 

For the petroleum refining industry detailed review, EPA verified data as reported 

to TRI in 2000, particularly for those facilities and pollutants with high TWPEs. For example, 

refineries may estimate TRI-reported releases in a number of ways: monitoring data, emissions 

factors, mass balances, and other engineering calculations. If a chemical is not detected in the 

effluent, refineries may estimate the discharge by using one-half of the detection limit. By using 

one-half the detection limit, refineries may overestimate the amount of chemical discharged, 

which particularly affected PACs and dioxin discharges reported for petroleum refineries. 

The list of chemicals reportable to TRI includes individual chemicals and 

chemical categories (i.e., group of similar chemicals). The TRI chemical categories commonly 

reported by petroleum refineries include the PACs category (21 individual chemicals; see 

Section 7.6 for more detail), dioxins and dioxin-like chemicals category (17 individual 

chemicals; see Section 7.7 for more detail), and metal compound categories (e.g., mercury 

compounds, vanadium compounds). 

Refineries are required to report the combined mass of PACs and dioxins 

released. To calculate the TWPE of PACs as reported to TRI in 2000, EPA calculated a toxicity 

weighting factor (TWF) specific to the petroleum refining industry (see Section 7.6.2). 

For dioxins, refineries are given the opportunity to report a refinery-specific 

congener distribution. To calculate the TWPE of dioxins as reported to TRI in 2000, EPA 

calculated a TWF specific to a petroleum refinery based on the reported congener distribution 

(see Section 7.2). Note that the dioxin congener distribution for a refinery may not accurately 

reflect the distribution across all media. See also Section 4.2.4.2 for a more detailed discussion 

on dioxins and the calculation of TWPE for dioxin discharges. 

Refineries report only the elemental metal portion of discharges for metal 

compounds (e.g., a refinery reports only the pounds discharged of vanadium for all vanadium 

compounds). Therefore, EPA used the metal TWFs to calculate the TWPE. 

To verify the data reported to TRI, EPA performed the following activities: 

C Verified that facilities reporting as SIC code 2911 were petroleum 

refineries and linked each refinery’s data with data from the PCS and the 

Energy Information Administration (EIA), discussed in Section 7.2.1.1; 

C Verified data reported to TRI for two refineries, discussed in Section 

7.2.1.2; 

C Met with representatives of a refinery and industry trade associations to 

discuss pollutant loadings estimated using TRI and PCS data, discussed in 

Section 7.2.1.3; and 

7-3 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C Reviewed comments submitted in response to the December 31, 2003 

Notice of the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, FRN [FRL7604-7], discussed in Section 7.2.1.4. 

7.2.1.1 Identification of Petroleum Refineries Operating in 2000 

EPA linked refineries reporting to TRI and PCS with EIA’s list of refineries 

operating in 2000. See Section 7.2.4 for a brief description of EIA’s Refinery Capacity Data 

(21), used in this review. For refineries not included in EIA’s list, EPA investigated whether the 

facilities were actually petroleum refineries. EPA found that eight facilities that reported to TRI, 

nine facilities that reported to PCS, and one that reported to both, were not operating refineries. 

A number of these facilities were closed in or prior to year 2000. Others turned out to be 

chemical manufacturers, PBSTs, or other nonrefinery operations. Table 7-1 lists these facilities 

and the rationale for excluding each facility from the list of existing petroleum refineries in this 

detailed review. The 18 facilities listed in Table 7-1 were excluded from the petroleum refining 

industry detailed review and reclassified in TRIReleases2000. 

7.2.1.2 Refinery-Specific Verification of TRI Data 

EPA contacted the Lyondell-Citgo refinery in Houston, TX to verify the data as 

reported to TRI in 2000. Lyondell-Citgo representatives confirmed that the refinery discharged 

2,380 pounds of PACs to a POTW in 2000. In addition, the refinery submitted the individual 

PAC concentrations in the refinery effluent (untreated wastewater and stormwater) (15). The 

refinery discharges the wastewater to the Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority’s Washburn 

Tunnel Facility for biological treatment. EPA also received effluent data from the Washburn 

Tunnel Facility’s 2003 Peak Performance Award Application (9). 

The Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC refinery in Detroit, MI submitted a 

request-for-withdrawal form to EPA to correct the reported releases of dioxins in 2000. The 

refinery incorrectly reported 8.0613 grams of dioxins discharged to a POTW. The request-forwithdrawal stated that the refinery discharged zero grams of dioxins in 2000. EPA updated the 

TRIReleases2000 database to reflect this reporting change. 

7-4
Sect

Table 7-1. Facilities Reporting to TRI and PCS Under SIC Code 2911 that are Not Operating R

7-5

Facility Name Facility Location Database Rationale for Exclusion a

Buckeye Refining Co. L.L.C. Indianola, PA TRI Facility is a petroleum bulk terminal. Pennzoil-Quaker State Co. Rouseville Refinery & Rouseville, PA TRI Facility should be classified as SIC code Packaging in January 2000. 

Calumet Lubricants Co. Rouseville Plant Rouseville, PA TRI Facility should be classified as SIC code 

in 2001. 

International Petroleum Corp. Plant City, FL TRI Facility is a waste oil recycling plant. Merichem Chemicals & Refinery Services L.L.C. Tuscaloosa, AL TRI Facility is a chemical processing plant. Two Wastewater Treatment Unit Oregon, OH TRI Facility is a wastewater treatment facility 

(R&M): NPDES Permit Number 43616S

Golden West Refining Co. Santa Fe Springs, 

CA 

TRI Facility ceased operations in 1992. 

Chevron Products Co. Richmond Beach Asphalt Refinery 

Seattle, WA TRI Facility is an asphalt plant. 

Total Petroleum Inc. Arkansas City, KS PCS Facility was closed in 1996. Penreco Karns City, PA PCS Facility is a petrochemical manufacturing American Western Refining Lawrenceville, IL PCS Facility was closed in 1995. Longview Refining Assoc. Inc. Longview, TX PCS Facility is closed and is a Superfund siteGulf Chemical Corporation Penuelas, PR PCS Facility is a chemical processing plant. Commonwealth Oil Petrochemical Penuelas, PR PCS Facility is not an active refinery; currentl

terminal. 

Cenco Refining Company Santa Fe Springs, 

CA 

PCS Facility was shut down. 

The Carbide/Graphite Group Inc. Seadrift, TX PCS Facility manufactures calcium and graphBerry Petroleum Co. - Stephens Stephens, AR PCS Facility was shut down in February 2000 

1999. 

Neches River Treatment Corporation Lower Neches Valley 

Beaumont, TX TRI, PCS Facility is a centralized waste treatment f
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.2.1.3 Meetings with Representatives from Refinery and Trade Associations 

EPA met with representatives of the American Petroleum Institute (API) and 

National Petrochemical and Refiners Association (NPRA) on February 11, 2004. Prior to the 

meeting, API and NPRA sent a list of questions concerning the petroleum refining detailed 

review to EPA. These questions and topics discussed during the meeting included the detailed 

review work plan (Section 3.06, DCN 00701, EPA Docket OW-2003-0074), factors considered 

for the review, use of the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, dioxin TWFs, pollutant loading 

estimates, and the review of PBSTs. See the memorandum entitled Meeting Between EPA and 

Representatives of American Petroleum Institute and National Petrochemical and Refiners 

Association (5). 

EPA met with representatives of Lyondell-Citgo Refining, LP on March 12, 2004 

to discuss the operation and wastewater discharges of their Houston, TX refinery. 

Representatives from the refinery presented an overview of the refinery and its wastewater 

discharges. The refinery discharges to the Washburn Tunnel facility, a POTW operated by the 

Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority. The Lyondell-Citgo refinery and one other refinery 

contribute about 50 percent of the wastewater flow to the Washburn Tunnel. Gulf Coast Waste 

Disposal Authority has never detected PACs in the effluent from the Washburn Tunnel facility. 

EPA explained how the TRIReleases2000 database estimates the refinery’s pollutant discharge 

of PACs by assuming the POTW (Washburn Tunnel) removes 92 percent of mass as reported to 

TRI. See the memorandum entitled Meeting Between EPA and Representatives of LyondellCitgo Refining, LP (6). 

7.2.1.4 Comments Received in Response to the Federal Register Notice of the 2004/2005 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 

EPA received comments specific to petroleum refining from NPRA, API, and the 

County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. The comments are summarized below. 

NPRA submitted comments regarding EPA’s use of data as reported to TRI for 

screening purposes. NPRA stated that an investigation of TRI reporting basis should be 

performed before using the values in a screening assessment. NPRA submitted refinery-specific 

comments on TRI data that EPA used to estimate TWPE for PACs and dioxins. Based on EPA’s 

TRI Reporting Forms and Instructions, refineries may estimate releases of nondetected 

pollutants using one-half the detection limit to avoid under-reporting. See Sections 7.6.5 and 

7.7.4.4 for specific industry comments on PACs and dioxins. 

API submitted comments regarding EPA’s use of TRI data for screening purposes 

and provided information on how its member refineries estimated the discharges of PACs and 

dioxins for TRI. Most refineries do not detect PACs and dioxins in the effluent, but use the 

detection limit (or other methods) to estimate the mass of pollutant releases to wastewaters. See 

Sections 7.6.5 and 7.7.4.4 for specific comments on PACs and dioxins. API agreed with EPA 

that using the benzo(a)pyrene TWF for TWPE calculations (used for the screening-level 

analysis) is a worst-case scenario. In its comments, API used EPA’s revised TWF (based on 

7-6
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

distribution of PACs in refinery products) to recalculate PAC loadings. API also submitted 

effluent data from 10 refineries performing activated sludge treatment that were collected during 

1993-1994 in conjunction with EPA Office of Solid Waste (see Section 7.6.4.3). 

The County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (a group of 27 Districts) 

provided comments regarding the questions posed by EPA in the December 31, 2003 FRN. 

Thirteen refineries discharge wastewater to District facilities. The Districts’ comments include a 

discussion of its analytical data for PACs, dioxins, and metals (selenium and vanadium). As 

noted in the comments, the Districts submitted analytical data (1984-1993) to EPA as part of the 

1996 Preliminary Data Summary. Since the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, the Districts have 

found that refinery wastewater quality has not varied greatly, except for a decrease in the 

concentrations of methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) and benzene, toluene, ethylene, and xylene 

(BTEX). The MTBE concentration decrease can be attributed to the ban of MTBE in gasoline in 

the state of California. The BTEX concentration decrease can be attributed to the promulgation 

of the Clean Air Act (CAA) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants 

(NESHAP) regulations in 1992 (3). 

The Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority submitted comments on the December 

31, 2003 FRN concerning the PACs TWPE discharges calculated by EPA (10). The comments 

note that PACs have never been detected in the effluent from the Washburn Tunnel Facility 

(which receives petroleum refining wastewater from the Lyondell-Citgo Refinery in Houston, 

TX and the Crown-Central Petroleum Refinery in Pasadena, TX). Gulf Coast Waste Disposal 

Authority submitted PAC discharge concentrations for 2000 through 2003. EPA verified the 

TRI discharges reported by the Lyondell-Citgo Refinery (see Section 7.2.1.2). For both 

refineries, EPA estimated the TWPE discharged to surface waters using its standard percent 

removal calculation (discussed in Section 4.2.4). 

7.2.2 Permit Compliance System (PCS) 

 PCS is a computerized management information system maintained by EPA’s 

Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA). This system contains only permitrequired monitoring data for direct-discharging facilities. States may submit data from 

refineries’ discharge monitoring reports (DMRs) to PCS. The data from each DMR will vary 

depending on the refinery’s NPDES permit requirements. Refineries that discharge to a POTW, 

or that transfer their wastewater to a private waste treater, do not submit DMRs; therefore, their 

data are not in PCS. In addition, PCS typically does not include data for refineries that states 

classify as “minor sources.” 

The Effluent Data Statistics System (EDSS) is a system that EPA developed to 

estimate mass loadings based on data stored in PCS. EDSS uses PCS-reported mass loading 

values or calculates loadings using concentration and flow rate data, taking into account the 

various units of concentration and flow rates. EDSS and PCS are the major sources of data for 

the PCSLoads2000 database. EPA selected permit facility data, parameter limits data, and 

measurement/violation data for major facilities to develop PCSLoads2000 (34). Section 4.2.2 

discusses the PCSLoads2000 database in further detail. 

7-7
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

The 2000 PCS includes data from 104 (63 percent) of the 163 refineries operating 

in the U.S. in 2000. To verify the data reported to PCS, EPA performed the following activities: 

C Verified that facilities reporting as SIC code 2911 were petroleum 

refineries and linked each refinery’s data with data from TRI and EIA, 

discussed in Section 7.2.1.1; 

C Met with representatives of industry trade associations to discuss pollutant 

loadings estimated using data as reported to TRI and PCS, discussed in 

Section 7.2.1.3; and 

C Reviewed comments submitted in response to the December 31, 2003 

Federal Register notice of the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program 

Plan, FRN [FRL-7604-7], discussed in Section 7.2.1.4. 

7.2.3 The U.S. Economic Census 

The U.S. Economic Census of 1997, described in Section 4.1.3, provides data on 

the number of facilities by SIC code, but does not include a list of the facilities. The U.S. 

Economic Census of 1997 includes refineries that by 2000 were shut down or no longer 

operating and might also include nonproduction facilities. In contrast, EIA, which is part of the 

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), publishes annual updates of the number of operating 

refineries, their capacities, and operations. EPA used EIA data for this detailed review, because 

the data provide more accurate and detailed data on each refinery. Consequently, EPA did not 

use census data in its analysis of the petroleum refining industry. 

7.2.4 Data Sources Specific to the Petroleum Refining Industry 

EPA used the following data sources specific to the petroleum refining industry in 

its detailed study. 

C Energy Information Administration (EIA) - EIA tracks the number of 

operating refineries, their capacities, and operations. EPA downloaded 

capacity data from the EIA web site (21) and linked each refinery’s crude 

petroleum operating capacity to the discharges reported to TRI and PCS. 

EPA also used data from EIA to identify the types of catalytic reforming 

at each refinery. 

C Oil & Gas Journal - Provides general information about the petroleum 

industry and publishes worldwide refinery-specific capacities each year 

(12). 

C Washington Department of Ecology - EPA reviewed dioxin study reports 

DOE required from four Washington State refineries (18, 36) and Water 

7-8
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Pollution Prevention Opportunities in Petroleum Refineries (37), a report 

of a state-funded study. 

C Dioxin Source Investigation Pursuant to Cease and Desist Order No. 95-

151, Final Report - Study prepared by Tosco Refining Company Avon 

Refinery to identify all sources of dioxins contributing to refinery’s final 

effluent dioxin load (19). The report, based on 150 samples collected in 

1996, provides source information and granulated activated carbon (GAC) 

treatment system percent removals for dioxins. The report does not 

provide detailed treatment performance data (e.g., influent and effluent 

concentrations). 

C EPA/EAD 1996 Preliminary Data Summary for the Petroleum Refining 

Category (24) - Report describes the industry, pollutant discharges, 

environmental issues, regulatory standards, treatment technologies, and 

economic profile using data collected during 1992 and 1993. 

C Contacts with treatment technology vendors - EPA contacted treatment 

technology vendors to gather information on new options to reduce 

pollutant concentrations in petroleum refining wastewater. 

C Industry-provided information/comments - Discussed in Section 7.2.1.4. 

7.3 Industry Description 

The petroleum refining industry purifies (or refines) crude petroleum into various 

petroleum products. Products include gasoline, kerosene, distillate fuel oils, residual fuel oils, 

and lubricants. Refineries use various processes, such as fractionation, distillation, and cracking, 

to refine the crude petroleum. The industry is classified by SIC code 2911 (North American 

Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 32411). 

7.3.1 Number of Refineries 

In 2000, there were 163 petroleum refineries operating in the United States. EIA 

lists the industry capacity on January 1, 2001 as 16.6 million barrels of crude petroleum per day, 

with individual refinery capacities ranging from 880 to 508,000 barrels per day. EIA’s Refinery 

Capacity Data as of January 1, 2001 and the Oil and Gas Journal’s “2001 Worldwide Refining 

Survey” list all the petroleum refineries, along with their capacities and other pertinent process 

information. (12, 21) 

Refineries are located in 31 states, with most (43 percent) located in Texas, 

Louisiana, and California. 

7-9
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.3.2 Discharge Status for Petroleum Refineries 

EPA determined the discharge status of all petroleum refineries using data 

reported to TRI and PCS in 2000. Table 7-2 lists the discharge status for the 163 petroleum 

refineries operating in the U.S. during 2000. 

In the PCS data system, facilities may be classified as major1

 or minor 

dischargers. States are not required to provide discharge data for minor facilities to PCS, and so 

reports for minor facilities are incomplete. For this reason, EPA did not use data from minor 

facilities in this review. Thirty two petroleum refineries are identified as minor dischargers in 

PCS. 

Table 7-2. 2000 Discharge Status for Petroleum Refineries 

EIA TRI 2000 PCS 2000 

Number No Water 

of Direct Indirect Discharge Majors Minor 

Refineries Dischargers Dischargers Both Reported Dischargers Dischargers 

163 94 21 13 26 103 32 

Sources: TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. 

7.3.3 Overview of Refinery Operations 

To refine the crude petroleum, refineries begin by desalting the crude and 

distilling it into its various components (or fractions). The next step is to convert the distillation 

fractions into petroleum products. These processes include cracking, coking (term refers to byproduct coke (solid carbon with varying impurities) formed during the process), reforming, and 

alkylation. Other support operations include reformer catalyst regeneration, sulfur recovery, 

additive production, and product blending. This section presents descriptions of these 

operations, as detailed in EPA’s Industry Sector Notebook: Profile of the Petroleum Refining 

Industry (32). 

All refineries perform distillation operations; however, the extent and variety of 

processes used to convert distilled fractions into petroleum products varies greatly by refinery. 

“Topping” refineries perform only distillation operations – some perform only atmospheric 

distillation. 

Many refinery operations generate sour waters. Sour waters generally result from 

water brought into direct contact with a hydrocarbon stream (e.g., when water is used as a 

washing medium or steam is used as a stripping or mixing medium). Sour waters contain 

sulfides, ammonia, phenols, and other organic chemical constituents of the crude oil. 

1

Facilities are classified as “major” based on many factors, including effluent design flow, physical and chemical 

characteristics of the waste stream, and location of discharge. 

7-10 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.3.3.1 Crude Petroleum Processing 

The first steps in the petroleum refining process are to desalt the crude petroleum 

and separate the crude into its various petroleum fractions (i.e., unrefined product streams) using 

distillation. Each of these processes and resulting wastewater streams is discussed below. 

Desalting 

Petroleum refineries remove corrosive salts from the crude petroleum by mixing 

heated crude with water. The salt, along with some metals, suspended solids, and other watersoluble compounds, dissolves in the water. The refinery then separates the crude petroleum and 

desalter water using electrostatic separation and demulsification to break the emulsion and 

separate the two phases (oil/water separation). The desalter water is then discharged to the 

refinery treatment system. The raw water used for desalting is often untreated or partially treated 

wastewater from elsewhere at the refinery. 

Distillation 

Petroleum refineries use two types of distillation towers: 1) atmospheric 

distillation separates the lighter petroleum fractions, and 2) vacuum distillation separates the 

heavier petroleum fractions. Petroleum fractions separated using atmospheric distillation include 

naphtha, gasoline, kerosene, light fuel oil, diesel oils, gas oil, lube distillate, and heavy bottoms 

(further separated by steam strippers or vacuum distillation). The uncondensed refinery fuel gas, 

or sour gas, leaving from the top of the distillation tower contains primarily methane and ethane, 

along with hydrogen sulfide and ammonia. The refinery will treat the sour gas to recover the 

methane and ethane which is then used to heat furnaces at the refinery. Most refineries 

performing vacuum distillation use vacuum pumps and surface condensers; however, they may 

also use barometric condensers. The wastewater from distillation includes condensed steam 

from the tower (called oily sour water), which contains hydrogen sulfate and ammonia, and oily 

wastewater if barometric condensers are used for vacuum distillation. 

7.3.3.2 Refining of Petroleum Fractions - Cracking, Coking, Hydrotreating/ 

Hydroprocessing, Alkylation, Polymerization, and Isomerization 

The petroleum fractions from the distillation step might be further refined at the 

refinery using a variety of processes. These processes modify the hydrocarbon molecular 

structure either by breaking them into smaller molecules, joining them into large molecules, or 

reshaping the molecules for higher quality. Process types include thermal cracking 

(visbreaking), catalytic cracking, catalytic hydrocracking, coking, hydrotreating, alkylation, 

isomerization, polymerization, and catalytic reforming (discussed on Section 7.3.3.3). Refineries 

might use multiple operations, discussed below. 

Thermal cracking (visbreaking) breaks heavy gas oils and residues from 

distillation into smaller, lighter molecules using heat and pressure. Operations include 

preheating, reactor, cooling to stop the cracking reaction, flasher chamber (reduces pressure and 

7-11
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

draws off lighter products), and fractionating tower (separates various petroleum fractions). The 

cooling step uses part of the heavy bottoms from the fractionating tower to cool the incoming 

process stream. Wastewater includes sour water from the fractionating tower. 

Catalytic cracking breaks light and heavy oils from distillation into smaller, 

lighter molecules (primarily gasoline with some fuel oil and light gases) using heat, pressure, and 

a catalyst. Because catalytic cracking produces higher octane gasoline and less heavy fuel oils 

and light gases, it has largely replaced the thermal cracking process at petroleum refineries. The 

most common reactor types used for catalytic cracking are fluidized beds and moving beds (both 

with continuous catalyst regeneration); other types include fixed-bed reactors and once-through 

units. Catalysts are mixtures of crystalline, synthetic silica-alumina (zeolites) and amorphous, 

synthetic silica-alumina. Wastewater includes sour water from the fractionating tower. 

During catalytic cracking, coke collects on the catalyst surface. To maintain 

catalyst properties, refineries need to regenerate the catalyst (either continuously or periodically). 

Catalyst regeneration involves burning the coke off the catalyst. Steam used to purge and 

regenerate catalysts might become wastewater contaminated with metal impurities from the feed 

stream. 

Refineries use catalytic hydrocracking for petroleum fractions that are most 

difficult to crack (middle distillates, cycle oils, residual fuels oils, and reduced crudes) to 

produce gasoline. Catalytic hydrocracking typically uses a fixed-bed reactor under high pressure 

(1,200 to 2,000 psig) in the presence of hydrogen (increases gasoline yield). Prior to 

hydrocracking, feedstocks typically undergo hydrotreatment to remove impurities (hydrogen 

sulfide and ammonia) that might foul the catalyst during the process and water removal using 

silica gel or a molecular sieve dryer. The catalyst is typically a mixture of zeolites with small 

amounts of rare earth metals. Sour gas and sour water are both generated from the fractionating 

tower; however, hydrotreating the feedstock prior to cracking results in relatively low levels of 

impurities in both waste streams. Hydrocracking catalyst regeneration is typically performed off 

site. 

Coking is a cracking process that breaks residual fuel oils into gasoline and 

diesel. A by-product of the process is petroleum coke (solid carbon with varying impurities). 

Refineries use two types of coking operations: 1) delayed coking and 2) fluid coking. The 

delayed coking process steps are the same as thermal cracking except the feed stream reacts 

longer without cooling. The heavy materials from the fractionating tower are fed into a coke 

drum (insulated vessel) to form petroleum coke. The coking process includes steam injection to 

the coke drum to remove hydrocarbon vapors (lighter products, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia) 

and cooling water injection to cool the coke. The hydrocarbon vapors are fed back to the 

fractionating tower where they are removed as product streams or part of the sour gas. 

Wastewater from the coking drum includes any condensed steam, cooling water, and water used 

to remove the coke (high-pressure water jets). 

Hydrotreating and hydroprocessing remove impurities (e.g., sulfur, nitrogen, 

oxygen, halides, and trace metals) from the feedstock to prevent fouling of the catalyst during 

7-12
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

cracking and assist in forming higher-quality or lighter products in a fixed-bed reactor. Using 

catalysts, high pressure, high temperature, and hydrogen, the processes separate the treated 

product stream from the light fuel gas stream, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia. The treated 

product stream is then cooled and the hydrogen-rich gas is recycled back to the reactor. The 

refinery treats the light fuel gas stream with the sour gas and the hydrogen sulfide at the sulfur 

recovery unit. Catalysts are cobalt or molybdenum oxides on alumina that might also contain 

nickel and tungsten; these are regenerated off site. 

Alkylation forms a high octane gasoline blending stock (alkylates such as 

propane and butane) from isobutane. The isobutane feedstock is formed primarily during 

catalytic cracking and coking operations. The process uses either a sulfuric acid or hydrofluoric 

acid catalyst. A solution of potassium hydroxide is used to extract hydrofluoric acid catalyst 

from the hydrocarbon stream. Hydrofluoric acid might be regenerated on site, resulting in a 

waste oil containing dissolved polymerization products. The sulfuric acid must be regenerated in 

a sulfuric acid plant, usually located off site. 

Polymerization (similar to alkylation) converts propene and butene to high 

octane gasoline blending stock using high pressure and a phosphoric acid catalyst. The catalyst 

is typically not regenerated. Prior to the reactor, the feedstock undergoes a caustic wash to 

remove mercaptans, which contain sulfur; an amine solution wash to remove hydrogen sulfide; a 

water wash to remove caustics and amines; and drying. Sulfur, bases, and oxygen can negatively 

impact the reaction. The wastewater generated includes caustic wash and sour water containing 

amines and mercaptans. 

Isomerization alters the arrangement of the hydrocarbon molecules using high 

temperatures (200-400°F) and a platinum-based catalyst in a hydrogen environment. Typically, 

isomerization converts paraffins (butane or pentane) to isoparaffins with higher octane. 

Catalysts are replaced approximately every two to three years. The platinum in the spent catalyst 

is recovered off site. Sour gas and sour water are generated from the process. 

One catalyst type requires the continuous addition of organic chlorides. The 

organic chlorides are converted to hydrogen chloride. The refinery uses caustic to neutralize any 

entrained hydrochloric acid in the light fuel gas stream. This results in a caustic wash waste 

stream, containing calcium chloride (or other salts). 

7.3.3.3 Refining of Petroleum Fractions - Catalytic Reforming and Reformer Catalyst 

Regeneration 

In December 1988, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment confirmed that 

dioxins were present in internal wastewater from Ontario petroleum refineries. The Ministry 

determined that catalyst regeneration operations for the catalytic reforming process were the 

source of the dioxins (24, Page G-1). Additional work by EPA confirmed that reformer catalyst 

regeneration wastewater was the major source of dioxins in refinery process wastewater (24). 

7-13
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Catalytic Reforming 

Catalytic reforming units are designed to reform naphthas into higher octane 

aromatics, varying temperature and pressure to promote dehydrogenation, isomerization, and 

hydrogenolysis reactions. 

The reforming process uses a platinum or bimetallic (platinum and rhenium) 

catalyst material. The catalyst is designed to be highly active and selective, and to promote 

dehydrogenation reactions with maximum surface area exposed to the feedstock. Ideally, the 

platinum ions are dispersed on the surface of an alumina or silica-alumina support. Chlorine 

promotes the activity of a platinum-alumina catalyst, and is stripped from the surface of the 

catalyst as hydrogen chloride during the reactions. As these reactions occur, the activity of the 

catalyst slows until it needs to be regenerated or replaced to be effective. 

Dehydrogenation reactions are favored by low pressure and high temperature. 

However, coke is also formed at low pressure, which also tends to deactivate the catalyst and 

reduce yields. Coke formation can be reduced by operating under high hydrogen pressure. 

Catalyst Regeneration 

There are three general types of catalytic reforming processes, distinguished by 

the way in which catalyst is regenerated: semi-regenerative, cyclic, and continuous. A refinery 

might have more than one reformer, using different processes. Table 7-3 presents the number of 

refineries performing each type of regeneration. Because a refinery might have more than one 

reformer, using different processes, the sum of the refineries with each type of process exceeds 

the total number of refineries with catalytic reforming. 

Table 7-3. Reformer Catalyst Regeneration Processes in 2000 

Type of Regeneration Process Number of Refineries 

Percentage of Refineries 

With Catalytic Reforming 

Semi-regenerative 33 27% 

Cyclic 21 17% 

Continuous 74 61% 

Not specified 10 8% 

Total 122 

Source: U.S. Department of Energy, Petroleum Supply Annual 2000, Volume 1. Energy Information 

Administration; and Oil & Gas Journal, “2001 Worldwide Refining Survey.” Volume 99.52, December 24, 2001. 

The following description of the three types of catalytic reforming processes is 

taken from Appendix G of the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary. 

The semi-regenerative process generally has three reactors. After the catalyst’s 

activity is depleted, all three reactors are taken out of service and undergo one of several 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

regeneration processes. Figure 7-1 shows a typical schematic for this type of regeneration. In 

2000, 27 percent of U.S. catalytic reforming units used the semi-regenerative process (20). 

1 2 3 

Reactor 

Chlorine 

Preheater 1 Preheater 2 

Reactor 

Preheater 3 

Reactor Separator 

Chlorine 

Air 

Caustic 

Makeup Wa ter 

Effluent to 

Wastewate r 

Treat ment 

Step 1. N2 

Step 2. Air 

Compressor 

Figure 7-1. Semi-Regenerative Catalytic Reforming Process 

The reactors are purged with nitrogen, the reactor bed temperature is raised to 750 

to 850N F and the coke is burned off the catalyst with controlled oxygen concentration and 

pressures. Hydrogen chloride, chlorine, catalyst particles, carbon dioxide, oxides of sulfur and 

nitrogen, and organic compounds (including dioxins) might make up the composition of the offgases. Scrubbing these acidic off-gases in the separator to neutralize the gases to protect the 

equipment generates wastewaters. Caustic or water might be used in scrubbing the off-gases, or, 

in some cases, the off-gases may be vented directly to the atmosphere. When the burn is 

complete, the catalyst is reactivated with either chlorine gas or chlorinated organic compounds. 

The cyclic catalytic reforming process is similar to the semi-regenerative process 

except an additional reactor is available to replace one that is ready for regeneration. This allows 

for continued production during regeneration. While the semi-regenerative reformers are 

designed for long on-stream periods by using higher hydrogen pressure to reduce coke build-up, 

cyclic reformers are designed for lower operating pressure. Yields are much higher, but these 

cyclic reformers must be regenerated more frequently (daily to monthly). Figure 7-2 shows the 

regeneration process, which consists of the same operations as those used in the semiregenerative process. In 2000, 17 percent of U.S. catalytic reforming units used the cyclic 

catalytic reforming process (20). 

7-15
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Offline 

Reactor 

Chlorine 

Preheater 

Cooler 

Separator 

Gases to Stack 

Effluent to 

Wastewater 

Treatment 

Step 1. N2 

Step 2. Air 

Compressor 

HTX 

Makeup Water 

Figure 7-2. Cyclic Catalytic Reforming Process 

The continuous catalytic reforming process is designed to operate at lower 

hydrogen pressures, which increases yield. However, operating at these low pressures results in 

more rapid coke buildup. To maintain performance, the unit is designed for continuous catalyst 

regeneration. Figure 7-3 shows a schematic of this process. In 2000, 61 percent of U.S. catalytic 

reforming units used the continuous process (20). 

Regenera tor 

Spent Ca talyst Low Pressure 

Separator 

Stacked 

Reactors 

High Pressure 

Separator 

Feed 

Regenerated Catalyst 

Heat 

Exchangers 

Reformate 

Net 

Gas 

Recycle 

Gas 

Figure 7-3. Continuous Catalytic Reforming Process 

7-16
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

The only wastewater sources from the continuous reforming process are from 

scrubbing the off-gases; usually, the off-gases are vented and/or flared directly to the 

atmosphere. The regeneration off-gas vent might have a bag filter to capture catalyst fines, 

which are reprocessed to recover valuable catalyst material (platinum). In its 1990-91 study, 

EPA did not identify any facilities scrubbing off-gases from continuous regeneration reformers; 

therefore, the Agency did not include the continuous regeneration process in the wastewater 

sampling program. 

7.3.3.4 Refining of Petroleum Product Properties 

Petroleum refineries use further refining operations to enhance certain product 

properties. This subsection describes these operations (solvent extraction, chemical treating, 

dewaxing, and propane deasphalting). 

To improve viscosity, oxidation resistance, color, and gum formation, refineries 

remove aromatics from the lube oil feedstock. Solvent extraction is the dissolving of the 

aromatics within a packed tower or rotating disc contactor, usually with furfural and phenol 

solvents. Solvents are recovered through distillation and steam stripping. The wastewater 

stream from the solvent recovery step contains oil and solvents. 

To remove or modify properties associated with certain impurities (sulfur, 

nitrogen, or oxygen), refineries perform one of two chemical treating processes: 1) extraction or 

2) oxidation (or sweetening). For example, refineries may remove sulfur, which gives the 

products an offensive odor. A possible waste stream is an oily disulfide stream. 

To alter viscosity properties, refineries might dewax lubricating oil base stocks. 

Dewaxing processes include solvent dewaxing and selective hydrocracking. Solvents used 

include propane and mixtures of methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) with methyl isobutyl ketone 

(MIBK), or MEK with toluene. Wastewater is generated from solvent recovery. Selective 

hydrocracking uses one or two zeolite catalysts to selectively crack the wax paraffins. See 

Section 7.3.2.2 for more details on catalytic hydrocracking. 

Propane deasphalting is an extraction process using propane to produce 

lubricating oil base stocks from vacuum distillation residuals. During propane recovery, 

wastewater contaminated with propane is produced. 

7.3.3.5 Supporting Operations at Petroleum Refineries 

Supporting operations at petroleum refineries include sulfur recovery, additive 

production, and product blending. Petroleum refineries recover sulfur from the sour gas to meet 

air emission limits of sulfur oxides (SOx) and to sell elemental sulfur. Sulfur recovery includes 

the following steps: 1) separating fuel gases (methane and ethane) from the hydrogen sulfide and 

2) removing sulfur from the hydrogen sulfide. To either improve performance or meet 

environmental requirements, refineries might produce additives for motor fuels, such as MTBE 

and tertiary amyl methyl ether (TAME). Product blending consists of mixing petroleum 

7-17
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

products to meet customer specifications (e.g., vapor pressure, specific gravity, sulfur content, 

viscosity, octane rating). 

7.4 Regulatory Background 

Effluent limitations guidelines and pretreatment standards found in 40 CFR Part 

419 are applicable to discharges from the petroleum refining industry. Sections 7.4.1 through 

7.4.4 discuss these regulations in detail. In addition, Section 7.4.5 summarizes the Clean Water 

Act (CWA) stormwater requirements and Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure 

(SPCC) requirements and two other major statutes with which petroleum refineries must comply: 

1) the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and 2) the Clean Air Act (CAA). 

7.4.1 Effluent Guidelines History 

In 1974, EPA promulgated standards for Best Practicable Control Technology 

Currently Available (BPT), Best Available Technology Economically Available (BAT), New 

Source Performance Standards (NSPS), Pretreatment Standards for Existing Sources (PSES) and 

Pretreatment Standards for Existing Sources (PSNS) for the Petroleum Refining category. BAT 

was remanded after legal challenge in 1976, and EPA continued to study BAT. This study 

included a survey of 1976 industry treatment practices. In 1982, EPA repromulgated BAT, 

setting it equal to BPT (i.e., the 1976 level of control). In 1985, EPA revised BAT for phenol and 

chromium, based on additional flow reduction and lower attainable concentrations for these two 

pollutants. 

EPA conducted a review of the petroleum refining industry from 1992 to 1996 to 

determine whether revisions to the ELGs were warranted. For this evaluation, EPA reviewed 

data primarily from TRI and PCS. In addition, EPA collected sampling data during visits to six 

refineries. The Agency published the results of this review in the Preliminary Data Summary for 

the Petroleum Refining Category, April 1996 (24). The study provides a general description of 

the industry, treatment technologies used, water usage, analysis of dioxins in catalytic reformer 

wastewater, estimated pollutant discharges, environmental issues, and economic profile. 

7.4.2 Subcategorization and Applicability 

The effluent guidelines for the Petroleum Refining category are divided into five 

subcategories, described below: 

C Topping Refineries (Subcategory A) - The effluent guidelines for this 

subcategory apply to discharges from any facility that produces petroleum 

products using topping and catalytic reforming, whether or not the facility 

includes any process in addition to topping and catalytic reforming. This 

subcategory does not apply to facilities that include thermal processes 

(coking, thermal cracking (visbreaking), etc.) or catalytic cracking. 

Topping refineries separate crude oil by atmospheric and/or vacuum 

distillation, solvent deasphalting, and catalytic reforming. Existing 

7-18
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

guidelines for the topping subcategory include allowances for ballast 

water. Ballast is defined as the flow of waters, from a ship, that is treated 

along with refinery wastewaters in the main treatment system. 

C Cracking Refineries (Subcategory B) - The effluent guidelines for this 

subcategory apply to all discharges from any facility that produces 

petroleum products using topping and cracking, whether or not the facility 

includes any process in addition to topping and cracking. However, this 

subcategory is not applicable to facilities that meet the definition of 

Subcategories C, D, or E. 

C Petrochemical Refineries (Subcategory C) - The effluent guidelines for 

this subcategory apply to all discharges from any facility that produces 

petroleum products using topping, cracking, and petrochemical operations 

whether or not the facility includes any process in addition to topping, 

cracking, and petrochemical operations. However, this subcategory is not 

applicable to facilities that meet the definition of Subcategories D or E. 

Petrochemical operations meet one of the two following definitions: 

— Produce of second-generation petrochemicals (e.g., alcohols, 

ketones, cumene, and styrene), or 

— Produce of first-generation petrochemicals and isomerization 

products (e.g., benzene, toluene, xylenes, olefins, and 

cyclohexane) when 15 percent or more of the total refinery 

production is as first-generation petrochemicals and isomerization 

products. 

C Lube Refineries (Subcategory D) - The effluent guidelines for this 

subcategory apply to all discharges from any facility that produces 

petroleum products using topping, cracking, and lube oil manufacturing 

processes, whether or not the facility includes any process in addition to 

topping, cracking, and lube oil manufacturing processes. However, this 

subcategory is not applicable to facilities that meet the definition of 

Subcategories C or E. 

C Integrated Refineries (Subcategory E) - The effluent guidelines for this 

subcategory apply to all discharges resulting from any facility that 

produces petroleum products using topping, cracking, lube oil 

manufacturing processes, and petrochemical operations, whether or not 

the facility includes any process in addition to topping, cracking, lube oil 

manufacturing processes, and petrochemical operations. 

7-19
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.4.3 Technical Basis of Regulation 

The BPT basis includes the following in-plant controls:

C Sour water strippers to reduce sulfide and ammonia entering the

wastewater treatment plant; 

C Elimination of once-through barometric condenser water; 

C Sewer segregation, to keep unpolluted stormwater run-off and oncethrough cooling water separate from process wastewater (and out of the 

wastewater treatment plant); and 

C Elimination of polluted once-through cooling water by properly 

maintaining surface condensers or using wet and dry recycle systems. 

The BPT and NSPS basis includes the following end-of-pipe treatment: 

C Equalization and stormwater diversion; 

C Oil and solids removal (API separator and/or baffle plate separator); 

C Dissolved air flotation (DAF) to remove additional oil; 

C Biological treatment to reduce biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and 

chemical oxygen demand (COD) (activated sludge, aerated lagoons, 

oxidation ponds, or trickling filter); and 

C Effluent polishing (polishing ponds or sand, dual-media, or multimedia 

filters). 

In 1982, EPA confirmed the above technology basis for setting BAT effluent 

limitations. EPA based PSES and PSNS on oil/water gravity separators and in-plant sour water 

stripping for ammonia control. 

7.4.4 Regulated Pollutants 

BPT, BAT, and NSPS established production-based mass limitations for the 

following pollutants based on the treatment technologies described in Section 7.4.3: 

C Ammonia as nitrogen;

C 5-day BOD;

C COD (or total organic compounds (TOC) for high-chloride effluents);

C Hexavalent chromium;

C Oil and grease;

7-20
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C pH; 

C Phenolic compounds; 

C Sulfide; 

C Total chromium; and 

C Total suspended solids (TSS). 

In 1982, EPA used new data to revise its BAT flow model and developed more stringent 

limitations for chromium and total phenolics. The limitations for these pollutants are listed in 40 

CFR Part 419. The mass limitations are based on feedstock production (pounds pollutant per 

1,000 barrel feedstock), and specific refinery limitations are based on size factors (1,000 barrels 

feedstock per stream day), process configuration factors, and processes. 

EPA established the following daily maximum pretreatment standards for existing 

sources in all subcategories: 

C Oil and grease: 100 milligrams per liter (mg/L); and 

C Ammonia as nitrogen: 100 mg/L. 

EPA established the following daily maximum pretreatment standards for new 

sources in all subcategories: 

C Oil and grease: 100 mg/L;

C Ammonia as nitrogen: 100 mg/L; and

C Total chromium for cooling tower discharge: 1 mg/L.

7.4.5 Other Regulations Affecting Petroleum Refineries 

In addition to the effluent limitations guidelines and standards at 40 CFR Part 

419, petroleum refineries are also subject to other regulations. This subsection describes a few 

of the major regulations also affecting the petroleum refining industry. These include solid and 

hazardous waste regulations (RCRA), hazardous air pollutant regulations (CAA), and CWA 

stormwater regulations and SPCC requirements. 

7.4.5.1 RCRA 

RCRA addresses solid (Subtitle D) and hazardous (Subtitle C) waste management 

activities. Subtitle C (40 CFR Parts 260-299) governs the handling of hazardous waste from the 

point of generation to disposal. Regulations for hazardous waste include waste accumulation, 

manifesting, and record-keeping standards. Permits under Subtitle C include facility 

contingency plans, emergency procedures, and unit-specific standards. Petroleum refineries 

typically generate the following listed and characteristic hazardous wastes: 

C K051 - API separator sludge;

C K049 - Slop oil emulsion solids;

C K048 - Dissolved air flotation floats;

7-21
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C F037 - Other primary oil/water separator sludge, bar screen debris; 

C F038 - All other sludge, floats, and used filter bags; 

C D004 - Wastes containing arsenic; 

C D007 - Wastes containing chromium; 

C D008 - Wastes containing lead; 

C D009 - Wastes containing mercury; and 

C D010 - Wastes containing selenium. 

To meet land disposal restrictions, facilities typically incinerate these wastes. 

7.4.5.2 CAA National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPs) 

Refineries are subject to NESHAP if they are a major source of hazardous air 

pollutants (HAP) and emit 10 tons per year of a single HAP or 25 tons per year of a combination 

of HAPs. The 1995 Petroleum Refinery NESHAP requires controls for wastewater streams 

containing benzene above specified threshold amounts (e.g., 10 parts per million (ppm) by 

weight). By August 1998, refineries were required to comply with the benzene NESHAP 40 

CFR Part 61 Subpart FF, which requires reducing benzene mass emissions by 99 percent using 

suppression followed by another treatment process (e.g., steam stripping or biotreatment); and 

reducing emissions from vents from stream strippers, other waste management, or treatment 

units by 95 percent with a control device or to 20 ppm (by volume) at the outlet of the control 

device. Suppression includes “hard piping” and using enclosed tanks and oil/water separators, 

vented to vapor collection. 

7.4.5.3 Other CWA Requirements 

Under the CWA, EPA developed stormwater regulations to control the discharge 

of stormwater associated with an industrial activity (i.e., stormwater discharge directly related to 

manufacturing, processing, or raw material storage areas) (40 CFR Part 122.26(b)(14)). These 

regulations apply to stormwater from Category ii - Manufacturing, one of the 11 industrial 

activity categories defined at 40 CFR Part 122.26. This category specifically lists facilities 

classified as SIC code 29, which includes petroleum refineries. 

The stormwater regulations require regulated refineries to obtain coverage under a 

NPDES stormwater permit and implement stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) or 

stormwater management programs to effectively reduce or prevent the discharge of pollutants 

into receiving waters. Both the SWPPPs and stormwater management programs use best 

management practices (BMPs). 

The SPCC requirements were also developed under the CWA. SPCC requires 

refineries meeting applicability requirements to prepare and implement spill prevention plans to 

avoid oil spills into navigable waters or adjoining shorelines of the United States. The SPCC 

plan must identify operating procedures in place and control measures installed to prevent oil 

spills, and countermeasures to contain, clean up, or mitigate the effects of any oil spills that 

occur. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.5 Wastewater Characterization 

As detailed in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Use in Industries of the 

Future: Petroleum Industry, the petroleum refining industry consumes approximately 65 to 90 

gallons of water for every barrel of crude petroleum it refines. Most of this water is used for 

steam production and cooling towers. Approximately 10 percent of this supply water (plus 

additional blowdown flows from the steam production and cooling tower systems) is used for 

process units, where it might be contaminated with pollutants (22). The process water is either 

evaporated or treated (on or off site) as wastewater. This section describes the wastewater 

generated, treated, and discharged from the petroleum refining industry, including wastewater 

sources, types of pollutants, treatment, discharge volumes, and pollutant loadings. 

7.5.1 Wastewater Sources 

The major wastewaters from petroleum refineries are sour water from multiple 

processes, scrubber water from reformer catalyst regeneration, spent potassium hydroxide stream 

from alkylation, desalting wastewater, and caustic wash water from isomerization. Table 7-4 

lists the major refining processes, types of wastewaters, and wastewater flow estimates as 

reported in the U.S. DOE’s Water Use in Industries of the Future: Petroleum Industry. The 

table does not include the following wastewaters (described below): 

Reformer Catalyst Regeneration Wash Water - Regeneration of spent catalyst 

from the reforming process is a potential source of dioxins. Catalyst burning generates dioxins 

(along with other combustion products). In addition to dioxins, the off-gases from the 

regeneration reactor contain hydrogen chloride, chlorine, catalyst particles, carbon dioxide, 

sulfur oxides, nitrogen compounds, and organic compounds. A caustic or water wash neutralizes 

the acidic off-gases (i.e., scrubs the off-gas). Some refineries directly vent the off-gases to the 

atmosphere. The wash stream is recycled with a blowdown of spent caustic (24). As shown in 

Table 7-20, the volume of wastewater generated during catalyst regeneration at three 

Washington State refineries ranged from 2,200 to 360,000 gallons per cycle. 

Quench Wastewater - Petroleum refineries use direct contact “quench” water to 

cool products quickly. The quench water is recirculated, and to maintain water quality, a 

blowdown stream is sent to wastewater treatment (22). 

Leaks - Includes any cooling water leaking into the hydrocarbon stream of the 

heat exchanger (22). 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-4. Process Wastewater at Petroleum Refineries 

Process 

Wastewater Description (Possible 

Pollutants) 

Wastewater Flow Rate 

(gallon/barrel of crude 

petroleum) 

Percentage of 

Total Wastewater 

Flow Rate 

Distillation Sour water (hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, 

suspended solids, chlorides, mercaptans, 

and phenol) 

26.0 44% 

Fluid catalytic 

cracking 

Sour water (hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, 

suspended solids, oil, phenols, and 

cyanides) 

15.0 26% 

Catalytic reforming Sour water (hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, 

suspended solids, mercaptans, oil)1 

6.0 10% 

Alkylation Spent potassium hydroxide stream 

(hydrofluoric acid) 

2.6 4% 

Crude desalting Desalting wastewater (salts, metals, 

solids, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and 

phenol) 

2.1 4% 

Thermal cracking/ 

Visbreaking 

Sour water (hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, 

suspended solids, dissolved solids, and 

phenol) 

2.0 3% 

Catalytic 

hydrocracking 

Sour water (hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, 

and suspended solids) 

2.0 3% 

Coking2 Sour water (hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, 

and suspended solids) 

1.0 2% 

Isomerization Sour water (hydrogen sulfide and 

ammonia) and caustic wash water 

(calcium chloride or other chloride salts) 

1.0 2% 

Additive production: 

ethers manufacture 

Pretreatment wash water (nitrogen 

contaminants) 

<1.0 

Catalytic 

hydrotreating 

Sour water (hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, 

suspended solids, and phenol) 

1.0 2% 

Chemical treating: 

sweetening/Merox 

process 

3 

Sulfur removal/Claus 

process 

Sour water (hydrogen sulfide and 

ammonia) 

<1.0 

Lubricating oil 

manufacture 

Steam stripping wastewater (oil and 

solvents) and solvent recovery 

wastewater (oil and propane) 

<1.0 

TOTAL 58.7 100% 

Source: U.S. DOE. Water Use in Industries of the Future: Petroleum Industry. July 2003. 1

Additional pollutants identified in EPA’s Industry Sector Notebook: Petroleum Refining, September 1995. 2

Fluid coking produces little or no effluents.

3

Little or no wastewater generated.

7-24 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.5.2 Discharge Volumes 

7.5.2.1 Discharge Volumes from the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary 

Refinery process wastewater flow rates reported in EPA’s 1996 Preliminary Data 

Summary range from 0.4 to 8.1 million gallons per day (MGD) (150 to 3,000 million gallons per 

year (MGY)). The median flow rate for a refinery was 1.5 MGD (average: 2.3 MGD). (24) 

7.5.2.2 Discharge Volumes from All Refineries Reported to 2000 PCS 

EPA reviewed the discharge volumes from all refineries reported to PCS in 2000; 

however, the total flow rates reported to PCS might include stormwater and noncontact cooling 

water, as well as process wastewater. In some cases, the PCS database identifies the type of 

wastewater being discharged; however, most reported flow rates do not indicate the type of 

wastewater. Total wastewater flow rates reported to PCS in 2000 range from 0.15 to 1,240 

MGD (54 to 454,000 MGY). The median flow rate was 4.26 MGD (1,560 MGY) (34). 

To isolate the process wastewater flow rate in the values reported to PCS, EPA 

calculated the refinery discharge volume for only those outfalls where the refinery must monitor 

for five-day BOD (BOD5). Refinery permits include limitations for BOD5 and/or ammonia for 

process wastewater, but not for stormwater or noncontact cooling water. EPA calculated the 

wastewater flow rates from outfalls with nonzero discharges of BOD5 or ammonia. These flow 

rates range from 0.09 to 1,240 MGD (33 to 454,000 million gallons per year). The median flow 

rate is 2.1 MGD (765 million gallons per year) (34). These flows are significantly greater than 

the range and median refinery wastewater flow rates reported in the 1996 Preliminary Data 

Summary. Since EPA has not received or obtained any information during this detailed review 

to indicate process flows have increased since the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, EPA 

concludes that the higher volumes reflect EPA’s inability to completely distinguish between 

process wastewater discharges and nonprocess wastewater discharges in PCS. 

7.5.3 Pollutant Loadings 

For its screening-level analysis, EPA estimated current discharges (as TWPE) to 

surface water from 56 industries currently covered by existing effluent guidelines. EPA used 

data reported to TRI and PCS to estimate direct discharges, and used data reported to TRI, 

reduced by a typical POTW percent removal, to estimate indirect discharges. EPA applied 

TWFs to the TRI and PCS data to calculate the TWPE for each pollutant reported discharged by 

petroleum refineries. The petroleum refining industry ranked fourth in pollutant discharges based 

on 2000 TRI data and fourteenth in pollutant discharges based on 2000 PCS data. See the 

Federal Register notice on the December 31, 2003 Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program 

Plan, FRN [FRL-7604-7]. See 4.2.4 for more discussion of EPA’s calculation of TWPE. 

Based on further review of the available data for this detailed study and comments 

submitted in response to the December 31, 2003 Federal Register notice on the Preliminary 

Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, EPA revised the list of refineries, the calculation of PACs and 

7-25
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

dioxin TWPEs, and estimates of the current discharges to surface water from the petroleum 

refining industry. EPA used these pollutant loadings to compare the Petroleum Refining 

category to other industrial point source categories, and identify trends in wastewater discharges. 

7.5.3.1 Pollutant Loadings Calculated Using TRI Data 

Refineries report both direct discharges (i.e., mass of pollutant released directly to 

receiving streams) and indirect discharges before treatment (i.e., mass of pollutant transferred to 

POTWs) to TRI. For direct discharges, EPA used the reported mass to calculate TWPEs. For 

indirect discharges, EPA first estimated pollutant mass removed by the POTW (i.e., pollutant 

percent removal) and then used the resulting mass of pollutant after treatment to calculate 

TWPEs discharged to the POTW’s receiving stream. EPA calculated the reduction in pollutant 

mass for indirect discharges using average POTW removal efficiencies (see DCN 00618, 

Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs). 

Using data as reported to TRI in 2000, the reported releases of PACs, dioxins, and 

metals (predominantly vanadium) comprise 90 percent of the petroleum refining industry’s toxic 

releases. Refineries reporting to TRI discharge 328,000 TWPEs. Table 7-5 presents the pounds 

(and TWPE) discharged by direct and indirect dischargers as reported to TRI for dioxins, PACs, 

and metals. 

Table 7-5. Discharges Reported to the 2000 TRI for the Petroleum Refining Industry -

Pollutants Comprising Approximately 90 Percent of the TWPE 

Pollutant 

Total 

Pounds 

Discharged 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

Percentage 

of Total 

TWPE 

Discharged 

TWPE Range 

per Reporting 

Refinery 

Average 

TWPE per 

Reporting 

Refinery 

Number of 

Reporting 

Refineries 

Dioxins1 0.02 139, 000 37% 42 - 52,000 8,200 17 

PACs2 487 112,000 30% 460 - 40,400 5,900 19 

Metals (Top 5)3 98,200 76,000 20% 0.96 - 25,076 1316 42 

(Vanadium Only) (55,000) (15%) (3.7 - 25,076) (3,946) (14) 

TOTAL 139,000 328,000 87% 53 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 1

See Section 7.7.2 for a discussion on the calculation of TWPE.

2

See Section 7.6.2 for a discussion on the calculation of TWPE.

3

Top 5 metals include: vanadium, mercury, selenium, chromium, and lead.

EPA reviewed whether stormwater discharges are commonly reported to TRI. 

When reporting discharges to surface water for TRI, facilities may report the percentage of the 

pollutant discharge attributed to stormwater. Based on a review of the data reported to the 2000 

TRI, all reported discharges of dioxins and PACs are from process wastewater (not stormwater). 

Most vanadium discharges are also from process wastewater. Table 7-6 presents the stormwater 

data reported to the 2000 TRI for petroleum refining. 

7-26
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-6. Stormwater Discharges Reported to the 2000 TRI 

Pollutant 

Number of 

Refineries Reporting 

Pollutant 

Number of Refineries 

Reporting Percent 

Stormwater for Direct 

Discharges 

Number of Refineries 

Reporting All Discharges as 

Process Wastewater 

(0 Percent Stormwater) 

Dioxins 17 7 7 

PACs 19 14 14 

Vanadium 14 8 7 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 

7.5.3.2 Pollutant Loadings Calculated Using PCS Data 

Refineries report direct discharges to PCS. For direct discharges, EPA used the 

reported mass to calculate TWPEs. As discussed in Section 7.2.2, PCS includes only results of 

permit-required monitoring for direct discharging facilities. Even though toxic pollutants may 

be present in a refinery’s discharge, they will not be reported unless required by permit. 

Using PCS data, the reported releases of sulfide comprise over 50 percent of the 

petroleum refinery industry’s toxic releases. Refineries reporting to PCS discharge 193,000 

TPWEs. PCS has little discharge data for PACs and dioxins, and sulfide is not reportable to 

TRI. Table 7-7 presents the pounds (and TWPE) discharged by direct dischargers as reported to 

PCS for the 10 most toxic discharged pollutants (by TWPE). These pollutants compose over 90 

percent of the total industry TWPE. 

Table 7-7. Discharges Reported to the 2000 PCS for the Petroleum Refining Industry -

Top 10 Pollutants Composing 91 Percent of the TWPE 

Pollutant 

Total 

Pounds 

Discharged 

Total 

TWPE 

Discharged 

Percentage 

of Total 

TWPE 

Discharged 

TWPE Range 

per Reporting 

Refinery 

Median TWPE 

per Reporting 

Refinery 

Number of 

Reporting 

Refineries 

Sulfide, Total1 35,969 100,734 52% 3 - 12341 521 70 

Chlorine, Total Residual2 52,069 25,357 13% 14 - 12323 130 13 

Fluoride, Total (as F) 462,807 16,198 8% 8 - 6069 1092 11 

Selenium, Total (as Se) 7,856 8,802 4% 1 - 3291 303 13 

Aluminum, Total (as AL) 120,235 7,754 4% 64 - 7115 241 5 

Phenolics, Total 

Recoverable 

261,985 7,336 4% 0.07 - 6954 2 68 

Arsenic, Total (as As) 1,277 4,430 2% 4 - 2122 257 7 

Nitrogen, Ammonia Total 

(as N) 

1,917,492 3,509 2% 0.16 - 772 14 86 

Cyanide, Total (as CN) 1,956 2,107 1% 3 - 801 89 10 

7-27
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-7 (Continued) 

Pollutant 

Total 

Pounds 

Discharged 

Total 

TWPE 

Discharged 

Percentage 

of Total 

TWPE 

Discharged 

TWPE Range 

per Reporting 

Refinery 

Median TWPE 

per Reporting 

Refinery 

Number of 

Reporting 

Refineries 

Mercury, Total (as Hg) 16 1,908 1% 10 - 1685 32 7 

Total PCS Pollutants3 331,931,974 192,862 104 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 1

Includes Sulfide Total (as Sulfur).

2

Total residual chlorine is often reported as a maximum value. Pollutant loadings may be overestimated. 3

Total includes all pollutants reported to PCS, including BOD5 and TSS, which do not have TWFs and do not

contribute to the TWPE.

7.5.4 Treatment In Place 

Petroleum refineries treating process wastewater on site typically use the 

following technologies: 

C Steam stripping to remove hydrogen sulfide, other sulfur compounds, and 

ammonia for sour water pretreatment; 

C Oil and solids separation using API separator, corrugated plate interceptor, 

or other type of separator followed by DAF or settling ponds to remove 

emulsified oils; 

C Biological treatment via activated sludge units, trickling filters, or rotating 

biological contactors; and 

C Polishing the effluent via activated carbon, anthracite coal, or sand filters. 

Indirect dischargers typically separate the oil and solids and then discharge the 

wastewater to a POTW. 

Facilities reporting TRI releases also provide information on their wastewater 

treatment operations. Table 7-8 lists the treatment processes used by petroleum refineries as 

reported to the 2000 TRI. 

7-28
7.6 

Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-8. Wastewater Treatment Operations Reported By Petroleum Refineries, 

TRI Reporting Year 2000 

Number of Refineries Reporting 

Use 

Direct1 Indirect1 

Wastewater Treatment Technology (93 refineries) (18 refineries) 

Steam stripping - in-process treatment that removes ammonia and 30 6 

mercaptans from sour waters. 

API separator - operated for oil recovery. Considered process step. 86 23 

Separator effluent is the influent to the end-of-pipe wastewater 

treatment (count is for P15 oil skimming). 

Dissolved air flotation - removes oils and particulate material prior to 66 17 

biological treatment. DAF float is a listed hazardous waste. 

Biological treatment - most refineries use aerobic biological treatment 

(activated sludge or aerated basins) to reduce wastewater organic 

carbon (BOD and COD) load. Biological treatment can also remove 

phenolic compounds. 

1001 9 

Sedimentation - always follows activated sludge basins. Separate 78 13 

clarification might also follow aerated basins (count is for P11 settling/ 

clarification). 

Polishing - sand, dual media, or multimedia filtration removes fine 33 6 

particulate (count is for P12 filtration). 

Activated carbon adsorption - removes soluble organic material and 14 1 

some metals. 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 1

In TRIReleases2000, of the refineries that provided information on their wastewater treatment operations, 93 

reported direct releases, 18 reported transfers to POTWs, and 9 reported both direct releases and transfers to 

POTWs. Therefore, the total refineries reporting a treatment technology might exceed the total number of direct or 

indirect dischargers. 

Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds 

PACs, sometimes known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are a class 

of organic compounds consisting of two or more fused aromatic rings. This section includes the 

following subsections: 

C Section 7.6.1 - Identification and description of PACs; 

C Section 7.6.2 - Estimation of TWPE for petroleum refineries; 

C Section 7.6.3 - PAC sources at petroleum refineries; 

C Section 7.6.4 - Reported PAC discharges; 

7-29
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C Section 7.6.5 - Further analysis of PACs (including release estimation 

methods for TRI reporting and PAC concentrations in refinery final 

effluents); 

C Section 7.6.6 - PAC control technologies; and 

C Section 7.6.7 - Detailed study findings on PACs. 

7.6.1 Identification and Description of PACs 

Table 7-9 lists the 21 individual compounds in the PAC category for TRI 

reporting, Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) number, and related data. 

Table 7-9. Individual Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds 

PAC Compound 

CAS 

Number 

Toxic 

Weighting 

Factor 

Potential 

Carcinogen?1 

Priority 

Pollutant? Properties2 

Benzo(a)anthracene 56-55-3 180.9752 T T Solubility: 0.0000014 g/100 mL 

Partition Coefficient: 5.61 

Benzo(a)phenanthrene 

(chrysene) 

218-01-9 2.1038 T Solubility: 0.00000018 g/100 mL 

Benzo(a)pyrene 50-32-8 4283.5600 T T Solubility: 0.00000038 g/100 mL 

Partition Coefficient: 6.04 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 205-99-2 421.3560 T T Solubility: 0.00000012 g/100 mL 

Partition Coefficient: 6.12 

Benzo(j)fluoranthene 205-82-3 T

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 207-08-9 42.1356 T T Solubility: 0.000000055 g/100 mL 

Partition Coefficient: 6.84 

Benzo(j,k)fluorene 

(fluoranthene) 

206-44-0 0.8030 T Solubility: 0.0000265 g/100 mL 

Benzo(r,s,t)pentaphene 189-55-9 T

Dibenz(a,h)acridine 226-36-8 T

Dibenz(a,j)acridine 224-42-0 T

Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 53-70-3 1693.0160 T T Solubility: 0.00000005 g/100 mL 

Partition Coefficient: 6.5 

Dibenzo(a,e)fluoranthene 5385-75-1 

Dibenzo(a,e)pyrene 192-65-4 T

Dibenzo(a,h)pyrene 189-64-0 T

Dibenzo(a,l)pyrene 191-30-0 T

7H-Dibenzo(e,g)carbazole 194-59-2 T

7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene 57-97-6 Solubility: <0.1 g/100 mL at 18 C 

Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 193-39-5 1.1388 T T Solubility: 0.0000062 g/100 mL 

Partition Coefficient: 6.58 

7-30
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-9 (Continued) 

PAC Compound 

CAS 

Number 

Toxic 

Weighting 

Factor 

Potential 

Carcinogen?1 

Priority 

Pollutant? Properties2 

3-Methylcholanthrene 56-49-5 Solubility: <0.01 g/100 mL at 18 

5-Methylchrysene 3697-24-3 T

1-Nitropyrene 5522-43-0 Solubility: <0.1 g/100 mL at 18 C 

1

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Report on Carcinogens, Tenth Edition. Public Health Service, National Toxicology

Program, December 2002.

2

For comparison, benzene’s solubility is 0.18 g/100 mL and partition coefficient is 2.13.

The partition coefficient is presented as log Kow.

Source for solubilities: http://www.chemfinder.com.

7.6.2 Estimation of TWPE 

For TRI, facilities must report the combined mass of PACs released, not releases 

of individual compounds. To calculate the TWPE for PAC discharges, EPA developed a 

refinery-specific PAC TWF based on the concentration of individual PACs in petroleum 

products and amount of products. The calculated TWF equals 230.43. See the Memorandum: 

Toxic Weighting Factor for Petroleum Refining Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 12/11/2003, 

DCN 00646 for further details (33). 

Some petroleum refineries are required to report the discharge of individual PACs 

as a condition of their NPDES permits. These reported discharges are included in the PCS 

database. In these cases, EPA used the TWFs for the individual PACs to calculate their TWPE. 

Petroleum refineries are also sometimes required by permit to report discharges of “Polynuclear 

Aromatic Hydrocarbons per Method 610.” Method 610 is a wastewater analytical method for 16 

compounds, eight of which are included on the TRI list of PACs. EPA does not have a TWF for 

PAHs, and therefore did not include Method 610 discharges in the TWPE calculation. 

7.6.3 Sources at Petroleum Refineries 

PACs are likely present in petroleum products such as crude oil, fuel oil, diesel 

fuel, gasoline, and paving asphalt (bituminous concrete) and refining by-products such as heavy 

oils, crude tars, and other residues. PAHs form due to incomplete combustion of organic 

compounds. PACs might be generated during the production of synthetic fuels and products 

from coal, petroleum, and other feedstocks at refineries (23, 30). Refinery process sources of 

PACs include cracking operations (thermal and catalytic) and crude petroleum storage when 

refineries remove PAC-containing water from tanks (37). Table 7-10 lists individual PACs and 

sources from petroleum refinery operations. 

7-31
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-10. Individual PACs and Petroleum Refinery Sources 

PAC Compound 

CAS 

Number Sources at Petroleum Refineries 

Benzo(a)anthracene 56-55-3 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels 

Benzo(a)phenanthrene (chrysene) 218-01-9 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coke plant 

exhaust 

Benzo(a)pyrene 50-32-8 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar; 

municipal incinerator emissions 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 205-99-2 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels 

Benzo(j)fluoranthene 205-82-3 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar 

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 207-08-9 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar; 

lubricating oils, crude oils 

Benzo(j,k)fluorene (fluoranthene) 206-44-0 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar 

Benzo(r,s,t)pentaphene 189-55-9 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar 

Dibenz(a,h)acridine 226-36-8 Product of incomplete combustion (particularly coal 

burning processes) 

Dibenz(a,j)acridine 224-42-0 Product of incomplete combustion (particularly coal 

burning processes); petroleum refinery incinerator 

effluents 

Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 53-70-3 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar; 

gasoline engine exhaust tar 

Dibenzo(a,e)fluoranthene 5385-75-1 Product of incomplete combustion 

Dibenzo(a,e)pyrene 192-65-4 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels 

Dibenzo(a,h)pyrene 189-64-0 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar 

Dibenzo(a,l)pyrene 191-30-0 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal 

gasification 

7H-Dibenzo(e,g)carbazole 194-59-2 Coal burning processes; coal tar and coal distillates 

7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene 57-97-6 Produced in small quantities as a research chemical, not 

formed during combustion 

Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 193-39-5 Product of incomplete combustion; fossil fuels; coal tar; 

petroleum asphalt 

3-Methylcholanthrene 56-49-5 Produced in small quantities as a research chemical, not 

formed during combustion 

5-Methylchrysene 3697-24-3 Product of incomplete combustion; crude oil 

1-Nitropyrene 5522-43-0 Diesel and gasoline engines; coal fired energy conversion 

plants; aluminum smelter stack gases 

Sources: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Report on Carcinogens, Tenth Edition, Public Health 

Service, National Toxicology Program, December 2002. and D. Aronson and P.H. Howard, Sources of Individual 

PAHs Listed in the PBT Chemical Pool, January 2000 (as listed in U.S. EPA, Emergency Planning and Community 

Right-to-Know Act - Section 313: Guidance for Reporting Toxic Chemicals: Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds 

Category, EPA 260-B-01-03, August 2001. 

7-32 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.6.4 Reported PAC Discharges 

The estimated PACs loadings for the petroleum refining industry are based on 

data as reported to TRI for 2000. Nineteen refineries2

 reported wastewater releases of PACs to 

TRI. Seven refineries reported discharges of individual PACs to PCS, but none of them reported 

detecting concentrations above analytical detection limits. As stated in Section 7.2.1, 94 percent 

of the refineries report to TRI; however, refineries report the releases of PACs only if they r 

exceed the reporting threshold. Refineries report PAC discharges to PCS only if required by 

their permits. This subsection discusses the following: 

C Section 7.6.4.1 - TRI discharges reported by petroleum refineries; 

C Section 7.6.4.2 - PCS discharges reported by petroleum refineries; and 

C Section 7.6.4.3 - PAC data, including measurement data from activated 

sludge units and POTW final effluents, provided in comments regarding 

the Preliminary Plan. 

7.6.4.1 TRI Discharges 

As noted in Section 7.6.2, refineries report PAC discharges as a total category 

amount, not by individual compound. Table 7-11 presents the data reported to TRI and the 

calculated TWPE. Note that current guidance for reporting to TRI suggests using one-half the 

detection limit to estimate releases based on “nondetects”; therefore, the total discharges may be 

overestimated. This is confirmed by discussions with staff from EPA’s Office of Environmental 

Information (16) and comments from API and NPRA (1, 11). 

7.6.4.2 PCS Discharges 

For six California refineries, listed in Table 7-12, discharges of PAHs were 

included in PCS (see discussion in Section 7.6.2). For two of these six refineries, reported PAH 

concentrations were above the method detection limit. Because EPA does not have a TWF for 

this parameter, it did not calculate TWPEs for these discharges. 

In addition, American Western Refining, Lawrenceville IL (NPDES IL0004219), 

is required to report polynuclear aromatics (polyram), but did not detect the pollutant in 2000. 

2

Two additional refineries, Calcasieu (Lake Charles, LA) and Frontier (El Dorado, KS) each reported releases to 

surface water of 1.1 pounds of PACs in 2000. However, these refinery releases were not included in 

TRIReleases2000. 

7-33 
-- 

-- 

-- --

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- 

-- --

-- --

-- --

Sect

Table 7-11. Petroleum Refineries Reporting Releases of PACs to the 2000 TRI1 

7-34

TRI ID Number Refinery Refinery Location 

Direct 

Discharge 

(lb/yr) 

Direct 

Discharge 

(TWPE) 

To POTW 

(lb/yr) 

A

77592TXSCTLOOP1 Valero Refining Co. Texas Texas City, TX 64 14,748 94572NCLSNOLDHI Tosco San Francisco Refinery Rodeo, CA 57 13,135 70037LLNCRHIGHW Tosco Refining Co. Alliance Refinery Belle Chasse, LA 40 9,217 70669CNCLKOLDSP Conoco Lake Charles Refinery Westlake, LA 22 5,069 96707CHVRN91480 Chevron Prods. Co. Hawaii Refinery Kapolei, HI 20 4,609 99611TSRLSMILE2 Tesoro Alaska Co. Kenai Refinery Kenai, AK 19 4,378 39567CHVRNPOBOX Chevron Prods. Co. Pascagoula Refinery Pascagoula, MS 17 3,917 62454MRTHNMARAT Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC Robinson, IL 15 3,456 62084SHLLLRTE11 Tosco Wood River Refinery Roxana, IL 10 2,304 74603CNCPN1000S Conoco Inc. Ponca City Refinery Ponca City, OK 9 2,074 84116CHVRN2351N Chevron USA Prods. Co Salt Lake City, UT 8 1,843 80022CNCDN5801B Conoco Denver Refinery Commerce City, CO 5 1,152 70047TRNSM14902 Orion Refining Corp. New Sarpy, LA 4 922 90744TXCRF2101E Equilon Enterprises LLC Los Angeles Refining Wilmington, CA 2 461 16 00851HSSLVLIMET Hovensa L.L.C. Christiansted, VI 2 461 77017LYNDL12000 Lyondell-Citgo Refining L.P. Houston, TX 2,380 77506CRWNC111RE Crown Central Petroleum Corp. Houston Refinery Pasadena, TX 97 48217MRTHN1300S Marathon Ashland Petroleum L.L.C. Detroit, MI 81 79905CHVRN6501T Chevron USA El Paso Refinery El Paso, TX 55 

Source: TRIReleases2000.

1Two additional refineries, Calcasieu, Lake Charles, LA and Frontier, El Dorado, Kansas each reported 1.1 lb/year PAC released to surface water. However, EPA did no

TRIReleases2000. 

2Mass transferred to POTW that is ultimately discharged to surface waters. Accounts for POTW removals. 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-12. California Refineries Reporting PAH Discharges 

NPDES Permit 

Number Refinery Name Location 

Table 7-13 

Refinery 

Number PAHs, lb/yr 

CA0000051 Conoco Arroyo Grande, CA 61 0 

CA0004961 Tesoro Refining & Marketing Co. Martinez, CA 0.13 

CA0005053 Tosco Refining Company Rodeo, CA 0 

CA0005134 Chevron Products Company Richmond, CA 12 1.5 

CA0005789 Shell Oil Products US Martinez, CA 0 

CA0055387 Mobil Oil Corp. Torrance, CA 73 0 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 1

Refinery also monitors for the individual PAC, benzo(j,k)fluorene (fluoranthene). See Table 7-13. 2

Refinery also monitors for eight individual PACs (see Table 7-13), none of which were detected in 2000.

Table 7-13 lists the PACs that each of the seven refineries shown in the table 

must monitor as required by their NPDES permits. However, none of the refineries reported 

discharge concentrations above method detection limits in 2000. 

Table 7-13. Individual PACs Reported in 2000 PCS 

Pollutant 

Refinery Number (see bottom of table) 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Benzo(a)pyrene T T T T T

Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene T T T

Benzo(b)fluoranthene T T T T

Benzo(a)anthracene T T T T

Benzo(k)fluoranthene T T T T T

Benzo(a)phenanthrene (chrysene) T T T T T

Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene T T T

Benzo(j,k) fluorene (fluoranthene) T T T T T T

1. Chevron (Richmond, CA) 

2. Valero Refining (Benecia, CA) 

3. Bayway Refinery (Linden, NJ) 

4. Conoco Phillips (Borger, TX) 

5. Murphy Oil (Superior, WI) 

6. Conoco Phillips (Aroyo Grande, CA) 

7. Mobil Oil (Torrance, CA) 

NPDES Permit CA0005134 

NPDES Permit CA0005550 

NPDES Permit NJ0001511 

NPDES Permit TX0009148 

NPDES Permit WI0003085 

NPDES Permit CA0000051 

NPDES Permit CA0055387 

7-35
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.6.4.3 Data Provided in Comments Regarding Preliminary Plan 

As discussed in Section 7.2.1.4, API provided effluent data for activated sludge 

units at 10 refineries. These data, collected from 1993 to1994, show that individual PACs were 

never measured above detection limits. Table 7-14 includes the PAC measurement data from 

API’s comment (1). 

Table 7-14. PAC Measurement Data from Activated Sludge Units at 10 Refineries 

PAC Compound 

Number of 

Samples Minimum Median Maximum 

Number of 

Samples > 

Detection 

Limit 

Benzo(a)anthracene 26 <0.1 <10 <11 0 

Benzo(a)phenanthrene (chrysene) 26 <0.2 <10 <11 0 

Benzo(a)pyrene 26 <0.2 <10 <11 0 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 26 <0.2 <10 <11 0 

Benzo(k)fluoranthene 26 <0.2 <10 <11 0 

Benzo(j,k)fluorene (fluoranthene) 26 <0.6 <10 <11 0 

Dibenz(a,h)acridine 1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0 

Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 26 <0.3 <10 <11 0 

Dibenzo(a,e)pyrene 1 <25 <25 <25 0 

7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene 2 <10 <10 <10 0 

Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 25 <0.2 <10 <11 0 

3-Methylcholanthrene 24 <10 <10 <11 0 

Source: American Petroleum Institute, Comments Re. Notice of Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, 

March 18, 2004. 

The County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (the Districts) provided 

sampling results (1984-1993) from 13 refineries for EPA’s 1996 Preliminary Data Summary. 

EPA published the results of the sampling in Table 6-2 of the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary. 

Benzo(a)phenanthrene (chrysene) was detected once, slightly above the method detection level, 

at a concentration of 10.5 ug/L (24). 

The Districts’ comments (3) also state that currently no PACs are found in the 

final effluent or biosolids from the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant (JWPCP). The JWPCP 

currently receives wastewater from 10 refineries. The Districts’ NPDES permit requires 

monitoring for the following 13 individual PAHs (five included in the PAC category): 

7-36
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C Acenaphthylene; C Benzo(a)phenanthrene (chrysene) 

C Anthracene; (PAC chemical); 

C 1,2-benzanthracene; C Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene (PAC 

C 3,4-benzofluoranthene; chemical); 

C Benzo(k)fluoranthene (PAC C Flourene; 

chemical); C Indeno (1,2,3-cd) pyrene (PAC 

C 1,12-benzoperylene; chemical); and 

C Pyrene; C Phenanthrene 

C Benzo(a)pyrene (PAC chemical); 

The Districts also reviewed the data reported to TRI in 2000 for the 10 refineries 

discharging to the JWPCP and found that none reported releases of PACs. The Districts noted 

that the refinery discharges have little particulate matter. Since PACs tend to accumulate in the 

solids, the low discharges of particulate matter may explain the absence of PACs in releases to 

the POTW. The Districts have not performed any screening analysis for trace quantities of 

PAHs. 

7.6.5 Further Analysis of PACs 

EPA performed further analysis of PAC discharges to determine if effluent 

limitations and guidelines would be appropriate for this pollutant. As discussed in Section 

7.2.1.4, EPA received comments from NPRA and API concerning the TRI estimates of PACs 

discharges. The comments explained that 2000 was the first year industry was required to report 

releases of PACs to TRI. The comments further noted that even if refineries do not detect PACs 

in the effluent, they may estimate the mass released based on one-half the detection limit, and 

thus over-report PAC discharges to TRI. Table 7-15 summarizes the refinery-specific comments 

concerning PAC discharge estimates reported to the 2000 TRI. Table 7-15 also presents the 

basis for the facility estimate of PAC releases reported to TRI. EPA confirmed that PACs were 

measured above method detection limits in Lyondell Citgo’s discharge to the Washburn Tunnel 

Facility (part of the Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority); however, PACs are not detected in 

the Washburn Tunnel Facility’s discharge to surface water (10, 14). EPA could not confirm that 

PACs were measured in the discharges of any other refinery reporting PACs releases to TRI in 

2000. 

EPA estimated the concentration of PACs in refinery effluents using the 

discharges reported to TRI and process wastewater flow rate reported to PCS3

, and compared 

these estimated concentrations to Method 1625 analytical detection limits for individual PACs. 

If a refinery reporting to TRI did not report a flow rate to PCS, or if the reported flow rate 

3

EPA calculated the wastewater flow rates from outfalls discharging BOD5 and/or ammonia to estimate refinery 

process wastewater flows, because PCS does not consistently identify which discharges are process wastewater. 

Effluent limitations guidelines apply to BOD5 and ammonia in refinery process wastewater discharges, but not 

cooling water and stormwater. 

7-37 
Sect

Table 7-15. NPRA and API Comments on PAC Discharge Estimates Reported to the 2000 

7-38

Basis of 

TRI1 PAC Estimate for 

TRI ID Refinery Refinery Location 

Discharge 

(lb/yr) 

Measured 

PACs? 

TRI Releases 

20002 

NPRA and API Com

E

77592TXSCTLOOP1 Valero Refining Co. Texas Texas City, TX 64 No M Estimate based on 1⁄2 the d

contained PACs. 

94572NCLSNOLDHI Tosco San Francisco Refinery Rodeo, CA 57 No M Estimate based on 1⁄2 the d70037LLNCRHIGHW Tosco Refining Co. Alliance 

Refinery 

Belle Chasse, LA 40 No O Estimate based on 1⁄2 the d

70669CNCLKOLDSP Conoco Lake Charles Refinery Westlake, LA 22 No O No comments. 96707CHVRN91480 Chevron Prods. Co. Hawaii 

Refinery 

Kapolei, HI 20 Unknown M No comments. 

99611TSRLSMILE2 Tesoro Alaska Co. Kenai Refinery Kenai, AK 19 No O No change to estimate. 39567CHVRNPOBOX Chevron Prods. Co. Pascagoula 

Refinery 

Pascagoula, MS 17 No O No comments. 

62454MRTHNMARAT Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC Robinson, IL 15 No O No comments. 62084SHLLLRTE11 Tosco Wood River Refinery Roxana, IL 10 No O Estimate based on 1⁄2 the d74603CNCPN1000S Conoco Inc. Ponca City Refinery Ponca City, OK 9 No O Refinery estimated discha

petroleum products. 

84116CHVRN2351N Chevron USA Prods. Co Salt Lake City, UT 8 No O No comments. 16344PNNZL2MAIN Calumet Lubricants Co. Rouseville 

Plant 

Rouseville, PA 5 No O Closed January 1, 2002. N

Petroleum Products NEC)

80022CNCDN5801B Conoco Denver Refinery Commerce City, 

CO 

5 No O Estimate based on interna

70047TRNSM14902 Orion Refining Corp. New Sarpy, LA 4 No C Estimate based on 1⁄2 the d90744TXCRF2101E Equilon Enterprises LLC Los 

Angeles Refining 

Wilmington, CA 3 No O No comments. 

00851HSSLVLIMET Hovensa L.L.C. Christiansted, VI 2 No O Discharge from accidental 

zero discharge of PACs. 

77017LYNDL12000 Lyondell-Citgo Refining L.P. Houston, TX 2,380 Yes NA Indirect discharger - PAC

POTW effluent. 

77506CRWNC111RE Crown Central Petroleum Corp. 

Houston Refinery 

Pasadena, TX 97 Unknown NA Indirect discharger - PAC

POTW effluent. 
Sect

Table 7-15 (Continued) 

TRI ID Refinery Refinery Location 

TRI1 PAC 

Discharge 

(lb/yr) 

Measured 

PACs? 

Basis of 

Estimate for 

TRI Releases 

20002 

NPRA and API Com

E

48217MRTHN1300S Marathon Ashland Petroleum 

L.L.C. 

Detroit, MI 6 Unknown NA No comments. 

79905CHVRN6501T Chevron USA El Paso Refinery El Paso, TX 56 No NA Estimate based on 1⁄2 the d70606CLCSRWESTE Calcasieu Lake Charles, LA 1.1 Unknown M Not in TRIReleases2000: 

reported to TRI. 

67042TXCRF1401S Frontier El Dorado, KS 1.1 Unknown O Not in TRIReleases2000: 

on discharges at similar re

1Mass transferred to POTW that is ultimately discharged to surface waters. Accounts for POTW removals.2Refineries reported basis of estimate in 2000 TRI as: M - Monitoring data/measurements; C - Mass balance calculations; E - Published emission factors; and O - Other a

7-39

calculations). NA means the refinery did not report the basis of its estimate.
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

seemed unreasonably high, EPA did not calculate PAC concentrations for that refinery. To 

compare concentrations to detection limits, EPA had to estimate concentrations for individual 

compounds, even though refineries report the total mass of PACs released to TRI. To do this, 

EPA assumed the distribution of individual PACs reported released was proportional to the 

concentration of individual PACs in petroleum products and the amount of the various products 

processed by the refining industry. EPA used this same distribution to calculate the PAC TWF 

for the petroleum refining industry (see Section 7.6.2). Table 7-16 lists the calculated 

concentrations of individual PACs in the refinery wastewater. The table also lists each 

compound’s detection limit for Method 1625 as a comparison. As shown in the table, the 

individual PAC concentrations in the effluent are much lower than individual PAC detection 

limits, suggesting that individual PACs are not present in treated refinery wastewater above 

method detection limits. 

For some pollutants, one refining process may be the primary source of the 

pollutant loadings to the treatment system. The in-process wastewater stream from this one 

process may contain high concentrations of the pollutant before dilution occurs with other 

refinery wastewater. In these cases, dedicated pretreatment might be effective in removing the 

pollutant. Based on the data for the detailed review, EPA did not identify an in-process waste 

stream with high concentrations of PACs or an in-process PAC source that could be controlled. 

Because of the low water solubility and high octanol water partition coefficient of 

PACs, they are likely to partition from water to oily and solids phases. Subsequently, PACs are 

removed with oils and solids from the refinery wastewater through existing on-site treatment (oil 

in oil/water separators, solids in biological treatment, and sludge in clarifiers and polishing 

units). 

7.6.6 PAC Control Technologies 

Based on the information collected to date, EPA concludes that the PAC 

concentration in refinery wastewater is typically below treatable levels; however, refineries can 

use pollution prevention opportunities to reduce the possible contamination of refinery 

wastewaters by PACs. The main pollution prevention steps that refineries can take are to 

identify and correct any leaks quickly and to have controls in place to prevent petroleum spills 

from reaching any sewers or other waters. 

If a refinery identifies any oily wastewater streams with high levels of PACs, it 

can treat the wastewater in an oil/water separator. PACs generally partition into the oil phase. 

The oil may then be reused at the refinery or managed as waste. Refineries can also use granular 

activated to remove water-phase PACs from pretreated wastewater. 

7-40
Sect

Table 7-16. Estimated Concentration of PACs in Petroleum Refining Effluent 

7-41

Refinery Information Estimated Individual PAC Concentration in Effluent (ug/L) 

TRI 

Reported 

Pounds Flowb Fluoran- Benz(a) Benzo(b) Benzo(j) Benzo(k) Benzo(a) Inde

State Dischargeda (Mgal/yr) thene anthracene Chrysene fluoranthene fluoranthene fluoranthene pyrene cd

Detection Limitsc (ug/L) 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 

AK 19 138 4.00 2.88 7.62 0.45 0.06 0.12 0.69 CA 57 850 1.95 1.40 3.72 0.22 0.03 0.06 0.34 CO 5 727 0.20 0.14 0.38 0.02 <0.00 0.01 0.03 HI 20 1,171 0.50 0.36 0.95 0.06 0.01 0.01 0.09 IL 10 2,439 0.12 0.09 0.23 0.01 <0.00 <0.00 0.02 IL 15 1,615 0.27 0.19 0.52 0.03 <0.00 0.01 0.05 LA 22 1,343 0.48 0.34 0.91 0.05 0.01 0.01 0.08 MS 17 2,238 0.22 0.16 0.42 0.02 <0.00 0.01 0.04 OK 9 991 0.27 0.19 0.50 0.03 <0.00 0.01 0.05 TX 64 766 2.44 1.75 4.64 0.27 0.04 0.07 0.42 UT 8 290 0.80 0.58 1.53 0.09 0.01 0.02 0.14 

Source: ERG. Memorandum: Estimated Concentrations for the Petroleum Refining Industry.

1Total pounds reported by each refinery is distributed to individual compounds using PAC compositions obtained in the Memorandum: Toxic Weighting Factor for Petro

Aromatic Compounds, 12/11/2003, DCN 00646.

2Flow is obtained from PCS and is only for outfalls with nonzero discharges of ammonia or BOD5.3Source: EPA Method 1625, Semivolatile Organic Compounds by Isotope Dilution GC/MS. 
C

Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.6.7 Detailed Study Findings on PACs 

Below is a summary of the findings of EPA’s detailed study of refinery PACs. 

PACs are a group of 21 individual compounds, some of which are present 

in petroleum products. U.S. industrial facilities were first required to 

report PAC releases to TRI for reporting year 2000. Using TRI data as 

reported (and accounting for POTW removals), EPA estimated that 

petroleum refineries released 487 pounds of PACs to surface water in 

2000. 

C EPA calculated the TWPE of PACs released from petroleum refineries 

using an industry-specific TWF, based on the concentration of individual 

PACs in petroleum products and the amount of products processed by the 

refining industry. Using TRI data, EPA estimated that refineries 

discharged 112,329 TWPE of PACs in 2000. 

C For TRI reporting year 2000, 19 refineries reported PAC releases to 

wastewater. EPA determined that most of the reported releases were not 

based on measured concentrations in refinery effluents. Even where 

effluent concentrations were measured and individual PACs were not 

detected, refineries estimated releases using one-half the analytical 

detection limit and refinery effluent flow rate. 

C EPA confirmed that PACs were measured above method detection limits 

in the discharge of Lyondell Citgo to the Washburn Tunnel Facility (part 

of the Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority); however, PACs are not 

detected in the Washburn Tunnel Facility’s discharge to surface water. 

EPA could not confirm that PACs were measured in the discharges of any 

other refinery reporting PACs releases to TRI in 2000. 

C Ten refineries have NPDES permit limits for PAHs (16 compounds 

measured by Method 610) or individual PACs. Eight individual PAH 

compounds are also included in the PAC compounds category reportable 

to TRI. In 2000, none of the refineries reporting to PCS measured 

individual PACs above detection limits. Two of six refineries required to 

monitor for PAHs (Chevron Products Company in Richmond, CA and 

Tesoro Refining & Marketing Company in Martinez, CA) reported PAH 

concentrations above detection limits. The Chevron Products Company 

(Richmond, CA) also monitors for eight individual PACs, none of which 

were detected in 2000. 

C In comments submitted on the 2003 annual review, API provided effluent 

data collected at 10 refineries in 1993-1994. These data show individual 

PACs were never measured above analytical detection limits. 

7-42
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C EPA estimated concentrations of PACs using discharges as reported to 

TRI and process wastewater flow rate from PCS and compared these 

estimated concentrations to Method 1625 analytical detection limits for 

individual PACs. In all cases, estimated compound concentrations were 

much lower than Method 1625 detection limits. 

C EPA did not identify an in-process wastestream with high concentrations 

of PACs, and so it similarly did not identify appropriate in-process 

treatment technology. 

Based on these findings, EPA concludes that other than potential leaks and spills 

of crude oil and petroleum products, there is no obvious source of PAC releases to refinery 

wastewaters. EPA also concludes that there is little evidence that PACs are present in 

concentrations above the detection level in refinery wastewater discharges. 

7.7 Dioxins 

The term ‘dioxins’ refers to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (CDDs) and 

polychlorinated dibenzofurans (CDFs). These groups of chemicals are termed ‘dioxin-like,’ 

because they have similar chemical structure, similar physical-chemical properties, and invoke a 

common battery of toxic responses. CDDs and CDFs must have chlorine substitution of 

hydrogen atoms at the 2, 3, 7, and 8 positions on the benzene rings (29). This section includes 

the following subsections: 

C Section 7.7.1 - Identification and description of dioxins;

C Section 7.7.2 - Estimation of TWPE for petroleum refineries;

C Section 7.7.3 - Dioxin sources at petroleum refineries;

C Section 7.7.4 - Reported dioxin discharges;

C Section 7.7.5 - Compilation and discussion of measured effluent dioxin

concentrations; 

C Section 7.7.6 - Dioxin control technologies; and 

C Section 7.7.7 - Detailed study findings for dioxins. 

7.7.1 Identification and Description of Dioxins 

Table 7-17 lists the 17 individual compounds (congeners) included in the TRI 

dioxin and dioxin-like category, and their CAS numbers. See Section 4.2.4.2 for more 

discussion of dioxins. 

7-43
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-17. Individual Dioxin Congeners 

CAS Number Chemical Name Abbreviated Name 

CDDs 

1746-01-6 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 2,3,7,8-TCDD 

40321-76-4 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD 

39227-28-6 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD 

57653-85-7 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD 

19408-74-3 1,2,3,7,8,9-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD 

35822-46-9 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD 

3268-87-9 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDD 

CDFs 

51207-31-9 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,7,8-TCDF 

57117-41-6 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF 

57117-31-4 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF 

70648-26-9 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF 

57117-44-9 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF 

72918-21-9 1,2,3,7,8,9-hexachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF 

60851-34-5 2,3,4,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran 2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF 

67562-39-4 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF 

55673-89-7 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-heptachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF 

39001-02-0 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-octachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDF 

Because of their extremely low water solubility and hydrophobicity, dioxins most 

often associate with particulate matter in wastewater matrices (24). 

7.7.2 Estimation of TWPE 

Facilities report to TRI the combined mass of dioxin-like compounds released to 

the environment. As discussed in 4.2.4.2, facilities also report the distribution of each individual 

chemical (congener) in the dioxin category. Facilities report only a single distribution to TRI, 

even though dioxins might be released to more than one medium, and may be distributed 

differently in different media. Lacking other information, EPA assumed the distribution reported 

applies to the wastewater discharges. 

EPA has TWFs for each of the 17 dioxin congeners. Seventeen petroleum 

refineries reported water discharges of dioxins, but only five reported the distribution of the 17 

congeners. For each refinery reporting congener distribution, EPA used the reported distribution 

to estimate the mass of each congener in the refinery’s wastewater releases. EPA calculated 

7-44
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

dioxin TWPEs by multiplying the estimated mass of each congener by its TWF4. If no congener 

distribution was reported, EPA used the refinery industry average distribution to calculate the 

mass of each congener. 

7.7.3 Dioxin Sources at Petroleum Refineries 

Dioxin and dioxin-like compounds are not manufactured, but are generated as byproducts of certain chemical and combustion processes. As discussed in Section 7.3.3.3, EPA 

identified catalyst regeneration operations for the catalytic reforming process as the source of 

dioxins generated at petroleum refineries (24, page G-1). Smaller quantities of dioxins might be 

generated in isomerization units (37). See Section 7.3.3.3 for a detailed description of reforming 

catalyst wastewater generation. 

7.7.4 Reported Dioxin Discharges 

Seventeen refineries reported wastewater releases of dioxins to TRI in 2000, but 

PCS includes results of NPDES-permit-required monitoring for only three refineries (all three 

monitor for 2,3,7,8-TCDD, the most toxic form, or TCDD equivalents (TEQ)). EPA obtained 

additional information on refinery dioxin discharges from EPA’s 1996 Preliminary Data 

Summary, Washington State Department of Ecology sampling data, BP Amoco, Toledo 

Refinery, and Tosco Refining Company Avon Refinery’s Dioxin Source Investigation. Each of 

these sources is described below. 

7.7.4.1 TRI Discharges 

As noted in Section 7.7.2, refineries report the dioxin discharges as a total 

category amount with the option to also report a congener distribution. Sixteen petroleum 

refineries reported releases of dioxins to surface water in 2000. One refinery reported dioxin 

transfers to a POTW. Note that current guidance for reporting to TRI suggests using one-half 

the detection limit to estimate releases based on “nondetects”; therefore, the total discharges 

might be overestimated. Table 7-18 presents the data reported to TRI and the calculated TWPE. 

4

EPA revised the TWFs for dioxins in 2004. The memorandum entitled Revisions to TWFs for Dioxin and its 

Congeners and Recalculated TWPEs for OCPSF and Petroleum Refining (available in the docket) presents the 

estimated TWPE for petroleum refineries using the revised TWFs. 

7-45 
Sect

Table 7-18. Petroleum Refineries Reporting Releases of Dioxins to 2000 TRI 

7-46

TRI ID Refinery Name 

Refinery 

Location 

Direct 

Discharge 

(grams/yr) 

Direct 

Discharge 

(TWPE) 

To POTW 

(grams/yr) 

After 

POTW1 

(grams/yr) 

98221SHLLLWESTM Tesoro Northwest Co. Anacortes, WA 2 19,264 – – 

77590MRTHNFOOTO Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC Texas City, TX 5.2 52,202 – – 70669CNCLKOLDSP Conoco Lake Charles Refinery Westlake, LA 0.5392 14,074 – – 94802CHVRN841ST Chevron Products Co. Richmond 

Refinery 

Richmond, CA 0.339997 6,785 – – 

90245CHVRN324WE Chevron USA Prods. Co. El Segundo, CA 0.329997 5,477 – – 43616SHLCM4001C BP Oil Co. Toledo Refinery Oregon, OH 0.285997 14,188 – – 07036XXN 1400P Bayway Refining Co. Linden, NJ 0.253997 10,322 – – 74603CNCPN1000S Conoco Inc. Ponca City Refinery Ponca City, OK 0.180878 4,721 – – 59101CNCBL401SO Conoco Inc. Billings Refinery Billings, MT 0.161558 4,217 – – 08066MBLLCBILLI Valero Refining Co. NJ Paulsboro, NJ 0.089999 2,349 – – 00851HSSLVLIMET Hovensa LLC Christiansted, VI 0.069341 1,810 – – 80022CNCDN5801B Conoco Denver Refinery Denver, CO 0.059999 1,566 – – 39567CHVRNPOBOX Chevron Prods. Co. Pascagoula 

Refinery 

Pascagoula, MS 0.035 914 – – 

62454MRTHNMARAT Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC Robinson, IL 0.03 783 – – 00654PHLPSPHILI Chevron Phillips Chemical Puerto 

Rico 

Guayama, PR 0.00218 57 – – 

70602CTGPTHIGHW Citgo Petroleum Corp Lake Charles, LA 0.0016 42 – – 79905CHVRN6501T Chevron USA El Paso Refinery El Paso, TX – – 0.11 0.0186998 

Source: TRIReleases2000.

1Mass transferred to POTW that is ultimately discharged to surface waters. Accounts for POTW removals.
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.7.4.2 PCS Discharges 

Three petroleum refineries, listed in Table 7-19, have NPDES permits in 2000 

that required them to monitor their effluent for 2,3,7,8-TCDD or TCDD equivalents. One 

refinery (Tesoro Refining, Martinez, CA) detected dioxins in its effluent in 2000. The Tesoro 

refinery reports dioxin concentrations as TCDD equivalents. See Section 7.7.4.4 for further 

discussion of dioxin concentrations measured in petroleum refinery final effluents. 

Table 7-19. Petroleum Refineries Reporting 2,3,7,8-TCDD to the 2000 PCS 

NPDES ID Refinery Name Refinery Location 

Direct Discharge 

(milligrams/yr) 

Direct Discharge 

(TWPE/yr) 

AL0055859 Shell Oil Mobile Saraland, AL 0 0 

CA0004961 Tesoro Refining Martinez, CA 0.6641 617.24 

WI0003085 Murphy Oil USA Inc Superior, WI 0 0 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 1

Refinery reports TCDD equivalents.

7.7.4.3 In-Plant Monitoring 

Washington State Department of Ecology Sampling 

In NPDES permits it recently issued, Washington State Department of Ecology 

required four petroleum refineries to collect samples of catalytic reformer regeneration 

wastewaters, final effluent, and API separator sludge, and to analyze these samples for dioxins 

using EPA Method 1613b for wastewater and Method 8290 for sludge. Table 7-20 provides 

information on each of the refineries and samples. 

EPA Sampling in Support of 1996 Preliminary Data Summary (PDS) 

In the early 1990s, EPA conducted three sampling episodes at California 

petroleum refineries. Tables 6.8 through 6.9 of the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary (24) 

present chlorinated dioxin and furan analytical data obtained from this sampling program. The 

Agency collected samples of regeneration wastewater from Chevron (Richmond, CA); Tosco 

(Martinez, CA); and Unocal (Rodeo, CA). EPA conducted the study, in part, so that it could 

develop dioxin analytical methods for analyzing refinery wastewaters. The Chevron samples 

were analyzed for dioxins by Method 8290 and the samples from the other two refineries were 

analyzed by Method 1613. 

7-47
Sect

Table 7-20. Dioxin Sampling Data from Washington State Refineries (2000-2003) 

7-48

Regeneration 

Type of Capacity Discharge Disch

Refinery Location Regeneration (barrels/day) Regeneration Episode/Sample Name (gallons/min) (gall

Tesoro Northwest Co. Anacortes, WA Cyclic 24,300 Regeneration wastewater: Round 1 

Regeneration wastewater: Round 2 Final effluent: Round 1 

22 22 

– 

293,364,

3,073

Final effluent: Round 2 – 2,088API sludge: Round 1 API sludge: Round 2 

– – 

116,000 

unava

U.S. Oil & Refining Co. Tacoma, WA Semi-regenerative 5,750 Regeneration wastewater: CRU1-1 

Regeneration wastewater: CRU1-2 Regeneration wastewater: CRU2-1 Regeneration wastewater: CRU2-2 Final effluent: CRU1 

2,22,52,92,9

304,

Final effluent: CRU2 419,API separator sludge: CRU1 API separator sludge: CRU12 

37,000 40,000 

ARCO Cherry Point Refinery (was BP) 

Blaine, WA Semi-regenerative 60,480 Reformer #1 (May 2000) 

Reformer #1 (April 2001) Reformer #2 (Sept 2000) Reformer #2 (March 2001) Final effluent (May 2000) Final effluent (Oct 2000) Final effluent (Mar 2001) Final effluent (April 2001) API separator sludge (May 2000) API separator sludge (Oct 2000) API separator sludge (April 4, 2001) API separator sludge (April 11, 2001) 

120 128 290 303 

– – – – – – – – 

226,215,470,618,

Shell Oil Products USA Anacortes, WA Semi-regenerative 32,200 Caustic Water Wash: CRU2 (Jan 2003) 

Caustic Water Wash: CRU1 (Mar 2003) Caustic Water Wash: CRU2 (Jan 2004) Caustic Water Wash: CRU1 (Mar 2004) Final Effluent: CRU2 (Jan 2003) Final Effluent: CRU1 (Jan 2003) Final Effluent: CRU2 (Jan 2004) API Sludge (Jan 2003) API Sludge (Mar 2003) 

---------

22,826,622,826,6

Source: Washington State Department of Ecology, Letter of Transmittal. December 11, 2003 (DCN 00711): Tesoro Northwest study, May 2001, Cherry Point Refinery s

Refining study, August 15, 2003; and Shell Oil Products U.S. Puget Sound Refinery, Dioxin Study Report (NPDES Permit WA-000294-1), June 2004. 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-21 summarizes in-plant sampling data obtained from Washington 

Department of Ecology and EPA’s 1990-91 sampling program reported in the 1996 Preliminary 

Data Summary. The table also includes the dioxin concentrations in API separator sludge and 

treated final effluent obtained from the Washington refineries. EPA converted all detected 

congeners to TCDD equivalents and assumed results reported as less than the analytical 

detection limit to equal zero. 

Table 7-21. TCDD Equivalents in Petroleum Refinery Wastes 

TCDD Equivalents (assuming nondetects = 0) 

Median Range 

Catalyst Reformer Regeneration Wastewater 

Concentration pg/L 2,975 0 to 394,000 

Loadings mg/cycle 5.64 0 to 84 

API Separator Sludge 

Concentration (mass based) ng/kg sludge 13.61 3 to 356 

Treated Final Effluent 

Concentration pg/L 0 0 to 15.5 

Sources: Washington State Department of Ecology. Letter of Transmittal. December 11, 2003 (DCN 00711); U.S. 

EPA, 1996 Preliminary Data Summary; Shell Oil Products U.S. Puget Sound Refinery, Dioxin Study Report 

(NPDES Permit WA-000294-1), June 2004; and ERG, Toxic Equivalents for Dioxins Reported in 2000 to TRI 

(Calculation Sheet). 

High concentrations of dioxins, including 2,3,7,8-TCDD and 2,3,7,8-TCDF, were 

detected in catalytic reformer regeneration wastewaters. EPA calculated the mass of TCDD 

equivalents discharged per regeneration cycle, using reported wastewater flows. The median 

loading was 5.64 milligrams per regeneration cycle. 

 In contrast to the catalytic reformer regeneration wastewater results, none of the 

Washington refineries detected either 2,3,7,8-TCDD or 2,3,7,8-TCDF in their treated final 

effluent. Two of the four Washington refineries detected no dioxins in their treated final effluent 

(see Table 7-23). The Tesoro Northwest sampling results included split samples taken in March 

2000 and analyzed by two laboratories; five congeners were detected in the treated final effluent 

(by one or both laboratories). In the August 30, 2000 sampling episode for Tesoro Northwest, 

nine congeners were detected in the treated final effluent (by one or both laboratories). The 

congener, 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF, was detected in both sampling episodes by both laboratories. 

Shell Oil Products Puget Sound Refinery detected one congener (OCDD) in its final effluent for 

the January 2003 sampling episode. 

Catalytic reformer regeneration wastewaters are routed to the refinery wastewater 

treatment system through the API oil/water separator. Because of the low water solubility and 

extreme hydrophobicity of dioxins, at least some of the dioxins from catalytic reformer 

regeneration wastewaters partition to the oil and solids phases in the API separator and 

7-49
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

accumulate in the sludges. As expected, all of the Washington state refineries detected dioxins 

in their API separator sludge. 

7.7.4.4 Industry Comments About Dioxins 

As discussed in Section 7.2.1.4, EPA received comments from NPRA and API 

concerning the TRI estimates of dioxin discharges. The comments explained that 2000 was the 

first year industry was required to report releases of dioxins to TRI. NPRA and API noted that 

refineries may over-report dioxin discharges to TRI by using one-half the detection limit to 

estimate releases of dioxins when not detected in the effluent. Table 7-22 summarizes the 

refinery-specific comments concerning dioxin discharge estimates reported to the 2000 TRI. 

NPRA and API provided comments on 12 of the 15 refineries5

 that reported discharging dioxins 

to TRI. Of those 12 refineries, four based their reported discharges on measurements of effluent 

dioxin concentration. Tesoro Northwest (Anacortes, WA) detected dioxins in multiple effluent 

samples, as discussed in Section 7.7.4.3. BP Oil Company Toledo Refinery (Oregon, OH) 

collected and analyzed one set of samples and measured nine dioxin congeners above detection 

limits. For the TRI reported releases in 2001 and 2002, the refinery set nondetects equal to zero; 

however, for 2002, the refinery modified its estimation method to set nondetects equal to onehalf the detection limit. Bayway Refining (Linden, NJ) and Chevron (El Segundo, CA) did not 

detect dioxins in their effluent, but estimated the mass released based on one-half the detection 

limit. 

7.7.5 Compilation and Discussion of Measured Effluent Dioxin Concentrations 

Table 7-23 summarizes dioxin concentrations measured in final effluent from 

eight U.S. petroleum refineries. Data presented include concentrations reported in PCS, the 

Washington State permit-required dioxin study results (18, 36), a special report prepared by the 

Tosco Refinery in Martinez, CA (now owned by Tesoro) in April 1997 (19), data summarized in 

EPA’s 1996 Preliminary Data Summary (24), and data submitted to EPA by BP Oil Company 

Toledo Refinery (2). Data in these various sources have different nomenclature. For example, 

some sources provide results as TEQ; others only provide discharge information for 2,3,7,8-

TCDD. See Section 4.2.4.2 for additional discussion on dioxin nomenclature. In order to 

compare these results, Table 7-23 also provides the associated TWPE. EPA did not include 

refinery TRI data in Table 7-23, because refineries do not report concentrations to TRI. 

However, as discussed above only two of the four facilities that based their TRI-reported dioxin 

discharges on actual measurements detected dioxin in their effluent. EPA has concentration data 

from these two facilities from other sources and has included those data in Table 7-23. 

5

A 16th refinery, Marathon Ashland Petroleum (Detroit, MI) originally reported discharging 8.06 grams of dioxins in 

2000. The refinery submitted a TRI correction form, and EPA changed the reported discharge to 0 grams for this 

analysis. 

7-50 
Sect

Table 7-22. NPRA and API Comments on Dioxin Discharge Estimates Reported to the 200

7-51

TRI ID Number Refinery 

Refinery 

Location 

TRI Releases 20001 

Dioxin Discharge 

(gram/yr) 

Basis of Estimate 

for TRI Releases 

20002 

NPRA 

Dioxin 

98221SHLLLWESTM Tesoro Northwest Co. Anacortes, WA 5.199947 M 2001 dis

discharge 

77590MRTHNFOOTO Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC Texas City, TX 2 O No comm70669CNCLKOLDSP Conoco Lake Charles Refinery Westlake, LA 0.5392 E No comm94802CHVRN841ST Chevron Prods. Co. Richmond 

Refinery 

Richmond, CA 0.339997 O Based on 

samples detection 

90245CHVRN324WE Chevron USA Prods. Co. El Segundo, CA 0.329997 M Based on 

OCDD w

43616SHLCM4001C BP Oil Co. Toledo Refinery Oregon, OH 0.285997 M One set o

analyzeddetection 

07036XXN 1400P Bayway Refining Co. Linden, NJ 0.253997 M Based on 

Treated e

74603CNCPN1000S Conoco Inc. Ponca City Refinery Ponca City, OK 0.180878 O Estimate

nonrefinein petrole

59101CNCBL401SO Conoco Inc. Billings Refinery Billings, MT 0.161558 O Estimate

nonrefinein petrole

08066MBLLCBILLI Valero Refining Co. New Jersey Paulsboro, NJ 0.089999 O Reported 

0.0002 g

00851HSSLVLIMET Hovensa LLC Christiansted, VI 0.069341 C Based on 80022CNCDN5801B Conoco Denver Refinery Denver, CO 0.059999 O Internally 

corporate 

39567CHVRNPOBOX Chevron Prods. Co. Pascagoula 

Refinery 

Pascagoula, MS 0.035 O No comm

62454MRTHNMARAT Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC Robinson, IL 0.03 O No comm00654PHLPSPHILI Chevron Phillips Chemical Puerto 

Rico 

Guayama, PR 0.00218 E No comm
Sect

Table 7-22 (Continued) 

TRI ID Number Refinery 

Refinery 

Location 

TRI Releases 20001 

Dioxin Discharge 

(gram/yr) 

Basis of Estimate 

for TRI Releases 

20002 

NPRA 

Dioxin 

70602CTGPTHIGHW Citgo Petroleum Corp Lake Charles, LA 0.0016 E Based on 79905CHVRN6501T Chevron USA El Paso Refinery El Paso, TX 0.109999 O Based on Refineries Not in EPA’s Analysis: No Discharge of Dioxins 48217MRTHN1300S Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC Detroit, MI 8.061218 NA Incorrect 

be zero dsubmitte

1Mass transferred to POTW that is ultimately discharged to surface waters. Accounts for POTW removals.2Refineries reported basis of estimate in 2000 TRI as: M - Monitoring data/measurements; C - Mass balance calculations; E - Published emission facto

approaches (e.g., engineering calculations).

7-52
Sect

Table 7-23. Dioxin Concentrations Measured in U.S. Petroleum Refinery Final Effluen

7-53

2,3,7,8- 

TCDD 

Facility Source Results (pg/L) 

Tesoro Northwest Company 

(1) March 8, 2000 - Split sample analyzed by two labs. Results shown 

average two results. Five congeners detected by at least one lab, including 

<3 3

Anacortes, WA 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF by both labs. 

August 30, 2000 - split sample analyzed by two labs. Results shown 

<4 

average two results. Nine congeners detected by at least one lab, including 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF by both labs. 

ARCO Cherry Point (1) May 3, 2000 - No congeners detected. <10 Refinery October 1, 2000 - No congeners detected. <10 Blaine, WA April 6, 2001 - No congeners detected. <10 

April 13, 2001- No congeners detected. <10 

U.S. Oil & Refining Co. (1) July 16-17, 2002 - No congeners detected. ND Tacoma, WA June 23 -24, 2002 - No congeners detected. ND 

Shell Oil Products US (2) January 2003 - Only OCDD detected. ND Puget Sound Refinery March 2003 - No congeners detected. ND Anacortes, WA January 2004 - No congeners detected. ND 

Shell Oil Mobile Saraland, AL 

(3) 1998 to 2000 - permit requires yearly monitoring for 2,3,7,8-TCDD. 

Never detected. 

ND 

Murphy Oil USA Inc. Superior, WI 

(3) February 29, 2000 - permit requires monitoring for 2,3,7,8-TCDD <2.7 

Tesoro Refining (3) March 31, 2000 NR (Previously Tosco) June 30, 2000 NR Avon Refinery October 31, 2000 NR Martinez, CA permit requires quarterly reporting TCDD-equivalents. 

Discharge is 98% nonprocess, 2% process. 

(4) January - December, 1996- Outfall to bay - Results reported as TCDD NR 

TEQ. Individual congeners not reported. Outfall includes process and nonprocess sources of dioxins. Result shown is 12 month average. June 1996 - GAC outlet. Treated process wastewater. August 1996 - GAC outlet. Treated process wastewater NR 

NR 
Sect

Table 7-23 (Continued) 

7-54

2,3,7,8- 

TCDD 

Facility Source Results (pg/L) 

Tesoro Refining (5) ca 1989 -Outfall to bay. 13 ppq TCDF detected; not found when sample ND (Previously Tosco) reanalyzed. ND Avon Refinery Re-analyzed sample. Only OCDD detected Martinez, CA 

BP Oil Company Toledo Refining Oregon, OH 

(6) 2000 - 9 congeners detected 0 to 0.843 0 

TOTAL MEASURED DIOXIN DISCHARGE: 

Sources: (1) Washington State Department of Ecology. Letter of Transmittal. December 11, 2003 (DCN 00711). (2) Shell Oil Products U.S. Puget Sound Refinery. Dioxin Study Report (NPDES Permit WA-000294-1). June 2004. (3) U.S. EPA. PCSLoads2000. (4) Tosco Refining Company Avon Refinery. Dioxin Source Investigation Pursuant to Cease and Desist Order No. 95-151, Final Repo(5) U.S. EPA, 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, Table 6.9. (6) BP Oil Company. Water Samples for PCDD/PDCF for the BP Oil Company Toledo Refinery. Performed by Batelle. November 9, 

NC - Not calculated, reporting data for 2000 used to calculate TWPE for refinery.ND - Not detected, detection limit not reported.NR - Not reported.

1Low value assumes ND = 0; high value assumes ND = detection limit.2Total year 2000 discharges. Low value assumes ND = 0; high value assumes ND = detection limit.3All concentrations reported by BP were less than low end of calibration curve. Low value assumes all results were ND, and ND = 0. H

detected results present at reported concentration and ND = detection limit.
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

As shown in Table 7-23, only one refinery (BP Toledo Refinery) detected the 

most toxic form of dioxin, 2,3,7,8-TCDD, in its final effluent. Four of the eight refineries did 

not detect any dioxins in their final effluent. The four refineries that detected dioxins in their 

effluent were Tesoro (previously Tosco) (Martinez, CA); Tesoro Northwest (Anacortes, WA); 

Shell Puget Sound Refinery (Anacortes, WA); and BP Toledo Refinery (Oregon, OH). 

Table 7-24 summarizes the petroleum refinery treated effluent data for individual 

dioxin and furan congeners measured at three of the four facilities that detected dioxins in their 

final effluent (Tesoro Northwest, Shell Puget Sound, and BP Toledo). All results are presented 

in picograms per liter (pg/L). EPA did not present the data for the fourth refinery because the 

refinery provided only summary results.

 In 1997, the Tesoro (Martinez, CA) refinery completed an extensive study to find 

the source of dioxin in its wastewaters (see DCN 710) The study determined that stormwater is 

the largest source of dioxin in the final effluent (50 percent) with the coke pond and clean canal 

forebay as the second largest (45 percent) (19). The refinery reported that the wastewater 

treatment plant (i.e., treated process wastewater) contributed 2 percent of the dioxins in the final 

effluent (19). The facility collected and analyzed two samples of fully treated process wastewater 

for this study. The analytical results were 0.000 pg/L TCDD-equivalents and 0.012 pg/L TCDDequivalents (19). These concentrations equate to 12.8 lb-equivalents. In comparison, the 

calculated TCDD-equivalents of the concentrations detected in the final effluent in 2000 were 

0.00028, 0.30, and 0.09 pg/L (34). 

 The Tesoro Northwest Refinery (Anacortes, WA) sampled its effluent on two 

occasions, during batch discharges of treated wastewater generated during the regeneration of 

catalytic reformer spent catalyst. Each sample was analyzed by two independent analytical 

laboratories. Tesoro Northwest detected between 6 and 11 dioxin congeners in its final effluent 

(36). However, two compounds were present in the corresponding laboratory blank,. Several 

other compounds were detected below the lower calibration limit. OCDF and 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-

HpCDF were detected about the method minimum level by both laboratories and in both 

samples. The most toxic dioxin forms (2,3,7,8 -TCDD and 2,3,7,8-TCDF) were not detected in 

any samples (36). The refinery has not done an additional study to identify the sources of dioxin 

in its final effluent (17). At this point, because the dioxin concentrations in the upstream source 

(catalytic reformer regeneration wastewaters) are also high, EPA assumes the spent caustic/wash 

water from catalytic reformer regeneration is the source of the dioxins in the final effluent. 

These effluent measurements equate to 29.9 to 196 TWPE (low value assumes nondetects equal 

zero and high value assumes nondetects equal the detection limit). 

The Shell Puget Sound Refinery (Anacortes, WA) sampled its effluent on three 

occasions, corresponding to the regeneration of catalytic reformer spent catalyst. Shell Puget 

Sound detected OCDD at a concentration of 120 pg/L in its final effluent during the January 

2003 sampling episode. For the March 2003 and January 2004 sampling episodes, the refinery 

7-55
Sect

Table 7-24. Treated Effluent Dioxin/Furan Sample Results, pg/L 

7-56

Tesoro Northwest Shell Puget Sound Refin

Dioxin Congener 

Method 

1613b ML 

pg/L 

(Anacortes, WA) (Anacortes, WA) 

3/2000 8/2000 

Lab A Lab B Lab A Lab B 1/2003 3/2003 1

CDDs 2,3,7,8-TCDD 10 ND ND ND ND ND ND 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD 50 ND ND ND ND ND ND 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD 50 ND ND ND ND ND ND 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD 50 ND ND ND ND ND ND 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD 50 ND ND ND ND ND ND 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD 50 39b 35j 153 35j ND ND 

OCDD 100 100b 110 1160b 130 120 ND 

CDFs 2,3,7,8-TCDF 10 ND ND ND ND ND ND 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF 50 ND ND 13.2a ND ND ND 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF 50 ND ND 20.2a ND ND ND 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF 50 35 43 83.6 33j ND ND 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF 50 17a ND 57.6 ND ND ND 

1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF 50 13a ND 46.5 ND ND ND 2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF 50 9.7a ND 38.7 ND ND ND 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF 50 100 130 412 110 ND ND 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF 50 34 40 145 38j ND ND 
Sect

Table 7-24 (Continued) 

Dioxin Congener 

Method 

1613b ML 

pg/L 

Tesoro Northwest 

(Anacortes, WA) 

Shell Puget Sound Refin

(Anacortes, WA) 

3/2000 8/2000 

Lab A Lab B Lab A Lab B 1/2003 3/2003 1

OCDF 100 200 270 935 200 ND ND 

Sources: Washington State Department of Ecology. Letter of Transmittal. December 11, 2003 (DCN 00711); Shell Oil Products U.S. Pu

Dioxin Study Report (NPDES Permit WA-000294-1). June 2004; and BP Oil Company. Water Samples for PCDD/PDCF for the BP Oi

Refinery. Performed by Batelle. November 9, 2000.ML - Minimum Level.a/j - Compound present, detected below the lower calibration limit.b - Detected in method blank.

7-57
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

detection no dioxins in its final effluent (18). These measurements equate to 0.81 to 741 TWPE 

(low value assumes nondetects equal zero and high value assumes nondetects equal the detection 

limit). 

The BP Toledo Refinery (Oregon, OH) sampled its effluent once in September 

2000. It has a continuous discharge of wastewater from its catalytic reforming regeneration. BP 

Toledo detected nine congeners, including the most toxic form, 2,3,7,8-TCDD, in its final 

effluent. However, no dioxins were detected above the lower calibration limit or the method 

minimum level. Although these compounds were below the lower calibration limit, they were 

probably present in the sample. EPA estimates treated effluent TWPE range from 0 to 25,800 

(low value assumes nondetects equal zero and high value assumes nondetects equal the detection 

limit). (2) 

EPA notes that many of the detected dioxin concentrations at these refineries are 

close to the analytical minimum level and that some sample-specific detection levels and 

detected concentrations are below the Method 1613b minimum level. Method 1613b is the 

analytical method EPA specifies for compliance when it establishes 2,3,7,8-TCDD limits in the 

effluent guidelines program. The minimum level is the is the smallest quantity that the method 

can reliably measure. Also, EPA has historically regulated dioxins as 2,3,7,8-TCDD and 

establishes the limit as below the minimum level. All of information from the eight facilities that 

measured for dioxins (including BP Toledo) indicates 2,3,7,8-TCDD is below the minimum level 

of 10 pg/L. 

Data from these eight refineries indicate that while dioxins may be generated 

during catalyst regeneration operations, dioxin concentrations measured at the effluent are close 

to the minimum level or below the minimum level. This indicates that the dioxins are being 

removed from the wastestream prior to discharge. Because dioxins have a low water solubility 

and extreme hydrophobicity, EPA expects that the dioxins from catalytic reformer regeneration 

wastewaters partition to the oily and solids phases in the API separator and accumulate in the 

sludges. 

Finally, EPA notes that the total TWPE based on measured discharged by 

refineries is 43.5 to 25,800 TWPE (low value assumes nondetects equal zero and high value 

assumes nondetects equal the detection limit) compared to the 139,258 TWPE calculated using 

the 2000 TRI data, as reported. 

7.7.6 Dioxin Control Technologies 

As described in the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, after reviewing data 

collected in its 1990-91 refinery sampling program, EPA noted that greater than 90 percent of 

the TEQ were associated with solids-phase samples. This indicated that dioxins might be treated 

at the source by filtration technology prior to commingling the regeneration wastewater with 

wastewaters from other refinery operations (24, page G-22). 

7-58
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

To control dioxins in wastewater, Shell Canada (Sarnia, Ontario Canada) 

implemented carbon filtration pretreatment of spent caustic from the catalytic reformer. The 

pretreatment system consists of two carbon filters (165 pounds each) connected in series with a 

flow rate of five gallons per minute. After pretreatment, the refinery treats the wastewater in its 

end-of-pipe biological treatment system. The 1996 Preliminary Data Summary did not discuss 

the effectiveness of this treatment. (24) 

As described in Dioxin Source Investigation Pursuant to CDO No. 95-151, Final 

Report (19), the Tesoro Avon Refinery (owned by Tosco at the time of the report) operates both 

a continuous catalytic reformer and a semi-regenerative catalytic reformer. Off-gases from the 

continuous catalyst regeneration pass through a caustic scrubbing solution. A slipstream of 

washwater is constantly purged to the oily sewer at a rate of four gallons per minute. In 1993, 

the refinery installed a granular activated carbon (GAC) treatment system that successfully 

removed 95 to 99 percent of the dioxins found in the washwater from this wastestream. The 

refinery analyzed two samples of GAC effluent and reported the results as 0.012 pg/L TEQ for 

one sample and 0.00 pg/L TEQ for the other sample. 

Tesoro’s semi-regenerative catalytic reformer is shut down approximately once 

per year for regeneration. Washwater from this process contains dioxins. The refinery 

determined that allowing particulate in the catalyst regeneration wastewater to settle in tanks for 

a minimum of one week allows the dioxin concentrations in the liquid portion to drop to nearly 

zero. The settled liquid is pumped through a 1-micron filter sock prior to discharge to the oily 

sewer. The refinery disposes of the filter socks and collected particulate matter as dioxincontaining hazardous waste (19). 

7.7.7 Detailed Study Findings for Dioxins 

Below is a summary of the findings of EPA’s detailed study of refinery dioxins. 

C The term “dioxins,” or polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (CDDs) and 

polychlorinated dibenzofurans (CDFs), refers to the 17 individual 

compounds (congeners) with chlorine substitution of hydrogen atoms at 

the 2, 3, 7, and 8 positions on the benzene rings. U.S. industrial facilities 

were first required to report dioxin releases to TRI in 2000. Facilities 

report the total mass of the 17 compounds released to the environment and 

the congener distribution of these releases. Using 2000 TRI data as 

reported (and accounting for POTW removals), EPA estimated that 

petroleum refineries released 9.60 grams of dioxins to surface water 

in 2000. 

C EPA calculated the TWPE of dioxins released from petroleum refineries 

using facility-reported congener distributions. If a refinery did not report a 

congener distribution, EPA used the refining industry-specific average 

distribution to calculate the mass of each congener released. Using TWFs 

for each congener and 2000 TRI data (accounting for POTW removals), 

7-59
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

EPA estimated that refineries discharged 139,258 TWPE of dioxins in 

2000. 

C Using only final effluent data where dioxin discharges were measured 

analytically, EPA estimated that refineries discharged between 43.5 and 

25,800 TWPE of dioxins in 2000 (over 80 percent less than the TWPE 

estimated using the TRI data as reported). 

C In 1988, dioxins were identified in catalyst regeneration wastewater from 

Ontario petroleum refineries. In the early 1990s, EPA confirmed that 

reformer catalyst regeneration wastewater was the major source of dioxins 

in refinery process wastewater. In 2000, 122 refineries performed 

catalytic reformer regeneration. 

C For this detailed study, EPA reviewed in-plant dioxin monitoring data 

from four sources: 

— Washington Department of Ecology permit-required sampling: 

results of sampling and analysis provided by three Washington 

refineries from 2001-2003. 

— Washington Department of Ecology permit-required sampling: 

results of sampling and analysis provided by Shell Oil Products 

U.S. Puget Sound Refinery from 2003 - 2004. 

— EPA-conducted sampling in support of its 1996 Preliminary Data 

Summary: results of sampling at three California refineries in the 

early 1990s. 

— BP Oil CompanyToledo Refinery sampling data from 2000. 

C From the four sources above, high concentrations of dioxins, including 

2,3,7,8-TCDD and 2,3,7,8-TCDF, were detected in catalytic reformer 

regeneration wastewaters at all eight refineries: 

— 2,975 pg/L - Median TCDD-equivalent concentration, and 

— 5.64 mg/cycle - Median loading per regeneration cycle. 

C From the four sources above, four of the eight refineries detected dioxins 

in their final effluent. 

C One of three refineries with NPDES permit limits for TCDD or TCDDequivalents detected dioxins in their final effluent in 2000: 

7-60
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

— Tesoro Refining (Martinez, CA) reported 0.00028, 0.09, and 0.3 

pg/L in its final effluent. 

— This refinery identified stormwater and coke pond water as 

contributing 95 percent of the mass discharged. Treated process 

wastewater contributed two percent of the mass. Sampling of 

treated process wastewater yielded 0.000 pg/L TCDD-equivalents 

and 0.012 pg/L TCDD-equivalents. This equates to 12.8 TWPE. 

C For TRI reporting year 2000, 17 refineries reported wastewater dioxin 

releases. 

— For 15 of the 17 dioxin-reporting refineries, reported releases were 

either not based on measured concentrations, or when dioxin 

congeners were not detected, releases were estimated using onehalf the analytical detection limit and refinery effluent flow. 

— For 2 of the 17 dioxin-reporting refineries, the reported releases 

appear to have been based on measured concentrations in refinery 

effluents. 

C BP Oil Company Toledo Refinery (Oregon, OH) - EPA 

received the 2000 analytical data report from the refinery. 

All concentrations reported by BP were less than the low 

end of calibration curve. Although the concentrations of 

these compounds were below the method minimum level, 

they were probably present in the sample. EPA estimates 

treated effluent TCDD-equivalents concentrations range 

from 0 to 4.29 pg/L, or 0 to 24,800 TWPE. 

C Tesoro Northwest (Anacortes, WA) - EPA received further 

data for this refinery as part of the Washington Department 

of Ecology permit requirements (see below). 

C Four Washington refineries provided permit-required final effluent 

sampling results. 

— Dioxins were not detected in the treated final effluent of two of 

these refineries. 

— EPA estimates treated effluent TCDD-equivalent concentrations at 

Tesoro Northwest (Anacortes, WA) are between 3.1 and 37.9 pg/L. 

The process wastewater (spent caustic/wash water) from catalytic 

reformer regeneration contains high concentrations of dioxins. 

Most dioxins settle with the solids and become part of the API 

7-61
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

separator sludge; however, the refinery effluent still contains 

dioxins above detection limits. The most toxic form of dioxins 

were not detected in any effluent samples. Dioxin in treated 

effluent equate to 29.9 to 196 TWPE. 

— EPA estimates treated effluent TCDD-equivalents concentrations 

at Shell Puget Sound Refinery (Anacortes, WA) are between 0 and 

0.012 pg/L, or 0.81 to 741 TWPE. The process wastewater 

(caustic water wash) from catalytic reformer regeneration contains 

high concentrations of dioxins; however, almost all of the dioxins 

settle with the solids and become part of the API separator sludge. 

The refinery detected only one congener in the final effluent in one 

of the three sampling episodes. 

C Four Washington refineries provided permit-required API separator sludge 

sampling results. Dioxins were detected in the sludge from all four of 

these refineries, including the two refineries with no dioxins in their final 

effluent. 

C Tesoro Refinery in Martinez, CA practices in-plant treatment of 

segregated catalytic reforming catalyst regeneration wastewater. 

— GAC removes 95 to 99 percent of the dioxins in continuous 

catalytic reformer off-gas scrubber blowdown. 

— Settling and solids filtration removes dioxins from semiregenerative catalytic reformer regeneration wash water. 

Based on the information collected during the detailed review, EPA concludes 

that dioxins might be produced in high concentrations at petroleum refineries during reformer 

catalyst regeneration processes. While some dioxin congeners might be present in the treated 

effluent at some refineries, the most toxic congeners, 2,3,7,8-TCDD and 2,3,7,8-TCDF, have 

only been detected in the final effluent at one petroleum refinery at a concentration below the 

method minimum level. TWPE estimates from eight facilities that sampled their treated effluent 

for dioxins ranges from 43.5 to 25,800 TWPE. EPA notes that these TWPE estimates are based 

on dioxin concentrations close to the analytical minimum level. In addition, the highest 

estimated TWPE (24,800 TWPE at the BP Toledo Refinery) was calculated for an effluent 

sampled only once, with all detected congener concentrations below the Method 1613b 

minimum level. 

Contamination of API separator sludge with dioxins suggests that at least some of 

the dioxins from catalytic reformer regeneration wastewater partition to the oily and solid phases 

in the API separator and accumulate in the sludge. API separator sludges are managed as 

hazardous wastes. 

7-62
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

In-process control technology effectively removes dioxins from segregated 

catalytic reforming catalyst regeneration wastewater. This control technology consists of solids 

removal and/or GAC adsorption. Permit writers should consider the use of these technologies as 

they develop permit limits that reflect their “Best Professional Judgement” (BPJ) of what 

constitutes BAT for an individual refinery. 

7.8 Metals 

Petroleum refinery wastewater contains a number of metal pollutants. In 2000, 

petroleum refineries reported wastewater releases of over 20 metals6

 to TRI and refineries in 

PCS monitored their effluent for discharges of over 30 metals. 

7.8.1 Identification and Description of the Metals Discharged in Petroleum 

Refinery Wastewater 

Table 7-25 provides information on the metals commonly found in discharges 

from petroleum refineries, and identifies if the metal is reportable to TRI or is a CWA priority 

pollutant. Petroleum refinery effluent limitations guidelines found in 40 CFR Part 419 include 

limitations for hexavalent and trivalent chromium. 

Table 7-25. Metals in Petroleum Refining Wastewater 

Pollutant Reportable to TRI? Priority Pollutant? Limits in 40 CFR Part 419? 

Aluminum 1 

Arsenic T T

Chromium T T T

Copper T T

Lead T T

Mercury T T

Nickel T T

Selenium T T

Vanadium T – 

Zinc T T 1

Aluminum is only reportable to TRI in its fume or dust form. 

7.8.2 Sources of Metals at the Petroleum Refinery 

Crude petroleum is the major source of metals at petroleum refineries. Metals 

found in crude petroleum, and their concentrations, depend on the origin of the crude oil. For 

example, selenium is contained in some crude oils, particularly from parts of California (3). 

6

For this review, two nonmetallic elements, arsenic and selenium, are included with metals. 

7-63 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Other sources of metals in refinery wastewater include pipe corrosion (e.g., chromium), catalyst 

additives, other refinery raw materials, cooling water biocide (e.g., chromium),and supply water 

(37). 

Desalter wastewater will most likely have the largest concentration of metals, 

especially mercury. Another process wastewater source of metals is wash water from other 

refining steps (37). 

7.8.3 Reported Metal Discharges 

EPA estimated metal loadings for the petroleum refining industry using data 

reported to TRI and PCS in 2000. In addition, EPA used metals discharge data for 23 refineries 

from the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary (24) and for 10 refineries from API (1). 

7.8.3.1 Mass Discharges: TRI and PCS 

Table 7-26 presents the pollutant loadings for metals estimated using discharges 

reported to TRI for 2000. Metals account for 22 percent of the total industry TWPE discharge 

estimated with TRI data when PAC and dioxin discharges are included. However, as discussed 

in Sections 7.6 and 7.7, EPA has little evidence that PACs and dioxin releases reported to TRI 

reflect measurable concentrations in refinery effluents. Metals make up almost 70 percent of the 

TRI TWPE when PACs and dioxins are not included in the total, and 17 percent of the PCS 

TWPE. 

Table 7-26. Metals Discharges as Percentage of Total TWPE 

Pollutant Total TWPE Discharged 

Percentage of Total TWPE 

Discharged 

TRI Loads 

Metals 84,368 22%1 

Total 373,177 

PCS Loads 

Metals 33,547 17% 

Total 192,862 

Source: TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. 1

Metals compose 70 percent of the TRI TWPE if PACs and dioxins are excluded.

As shown in Table 7-27, based on data reported to both the TRI and PCS, a few 

metals contribute most of the TWPE. Table 7-28 presents information from TRIReleases2000, 

showing the five metals with the highest estimate of TWPE released to surface waters in 2000. 

Vanadium comprises most of the TWPE in releases reported to TRI in 2000; 14 refineries 

reported releasing more than 55,000 TWPE of vanadium, or 65 percent of the metal TWPE. 

7-64
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-27. Top Five Metals as Percentage of Total Metal TWPE 

Pollutant 

PCS TRI 

Total Pounds 

Discharged 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

Total Pounds 

Discharged 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

Total Metals 202,860 33,547 182,265 83,266 

Top 5 Metals1 130,684 26,042 98,215 75,961 

Top 5 as percentage of total 

metals 

64% 78% 54% 91% 

Source: TRIReleases2000 and PCSLoads2000. 1

Top five TRI metals include vanadium, mercury, selenium, chromium and lead. Top five PCS metals include

selenium, aluminum, arsenic, mercury and lead.

Table 7-28. Five Metals with Highest Estimated TWPE (TRI) 

Pollutant 

TRI 

Number of Refineries 

Total Pounds 

Discharged 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

Vanadium 14 88,778 55,240 

Mercury 20 100 11,768 

Selenium 2 2,655 2,975 

Chromium 13 5,049 2,322 

Lead 14 1,632 3,656 

Source: TRIReleases2000. 

The federal effluent limitations and guidelines for petroleum refineries include 

metal limits only for chromium (total and hexavalent); however, state and local permits may 

require refineries to monitor for other metal compounds. Table 7-29 presents information from 

PCSLoads2000, showing the five metals with the highest estimate of TWPE discharged to 

surface waters in 2000. Selenium comprises most of the TWPE in discharges calculated using 

PCS data; 18 refineries reported selenium discharges, accounting for more than 9,000 TWPE of 

selenium, or 27 percent of the metal TWPE. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Table 7-29. Five Metals with Highest Estimated TWPE (PCS) 

Pollutant 

PCS 

Number of Refineries 

Total Pounds 

Discharged 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

Selenium 18 8,068 9,041 

Aluminum 5 120,235 7,754 

Arsenic 10 1,663 5,769 

Mercury 7 16 1,908 

Lead 10 701 1,571 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 

7.8.3.2 Additional Metals Data (Concentrations) 

EPA reviewed additional petroleum refinery metals discharge data and compared 

these concentrations to baseline values and promulgated effluent guidelines. Each of the data 

sources is discussed below and Table 7-30 presents these data. 

Preliminary Data Summary 

As part of the study described in EPA’s 1996 Preliminary Data Summary (24), 

EPA visited and collected effluent data from six refineries. Table 7-30 presents the range of 

effluent metals concentrations collected from these refineries. No data on concentrations of 

arsenic, mercury, or vanadium were available for these refineries. 

EPA also obtained one-year average concentration data collected during Ontario’s 

Seven Refineries Study, conducted in 1989 (24). Table 7-30 presents these average 

concentrations. No data on concentrations of mercury or vanadium were available for these 

refineries. 

API Supplied Data 

EPA received comments from API on the December 31, 2003 Notice of the 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005. API provided a set of petroleum 

refining effluent data that were previously collected by its members in conjunction with EPA’s 

Office of Solid Waste (1). Data were collected from refineries following activated sludge 

treatment. Most of the metals with high TWPE discharges as reported to TRI were not detected 

above analytical detection limits. The exceptions were nickel, selenium, and vanadium. Table 

7-30 presents the median of the analytical results. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Calculated PCS Concentrations 

As described in Section 7.2.2, EPA used data reported to PCS to estimate annual 

pollutant mass discharges. As further described in Section 7.5.2, EPA used PCS data to estimate 

annual process wastewater flow rates. EPA assumed that flows from effluent outfalls with 

limitations for BOD5 and/or ammonia (as nitrogen) were process-related. For each refinery 

discharging metals as reported to PCS (in pounds), EPA estimated the metal concentration by 

dividing the mass discharged by the flow rate (and correcting the units). Table 7-30 presents the 

median of estimated metal concentrations. 

Baseline Values 

Table 7-30 also presents baseline values for metal pollutants to compare to the 

metals concentrations measured at petroleum refineries. EPA develops method-specific “baseline 

values” for analyzing measurement data collected for effluent guidelines development. In most 

cases, the baseline value is the “nominal quantitation limit” stipulated for the specific method 

used to measure a particular pollutant. In general, the term “nominal quantitation limit” describes 

the smallest quantity of an analyte that can be measured reliably. The baseline values shown in 

Table 7-30 were taken from Chapter 15 of the Development Document for Centralized Waste 

Treaters (CWT) Point Source Category (26). 

Comparison of Concentrations 

As shown in Table 7-30, the concentrations of arsenic, copper, lead, mercury, and 

nickel did not exceed the baseline value or method detection level in any of the data sources. As 

a result, EPA concludes that TWPEs calculated for these pollutants reflect concentrations below 

the method detection level multiplied by the refinery effluent flow rate. Chromium, selenium, 

vanadium, and zinc, however, were detected above the baseline value/method detection level in 

at least one data source. Each of these metals is discussed in more detail below. 

Chromium concentrations exceeded the baseline value for one or more of the six 

refineries visited for the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary. However, the highest concentration 

detected in samples taken for the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary was 0.02 mg/L, slightly 

greater than the baseline value (0.01 mg/L) but less than the long-term average of the BPT/BAT 

technology (0.25 mg/L). Concentrations from the other data sources were all less than the 

method detection level. These data collectively demonstrate that chromium is rarely discharged 

above the method detection level or the BAT treatment performance concentration. 

7-67
Sect

Table 7-30. Pollutant Discharge Concentrations for Metals at Petroleum Refineries 

7-68

Pollutant 

PDS Site Visit 

Data 

(6 refineries) 

Range, mg/L 

Canada Study Data

 (7 refineries) 

Average, mg/L 

1993/1994 

Wastewater 

Treatment Effluent 

Data

 (10 refineries) 

Median, mg/L 

2000 PCS 

Concentration 

Median, mg/L 

Baseline Values 

(EPA Method 

Number 1620), 

mg/L 

Ex

Source 1 2 3 4 5 

Arsenic NA 0.009 < 0.1 (all ND) 0.0084 0.01 Chromium 0.015-0.02 0.0068 < 0.01 0.0067 0.01 

Copper 0.01-.013 0.0048 < 0.01 (all ND) 0.0066 0.025 Lead 0.001-0.012 0.0041 < 0.05 (all ND) 0.0031 0.050 Mercury NA NA < 0.0002 

(all ND) 

0.00002 0.0002 

Nickel 0.033-0.039 0.0034 0.04 0.023 0.040 Selenium 0.006-0.06 0.005 0.012 0.015 0.005 Vanadium NA NA 0.26 0.015 0.05 Zinc 0.04-0.147 0.29 < 0.02 0.04 0.020 

N

Sources: 1. 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, Table 4-4. 2. 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, Table 4-5, taken from BAT for Ontario Petroleum Refining Sector, August 1991. 

3. API Comment, Table 4, 1993-94 data collected in conjunction with EPA/OSW. 4. Calculated using BOD5-associated flow, and PCSLoads2000 estimated annual mass discharge. 

5. Development Document for Centralized Waste Treaters (CWT) Point Source Category, Attachment 15-1.

NA - Not available.ND - Not detected.

1BPT/BAT-equivalent concentration for existing regulation (40 CFR Part 419) as listed in U.S. EPA’s Development Document for Effluent Limitation

Performance Standards for the Petroleum Refining Point Source Category, April 1974. 

240 CFR Part 433; 40 CFR Part 437.31: Organics Treatment and Recovery Subcategory; and U.S. EPA Development Document for Final Effluent Lim

Standards for the Metal Molding and Casting (Foundry) Point Source Category (40 CFR Part 464).
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Selenium concentrations also exceeded the baseline value for one or more of the 

six refineries visited for the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary. In addition, the median 

concentrations provided in the API comments and calculated from PCS 2000 exceeded the 

baseline value. Selenium is present in crude petroleum, especially from parts of California. In 

the 1990's, California permitting authorities conducted a selenium treatability study. As a result 

of the study, many California refineries shifted their crude supplies so that they received low 

selenium crude. In addition, for five refineries in the Los Angeles Basin, the LA County 

Sanitation Districts began implementing source control requirements for selenium. The control 

requirements are driven by local requirements for the disposal of the Districts’ biosolids. The 

LA County Sanitation Districts commented that the General Pretreatment Regulations (40 CFR 

Part 403) and their local Wastewater Ordinance provides adequate control of selenium 

discharges by refineries (3). 

EPA notes that it has historically not established national categorical limitations 

or standards for selenium in any existing ELGs. EPA did promulgate selenium limitations and 

standards in 40 CFR Part 437 based on primary chemical precipitation, liquid/solid separation, 

secondary precipitation, clarification, and sand filtration, but re-promulgated the regulation to 

delete these limitations. EPA found that selenium removal was achieved only on the last stage of 

the treatment technology basis, sand filtration, and that these removals were not consistent or 

predictable. See 68 FR 71014-71026. 

 The median concentration of vanadium provided in the API comments exceeded 

the baseline value; however, the more recent data from the 2000 PCS show concentrations below 

the baseline value. Vanadium is one of the metals that facilities are required to report to TRI. It 

is not limited in the existing effluent guideline. PCS contains little data on vanadium indicating 

that refinery discharge permits do not include vanadium requirements and that it has not been 

identified as a water quality issue. 

For zinc, the median concentration calculated from PCS, the average 

concentration from the Canadian study, and the maximum of the range provided in the 1996 

Preliminary Data Summary exceeded the baseline value. EPA compared the zinc concentrations 

from petroleum refineries to BAT limitations (or basis) for three promulgated regulations: 

1) Metal Finishing (40 CFR Part 433) - EPA recently evaluated the Metal 

Finishing Category when developing the Metal Products and Machinery 

regulations (40 CFR Part 438). EPA decided not to revise the Metal 

Finishing limitations for zinc (1.48 milligrams per liter, monthly average). 

The concentrations of zinc in refinery effluents are well below the Metal 

Finishing standard. 

2) Centralized Waste Treatment - Organics Treatment and Recovery Subpart 

C (40 CFR Part 437.31) - EPA based the BPT monthly average limitation 

for zinc (0.420 milligrams per liter) on biological treatment. The 

concentrations of zinc in refinery effluents are below the standard 

7-69 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

established for the Organics Treatment and Recovery Subcategory of the 

Centralized Waste Treatment regulations. 

3) Metal Molding and Casting (40 CFR Part 464) - The treatment technology 

that serves as the basis for BAT limitations for Metal Molding and Casting 

is lime precipitation and sedimentation, followed by filtration. This 

effective metal control technology can achieve 30-day effluent 

concentrations of zinc equal to 0.26 milligrams per liter (ferrous 

subcategory) and 0.18 milligrams per liter (nonferrous subcategory). The 

median zinc concentrations for U.S. refineries are below even the 

concentrations achieved using lime precipitation and sedimentation, 

followed by filtration technology. 

7.8.4 Metals Control Technologies 

The metal concentrations in refinery final effluents are typically below treatable 

levels; however, permit writers may identify refinery-specific problems. Permit writers should 

use BPJ to evaluate available pollution prevention and treatment technologies when establishing 

NPDES permit limitations. 

Metals are found in crude petroleum and petroleum products. The main pollution 

prevention steps that refineries can take are to quickly identify and correct any leaks and to 

maintain controls to prevent petroleum spills from reaching any sewers or other waters. In 

addition, refineries can monitor the amount of metals (especially mercury) present in incoming 

crude oil and reject shipments that exceed the refinery’s acceptable levels. 

Selenium and vanadium are two metal pollutants that have been identified in 

some refinery discharges. Vanadium can be removed from wastewater through sulfide 

precipitation. Typically the reaction is carried out with a pH of 7.0 to 9.0 (38). Existing control 

of selenium generally consists of source control requirements. However, selenium has been 

demonstrated to be removed from wastewater through sulfide precipitation at a pH of 6.5 (8). 

7.8.5 Detailed Study Findings for Metals 

Below is a summary of findings of EPA’s detailed study of refinery metals. 

C Metals that may be present in petroleum refining wastewater include 

aluminum, arsenic, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, nickel, selenium, 

vanadium, and zinc. Crude petroleum is the primary source of metals in 

refinery wastewater. The concentration of a metal in the crude depends on 

the source of the crude. 

C Using TRI data as reported (and accounting for POTW removals), EPA 

estimated that refineries discharged 182,265 pounds (83,266 TWPE) of 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

metals in 2000. Vanadium discharges from 14 refineries compose 65 

percent of the TWPE (> 55,000 TWPE). 

C Using PCS data as reported, EPA estimated that refineries discharged 

202,860 pounds (33,547 TWPE) of metals in 2000. Selenium discharges 

from 18 refineries compose 27 percent of the TWPE (9,000 TWPE). 

C EPA identified concentration data from the 1996 Preliminary Data 

Summary (from site visits and from the Canadian study BAT for Ontario 

Petroleum Refining Sector) and API comments. In addition, EPA 

calculated metals concentrations using PCS mass discharges and flow 

rates. Median concentrations of arsenic, copper, lead, mercury, and nickel 

did not exceed the baseline value or method detection level. This 

indicates that the refineries discharge these pollutants below detectable or 

treatable concentrations. 

C The median concentrations of chromium, selenium, vanadium, and zinc 

exceed baseline values in at least one data source. These four metals are 

discussed below: 

— The effluent guidelines at 40 CFR Part 419 include limitations for 

chromium. The concentrations of chromium in any refinery 

wastewater evaluated are well below the concentration upon which 

current limitations were based. In addition, chromium was 

detected in only one data source at a concentration slightly above 

the baseline value. 

— Local limits are currently used to regulate selenium discharges 

from refineries. 

— EPA has not historically regulated selenium and vanadium 

discharges in existing ELGs due to difficulties in obtaining optimal 

removals using traditional wastewater treatment technologies. 

— In evaluated data, the zinc concentrations in U.S. refinery effluents 

are below previously promulgated limitations (Metal Finishing, 40 

CFR Part 433 and Centralized Waste Treatment, 40 CFR Part 437) 

and BAT basis concentrations (Metal Molding and Casting, 40 

CFR Part 464). 

Based on data as reported to PCS and TRI, metals contribute 17 to 22 percent of 

the TWPE reported released by petroleum refineries in 2000. Based on the information for the 

detailed review, EPA concludes that the concentration of metal pollutants in refinery 

wastewaters is at or near treatable levels, leaving little to no opportunity to reduce metals 

discharges through conventional end-of-pipe treatment. Further, EPA did not identify an in7-71
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

process waste stream with high concentrations of metals and, similarly, could not identify an 

appropriate in-process treatment technology. 

7.9 Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutants 

Conventional pollutants found in petroleum refinery wastewater include BOD5, 

total suspended solids (TSS), oil and grease, and pH. Nonconventional pollutants found in 

petroleum refining wastewater include ammonia as nitrogen (N), chemical oxygen demand 

(COD), cyanide, phenols, and sulfide. The current petroleum refining regulations (40 CFR Part 

419) include limitations for all the conventional pollutants listed above, as well as ammonia as 

N, COD, phenols, and sulfide. 40 CFR Part 419 does not limit cyanide discharges from 

petroleum refineries. 

7.9.1 Reported Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutant Discharges 

The estimated conventional and nonconventional pollutant loadings for the 

petroleum refining industry are based on PCS data. In 2000, 104 refineries reported wastewater 

releases of conventional pollutants to PCS, and 102 refineries reported wastewater releases of 

nonconventional pollutants to PCS. In addition, EPA has discharge data for conventional and 

nonconventional pollutants for 138 refineries from the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary. 

7.9.1.1 Mass Discharges: PCS 

Table 7-31 presents the pollutant loadings for conventional and nonconventional 

pollutants (excluding metals), and, for comparison, the metal loadings, estimated using 

discharges reported to PCS in 2000. Nonconventional pollutants (excluding metals) account for 

83 percent of the total TWPE discharged by the industry using PCS data. 

Table 7-31. Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutant Discharges in PCS 

Pollutant 

PCS Loads 

Conventional pollutants 

Nonconventional pollutants (excluding metals) 

Metals 

Total 

Total Pounds 

Discharged 

(millions) 

287 

0.202 

332 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

1 

159,315 

33,547 

192,862 

Percentage of Total 

TWPE Discharged 

1 

83% 

17% 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 1

EPA does not have TWFs for conventional pollutants, therefore, it cannot calculate TWPEs for these pollutants.

7-72 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Tables 7-32 and 7-33 present the pollutant loadings for certain conventional and 

nonconventional pollutants estimated using discharges reported in 2000. EPA does not assign 

TWF to conventional pollutants. The nonconventional pollutant, sulfide, accounts for 63 percent 

of the total TWPE using PCS data; 70 refineries reported discharging more than 100,000 TWPE 

of sulfide. 

Table 7-32. Conventional Pollutants with Highest Estimated Pounds Discharged (PCS) 

Pollutant 

PCS Top 5 Conventional Pollutants 

Number of 

Refineries 

Total Million 

Pounds Discharged 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

Total suspended solids 97 27 -

Oil and grease, freon extr-grav method 69 7.5 -

BOD, 5-day 93 6.7 -

BOD, carbonaceous 5-day 6 0.76 -

Oil and grease 21 0.63 -

Source: PCSLoads2000. 

Table 7-33. Nonconventional Pollutants with Highest Estimated TWPE (PCS) 

PCS Top 5 Nonconventional Pollutants (except metals) 

Pollutant 

Number of 

Refineries 

Total Million Pounds 

Discharged 

Total TWPE 

Discharged 

Sulfide, total1 70 0.036 100,734 

Chlorine, total residual 13 0.052 25,357 

Fluoride, total (as F) 11 0.46 16,198 

Phenolics, total recoverable 68 0.26 7,336 

Nitrogen, ammonia, total2 87 2.0 3,581 

Source: PCSLoads2000. 1

Sulfide, Total includes Sulfide, Total (as S).

2

Nitrogen, Ammonia Total includes “Nitrogen Ammonia Total (AS N)” and “Nitrogen Ammonia Total (AS NH4).”

7.9.1.2 Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutant Concentrations 

EPA reviewed concentration data for petroleum refinery conventional and 

nonconventional pollutants and compared these concentrations to baseline values and 

promulgated effluent guidelines. The data sources for this data are discussed in the following 

section and Table 7-34 presents these data. 

7-73
Sect

Table 7-34. Pollutant Discharge Concentrations for Conventional and Nonconventional Pollutants at Pe

7-74

Pollutant 

Preliminary 

Data Summary 

Site Visit Data 

(6 refineries) 

Range, mg/L 

Canada Study 

Data (7 

refineries) 

Average, mg/L 

1993/1994 

Wastewater 

Treatment Effluent 

Data (10 refineries) 

Median, mg/L 

2000 PCS 

Concentration 

Median, mg/L 

EPA 

Method 

Number

 Baseline 

Values, mg/L 

Source 1 2 3 4 5 6 TSS 8.75-12 22 10 12.71 160.2 4.0 

Oil and grease 2.7-4.2 2.17 NA 3.54 1664 5.0 

Ammonia (as N) 0.94-1.43 1.7 NA 1.28 350.2 0.05 

COD 51-59.5 49.2 55.2 71.50 410.1 5.0 Phenols, total 0.005-0.012 0.0110 NA 0.018 420.2 0.05 

Sulfide, total 0.018-0.14 0.08 0.08 0.026 D4658 1.0 

Pollutants without Limitations at 40 CFR Part 419 Cyanide, total NA 0.007 0.01 0.014 335.2 0.02 Fluoride, total NA NA NA 3.8 340.1 0.1 Chlorine, total residual 

NA NA NA 0.082 4500 0.1 

NA - Not available. NR - Not regulated. Sources: 1. U.S. EPA, 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, Table 4-4. 

2. U.S. EPA, 1996 Preliminary Data Summary, Table 4-5, taken from BAT for Ontario Petroleum Refining Sector, August 1991. 

3. API Comment, Table 4, 1993-94 data collected in conjunction with EPA/OSW.4. Calculated using BOD5-associated flow, and PCSLoads2000 estimated annual mass discharge.

5 &6. U.S. EPA, Development Document for Centralized Waste Treaters (CWT) Point Source Category, Table 15-1. And for Total Residual Chlorin

Disinfectants and Oxidants Guidance Manual (EPA 815-R-99-014). Office of Water. April 1999. 

1BPT/BAT-equivalent concentration for existing regulation (40 CFR Part 419) as listed in U.S. EPA, Development Document for Effluent Limitations 

Performance Standards for the Petroleum Refining Point Source Category, April 1974.

2Monthly average ammonia limitation recently promulgated in Meats Subcategory (40 CFR Part 432).3Monthly average COD limitation promulgated in 1998 for the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Category (40 CFR Part 439).
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Preliminary Data Summary 

As part of the study described in EPA’s 1996 Preliminary Data Summary (24), 

EPA visited and collected effluent data from six refineries. Table 7-34 presents the range of 

effluent concentrations collected from these refineries for selected conventional and 

nonconventional pollutants. The data did not include cyanide concentrations. 

EPA also obtained one-year average concentration data collected during Ontario’s 

Seven Refineries Study, conducted in 1989. Table 7-34 presents these average concentrations 

(24). 

API Comments 

EPA received comments from API on the December 31, 2003 Notice of the 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005. API provided a set of petroleum 

refining effluent data that were previously collected by its members in conjunction with EPA’s 

Office of Solid Waste (1). Data were collected from refineries that use activated sludge 

treatment. Table 7-34 presents the median of the analytical results. The data did not include 

concentrations for oil and grease, ammonia, or phenol. 

Calculated PCS Concentrations 

As described in Section 7.2.2, EPA used data reported to PCS to estimate annual 

pollutant mass discharges. As further described in Section 7.5.2, EPA used PCS data to estimate 

annual process wastewater flow rates. EPA assumed that flows from effluent outfalls with 

limitations for BOD5 and/or ammonia (as nitrogen) were process-related. For each refinery 

discharging conventional and nonconventional pollutants as reported to PCS (in pounds), EPA 

estimated the pollutant concentration by dividing the mass discharged by the flow rate (and 

correcting the units). Table 7-34 presents the range of estimated pollutant concentrations. 

Baseline Values 

Table 7-34 also presents baseline values for the conventional and 

nonconventional pollutants to compare to the pollutant concentrations measured at petroleum 

refineries. Section 7.8.3.2 describes baseline values in further detail. 

Comparison of Concentrations 

As shown in Table 7-34, with the exception of total suspended solids (TSS), the 

median concentrations of conventional and nonconventional pollutants are below the 

concentrations used as the basis for the limitations in 40 CFR Part 419. Median concentrations 

of four pollutants (TSS, ammonia (as N),COD, and total fluoride) were above the baseline 

values. The existing petroleum BPT/BAT limitations are based on wastewater equalization and 

stormwater diversion, multistage oil and solids removal, biological treatment, and effluent 

7-75
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

polishing. EPA did not identify any additional treatment technologies to further reduce 

concentrations conventional and nonconventional pollutants in refinery wastewater. 

Total Suspended Solids. Two of the six refineries visited as part of the 1996 

Preliminary Data Summary had TSS concentrations in the final effluent above BPT/BAT levels. 

Ninety-one petroleum refineries reported TSS to the 2000 PCS and 54 (59 percent) had TSS 

concentrations in the final effluent above BPT/BAT levels. 

Ammonia (as N). This pollutant contributes 3,581 TWPE to surface water 

discharges from petroleum refineries. The current concentrations of ammonia (as N) are below 

the monthly average ammonia limitation (4 mg/L) recently promulgated for the Meats and 

Poultry Products Category (40 CFR Part 432). 

Total Phenols. This pollutant contributes 7,336 TWPE to surface water 

discharges from petroleum refineries. Petroleum refineries are currently achieving final effluent 

concentrations less than baseline values and less than existing limits at 40 CFR Part 419. 

Total Sulfides. This pollutant contributes 100,734 TWPE to surface water 

discharges from petroleum refineries. Petroleum refineries are currently achieving final effluent 

concentrations less than baseline values and less than existing limits at 40 CFR Part 419. Only 

one of the six refineries visited for the 1996 Preliminary Data Summary exceeded the BPT/BAT 

basis concentration for total sulfide. 

Total Fluoride. This pollutant contributes 16,198 TWPE to surface water 

discharges from petroleum refineries. Petroleum refineries are currently discharging 

concentrations of total fluoride above the baseline value. EPA currently does not regulate this 

pollutant for the petroleum refining industry. 

Total Residual Chlorine. This pollutant contributes 25,357 TWPE to surface 

water discharges from petroleum refineries. Petroleum refineries are currently achieving final 

effluent concentrations less than the baseline value. EPA currently does not regulate this 

pollutant for the petroleum refining industry. 

7.9.2 Detailed Study Findings for Conventional and Other Nonconventional 

Pollutants 

Below is a summary of the findings of EPA’s detailed study of refinery 

conventional and nonconventional pollutants. 

C Regulations at 40 CFR Part 419 establish limitations for all conventional 

pollutants, except fecal coliform. EPA also established limitations for the 

nonconventional pollutants ammonia as nitrogen, COD, total phenols, and 

total sulfide. 

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7.10 

Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

C Using PCS data, EPA estimated that refineries discharged 45 million 

pounds of conventional pollutants and 287 million pounds (159,315 

TWPE) of nonconventional pollutants in 2000. Sulfide discharges from 

70 refineries compose 63 percent of the TWPE (> 100,000 TWPE). 

C EPA identified concentration data for TSS, oil and grease, ammonia as N, 

COD, total cyanide, total phenols, and total sulfide from the 1996 

Preliminary Data Summary (from EPA site visits and from the Canadian 

study BAT for Ontario Petroleum Refining Sector (13)) and from data 

supplied in API comments. In addition, EPA calculated concentrations 

using PCS mass discharges and flow rates. With the exception of total 

suspended solids, the median pollutant concentrations were below 40 CFR 

Part 419 limitations or pollutant baseline values. Although certain 

pollutants (e.g., sulfide) contribute the large majority of TWPE discharged 

by petroleum refineries, the data demonstrate that refineries are currently 

discharging nonconventional pollutants at concentrations at (or near) 

treatable levels. 

Therefore, based on the information for the detailed review, EPA concludes that 

refineries are treating nonconventional pollutants to concentrations at or near treatable levels. 

Pollution Control 

Additional pollution reduction may include both pollution prevention and end-ofpipe treatment, although as highlighted in the EPA Office of Compliance sector notebook, 

Profile of the Petroleum Refining Industry: “Pollution prevention techniques are often more costeffective than pollution reduction through end-of-pipe treatment” (32). Wastewater pollution 

prevention strategies are presented below. Additional opportunities in the area of general 

operating and maintenance practices and procedures, and design revisions and modifications to 

various refining processes are described in EPA’s Profile of the Petroleum Refining Industry 

(32), Washington Sate Department of Ecology’s Water Pollution Prevention Opportunities in 

Petroleum Refineries (37), and DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s 

Water Use in Industries of the Future: Petroleum Industry (22). 

C Process or equipment modifications: 

— Reduce cooling tower blowdown by minimizing TDS in the 

cooling water. This can be achieved by removing calcium 

carbonate in the makeup water (or on a side stream of the cooling 

tower recycle system) by cold lime softening, reverse osmosis, or 

electrodialysis treatment. (32) 

— Increase sensible heat transfer and therefore minimize evaporative 

losses using improved cooling tower designs (22). 

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— Use high-pressure water to remove entrained solids from heat 

exchanger bundles. Separate the solids at the source or use 

antifoulants on the bundles to reduce scaling. (32) 

— Limit surfactant use in cleaning operations; surfactants can 

increase the generation of emulsions and sludges (32). 

— Destroy dioxins in flue gases in a furnace firebox, or capturing in a 

filter, rather than transferring them to scrubber water (37). 

C Waste segregation: 

— Segregate relatively clean runoff from process sewers, which 

results in more efficient process wastewater treatment (32). 

— Control solids entering sewers to reduce generation of oily sludges 

(32). 

C Material substitution: 

— Use mercury-free caustic in FCC air emission scrubbers (32). 

— Replace chromate-based anticorrosives with less toxic alternatives, 

such as phosphates, in cooling towers and heat exchangers (32). 

C Re-use: 

— Reuse steam-stripped sour water or other treated wastewater as 

desalter make-up (32). The steam-stripped sour water contains a 

high concentration of phenolic compounds that are returned to the 

crude when used as desalter water makeup (22). 

— Blowdown from the steam systems including oily condensate may 

be used as desalter water makeup (22). 

— Reuse boiler blowdown, treated wastewater or stormwater runoff 

as makeup water to the cooling tower (22). 

— Use treated wastewater from off-site locations as makeup water. 

Petroleum Refining References 

1. American Petroleum Institute. Comments Re. Notice of Preliminary Effluent 

Guidelines Program Plan. March 18, 2004. 

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7.11 
Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

2. BP Oil Company. Water Samples for PCDD/PDCF for the BP Oil Company 

Toledo Refinery, Performed by Batelle. November 9, 2000. 

3. The County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. Comments for the 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan for 2004/2005. James F. Stahl. 

Whittier, CA. March 5, 2004. 

4. Eastern Research Group, Inc. Memorandum: Estimated PAC Concentrations for 

the Petroleum Refining Industry. July 12, 2004. 

5. Eastern Research Group, Inc. Memorandum: Meeting Between EPA and 

Representatives of American Petroleum Institute and National Petrochemical & 

Refiners Association. DCN: 00809. February 16, 2004. 

6. Eastern Research Group, Inc. Memorandum: Meeting Between EPA and 

Representatives of Lyondell-Citgo Refining, LP. March 12, 2004. 

7. Eastern Research Group, Inc. Toxic Equivalents for Dioxins Reported in 2000 to 

TRI (Calculation Sheet). April 13, 2004. 

8. Eckenfelder, W. Wesley, Jr. Principles of Water Quality Management. CBI 

Publishing Company, 1980. Page 491. 

9. Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority (GCA). 2003 Peak Performance Award 

Application. 

10. GCA. Comments on the Notice of the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program 

Plan for 2004/2005 (68 Fed. Reg. 75515, December 31, 2003), Docket Number 

OW-2003-0074. 

11. National Petrochemical & Refiners Association. Comments by the National 

Petrochemical & Refiners Association (NPRA) on “Notice of Preliminary Effluent 

Guidelines Plan,” Published on December 31, 2003 (68 FR 75515). Norbert Dee. 

Washington, D.C. March 15, 2004. 

12. Oil & Gas Journal. “2001 Worldwide Refining Survey.” Volume 99.52. 

December 24, 2001. 

13. Ontario Ministry of the Environment. Best Available Technology Options for the 

Ontario Petroleum Refining Sector. Municipal/Industrial Strategy for Abatement 

(MISA) Program, ISBN 0-7729-9778-0. DCN 00398. August 1991. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

14. Personal Communication, Chris Matthews, Lyondell-Citgo Refining, Houston, 

Texas. February 26, 2004. 

15. Personal Communication, Christopher Abshire, Lyondell-Citgo Refining, 

Houston, Texas. March 2004. 

16. Personal Communication, Gail Froiman, EPA Office of Environmental 

Information. November 13, 2003. 

17. Personal Communication, Nancy Kmet, Washington (State) Department of 

Ecology. June 30, 2004. 

18. Shell Oil Products U.S. Puget Sound Refinery. Dioxin Study Report (NPDES 

Permit WA-000294-1). June 2004. 

19. Tosco Refining Company Avon Refinery. Dioxin Source Investigation Pursuant 

to Cease and Desist Order No. 95-151, Final Report. April 1, 1997. 

20. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Petroleum Supply Annual 2000, Volume 1. 

Energy Information Administration. 

21. U.S. DOE. Refinery Capacity Data as of January 1, 2001. Data compiled from 

EIA-820, “Annual Refinery Report,” Energy Information Administration. 

http://www.eia.doe.gov/oil_gas/petroleum/data_publications/refinery_capacity_d 

ata/refcapacity.html 

22. U.S. DOE. Water Use in Industries of the Future: Petroleum Industry. Office of 

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Washington, D.C. July 2003. 

23. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Report on Carcinogens, Tenth 

Edition. Public Health Service, National Toxicology Program. December 2002. 

24. U.S. EPA. 1996 Preliminary Data Summary for the Petroleum Refining Category. 

DCN 00402. Washington, D.C. April 1996. 

25. U.S. EPA. Alternative Disinfectants and Oxidants Guidance Manual. EPA-815-

R-99-014. Washington, D.C. April 1999. 

26. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Centralized Waste Treaters (CWT) Point 

Source Category. EPA-821-00-020. Washington, D.C. August 2000. 

27. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Effluent Limitations Guidelines and New 

Source Performance Standards for the Petroleum Refining Point Source 

Category. October 1982. 

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28. U.S. EPA. Development Document for Final Effluent Limitations Guidelines and 

Standards for the Metal Molding and Casting (Foundry) Point Source Category. 

EPA-440-1-85-070. October 1985. 

29. U.S. EPA. Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act Section 313 

Guidance for Reporting Toxic Chemicals within the Dioxin and Dioxin-Like 

Compound Category. EPA-745-B-00-021. December 2000. 

30. U.S. EPA. Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act - Section 

313: Guidance for Reporting Toxic Chemicals: Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds 

Category. EPA-260-B-01-03. August 2001. 

31. U.S. EPA. Exposure and Human Health Reassessment of 2,3,7,8-TCDD and 

Related Compounds. Draft Final Report. EPA-600-P-00-001Bb. September 

2000. 

32. U.S. EPA. Industry Sector Notebook: Profile of the Petroleum Refining Industry. 

EPA-310-R-95-013. September 1995. 

33. U.S. EPA. Memorandum: Toxic Weighting Factor for Petroleum Refining 

Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds. DCN 00646. December 11, 2003. 

34. U.S. EPA. PCSLoads2000. Engineering and Analysis Division, 2004. 

35. U.S. EPA. TRIReleases2000. Engineering and Analysis Division, 2004. 

36. Washington State Department of Ecology (WA DOE), Letter of Transmittal. 

December 11, 2003 (DCN 00711): Tesoro Northwest study, May 2001; Cherry 

Point Refinery study, July 2001; and U.S. Oil & Refining study, August 15, 2003. 

37. WA DOE. Water Pollution Prevention Opportunities in Petroleum Refineries. 

DCN 00405. November 2002. 

38. Palmer, Breton, Nunno, Sullivan, and Surprenant. Metal/Cyanide Containing 

Wastes: Treatment Technologies. Noyes Data Corporation, page 390. 1988. 

7.12 Petroleum Bulk Stations and Terminals 

7.12.1 Introduction 

In conjunction with the detailed review of the Petroleum Refining category, EPA 

also analyzed data associated with the Petroleum Bulk Stations and Terminals (PBST) Industry, 

SIC code 5171. Because of similarity of operations and wastewater characteristics, EPA studied 

PBSTs as a potential new subcategory of the Petroleum Refining category (40 CFR Part 419). 

This Section builds upon EPA’s earlier study of the industry titled Draft Profile of the Petroleum 

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Bulk Stations and Terminals (PBST) Industry, March 3, 2003, which can be found at the EPA EDocket. The earlier study is divided into several Adobe Acrobat files with Document ID 

numbers OW-2003-0074-0494, OW-2003-0074-0495, OW-2003-0074-0496, and OW-2003-

0074-0497. 

For this review, EPA verified TRI and PCS data from the year 2000, examined 

comments to the Preliminary 2004/2005 Effluent Guidelines Plan, contacted state and regional 

permitting and compliance authorities, conducted site visits, and met with industry groups in 

order to consider possible pollution prevention and wastewater treatment methods for PBSTs. 

7.12.2 Data Sources 

This section describes the data sources EPA used for the PBST study. This 

section also describes data quality limitations and verification activities. Section 4.2 of this 

document provides a general description of TRI, PCS, and U.S. Economic Census data sources. 

Section 4.2.4 discusses the calculation of toxic-weighted pound equivalents (TWPE) for certain 

data sources. This section discusses data sources specifically as they pertain to the PBST 

industry review. 

7.12.2.1 Toxic Release Inventory 

All PBST facilities with more than 10 employees that meet certain chemical 

threshold criteria must report to EPA’s TRI program. Of the 9,104 PBSTs operating in the 

United States (1997 U.S. Census and other sources), 502 (5.5 percent) reported to TRI in 2000, 

with only 167 (1.8 percent) reporting discharges to POTWs and surface waters of the United 

States. As reported to TRI, the total estimated TWPE discharge in 2000 by PBSTs was 8,010 

TWPE. Of the 167 PBST facilities reporting pollutant discharges to water, 125 discharged 

wastewaters directly and 27 discharged indirectly through POTWs, with the remaining 15 being 

both direct and indirect dischargers. The 125 solely direct dischargers accounted for 5,325 

TWPE discharged, while the solely indirect discharging facilities discharged 8 TWPE. The 15 

facilities that were both direct and indirect dischargers accounted for 2,677 TWPE discharged. 

As with other industries studied, EPA used TRI information to estimate pollutant loadings and to 

identify treatment technologies used within the industry. (1) 

EPA reviewed TRI data, particularly for those facilities and pollutants which 

contributed significantly to the total TWPE estimate. For example, facilities may estimate 

releases in a number of ways, when reporting to TRI. If a chemical is not detected in the 

effluent, facilities may estimate the discharge by using one-half of the detection limit. This may 

overestimate the amount of chemical discharged. 

Facilities report some chemical groups, including the 21 chemicals included in the 

PAC category to TRI. Facilities are required to report the combined mass of PACs released. 

They do not report releases of individual PAC compounds to TRI. For PBSTs, to calculate the 

TWPE of PACs reported in TRI, EPA used the toxicity weighting factor (TWF) for 

benzo(a)pyrene. See Section 4.4.4.3 for a more detailed discussion on PACs. 

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To verify the data reported to TRI, EPA performed the following activities: 

C Confirmed that facilities reporting in SIC code 5171 were, in fact, PBSTs, 

through, for example, contacts with the relevant permit writers; and 

C Reviewed comments submitted in response to the December 31, 2003 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan. 

Facility Specific Verification of TRI Data 

The PBST reporting the largest TWPE discharges in the 2000 TRI database is the 

Coastal Oil of New England facility in South Boston, MA (NPDES ID MA0004405). The 

facility’s discharges totaled 3,290 TWPE, driven by PACs and other petroleum hydrocarbons. 

These discharges total approximately 40 percent of the total TRI reported TWPE discharges for 

2000. Through contact with Region 1, EPA learned that Coastal Oil ceased operations in 2000 

(2). Since EPA’s baseline for the industry’s review was 2000, Coastal Oil’s data are still in 

EPA’s description of the industry. Nevertheless, the facility’s current status significantly 

influenced EPA’s final decision regarding effluent guidelines development for the industry. 

Comment Received on the 2004/2005 Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program 

Plan Pertaining to TRI 

EPA received one facility-specific TRI-related comment from ConocoPhillips 

relevant to PBSTs. ConocoPhillips noted that its Kansas City Terminal, which reported 

discharges of more than 2,600 TWPE and ranked second in TWPE discharged in 2000, is colocated with the Kansas City Refinery, and shut down in 1983. Site remediation of the old 

refinery site includes groundwater remediation and discharge under an NPDES permit held by 

the Kansas City Terminal. ConocoPhillips asserted that the discharge of the treated groundwater 

accounts for the toxic discharges reported by the facility, as no process wastewater is discharged 

by the terminal and the only discharge associated with the terminal was stormwater. 

ConocoPhillips concluded by stating that the Kansas City Terminal’s discharge of wastewater 

associated with site remediation should be eliminated from EPA’s consideration of effluent 

guidelines for PBSTs. 

After excluding the Kansas City Terminal’s discharges from the PBST TWPE, 

ConocoPhillips explained that 61 percent of the TWPE discharge came from one facility and 94 

percent from three facilities. Therefore, EPA should develop individual permits rather than 

national categorical ELGs. 

Commenters also provided general comments on the TRI data itself. The 

Independent Liquid Terminals Association stated that TRI data show toxic discharges from 

PBSTs are minuscule, and five facilities accounted for 97 percent of the TWPE discharges. The 

American Petroleum Institute (API) noted that only six facilities in TRI reported the discharge of 

PACs, accounting for 99 percent of the industry’s estimated TWPE discharges. In addition, API 

noted that 85 percent of the TRI TWPE discharges were due to two facilities in Massachusetts. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.12.2.2 Permit Compliance System 

States may submit data from PBSTs’ discharge monitoring reports (DMRs) to 

PCS. The data from each DMR will vary depending on the PBST’s NPDES permit 

requirements. Refineries that discharge to a POTW, or that transfer their wastewater to a private 

waste treater, do not submit DMRs; therefore, their data are not in PCS. In addition, PCS 

typically does not include data for refineries that states classify as “minor sources.” Of the 9,104 

PBSTs operating in the U.S. in 2000, data from eight (0.1 percent) PBSTs were included in the 

2000 PCS. These eight facilities discharged 5,389 TWPE in 2000, with two reporters, Exxon 

Mobil’s terminals in East Provide, RI (NPDES ID RI0001333) and Everett, MA (NPDES ID 

MA0000833) accounting for more than 99 percent of the reported TWPE discharges. (1) 

To verify the data reported to PCS, EPA performed the following activities: 

C Confirmed that facilities reporting in SIC code 5171 were, in fact, PBSTs, 

through, for example, contacts with the relevant permit writers and crosschecks with other databases; and 

C Reviewed comments submitted in response to the December 31, 2003 

Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan. 

Facility Specific Validation of PCS Data 

One of the eight PCS major facilities identified early in the screening process was 

Lyondell Chemical Company in Texas (NPDES ID TX0069493). EPA’s contacts with the Texas 

Commission on Environmental Quality’s (TCEQ) water permits office suggested that the facility 

was not, in fact, a PBST. EPA examined the Enforcement and Compliance History Online 

(ECHO) database, which reported that the facility was a PBST. EPA then reviewed the facility’s 

TRI reports from 1997 to 2001 and the only reported SIC codes were 2865 and 2869. Given 

what EPA learned from TCEQ and older TRI reports, EPA concluded that the facility was not a 

PBST. As a result, EPA removed the PCS loads for Lyondell Chemical Company from the 

PBST industry’s total loadings. 

A similar discovery was made regarding the Texaco Guayanilla Terminal 

(NPDES ID PR0021024). As with the Lyondell Chemical facility, EPA concluded after crosschecking ECHO and the TRI reports from 1997 to 2001 that the facility was not a PBST. EPA, 

thereafter, removed its contribution to the 2000 PCS loadings for the PBST industry. 

Comment Review 

EPA received no PCS-related data from commenters and no comments from 

facilities requesting corrections to 2000 PCS data. 

As with respect to the 2000 TRI data, however, commenters did address the PCS 

data itself. ILTA stated that, of the PCS majors, only two PBSTs discharge large amounts of 

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toxic organics and that both facilities are listed among the TRI reporting facilities. In addition, 

they asserted that these two facilities represent only 0.00187 percent and 0.0005 percent, 

respectively, of the total TRI loadings of 8,010 TWPE. As a result, they concluded that the toxic 

releases from those facilities are trivial. 

API also addressed the PCS data by noting that, since only eight facilities are 

major dischargers, the majority of the industry is made up of minor dischargers. Moreover, they 

noted that the PCS data for major facilities show average discharge concentration of 16.9 mg/L 

of total conventional pollutants, 48 mg/L for total nonconventional pollutants, and 0.068 mg/L 

for total priority pollutants. API asserted that these concentrations are very low and reflect very 

effective wastewater treatment and low pollutant discharges. Finally, API concluded by stating 

that these effluent concentrations indicated that individual effluent discharges do not present a 

potential risk to human health and the environment. 

7.12.2.3 Other Data Sources 

EPA also collected data from several other sources, listed below: 

C Contacts with regional and state permitting and compliance authorities ­

EPA contacted control authorities in the regions and states that contained 

the largest dischargers reporting to the 2000 TRI and PCS databases. EPA 

inquired about permitting issues for the industry, wastewater 

characteristics, how the industry handles its wastewater, and industry 

trends (3); 

C Contacts with treatment technology vendors - EPA contacted treatment 

technology vendors to gather information on new options to reduce 

pollutant concentrations in PBST wastewater; 

C Industry-provided information/comments - In response to the December 

31, 2003 notice of the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, EPA 

received comments from ILTA, API, the Regional Citizens’ Advisory 

Council for Prince William Sound (RCAC), Alyeska Pipeline, the 

Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA), the New England 

Fuel Institute, the Independent Fuel Terminal Operators Association 

(IFTOA), the Department of the Navy, Amerada Hess Corporation, and 

ConocoPhillips. 

C Site visits - EPA conducted site visits at two PBSTs, one at 

ConocoPhillips’s Manassas, VA facility and one at Petroleum Fuel & 

Terminal Company’s facility in Baltimore, MD. 

C Industry/trade association meetings - EPA met with API and the 

Department of the Navy and several trade groups, including ILTA and 

PMAA (4). 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.12.3 Industry Description 

The PBST industry is one part of the petroleum production, refining, and 

distribution system. These facilities are categorized by SIC code 5171 Wholesale Trade ­

Nondurable Goods, Petroleum Products, Petroleum Bulk Stations and Terminals. The PBST 

industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in the wholesale distribution of crude 

petroleum and petroleum products from bulk liquid storage facilities. Petroleum products 

handled by PBSTs include crude oil, gasoline, aviation gasoline, jet fuel (JP-4), diesel fuel, fuel 

oil, kerosene, naphtha, and lubricating oils. Specific types of PBSTs include: 

C Bulk gasoline stations; 

C Bulk petroleum stations; 

C Crude oil terminals; 

C Fuel oil bulk stations and terminals; 

C Gasoline bulk stations and terminals; 

C Heating oil dealers; 

C Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) bulk stations and terminals; 

C Lubricating oils and greases bulk stations and terminals; and 

C Oil, petroleum, and petroleum products bulk stations and terminals. 

Bulk stations and terminals are part of the wholesale trade industry sector. 

Wholesale is an intermediate step in the distribution of the crude petroleum and petroleum 

products. The wholesale industry sells or arranges the sale of crude petroleum and petroleum 

products for resale by other wholesalers or retailers or for further production (intermediate 

materials). Establishments that sell crude petroleum and petroleum products directly include 

wholesale merchants, distributors, jobbers, drop shippers, import/export merchants, and sales 

branches. Establishments that arrange for the sale of crude petroleum and petroleum products 

(on a commission basis) include agents and brokers, commission merchants, import/export 

agents, and representatives of brokers, auction companies, and manufacturers. One commenter 

to the Preliminary Plan, ILTA, also noted that some PBSTs lease the use of their tanks to 

customers who own the stored product. 

7.12.3.1 Industry Groups 

Several groups represent facilities in SIC code 5171, many of whom commented 

on the Preliminary Plan. API represents the major oil companies and wholesale terminals, with 

about 400 members. PMAA is an umbrella organization representing small, independent bulk 

station owners and has 44 state and regional trade associations as members, representing about 

8,000 marketers nationwide. PBSTs represented by PMAA typically have capacities ranging 

from 30,000 to 150,000 gallons. ILTA, another trade association, represents approximately 75 

companies of all sizes, with about 500 facilities. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

7.12.3.2 Industry Statistics 

According to the 1997 Economic Census (Census), there are 7,690 PBSTs 

(defined under North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code 422710), 813 

heating oil dealers (NAICS code 454311), and 601 LPG dealers (NAICS code 454312). SIC 

code 5171 includes all three NAICS codes, for a total of 9,104 facilities. In order to eliminate 

confusion, from this point onward, all 9,104 facilities will be referred to as ‘PBSTs’ in this 

report, unless otherwise noted. The Census data include statistics for three types of facilities: 

C Merchant wholesalers - manufacturing sites that sell their own products; 

C Manufacturers’ sales branches and sales offices - offices that sell products 

manufactured in the United States by their parent company; and 

C Agents, brokers, and commission merchants - agents and brokers sell 

products from offices but do not handle or own the products; commission 

merchants sell and handle products on a consignment basis but do not own 

the products. 

A majority (60 percent) of PBSTs have less than 10 employees and 99 percent 

have less than 100 employees. Over 90 percent of the facilities are corporations, with the 

remaining consisting of proprietorships and other entities. 

The following table presents the geographical distribution of PBSTs (NAICS 

code 422710) reporting to the Census. Table 7-35 shows the petroleum storage capacity for the 

top 10 U.S. states, which account for over 50 percent of the total US. storage capacity. Similar 

data are unavailable for the 1,414 heating oil and LPG dealers. 

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Table 7-35. Geographic Distribution of PBSTs, per 1997 Economic Census 

State 

EPA 

Region 

Bulk Stations 

(except LPG) 

Bulk Terminals 

(except LPG) 

LPG Bulk 

Stations and 

Terminals Total 

Texas 6 598 120 44 762 

California 9 359 103 24 486 

Louisiana 6 230 42 11 283 

Missouri 7 262 15 4 281 

North Carolina 4 233 31 10 274 

Florida 4 194 52 26 272 

Georgia 4 215 45 12 272 

Illinois 5 217 33 14 264 

Ohio 5 168 47 9 224 

Indiana 5 169 33 16 218 

Total for Top 10 States 2,645 521 170 3,336 

Total for All States 6,045 1,225 420 7,690 

PBSTs range in size from about 10,000 gallons to in excess of one million 

gallons, with the New England Fuel Institute noting in its comments to the Preliminary Plan that 

PBSTs typically handle on the order of 50,000 gallons of refined petroleum products. PBSTs 

may be co-located with refineries and may be located along coastlines to accept and treat large 

volumes of ballast water. Independent facilities are also reported to be widespread, with ILTA 

reporting that it represents approximately 500 facilities in the United States and 39 other 

countries (their American membership was not specified). PMAA, in its comments to the 

Preliminary Plan, reported that its membership of 44 state and regional trade associations 

represented nearly 8,000 independent petroleum marketers. The New England Fuel Institute 

asserted that it represented more than 1,000 stand-alone facilities not associated with any 

refinery. Along with privately operated PBSTs, the Federal Government operates bulk terminals 

as well. The Department of the Navy reported in an information submission to EPA that it 

operates 18 PBSTs across the United States (no facility, tank, or wastewater volumes were 

provided). In addition, in its comments to the Preliminary Plan, the Department of the Navy 

suggested that a more appropriate volume threshold for PBSTs would be between 50,000 or 

100,000 gallons, noting that the definition for SIC code 5171 often encompasses the size of 

individual tanks at many Department of Defense facilities that serve as mobile fueling stations. 

7.12.3.3 Discharge Status 

EPA determined the discharge status of the PBST industry using TRI and PCS 

data. Table 7-36 lists the discharge status for PBSTs operating in the United States during 2000 

and reporting to TRI or PCS. 

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Table 7-36. Facilities Reporting to TRI and PCS in 2000 and Their Discharge Status 

Database 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Facilities Discharging 

to Water 

Direct 

Dischargers 

Indirect 

Dischargers 

Direct and Indirect 

Dischargers 

TRI 502 167 125 27 15 

PCS 8 8 8 - -

In the PCS data system, facilities may be classified as major or minor dischargers. 

States are not required to provide discharge data for minor facilities to PCS, so reports for minor 

facilities are incomplete. For this reason, EPA did not use data from minor facilities in this 

review and did not include them in the pollutant loadings estimates. 

This table indicates that the vast majority of PBSTs do not discharge wastewater 

to waters of the United States. 

7.12.3.4 Overview of Operations and Potential Wastewater Sources 

The main function of PBSTs is to collect, store, and/or distribute product within 

the petroleum industry. As part of these operations, PBSTs may also perform tank cleaning, 

vehicle and equipment washing and maintenance, hydrostatic testing, product heating, and 

blending operations (i.e., adding additives to petroleum products). The product is collected from 

refineries or preliminary gathering stations and terminals using three means: pipelines, water 

transport, and rail transport. Pipeline systems are believed to be the most common, transporting 

the greatest volume of product nationwide through pipes of various sizes and capacities. Barges 

with divided sealed compartments transport product on rivers, canals, lakes, and oceans. 

Although not as common, rail transport is also a means of product delivery. Rail tank cars are 

often used for low-volume products (e.g., chemicals and lubricants) and typically have capacity 

for 20,000 to 40,000 gallons. PBSTs off-load materials and store the product in above ground 

storage tanks7

 (ASTs) until distribution by tank trucks to service stations or other industrial and 

commercial operations. 

Product Transfer Operations 

The two main processes occurring at PBSTs are product collection and product 

distribution. Because product transfer areas and loading/unloading racks are areas susceptible to 

product leaks and spills, which could lead to violations of EPA’s Spill Prevention, Control, and 

Countermeasures (SPCC) rules, they are specifically designed to minimize environmental 

release. They have sloped concrete floors that drain into a spill containment system and 

canopies that minimize rainfall entry into the transfer area. These precautions prevent accidental 

7

Underground storage tanks (USTs) may be used for loading rack spill containment and drainage systems. An UST 

system is a tank (or combination of tanks) and connected piping having at least 10 percent of their combined volume 

underground. UST regulations apply only to underground tanks and piping storing either petroleum or certain 

hazardous substances. EPA’s Office of Underground Storage Tanks (OUST) web site provides further regulatory 

information. These regulations do not apply to ASTs. 

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spills from spreading beyond the transfer areas and minimize stormwater contact with product 

residues on the loading/unloading racks, thereby minimizing the volume of contaminated water 

in the spill containment system. Even with these precautions in place, most facilities also 

incorporate stormwater tank basins (i.e., stormwater collection tanks) with the capacity to 

contain any contaminated stormwater resulting from an accidental overflow or equipment 

failure. 

Loading equipment such as piping, valves, and fittings are designed to be 

compatible with the type of product being handled and durable enough to withstand the stress of 

pressure and exposure to the elements. The pumps and loading devices are designed to allow 

appropriate flow of the type of product being transferred. Trained personnel or an automatic 

control system (or both) minimizes the spills and overflows that occur during product transfer. 

Product Collection 

PBSTs that receive product by pipeline use a network of pipes equipped with 

valves and pumps to transfer the product into storage tanks. Although the overall percentage of 

PBSTs receiving their products by pipeline was not known at the time of this report, a survey of 

57 PBSTs conducted by API in 1988, showed that 63 percent received product by pipeline. 

Barges and tankers delivering product are usually equipped with high-volume 

pumps and hoses for transferring product into the storage tanks via fill nozzles. Safe pressure is 

maintained during product transfer using bypasses or relief valves. The results of the 1988 API 

survey show that approximately 30 percent of facilities receive product from barges or tankers . 

Rail tank car transfers take place in loading/unloading racks equipped with filling 

hoses or pipes that can be connected directly from the rail car to the storage tanks. Pressure 

relief systems are provided for the pumping system and the rail car itself. Rail tank cars are 

typically used to deliver more viscous products, such as lube oil; therefore, only a small portion 

of PBSTs typically receive product this way. 

Product Distribution 

Product is distributed from the storage tanks to service stations or other end-use 

facilities using tank trucks. Tank trucks typically have capacity for 5,000 to 12,000 gallons. 

Tank truck transfers occur in loading/unloading racks equipped with filling hoses or pipes and 

pump islands between the truck bays. Product can be transferred from the storage tank to the 

tank trucks using either top loading or bottom loading methods. There are two types of top 

loading methods: splash loading and submerged fill pipe loading. Significant turbulence and 

vapor/liquid contact occur during the splash loading method because the fill pipe dispensing the 

cargo is lowered only part way into the cargo tank. Liquid turbulence is relatively controlled 

during submerged loading because the fill pipe extends almost to the bottom of the cargo tank. 

The level of vapor generation and loss during submerged fill pipe loading is therefore much less 

than during splash loading. Top loading is most applicable for distillate products and asphalt 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

(more viscous products), and is discouraged for flammable liquids due to the potential to 

generate more vapors. 

PBSTs most commonly use the bottom loading method because of reduced air 

emissions and improved safety. When product enters from the bottom of the tank, liquid 

turbulence, and therefore air emissions, are minimized. Furthermore, most bottom loading 

systems have vapor recovery systems in place to capture vapors and pipe recovered product back 

to the storage tank or to a thermal oxidation unit where the vapor is combusted. Approximately 

10 to 30 percent of the displaced vapors never reach the recovery system due to collection 

system leaks; however, 90 to 99 percent of the product in the vapors that reach the vapor 

recovery system is recovered. 

Product Storage 

Between the product collection and distribution processes, the product is stored. 

PBSTs typically store product in vertical ASTs. Vertical tank storage capacities range from 500 

to 300,000 barrels (bbls), or 21,000 to 12.6 million gallons. PBSTs also use horizontal tanks, or 

drums, for low-volume storage. For example, horizontal tanks are often used to store gasoline 

additives. 

Depending on the volume and type of product stored, facilities use vertical tanks 

with a variety of roof designs and bottom constructions. Tank roofs can be fixed or floating, and 

tank bottoms can be cone-shaped, crown-shaped, or flat. 

To control air emissions and to prevent product losses, product contamination, 

and fires, vertical tanks are equipped with one of the following roof types: 

C Fixed roof - cover attached to the top of the tank, usually cone- or domeshaped; includes a breather valve that allows the tank to operate at a slight 

internal pressure or vacuum; 

C Fixed roof with internal floating roof - attached cover and internal roof 

that floats on the surface of the petroleum, rising and falling with the 

liquid level; 

C Fixed roof with vapor recovery system - attached cover where volatile 

emissions (vapors) are captured and recovered; 

C External floating roof - roof floats on the surface of the petroleum, rising 

and falling with the liquid level; and 

C External floating roof with weather covers (aluminum domes) - cover is 

not attached to the tank, but provides additional protection. 

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Tanks with fixed roofs are closed vessels, and stormwater cannot typically enter 

these tanks. However, when product is placed in a fixed-roof tank, air must be released and 

treated to allow room for the product and prevent the tank from building too much internal 

pressure. Conversely when product is removed from a fixed-roof tank, air must be pumped in to 

fill its place and prevent the tank from collapsing. Fixed roof tanks are therefore a potential 

source of air emissions, but not water emissions. 

Although floating roof tanks do not require removing and adding air during 

product transfer, they are more likely to allow stormwater to enter. Most of the stormwater 

collecting on the tank roof is drained through a tank drain; however, during heavy precipitation, 

or if a drain clogs, water may penetrate the roof seal and enter the tank. Floating roof tanks are 

therefore a contributor to the generation of tank bottom water, a source of contaminated 

wastewater. 

Tank bottom water is not typically present at PBSTs in large volumes, but it is 

believed to be the major source of dissolved contaminants. Because there is much more product 

than water in a storage tank, the water can become highly concentrated with water-soluble 

materials in the product. The most common pollutants and bulk parameters/indicators in tank 

bottom water are as follows: 

C Oil and grease;

C Total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH);

C Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD);

C Chemical oxygen demand (COD);

C Total organic carbon (TOC);

C Ammonia;

C Total suspended solids (TSS);

C Phenols;

C Total dissolved solids (TDS);

C Naphthenic acids;

C Aromatics: benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylene (BTEX); and

C Surfactants. 

The volume of tank bottom water generated is facility specific and depends on 

several factors such as number of tanks, tank volumes, the amount of precipitation, the products 

handled, and the temperature. Commenters and the industry noted that, since no general 

canvassing of the industry has ever been performed, estimating tank bottoms water volume is 

very difficult. In its 1988 study, API estimated that a moderate-size PBST has seven large 

storage tanks (100 foot diameter), and that one inch of water will accumulate in the bottom of the 

tank during a typical year. This converts to approximately 655 cubic feet of water (roughly 

5,000 gallons) per year. If the concentration of a particular pollutant is 10,000 mg/L (0.084 

pounds of pollutant per gallon of tank bottom water), almost 3,000 pounds of the pollutant needs 

treatment at the facility annually (approximately 420 pounds per tank). Most PBSTs will not 

attempt to handle this load all at once, and, in some cases, control authorities report that PBSTs 

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will, instead, draw the tank bottom water into an equalization tank and then gradually feed the 

water through a wastewater treatment system. 

Many commenters to the Preliminary Plan noted that PBSTs often ship their tank 

bottoms water off site for treatment. Amerada Hess, PMAA, and the New England Fuel Institute 

stated that facilities will often send their wastes to others for treatment. In addition, ILTA and 

the County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County also noted that some PBSTs send their 

tank bottoms to refineries for reclamation of their petroleum fractions. 

Tank Cleaning 

Although not a frequent process at PBSTs, tanks are occasionally cleaned to 

remove accumulated sludge and residual product. While not usually emptied specifically for 

cleaning purposes, a storage tank may be cleaned if it is emptied for maintenance or if it is 

needed to store a different product. Tank cleaning requires removing and disposing of 

accumulated sludge, recovery and/or treatment of any tank bottom water, and treating of any 

detergents used for cleaning. 

Vehicle and Equipment Washing and Maintenance 

Vehicles and other product transferring equipment are sometimes washed on site 

at a designated area, resulting in wastewater contaminated with detergents and a small amount of 

product. Facilities handle this wastewater separately from other process wastes because of the 

potential to form emulsions when detergents and oil are mixed. Vehicle and equipment 

maintenance is also occasionally done on site, resulting in wastewater containing oil, antifreeze, 

brake fluid, or other vehicle fluids. This wastewater is also handled separately from other 

process wastes. 

The percentage of PBSTs expected to use detergents to wash vehicles or 

equipment or to use brake fluid, antifreeze, lubricants, and other oils onsite for vehicle and 

equipment maintenance could not be estimated, given the data collected from industry and 

control authorities. As a result, an estimate of contributions toward total wastewater generation 

is not possible to make. However, of interest is Amerada Hess’s comment to the Preliminary 

Plan stating that, of the nonstormwater component of PBST wastewaters, equipment and vehicle 

washing and maintenance waters are a primary fraction. 

Hydrostatic Testing 

Equipment at PBSTs is periodically checked for leaks by hydrostatic testing. 

This process involves filling the pipes or tanks with water, applying pressure, and searching for 

leaks. A high volume of water is discharged at the completion of the testing. Clean hydrostatic 

test water is discharged directly to a storm drain, but if hydrostatic test water is contaminated 

with product from the storage equipment, it typically undergoes treatment before it is discharged. 

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Neither control authorities nor commenters were able to provide any data to 

establish the volume of this type of flow. Amerada Hess and the County Sanitation Districts of 

Los Angeles County identified this as a possible contributor to PBSTs waste streams, but did not 

provide numerical data. 

Product Heating 

A PBST that stores heavy products (e.g. asphalt) needs to keep the product hot to 

maintain its fluidity. Steam coils placed in the product tank can heat the product with steam 

generated by a boiler. Most boiler feed water contains bicarbonate ions, resulting in the 

formation of acidic steam (carbon dioxide dissolves in condensed steam to make carbonic acid). 

The steam condensate is therefore corrosive and necessitates the use of chemicals, typically 

amines, to control the corrosion. As a result, amines may be present in the boiler wastewater 

stream. If the amines are not used and the steam coils corrode, steam may leak into the tank, 

come into contact with product, and become a source of tank bottom water. 

Ballast Water Handling 

PBSTs located along coastlines often also off-load ballast water from tankers 

transporting petroleum products, resulting in wastewater that is often contaminated with product.

 These wastewaters are normally rather dilute and very large in volume and usually undergo 

treatment before discharge. EPA is aware of one PBST that handles large volumes of ballast 

water as a result of comments submitted to the Preliminary Plan by Alyeska Pipeline and RCAC. 

Alyeska’s facility treats and discharges approximately 10 million gallons per day of oily (0.5 to 

1.0 percent oil) ballast water. The facility treats the wastewater with oil/water separation, 

dissolved air flotation, biological treatment, and, as needed, polishes with air stripping. The 

effluent concentration of oil and grease is typically 3-5 mg/L. 

Wastewater Remediation Activities 

Soil and/or groundwater under a PBST may be contaminated as a result of past 

terminal operations, current operations, or off-site contamination that has migrated on site. 

Groundwater is typically contaminated with dissolved hydrocarbons and is pumped to the 

surface, treated, and discharged. Soil may have total petroleum hydrocarbon contamination, 

requiring air sparging or soil washing. Control authorities in New England pointed to this as a 

widespread problem at PBSTs in their part of the U.S., though were unable to estimate 

wastewater flows as a result. In the case of New England PBSTs, many are very old and may 

have inadequate and compromised tanks. As a result, in many areas, mobile petroleum 

hydrocarbons like MTBE may find their way into the groundwater, rendering a need for 

remediation (5). As a consequence of these remediation activities, many PBSTs in the Northeast 

are moving to include granular activated carbon as a polishing step in their treatment systems. 

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Stormwater 

Stormwater is defined as the portion of precipitation that becomes surface runoff 

(precipitation minus percolation and evaporation). The amount of stormwater generated at a 

PBST is dependent on several variables, including the size of the site (and more specifically the 

size of the process area), climatic conditions (taking into account spatial and temporal 

considerations), and the extent of pollution prevention practices in place to minimize the 

contamination of stormwater. Although most facilities use covered loading/unloading racks and 

geographical barriers (e.g., berms) to avoid contact between stormwater and contaminants in the 

process area, stormwater remains an issue for PBSTs because it represents the greatest volume of 

wastewater generated at most facilities. According to API’s 1988 study, the average amount of 

stormwater generated annually per site (where more than 75 percent were less than 20 acres, and 

the remaining 25 percent were larger, typically covering 60 to 80 acres) was 20 million gallons. 

API also attempted to quantify the average amount of stormwater at PBSTs of 

varying size and location, using the following assumptions: precipitation ranges from 10 to 50 

inches per year, 100 percent of precipitation is runoff (no percolation or evaporation), and 

PBSTs occupy between 2 and 20 acres. Using these assumptions, API calculated that the 

smallest PBSTs (2 acres) in the driest regions (10 inches net precipitation annually) incur 

approximately 0.54 million gallons of stormwater per year, and the largest PBSTs (20 acres) in 

regions with the most precipitation (50 inches of net precipitation annually) experience 

approximately 27 million gallons of stormwater per year. Accordingly, the volume of 

stormwater is very site specific and year specific. 

Although stormwater discharge volumes are site-specific, many commenters on 

the Preliminary Plan noted the overwhelming contribution of stormwater to PBST wastewater 

flows. Amerada Hess noted that stormwater runoff is the primary wastewater source at PBSTs, 

at nearly 95 percent of total wastewater discharge. The New England Fuel Institute stated that 

the only discharge from its member facilities to surface water is stormwater. IFTA, in its 

comments, asserted that PBSTs only discharge rainwater containing no more than trace amounts 

of oil, grease, and other pollutants. 

Contaminated Stormwater 

Stormwater that has come into direct contact with product (e.g., runoff from 

contaminated surfaces or loading/unloading racks) is contaminated, and therefore collected and 

treated before being discharged. API estimated that 0.6 percent of all stormwater (3,200 to 

162,000 gallons per site annually, using the estimated volumes of 0.54 million gallons and 27 

million gallons of stormwater per year) is contaminated. 

Not all facilities have sufficient wastewater treatment facilities on site, and must 

send this contaminated stormwater off site to adjoining refineries, to waste disposal companies, 

or to regional treatment centers for treatment. Even if the stormwater is clean as it enters a tank 

basin, it may become contaminated in the event of an accidental product leak or spill into the 

basin. Facilities may treat this contaminated water by removing the floating oil alone, or may 

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need to remove dissolved contaminants, depending on the extent of contamination and the permit 

and/or POTW requirements. Floating oil is removed with floating skimmers or rope skimmers 

before any water is drained. Basin water containing dissolved contaminants is removed from the 

basin and treated as soon as possible to prevent migration of the contaminants to soil or 

groundwater (especially if the basin is comprised of permeable soil). Some PBSTs pump the 

contaminated basin water to a storage tank reserved for such situations. Other PBSTs may not 

have a spare storage tank onsite and instead pump the contaminated basin water into the bottom 

of a product tank for temporary storage. 

Uncontaminated Stormwater 

Stormwater that has not come into contact with product is said to be 

uncontaminated. If a facility determines that stormwater from a particular area onsite (i.e., the 

facility yard) has relatively no chance of contamination, it typically discharges the stormwater 

without collection and treatment, unless required by an NPDES or other discharge permit. API 

estimated that 98.3 percent of all stormwater (0.53 to 26.5 million gallons per site annually, 

using the best case and worst case volumes calculated above) is classified as having little chance 

of contamination because it runs over uncontaminated areas such as lawns, driveways, building 

roofs, parking lots, or undeveloped land. 

If a facility determines that stormwater (or any other wastewater) collected in a 

tank basin is “clean” (i.e., has not come into contact with product or other contaminants), it can 

be discharged separately to a POTW or surface waters without treatment, or it can be combined 

with other treated wastewaters prior to discharge. Direct discharge to surface waters tends to be 

the easier and cheaper option if the water can be gravity drained to the final outfall. However, if 

the water must be pumped out of the facility, it is typically more cost effective to combine it with 

other treated waste streams for discharge to a POTW. 

7.12.4 Regulatory Background 

At this point in time, no national effluent guidelines regulate the discharge of 

pollutants from PBSTs. There are, however, several other EPA regulations that PBSTs have to 

comply with, and they are as follows: 

C Clean Water Act Requirements;

C Clean Air Act Requirements;

C Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Requirements;

C Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act Requirements;

C Safe Drinking Water Act Requirements; and 

C Regional and State Programs.

The following sections summarize these regulations. 

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7.12.4.1 Clean Water Act 

PBSTs that discharge or have the potential to discharge wastewater containing 

regulated pollutants or other wastes (e.g., process wastewater, secondary containment water, and 

stormwater) must operate under the terms of federal, state, and/or local permits which include 

NPDES permits or POTW pretreatment agreements. These permits typically require wastewater 

monitoring, including amount of water volume discharged and generalized wastewater 

parameters (e.g., pH or specific pollutant concentrations). 

In response to the 1987 CWA amendments, EPA established a program to address 

stormwater discharges. EPA developed NPDES stormwater permit application regulations to 

control the discharge of stormwater associated with an industrial activity (i.e., stormwater 

discharge directly related to manufacturing, processing, or raw material storage areas) (40 CFR 

Part 122.26(b)(14)). These regulations apply to stormwater from one of the 11 industrial activity 

categories defined at 40 CFR Part 122.26. 40 CFR Part 122.26(b)(14)(viii), listing transportation 

facilities of various types specifically lists facilities classified as SIC code 5171. 

NPDES stormwater regulations require regulated facilities to obtain coverage 

under a NPDES stormwater permit and implement stormwater pollution prevention plans 

(SWPPPs) or stormwater management programs to effectively reduce or prevent the discharge of 

pollutants into receiving waters. Both the SWPPPs and stormwater management programs use 

best management practices (BMPs). 

According to the U.S. EPA Integrated Compliance Information System (ICIS) 

retrieval component, the Online Tracking Information System (OTIS), over 700 facilities 

classified as SIC code 5171 have NPDES permits. NPDES permits for PBSTs usually regulate 

the discharge of oil and grease, naphthalene, toxicity, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and 

xylene. 

SPCC Plan 

The SPCC rule (40 CFR Part 112) requires certain facilities to develop and 

implement oil spill prevention, control, and countermeasure plans. As part of the SPCC plan, 

facilities must install containment systems and other countermeasures to prevent oil spills from 

reaching navigable waters. If a facility is unable to provide secondary containment (e.g., berms 

around storage tanks), facilities must develop a spill contingency plan as part of the SPCC plan. 

On July 17, 2002, EPA issued a final rule to amend the Oil Pollution Prevention 

regulation, specifically addressing requirements for SPCC plans. Changes to the SPCC rule 

include eliminating duplicate regulation, exempting certain small facilities and most wastewater 

treatment facilities, and requiring consideration of industry standards in prevention plans. 

Industry standards represent good engineering practice and generally are environmentally 

protective. Under the SPCC rule, EPA allows permit writers to apply industry standards where 

the standards are both specific and objective and their application may reduce the risk of 

discharges to and impacts to the environment. EPA allows the application of industry standards 

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due to technology advances and resulting specific standard changes. However, if industry 

standards change in a way that would increase the risk of discharge, EPA will apply and enforce 

standards and practices that protect the environment, rather than the less protective industry 

standard. Industry standards that may be used for the SPCC rule have been developed by 

organizations listed in the July 17, 2002 Federal Register, 67 FR 47058 (40 CFR Part 112). The 

changes to the SPCC rule are expected to reduce regulatory burden by approximately 55,000 

facilities (40 percent). 

The revised SPCC rule applies to PBST owners and operators with the following 

exemptions: 

C Completely buried storage tanks subject to all of the technical requirement 

of the Underground Storage Tank (UST) regulations (40 CFR Part 280, 

281); 

C Portions of facilities used exclusively for wastewater treatment; 

C Storage containers of less than 55 gallons (de minimis container size); and 

C Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) with capacity of 1,320 gallons or less 

(replacing the 660-gallon threshold). 

On July 17, 2002, EPA issued a final rule addressing some requirements of SPCC 

plans and issued a schedule for facilities to come into compliance. As a consequence of 

litigation, on June17, 2004, EPA proposed an extension to several of the compliance dates. A 

link to the Federal Register notice may be found at the following address: 

http://www.epa.gov/oilspill/pdfs/fr061704.pdf 

7.12.4.2 Clean Air Act 

Facilities storing crude petroleum and petroleum products generate air emissions 

during loading and unloading operations and from normal tank breathing losses (collectively 

known as “working losses”). 

The Clean Air Act (CAA) and the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) of 1990 

direct EPA to establish national standards for ambient air quality and enforce the standards 

through a variety of mechanisms. Regulations under the CAA and CAAA that may apply to 

storage terminals include the following: 

C Title V permitting;

C New Source Performance Standards (NSPS); and

C National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP).

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According to EPA’s OTIS database, the following number of facilities classified 

as SIC code 5171 have CAA permits: 

C 546 major sources; 

C 395 synthetic minor sources; and 

C 191 federally reportable minor sources. 

Major sources are defined by the CAA as stationary facilities that emit or have the 

potential to emit š10 tons of any one toxic air pollutant or š25 tons of more than one toxic air 

pollutant per year. 

NESHAP 

Facilities are subject to NESHAP if they are a major source of hazardous air 

pollutants (HAP) and emit 10 tons per year of a single HAP or 25 tons per year of a combination 

of HAPs. NESHAPs that apply to PBSTs include the following: 

C 40 CFR Part 63 Subpart R: Standards for Gasoline Distribution Facilities 

(Bulk Gasoline Terminals and Pipeline Breakout Stations), promulgated 

December 1994; and 

C 40 CFR Part 63 Subpart Y: Standards for Marine Tank Vessel Loading 

Operations, promulgated September 1995. 

7.12.4.3 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of 1976 addresses solid 

(Subtitle D) and hazardous (Subtitle C) waste management activities. Items to note regarding 

RCRA and PBSTs include the following: 

C According to the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) database, PBST releases 

include the RCRA hazardous wastes that are commercial chemical 

products designated with the code “P” and “U”. 40 CFR Part 261.33 

defines these wastes as acute hazardous wastes (code P) or toxic wastes 

(code U). 

C EPA's OTIS database includes 2,301 facilities classified as SIC code 

5171; these facilities have obtained RCRA permits. 

C RCRA enforcement authority (Part 7003) is usually used to clean up 

petroleum plumes beneath storage terminals. 

Subtitle C (40 CFR Parts 260-299) governs the handling of hazardous waste from 

the point of generation to disposal. Regulations for hazardous waste include waste 

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accumulation, manifesting, and recordkeeping standards. Permits under Subtitle C include 

general facility standards including the following: 

C Contingency plans; 

C Emergency procedures; 

C Recordkeeping and reporting requirements; 

C Financial assurance mechanisms; and

C Unit-specific standards.

RCRA requirements generally do not apply to specific industries, but rather apply 

to any facility that transports, treats, stores, or disposes hazardous wastes. In addition, RCRA 

also provides for the cleanup of hazardous waste releases or solid waste management unit 

releases (40 CFR Part 264, Subpart S and Part 264.10). 

Possible RCRA wastes at PBSTs include tank bottoms water, oil/water separator 

sludge, and other wastewater treatment sludges. Under the Comprehensive Environmental 

Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), PBSTs must report any hazardous waste 

release exceeding the reportable quantity and becomes liable for the release cleanup. Note the 

definition of a hazardous waste under the RCRA statute does not include pollutants that are oil 

(of any kind, or in any form) or synthetic gases used for fuel. However, oil mixed with a 

hazardous substance is classified as a hazardous waste under RCRA. 

At PBSTs, water may be found in contact and transported along with petroleum 

products. The fact that the water accompanies the petroleum product does not make the mixture 

of the two a waste, even though the water will ultimately be separated from the product and 

disposed of as a waste. The RCRA regulations define the point of waste generation as being “ 

the point just beyond the step in which product is separated. Therefore, mixtures of petroleum 

products and water, “even if mostly water, can be classified as product, so long as there is 

legitimate recycling of product from the mixture”. 

Most wastewater from PBSTs are not classified as hazardous wastes under 

RCRA. However, in 1990, EPA issued regulations (40 CFR Part 261.24) which classified any 

solid waste containing more than 0.5 mg/L of extractable benzene under conditions of the 

Toxicity Characteristics Leaching Procedure (TCLP) as a hazardous waste. In addition, water 

which contains more than 0.5 mg/L dissolved benzene is potentially classified as a hazardous 

waste. Typically, tank bottoms water from gasoline tanks and other sources at PBSTs contain 

more than 0.5 mg/L benzene, a component of gasoline. Exceeding the 0.5 mg/L limit for 

benzene requires PBSTs to handle and dispose of the waste in accordance with RCRA 

requirements. Note that RCRA regulations apply only to hazardous wastes, not to products. 

In addition to benzene, there are also other contaminants that could be present in 

tank bottoms water, causing the water to potentially be classified as a RCRA hazardous waste at 

the concentrations listed in Table 7-37. 

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Table 7-37. Concentrations That Would Render Tank Bottoms Water a RCRA 

Hazardous Waste 

Tank Bottoms Water Contaminant RCRA Limit (mg/L) PBST Contaminant Sources 

Arsenic 5.0 Found in crude oils, water-soluble 

o-Cresol 200 Made in refining, water-soluble 

m-Cresol 200 Made in refining, water-soluble 

p-Cresol 200 Made in refining, water-soluble 

Cresols 200 Made in refining, water soluble 

Lead 5.0 Used as a gasoline additive 

Selenium 1.0 Found in crude oils, water-soluble 

Wastewater that contains any of these contaminants above the RCRA limit 

concentration requires handling and disposal in accordance with RCRA requirements. 

In addition to wastewater, there are also solid hazardous wastes that might be 

generated at PBSTs. These wastes will have the following characteristics as described in API’s 

Minimization, Handling, Treatment, and Disposal of Petroleum Products Terminal Wastewaters: 

C Ignitability. If the waste is ignitable (flash point less than 140oF) under 

the RCRA test conditions, then it will be hazardous. Some productcontaminated sludges may fall in this category. 

C Reactivity. If the waste contains sufficient cyanide or sulfide to release 

more than the regulated amount of hydrogen cyanide or hydrogen sulfide 

when acidified, it will be hazardous. It is unlikely that PBSTs will 

generate reactive wastes from normal operations. However, since 

anaerobic biological activity converts sulfate to sulfide (by sulfatereducing bacteria), it is possible that alkaline tank bottoms water stored for 

long periods of time might accumulate enough sulfide to fail the reactivity 

standard. 

C Corrosivity. If the pH of the waste is less than 2.0, or more than 12.5, it 

will be classified as corrosive. Such wastes should be rare at PBSTs. 

C Leachability. If more than regulated amounts of any chemical constituents 

are leached from the waste when it is subjected to specified leaching tests, 

it is hazardous. The regulated materials include toxic heavy metals and 

selected organic constituents. Possible materials that would fail this test 

are tank bottom sludge and wastewater treatment sludge. However, since 

heavy metals are not common at PBSTs and most of the regulated organic 

compounds are not expected to be in any petroleum products or wastes, 

PBST sludges will most likely pass this test. If wastes are derived from 

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leaded product storage tanks, or from removal of lead-based paint (e.g., 

spent blasting sand), then the waste could fail the lead leachability test. 

Also, benzene may appear in solid wastes at excessive levels as well as in 

wastewater (the wastewater disposal exclusions do not apply to 

nonaqueous wastes). 

7.12.4.4 Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act 

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) 

provides community access to information about chemical hazards and facilitates the 

development of chemical emergency response plans by state and local governments. EPCRA 

regulations include the following types of reporting requirements for facilities that store or 

manage specified chemicals: 

C Section 302 - facilities must notify the state emergency response 

commission (SERC) and local emergency planning committee (LEPC) of 

the presence of any extremely hazardous substances (listed at 40 CFR Part 

355) above the substance’s threshold planning quantity. 

C Section 304 - facilities must notify the SERC and LEPC in the event of a 

nonexempt release exceeding the reportable quantity of a CERCLA 

hazardous substance or an EPCRA extremely hazardous waste. 

C Sections 311 and 312 - facilities must submit material safety data sheets 

(MSDSs) and hazardous chemical inventory forms (Tier I and II forms) to 

the SERC, LEPC, and local fire department for hazardous chemicals in 

amounts exceeding a chemical use threshold. The list of hazardous 

chemicals is defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Agency 

(OSHA). 

C Section 313 - facilities must submit an annual toxic chemical release form 

to EPA’s Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) for a specified list of chemicals 

and chemical categories if the amount of chemical manufactured, 

processed, or otherwise used exceeds reporting thresholds. Only facilities 

in certain SIC codes (including SIC code 5171) and that employ 10 or 

more employees are required to report. 

TRI requires facilities in SIC code 5171 to report the releases, transfers, and 

treatment of listed chemicals. This industry was added to TRI reporting beginning in 1998. 

Additional information on the types of pollutants and reporting criteria are available in the 

guidance document EPCRA Section 313 Industry Guidance: Petroleum Terminals and Bulk 

Storage Facilities, available on EPA’s TRI web site: http://www.epa.gov/tri/industry.htm. 

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Based on number of employees, a majority of the PBSTs would not meet the first 

reporting criteria; therefore, the TRI database contains only a subset of the PBST industry. 

Recall that, in the TRI database for reporting year 2000, 502 PBSTs reported chemical releases. 

7.12.4.5 Safe Drinking Water Act 

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) authorizes EPA to establish health-based, 

national standards for drinking water. Part of the SDWA includes regulation of underground 

injection of waste fluids (liquids, gases, or slurries). Underground injection technology includes 

placing water, wastewater, or water mixed with chemicals into porous rock formations, injection 

wells, or other similar conveyance systems. 

The SDWA classifies drywells or septic systems where PBSTs inject nonsanitary 

(i.e. nonsewage type) waste into the ground as Class V wells. To operate Class V wells normally 

does not require individual permits; however, users must submit inventory information to 

regulators (see 40 CFR Parts 144.24, 144.25, and 144.26). In addition, the water disposed of 

must not have the potential to cause contamination of the groundwater beneath the well where it 

becomes unfit for drinking, if used as or may be used as drinking water. 

7.12.4.6 Regional and State Programs 

As part of this study, EPA searched state web sites to evaluate current state 

NPDES permit regulations and to establish the availability of data on current PBST industry 

practices. The technology for treating PBST discharges typically includes oil/water separators to 

treat stormwater from secondary containment areas. Based on permits and regulations obtained 

for this analysis, states and regions apply a wide range of limitations and pollutant monitoring 

requirements to the PBST industrial category. 

The following summaries describe the relevant NPDES general and individual 

permits that have been issued by EPA Regions and delegated states for PBSTs. Data are 

publicly available through state and EPA web sites. 

Region 1 

Connecticut:

Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection - Marine Terminals

Program 

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Bureau of Waste 

Management licenses petroleum bulk storage facilities that receive product from, or dispense to, 

ships or barges. The application for this license requires detailed site information. 

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New Hampshire: 

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services - Application for the 

Construction of New and Substantially Modified Petroleum Aboveground 

Storage Tank Facility 

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services requires a spill 

prevention plan for new and substantially modified petroleum stations and terminals. In addition 

to a spill prevention plan (SPP), the applicant must specify the manufacturer of the containment 

sump for aboveground piping over surface waters (marinas) and describe all secondary 

containment, including how stormwater will be handled. 

Region 4 

North Carolina: 

North Carolina Department of Environment General Permit No. NCG080000 to 

Discharge Stormwater under NPDES 

The North Carolina Department of Environment issues general stormwater 

permits through its Health and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. These permits 

cover stormwater point source discharges associated with activities that have vehicle 

maintenance areas (including vehicle rehabilitation, mechanical repairs, painting, fueling, 

lubrication, and equipment cleaning operation areas) associated with activities classified by 

specific SIC codes, including SIC 5171, with total petroleum storage capacity of less than one 

million gallons. 

Table 7-38 presents limitations for oil/water separators and PBSTs: 

Table 7-38. Sample Limits in North Carolina’s Stormwater General Permit 

Parameter Limitation and Units Monitoring Frequency 

pH 6.0 to 9.0 s.u. Annually 

Oil and grease 30 mg/l Annually 

Total suspended solids 100 mg/l Annually 

Total rainfall Inches (report) Annually 

Storm event duration Minutes (report) Annually 

Total flow Million gallons (report) Annually 

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South Carolina: 

South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control NPDES 

General Permit for Discharges From Bulk Petroleum Storage Activities 

(SCG340000) 

General permits issued by the South Carolina Department of Health and 

Environmental Control for discharges from bulk petroleum storage activities cover stormwater 

runoff from secondary containment structures (e.g., dikes and berms), stormwater and pad washdown water from loading racks, and vehicle wash-down water. The only numerical permit 

limitation is for oil and grease. However, the permittee must monitor once per quarter for the 

following parameters: 

C Flow; 

C Ethylbenzene; 

C Naphthalene; 

C Copper; 

C TOC; 

C Toluene; 

C Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE); 

C pH; 

C Benzene; 

C Total xylenes; and 

C Surfactants (only for vehicle washing). 

Toxicity testing also must be conducted once per year using a 48-hour static acute 

toxicity test performed using a control and 100-percent effluent. The test is conducted on 

Ceriodaphnia according to South Carolina procedures for pass/fail modifications to EPA’s 

standard methods. 

Region 5 

Ohio: 

Environmental Protection Agency - Effluent Limitations and Monitoring 

Requirements for Petroleum Bulk Storage Facilities 

Ohio EPA established a monitoring program to characterize discharges from 

petroleum bulk storage terminals or similar facilities (i.e., large industrial facilities, airports, 

etc.). Petroleum bulk storage facilities are subcategorized as follows: 

C Type A - Terminals with product loading/unloading racks. 

C Type B - Terminals without loading racks (usually referred to as tank 

farms). Product transport is via pipelines only. Discharge of tank bottoms 

water is a potential. 

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C Type C - Terminals that are bulk crude oil storage and pipeline facilities. 

Crude oil arrives and leaves via pipeline; there is no loading or unloading 

of product or tank bottoms water. 

Table 7-39 presents the parameters considered by Ohio EPA for developing 

permit requirements for each type of facility. Monitoring frequency is recommended to be once 

per month for all parameters, except phenol and naphthalene, which are recommended once per 

quarter. 

Table 7-39. Parameters Considered by Ohio While Developing Permits 

Parameter 

Facility Type 

A B C 

Benzene X X 

Toluene X X 

Ethylbenzene X X 

Xylene X X 

BOD X X X 

COD X X 

O&G X X X 

TSS X X X 

TOC X X X 

Phenol X X X 

Naphthalene X X 

Weather (report) X X X 

Precipitation (report) X X X 

Annual organic pollutant scan X 

The only numeric limitations recommended are for oil and grease: 15 mg/l 

monthly average, 20 mg/l daily maximum. 

Wisconsin: 

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Petroleum Contaminated Water ­

WPDES General Permit No. WI-0046531-3 

These WPDES general permits apply to point source discharges of wastewater 

that have been contaminated with petroleum, including, but not limited to: gasoline, diesel fuel, 

aircraft fuel, jet fuel, heating oils, and lubrication oils. Discharges are categorized into the 

following three types: 

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C Petroleum contact water (excluding tank bottom water) - technologybased limits assume use of adequately sized, designed, and functioning 

oil/water separator; 

C Tank bottoms water - technology-based limits assume removal of 

dissolved or emulsified petroleum products from water including 

stripping, chemical addition, dissolved air floatation, activated carbon, 

activated clays, thermal treatment, and distillation; and 

C Scrap and waste storage area oily water - technology-based limits assume 

the same treatment as for tank bottom water. 

Discharges to groundwater and surface water have separate limitations for each of 

the three types of discharges, as shown in Table 7-40. 

Table 7-40. Limitations by Discharge Type 

Parameter 

Petroleum Contact 

Water Tank Bottoms Water 

Scrap and Waste Storage Area 

Oily Water 

Groundwater Surface 

Water 

Groundwater Surface 

Water 

Groundwater Surface 

Water 

Flow Estimate – – – – – 

O&G 15 mg/l – – – – – 

Total BTEX Monitor – 750 ug/l – – – 

PAH Monitor – 0.1 ug/l – – – 

Naphthalene – – 8 ug/l – 8 ug/l 70 ug/l 

Benzo(a)pyrene – – 0.02 ug/l 0.1 ug/l 0.02 ug/l 0.1 ug/l 

Benzene – – 0.5 ug/l 50 ug/l 0.5 ug/l 50 ug/l 

Ethylbenzene – – 140 ug/l – 140 ug/l – 

Toluene – – 200 ug/l – 200 ug/l – 

TSS – – – – 40 mg/l 

BOD – Monitor – Monitor – Monitor 

Region 6 

Arkansas: 

Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality Authorization to Discharge 

Under the NPDES and the Arkansas Water and Air Pollution Control Act 

(ARG340000) 

This authorization by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality applies 

to any facility that stores, in one or more stationary bulk storage tanks, petroleum and petroleum 

products; and subsequently transfers, distributes, or sells the petroleum and petroleum products 

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in large quantities, via pipeline, marine transportation, tank car, or tank truck, to the wholesale or 

commercial market. Six outfall types in the general permit with limitations as specified below: 

C 101 Secondary containment areas (dikes) surrounding petroleum 

storage tanks; 

C 201A Petroleum loading and transfer areas; 

C 201B Petroleum loading and transfer areas and tank bottom water; 

nondischarge of tank bottom water directly to the diked area; 

C 301 Petroleum tank truck wash water; 

C 401 Petroleum tank truck garages located adjacent to petroleum storage 

and transfer areas; and 

C 601 Containment stormwater runoff covered by or commingled with 

the above discharges. 

Table 7-41 lists the above outfalls and applicable limitations. 

Table 7-41. Arkansas Limits by Outfall Type 

Parameter 

Outfall 

101 201A 201B 301 401 601 

O&G No free 10 mg/l (daily avg) No free 

oil 15 mg/l (daily max) oil 

Flow Report 

pH 6.0 - 9.0 s.u 

Total BTEX – – 0.1 mg/l – – – 

TDS – – 500 mg/l – – – 

Ammonia (as 

Nitrogen) 

– – 1 mg/l (daily average) 

2 mg/l (daily max) 

– – – 

Benzene – – 0.05 mg/l – – – 

Cyanide – – 0.005 mg/l (daily – – – 

average) 

0.009 mg/l (daily max) 

Lead – – 0.0006 mg/l (daily – – – 

average) 

0.0012 mg/l (daily max) 

Naphthalene – – Report – – – 

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Table 7-41 (Continued) 

Parameter 

Outfall 

101 201A 201B 301 401 601 

Acute Toxicity – – >50% survival for 24-hr 

test on 100% effluent 

(1/month) 

– – – 

COD – – – 50 mg/l 

(daily 

average) 

75 mg/l 

(daily max) 

– – 

TSS – – – 35mg/l 

(daily 

average) 

53 mg/l 

(daily max) 

– – 

Texas/EPA Region 6: 

Final NPDES General Permit for Discharges from Petroleum Bulk Stations and 

Terminals (TXG340000) 

NPDES general permits issued by EPA Region 6 for the state of Texas apply to 

discharges of facility wastewater and contact stormwater from petroleum bulk stations and 

terminals and establishments primarily engaged in the cooperative or wholesale distribution of 

refined petroleum products or petroleum fuels from bulk liquid storage facilities. Table 7-42 

lists the permit limitations. 

Table 7-42. Texas General Permit Limits 

Parameter Daily Limit 

Flow Estimate (report) 

Total petroleum hydrocarbons 15 mg/l 

Benzene 0.05 mg/l 

BTEX 0.5 mg/l 

Lead 0.25 mg/l 

pH 6.0 - 9.0 s.u. 

In addition, discharges are analyzed once per year for the following parameters 

that have monthly average and daily maximum limitations: 

C Arsenic; 

C Barium; 

C Cadmium (inland and tidal limits); 

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C Chromium; 

C Copper; 

C Manganese; 

C Mercury; 

C Nickel; 

C Selenium (inland and tidal limits); 

C Silver; and 

C Zinc. 

An acute toxicity test also must be conducted once per year using a 24-hour 

standard test on both Daphnia pulex and fathead minnows. Greater than 50-percent survival is 

required using 100-percent effluent. 

Region 10 

Oregon: 

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality General Permit 1300-J 

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality general permits cover facilities 

storing, transferring, formulating, and/or packaging bulk petroleum products or vegetable oils, 

and other facilities with oily stormwater runoff and/or tank bottoms water. There are 

approximately 22 active facilities covered by these permits. 

Stormwater discharges from bulk petroleum storage sites do not require permits if 

the total storage capacity at the site does not exceed 150,000 gallons and if the discharge from 

the containment area is treated by an oil/water separator. The discharge may not exceed water 

quality standards for oil and grease of 10 mg/l (monthly average) and 15 mg/l (daily maximum). 

Facilities that are required to obtain an NPDES permit must meet the same oil and 

grease limitations. In addition, Oregon uses benchmark concentrations, shown in Table 7-43, to 

assess the site’s Stormwater Pollution Control Plan. 

Table 7-43. Oregon Stormwater Pollution Control Plan benchmarks 

Parameter Benchmark 

Total Copper 0.1 mg/l 

Total Lead 0.4 mg/l 

Total Zinc 0.6 mg/l 

TSS 130 mg/l 

Floating Solids No visible discharge 

O&G No visible sheen 

pH 6.0 - 9.0 s.u. 

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7.12.5 Wastewater Characterization 

This section presents wastewater characterization data based on TRI and PCS 

submissions for 2000. Using these data, EPA estimated total discharges from PBSTs and 

compared them to discharges from other industries. 

7.12.5.1 TRI Data 

Facilities report both direct discharges (i.e., mass of pollutant released directly to 

receiving streams) and indirect discharges before treatment (i.e., mass of pollutant transferred to 

POTWs) to TRI. For direct discharges, EPA used the reported mass to calculate TWPEs. For 

indirect discharges, EPA first estimated the reduction in pollutant mass accomplished by the 

POTW (i.e., pollutant percent removal) and then used the resulting mass of pollutant after 

treatment to calculate TWPEs discharged to the POTW’s receiving stream. EPA calculated the 

reduction in pollutant mass for indirect discharges by using average POTW removal efficiencies 

(see DCN 00618, Evaluation of RSEI Model Runs). 

The reported releases of PACs, n-hexane, and benzene comprise nearly 99 percent 

of the PBST industry’s total toxic releases of 8,010 TWPE. Table 7-44 presents the pounds (and 

TWPE) discharged by direct and indirect dischargers as reported to TRI for the PACs, n-hexane, 

and benzene. 

Table 7-44. TWPE Discharges of Individual Pollutants Based on 2000 TRI Data 

Parameter 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Total Pounds 

Discharged 

TWPE 

Discharged 

Cumulative Percentage of Total 

TWPE Discharged (8,010) 

PACs 5 35.293 7,741.21 96.6 

n-Hexane 74 4,949 117.71 98.1 

Benzene 109 4,033 63.53 98.9 

7.12.5.2 PCS Data 

Facilities report direct discharges (i.e., mass of pollutant released directly to 

receiving streams) to PCS. For direct discharges, EPA used the reported mass to calculate 

TWPEs. As discussed in Section 7.12.2.2, PCS includes only results of permit-required 

monitoring for direct discharging facilities. Even though toxic pollutants may be present in a 

refinery’s discharge, they will not be reported unless required by permit. 

The reported release of benzo(a)pyrene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, dibenzo(a, 

h)anthracene, and benzo(a)anthracene comprise more than 98 percent of the industry toxic 

releases of 5,389 TWPE, as reported to PCS. Table 7-45 presents the pounds (and TWPE) 

discharged by PCS major reporters for the four pollutants listed earlier. 

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Table 7-45. TWPE Discharges of Individual Pollutants Based on 2000 PCS Data 

Parameter 

Facilities 

Reporting 

Total 

Pounds 

Discharged 

TWPE 

Discharged 

Cumulative Percentage of Total 

TWPE Discharged (5,389) 

Benzo(a)pyrene 3 0.58 2,467.78 45.8 

Benzo(b)fluoranthene 3 2.39 1,007.76 64.5 

Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 3 0.58 975.35 82.6 

Benzo(a)anthracene 3 4.64 839.2 98.2 

7.12.5.3 Stormwater Contributions to TRI and PCS Data 

When reporting to the TRI, sites complete a Form R for each chemical exceeding 

the reporting threshold. Each chemical’s Form R includes the pounds per year discharged in 

wastewater to receiving streams and water bodies for direct discharges (Section 5.3 of Form R). 

Sites also report discharges to POTWs and other off-site locations for wastewater treatment; 

however, only discharges to receiving streams or water bodies include reporting of the “% From 

Stormwater.” Therefore, this analysis only applies to direct discharges. Moreover, this 

assessment will focus on those facilities whose TRI TWPE discharges ranked highest. The 

following four facilities discharged 96 percent of the 8,010 TWPE calculated from the 2000 TRI 

data: 

C Coastal Oil of New England, South Boston, MA;

C Phillips Pipeline Co. Kansas City Terminal, Kansas City, KS;

C Irving Oil Terminals, Inc., Searsport, ME; and

C Noco Energy Corp., Tonawanda, NY.

Coastal Oil of New England did not provide any data linking toxic discharges to 

storm events. The other three facilities did, with Table 7-46 listing stormwater contributions to 

the discharge of various pollutants. 

Table 7-46. Percent Discharges to Surface Waters Due to Stormwater for 2000 

TRI Reporters 

Parameter 

Percent Discharged to Surface Waters Due to Stormwater 

Phillips Pipeline, 

Kansas City, KS 

Irving Oil Terminals, 

Inc., Searsport, ME 

Noco Energy Corp., 

Tonawanda, NY 

1,2,4-trimethylbenzene 22 100 100 

Benzene 22 100 100 

Ethylbenzene 22 100 100 

n-Hexane 22 100 100 

Methyl tert-butyl ether 22 100 100 

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Table 7-46 (Continued) 

Parameter 

Percent Discharged to Surface Waters Due to Stormwater 

Phillips Pipeline, 

Kansas City, KS 

Irving Oil Terminals, 

Inc., Searsport, ME 

Noco Energy Corp., 

Tonawanda, NY 

PACs 22 100 100 

Toluene 22 100 100 

Xylene (mixed isomers) 22 100 100 

Of the eight PCS majors, four also reported to TRI in 2000. They are as follows: 

C Exxon Mobil, East Providence, RI;

C ConocoPhillips, East Boston, MA;

C Shell Co., San Juan, PR; and

C Exxon Mobil, Everett, MA.

Exxon Mobil’s East Providence, RI facility and Shell Co. reported no stormwater 

contributions to toxic discharges to surface waters. ConocoPhillips’s East Boston, MA facility 

and Exxon Mobil’s Everett, MA facility reported that stormwater was responsible for 100 

percent of toxic discharges to surface waters for the following pollutants: benzene, ethylbenzene, 

methyl tert-butyl ether, toluene, and xylene (mixed isomers). In addition, Exxon Mobil’s 

Everett, MA terminal also reported that 100 percent of n-hexane discharges to surface waters 

took place due to stormwater. 

7.12.5.4 Wastewater Handling 

The various types of wastewater are often handled differently. Any wastewater 

that has come into contact with product, particularly oil and grease and total petroleum 

hydrocarbons, is collected and treated in some fashion, sometimes on-site (oil/water separation, 

some form of primary and/or secondary treatment, e.g., biological treatment followed by 

granular activated carbon treatment), and disposal to a publicly owned treatment works (POTW), 

a lined lagoon, or direct discharge to surface waters. Several commenters to the Preliminary 

Plan stated that oil/water separation is widely used at those facilities that treat their wastewaters. 

ILTA went so far as to say that virtually all PBSTs that treat wastewater on site have oil/water 

separators. According to several control authorities, facilities that perform on-site treatment are 

generally larger. Their size and attendant economics make it easier for them to install and 

operate a treatment system. Many smaller facilities, on the other hand, have their wastes 

collected and shipped for off-site treatment at adjoining refineries or treatment facilities (3). The 

use of this practice was also widely reported by commenters. 

Wastewater requiring primary and/or secondary treatment (because it is 

contaminated with oil and grease and total petroleum hydrocarbons) is typically tank bottom 

water, loading/unloading rack water, a portion of the tank basin water, wastewater generated 

during remediation, and water used for hydrostatic testing, if it is contaminated (if hydrostatic 

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test water is not contaminated, it is normally released to a storm drain). In the case of tank 

bottoms water, commenters report that it is normally sent off site for treatment. For example, 

Amerada Hess reported that all of its terminals ship tank bottoms water off site for treatment. 

Wastewater that contains surfactants or other types of cleaning agents is not commingled with 

other oily wastewaters to prevent the formation of emulsions; therefore, wastewater from vehicle 

and equipment washing and maintenance, as well as wastewater from lavatories, is typically 

discharged separately to the POTW. Stormwater runoff from the facility yard, roofs, and drives, 

as well as some of the tank basin water, is either collected and examined (visual inspection 

and/or chemical testing), or released to the environment without collection if the facility ensures 

that the water has had no contact with product or other pollutants. If collected stormwater is 

clean, it is sent to a storm drain; otherwise, it is sent through oil/water separation and other 

necessary treatment measures before being discharged to a POTW, a lined lagoon, or to surface 

waters. 

7.12.6 Pollution Prevention Practices 

Pollution prevention practices reduce pollution at the source. This includes any 

practice that reduces the amount of pollutants entering any waste stream or otherwise released 

into the environment prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal and reduce the hazards to public 

health and the environment. Pollution prevention practices include equipment or technology 

modifications, process or procedure modifications, reformulation or redesign of products, 

substitution of raw materials, and improvements in housekeeping, maintenance, training, or 

inventory control. As discussed in Section 7.12.3, there are several sources of wastewater at 

PBST facilities; however, there are also many pollution prevention practices that can be 

implemented to reduce or eliminate these sources of wastewater. In addition to the 

environmental benefits of pollution prevention, PBST facilities can benefit from implementing 

pollution prevention practices by doing the following: 

C Reducing the size of downstream wastewater treatment equipment;

C Providing a permanent solution for eliminating pollutants;

C Eliminating costs associated with managing wastewater; and

C Providing more reliable methods for eliminating pollutants.

This section describes the following pollution prevention practices that can be 

implemented to reduce or eliminate wastewater generation at PBSTs: 

C Section 7.12.6.1 discusses the pollution prevention practices that minimize 

stormwater contamination; 

C Section 7.12.6.2 discusses pollution prevention practices that minimize 

generation of wastewater; and 

C Section 7.12.6.3 discusses pollution prevention practices for reducing 

other wastewater sources. 

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7.12.6.1 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Practices 

Stormwater is the major source of wastewater volume at most PBST facilities. 

Stormwater can be divided into three categories – uncontaminated, potentially contaminated, and 

contaminated – based on the type of area from which the stormwater is generated. To minimize 

the amount of wastewater that requires treatment, PBSTs should segregate stormwater from 

sources of contamination and take preventive measures to minimize potential stormwater 

contamination. 

Stormwater Segregation 

To minimize the amount of wastewater generated, PBSTs should segregate 

stormwater from sources of contamination so that it can be discharged with minimal or no 

treatment. Two methods to segregate stormwater from potential sources of contamination are 

geographical segregation and roof design. Both of these methods help prevent contamination of 

stormwater by pollutants from PBST facilities and dilution of contaminated water. 

Geographical Segregation 

Geographical segregation prevents mixing of different categories of stormwater 

(i.e., uncontaminated, potentially contaminated, and contaminated), using a combination of the 

following methods: 

C Grading: moving dirt to form land slopes such that water flows in the 

desired direction; 

C Berms: elevated barriers used to contain and control surface water 

movement; 

C Interceptor drains: collection channels (e.g., ditches or sewers) that 

capture a type of runoff before it can mix with another type; and 

C Curbs: elevated barriers to contain and control surface water movement 

that are low enough to allow for personnel and equipment to move over 

them. 

To implement geographical segregation, the facility must identify which plant 

areas generate each of the three types of stormwater. If a facility determines that different types 

of stormwater are commingling, it can use the geographical segregation methods listed above to 

segregate the stormwater, enabling the facility to reduce the amount of stormwater that requires 

treatment. 

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Roof Design 

Facilities can provide roofs over potential sources of contamination, with the 

runoff from the roofs sent to a less-contaminated area. The primary use of roofs is on storage 

tanks because tank bottoms water is highly contaminated, but has very low flow if stormwater is 

segregated. For tanks that contain water-soluble materials (e.g., gasoline oxygenates and fuel 

and lubricant additives), fixed roofs are recommended because water mixing with such materials 

can significantly contaminate and degrade product quality. 

Roofs (or canopies) can also be used over transfer racks to segregate stormwater 

from small product spills that result when making and breaking hose connections to transport 

vehicles. These canopies also protect personnel from the elements and keep stormwater out of 

the transport vehicle. To prevent stormwater runoff from flowing over the facility slab, roof 

drains should be routed away from the slab and the slab should be surrounded by rollover curbs . 

In addition, this area should have a drainage and containment system which drains to a sump and 

is routed to the proper treatment system. This system should also be designed to hold the 

maximum capacity of the largest compartment of a tank car or truck used at the facility in the 

event of tank rupture or accidental overflow. 

Pump stations are considered contaminated areas because of pump seal leaks and 

pump maintenance discharges. PBSTs can place a roof or canopy over the pump station to 

eliminate stormwater collection and treatment from the pump station slab. These roofs are 

similar to the roofs placed over transfer racks. 

A novel possibility of this type is the use of green roofs. Green roofs, sometimes 

called roof gardens, are a surface treatment for rooftops involving the addition of several layers 

of growth media and plants to create a contained green space. Current green roof design is 

generally comprised of four components: a waterproof membrane, a drainage layer, a growth 

medium, and vegetation. Variations in these components, including the addition of a vegetation 

support layer above the growth medium can greatly affect the water flow and thermal 

characteristics of the green roof. Proponents of green roofs have claimed numerous benefits 

including improved air quality, stormwater attenuation, reduction of the “heat island effect,” and 

aesthetic value (6). While EPA is unaware of any PBSTs that use this technology, EPA is aware 

of other industrial structures in the United States that use green roofs. The most prominent of 

these is the Ford Automobile Company’s Rouge Center in Michigan, which installed a green 

roof approximately two years ago. While Ford is, as yet, unable to provide performance data, 

the possibility remains intriguing. In the case of PBSTs, the technology is probably not 

appropriate for direct usage on tank roofs, but might be used on canopy roofs. A potential 

hurdle, from the standpoint of design, is adequate load-bearing capacity. 

Minimizing Stormwater Contamination 

Potentially contaminated stormwater is collected and subjected to minimal 

treatment before discharge; if it becomes contaminated, it must be treated more extensively. To 

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reduce the amount of contaminated stormwater, steps can be taken to reduce the probability of 

contamination. 

Stormwater at PBSTs may be contaminated by accidental release of materials to 

the ground, including leaks in piping or tanks, overfilling the tanks, accidentally opening tank 

nozzles, or tank cleanout activities. See Section 7.12.6.2 for descriptions of methods to 

minimize these releases. When such releases do occur, there are preventative measures that can 

minimize the likelihood of stormwater contamination. 

Petroleum tanks are surrounded by a containment area, bounded by dikes or 

walls. It is a general rule that the containment area is able to hold the volume of the largest tank 

in the area without spillover. Rainwater is removed from the contained area via drainage pipes 

with shutoff valves that are placed through the dikes or walls. The shutoff valves should be 

closed at all times except during attended rainwater drainage. If a product spill occurs at the 

same time that rainwater accumulates in the tank basin, then the clean water can be drained using 

“turndown ells” on the basin end of the pipe. These devices allow water to drain while 

minimizing entrainment of floating product. 

7.12.6.2 Minimizing Generation of Wastewater 

There are several ways that product can become mixed with wastewater at a 

PBST, including petroleum product discharges into wastewater, product/water emulsion, and 

tank bottoms water accumulation. Pollution prevention practices are available to reduce or 

eliminate product contamination in wastewater streams. 

Petroleum Product Discharges 

Product discharges can enter wastewater through petroleum product tank bottoms 

draws, waste product discharge, equipment drainage, sampling episodes, leaks, tank 

deterioration, and product transfer mishaps. Using appropriate pollution prevention practices 

can reduce or eliminate all of these sources of product discharge. 

Removal of Tank Bottoms Water 

Water from various sources collects in the bottoms of petroleum product tanks 

(see Section 7.12.5.2). This wastewater must be removed to ensure that water is not being mixed 

with product as it is pumped from the tank; this method is termed product tank bottoms draw. 

Once it is removed, this wastewater is sent to a collection tank for oil separation and treatment. 

Facilities should use methods such as water volume determination, water/product interface 

detection, and product entrainment prevention that maximize the withdrawal of water while 

minimizing the withdrawal of product. 

The facility should first determine the amount of water in the tank to ensure that 

the minimum amount of water is drawn. One way is by gauging the tank with a tape or stick 

coated on its lower end with water-indicating paste, which changes color when it comes in 

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contact with water. Another way is to position closely spaced trycock valves on the side of the 

tank. These valves should be situated where the water accumulation is expected. Facility 

personnel can determine the water level by opening the trycock valves (starting with the lowest 

one) to assess the highest one that delivers water. 

A third method for detecting the water/product interface is using sight glasses 

mounted on the side of the tank. The upper end nozzle of the sight glass should be placed lower 

than the level of the product; otherwise, there will be no correlation between the interface level 

in the sight glass and the interface level in the tank. Calibration curves (or tank strappings) show 

the relationship between tank water level and tank water volume and can be used to determine 

the volume of water to remove once the level is known. Manual control is another method of 

interface detection, where the water draw valve is manually opened, the drawn substance is 

sampled, and once product is detected, the valve is manually closed. 

There are more reliable methods of detection that rely on the properties that 

distinguish water from product, such as detectors based on electrical conductivity or capacitance 

and devices using a float of exact specific gravity to control a shutoff valve. If the volume of the 

water in the tank is known, facilities can use a device that meters the draw volume and operates a 

shutoff valve when the determined wastewater volume is reached. Unfortunately, fouling could 

be a concern for these three methods. Another technique is to draw water through a canister of 

material that swells when contacted by hydrocarbon, and consequently blocks the flow once 

product is drawn. 

Product entrainment is defined by API to be the carryover of droplets of product 

in a water draw flow. Facilities can minimize product entrainment using proper design 

guidelines and operating procedures. For example, a water sump can be situated in the tank 

bottom next to the water drain nozzle and the nozzle to the tank interior can be connected with a 

turndown ell. This method ensures that the water is taken from the lowest possible elevation (i.e., 

farthest away from the water/product interface). Facilities can also use vortex eliminators or 

vortex barriers to keep the product from being pulled down in a swirling vortex. Another 

method is to place the product draw nozzle at the highest possible elevation because if there is a 

large separation between the product and water draws, then some water can remain in the tank to 

avoid drawing in some product. In addition, facilities can control product entrainment by the 

water draw rate. Product entrainment and overshooting the water/product interface is more 

probable at high water flow rates. Facilities should also reduce the water draw frequency. 

Discharge of Waste Product 

Slop oil (or waste product) is any petroleum product that does not meet product 

specifications and cannot be used or distributed as is. Slop oil systems can eliminate waste 

product discharge into wastewater sewers. PBST facilities can use these systems to collect waste 

product and reuse it. Slop oil systems are comprised of collection points that are situated at all 

sources where waste product is generated. If small volumes of waste product are generated, the 

slop oil system may be a collection drum. If facilities generate large volumes of waste product, 

then they should use a direct pipe connection from the system. For intermediate volumes, an oil 

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sump can be placed at a lower elevation than where product is released to enable gravity 

drainage. Water should not enter the slop oil system. The waste product can be transported for 

further processing using piping, vacuum truck, or truck transport of filled slop oil drums, where 

it can be converted into a useful product by separating and removing the water. 

Equipment Drainage 

When equipment is taken out of service for maintenance, it is typically drained. 

Equipment usually contains large amounts of product, so draining this product into sewers can 

cause wastewater contamination. The most common pollution prevention practices for 

minimizing product drainage into sewers are design factors, including avoiding pocketing, using 

drain nozzles, and providing a collection point. 

To avoid pocketing (i.e., product trapped in low points in the piping that is not 

able to drain in either direction), when a process is stopped, the product in the equipment should 

flow out of the system through existing equipment. For example, vessels should have drain lines 

at their low points with connections that enable the contents to be pumped or gravity drained to 

other parts of the system. In addition, piping should not have pockets that cannot be drained by 

gravity in either direction. If there are pockets in the system, then drain nozzles should be used 

with a shutoff valve at the pocket. The drained product can be used, rather than washed into a 

sewer. One way to recover the drained product is to run hoses from the drain nozzles to a belowgrade product collection sump. The product can be transferred from the sump to the slop oil 

system by vacuum truck or with a sump pump and piping system. An alternative method is to 

connect the drain nozzle directly to a vacuum truck suction hose. 

Product Sampling 

PBSTs typically use sampling nozzles and stations to collect samples at different 

points. Because the sample nozzle piping normally has no flow (i.e., dead volume), it is general 

sampling protocol to open the sample valve and allow the substance to flow long enough to 

purge the piping of dead volume to obtain a representative sample. This dead volume is 

sometimes discharged into the oily wastewater sewer, which contaminates the wastewater with 

product. Installing a sampling loop or a sample trough can eliminate this discharge. 

A sampling loop is a loop of piping where the pipe’s upstream end is connected to 

the normal sample collection point and its downstream end to a lower pressure region of the 

same process. When a sample is taken, the sample loop is purged by opening the sample loop 

line valves, and then the sample nozzle is opened to collect the sample. Another pollution 

prevention practice is using a sample trough, which is a collection sink or trough at the sample 

nozzle, connected to the slop oil system. 

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Leaks 

Leaks can be a major source of product in wastewater and stormwater. There are 

various types of leaks, such as pump seal leaks, valve seal leaks, and piping leaks, for which 

pollution prevention practices can be implemented. 

Pump seals are found on the rotating shaft in rotating pumps and on the piston in 

piston pumps. A certain amount of leakage is required to lubricate the seal for many rotating 

seals. Pollution prevention practices to minimize leakage include considering product leaks as a 

factor in pump selection, selecting mechanical seals instead of packing seals, and selecting sealless pumps over ones that use seals. In addition, pump seals should be maintained in good 

condition; therefore, when product leakage from seals becomes excessive, they should be 

tightened, repaired, or replaced. 

Valve seals are used to minimize process fluid leakage along the stem that 

connects the internal parts with the external actuator. These seals can leak, so to minimize 

product release, PBSTs should choose valve designs that minimize leakage and maintain valve 

seals in good condition. 

Unlike pumps and valves, piping leaks are not inherent to the equipment design 

and typically result from improper assembly or corrosion. To prevent piping leakage, PBSTs 

should hydrotest equipment that is taken down for maintenance before returning it to service. In 

addition, if buried piping is metal, it should have a protective wrapping and coating. Cathodic 

protection may also be necessary. For aboveground pipes, facilities should post signs and inform 

drivers at the facility about the presence of these pipes to avoid accidental spills from collisions . 

Tank Deterioration 

Tanks can deteriorate over time causing leaks and rupture, so they should be 

designed correctly and inspected periodically. As described in the SPCC requirements, tanks 

should be selected based on their suitability for the material being stored and the storage 

conditions. Industry standards should be followed for the construction, material, installation, and 

use of the tank. Fiberglass tanks should be used underground because they do not corrode. If 

metal underground storage tanks (USTs) are used, then they should have corrosion resistant 

coating, cathodic protection, or another effective method of protection from corrosion. Trained 

personnel should inspect aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) to detect leaks or other 

deterioration. Inspectors may use X-ray or radiographic analysis to determine the wall thickness 

and detect cracks and crevices in metal; ultrasonic analysis to measure the shell metal thickness; 

hydrostatic testing to identify leaks caused by pressure; visual inspection to detect cracks, leaks, 

or holes; and magnetic flux eddy current test and ultrasonic analysis to detect pitting. Corrosion 

can be prevented in metal ASTs by using dielectric coatings, cathodic protection, and doublebottom tanks. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Product Transfer Mishaps 

Wastewater and stormwater can become contaminated by-product transfer 

mishaps, such as tank overfilling and accidental opening of nozzles. Gauging the tank before it 

is filled and monitoring the tank while it is being filled can prevent tank overfilling. High-level 

alarms and automatic shutoffs can also prevent tank overfilling. Establishing a policy to keep 

blind flanges or caps over all pipe openings and unconnected valve ends can minimize accidental 

releases caused by accidentally opening tank nozzles. 

Controlling Emulsions 

An emulsion is the dispersion of product in water or vice versa. The phase in 

which the droplets are dispersed is the continuous phase and the droplets comprise the dispersed 

phase. Since petroleum product is separated from wastewater by gravity separation, there are 

serious adverse effects on wastewater quality when product cannot be gravity separated from 

wastewater. Emulsions typically accumulate at the product/water interface because their density 

is in between the densities of the product and water. The PBST industry typically refers to these 

emulsions as rag or cuff. Pollution prevention practices that minimize product/water emulsions 

involve product droplet control, surfactant control, and fine solids control. 

Product Droplet Control 

Emulsions are stabilized by small oil droplets because they are inherently slower 

to separate from the continuous phase. Small oil droplets are formed by agitation of oil and 

water, which is caused by pumping product/water mixtures or turbulent flow of product/water 

mixtures. Centrifugal pumps are frequently used by PBST facilities and generate emulsions 

because the material pumped is subject to high agitation in the pump. To minimize emulsions, 

facilities should use positive displacement pumps (e.g., gear pumps, piston pumps, diaphragm 

pumps, and Archimedes screw pumps) because they produce less agitation and therefore less 

emulsions. Emulsions are also formed by turbulent flow of product/water mixtures, which can 

be caused by high velocities of fluid flow in pipes or ditches. Pollution prevention practices 

such as increasing pipe diameter, restricting the gravity gradient, and avoiding sudden changes in 

elevation avoid turbulence in oily wastewater streams by maintaining low velocities. 

Surfactant Control 

Emulsions are also stabilized by surfactants (e.g., detergent and soaps) collecting 

at the product/water interface, which reduce the surface tension and inhibit phase separation. 

Natural surfactants are present in crude oil; however, manufactured detergents used for cleanup 

or as gasoline or lube oil additives are of most concern at PBST facilities. 

PBSTs use detergents to clean oily equipment. To minimize the formation of 

emulsions, facilities should use the minimum amount of detergent necessary. Another method is 

to use nondetergent alternatives, such as dry cleaning methods (e.g., solvents or absorbent 

materials for spilled product) or steam cleaning. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Gasoline additives can contain detergents that keep vehicle fuel systems free from 

deposits. To prevent emulsions from forming, gasoline additives or gasoline containing 

additives should not come into contact with water; therefore, PBSTs should keep these 

substances in waterproof tanks. 

Some PBSTs accept water-containing, off-specification products with additives 

(which aid in the formation of emulsions) from service stations. For this source, pollution 

prevention practices include keeping these products separate from other products until all water 

is separated; using a low-flow tank if the recovered product is sent to a product tank; and not 

mixing the water separated from haulback material with oily wastewater. 

Fire foam systems are tested occasionally at PBSTs. Releasing foaming agent 

surfactants dissolved in water can cause product/water emulsions to form. Physically cleaning 

up the foam (instead of washing it down), selecting a foaming agent that is compatible with the 

treatment system (e.g., it is biodegradable if biotreatment is used), and segregating the foam 

wastewater from oily wastewater can minimize the release of these surfactants and thereby 

reduce the possibility of forming emulsions. 

Fine Solids Control 

Fine solids can generate product/water emulsions by contacting and being 

saturated with product and water simultaneously. Fine solid sources include soil, powdered 

materials, and corrosion products. 

Soil erosion is a common source of fine solids at PBSTs, and clay soils produce 

very fine particles. To prevent emulsions from forming from this source, facilities should 

minimize the erosion of soil into wastewater collection systems by segregating runoff areas, 

planting groundcover plants, paving the drainage area, and using geofabrics. 

PBSTs occasionally use powdered materials, such as spent blasting sand. To 

prevent emulsions from forming from this source, facilities should properly store these materials 

to prevent them from entering stormwater and wastewater sewers. If these materials are 

deposited on paved areas, they should be removed by dry methods, such as sweeping instead of 

washing it down. 

Fine solids can also be generated from sulfide corrosion of steel, which creates 

very fine iron sulfide. Facilities should remove these fines from process equipment without 

mixing product, water, and solids. 

In general, to keep solids from entering oily wastewater streams, facilities should 

use closed sewer or pipes instead of open ditches to convey wastewater. Also, facilities should 

segregate sanitary wastes from oily wastewater because these wastes contain biosolids and 

detergents that stabilize emulsions. To do this, facilities can send sanitary waste to a municipal 

sanitary sewer, a septic tank, or other dedicated sanitary treatment system, or mix the sanitary 

waste with oily wastewater only after oil/water separation. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Tank Bottoms Water Accumulation 

According to API, product tank bottoms water is the most expensive wastewater 

to treat because it is by far the most contaminated wastewater generated at PBST facilities. 

Therefore, it is important to minimize this source of wastewater by reducing the tank bottoms 

flow, the amount of entrained product water, tank breathing and condensation, rainwater, and 

other sources. 

Reduction of Tank Bottoms Flow 

A pollution prevention practice that can be implemented at PBST facilities is 

reducing the flow of tank bottoms water to minimize the amount of contaminant transfer from 

petroleum products. This method affects wastewater contaminants in different ways depending 

on the solubility of the contaminant. Entrained contaminants are drained along with the water; 

therefore, reducing the amount of wastewater will proportionately reduce the discharge of 

entrained product. Saturated contaminants are present at high concentration in products and are 

not readily soluble in water. Because these contaminants will have the same concentration 

regardless of the amount of water and product, the mass flow of these contaminants is directly 

proportional to the water flow. Extractable contaminants are somewhat soluble in both water 

and product. These contaminants are able to partition in both the product and water phases; 

therefore, reducing the wastewater flow, can reduce the discharge of these contaminants. Waterborne (or water-soluble) contaminants are not expected to be soluble in products; therefore, these 

contaminants are not affected by reducing tank bottoms flow rates. To reduce this type of 

contaminant, facilities should reduce the source of water-soluble contaminants into the tank. 

Reduction of Water Entrained in Product 

A significant source of tank bottoms water is water entrained in the products. 

This water is highly contaminated with water-soluble contaminants. Some procedures that can 

minimize entrained water at PBSTs include reducing water in products delivered from tankage, 

establishing distribution chain procedures, setting product specifications, and requiring take-back 

of delivered water. In addition, there are some techniques that can be used to reduce or eliminate 

entrainment of water. 

PBSTs can reduce or eliminate entrainment of water in products delivered from 

tankage using the same methods for reducing the amount of water drawn from a tank. These 

methods include installing nozzles that draw the product as high as possible above the maximum 

water level expected, keeping the tank water level as low as possible, removing tank water 

before removing product, and using turned-up water nozzles that minimize entrainment of water. 

Establishing distribution chain procedures from the refinery through the product 

distribution chain can also minimize water content in product. In addition, PBSTs can set 

product specifications for water or contaminants in product received at the terminal. PBSTs can 

also return water delivered with the product to the originator, which gives originators incentive 

to reduce the amount of water entrained in the products. 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

Reduction of Tank Breathing and Condensation 

According to API, tank breathing air and condensation are minor sources of water 

in tanks, and it is difficult to minimize or remove these water sources. 

Reduction of Rainwater 

Rainwater is a major source of tank bottoms water. It can be reduced or 

eliminated by installing fixed roofs on the tanks. If floating roofs are used, then the roof seals 

should be replaced or repaired periodically and floating roof drains should be cleared of 

blockage. 

7.12.6.3 Pollution Prevention Practices for Reducing Other Sources of Wastewater 

Rack cleanup water is generated when product spills, product drips, and 

accumulated dirt are rinsed from the equipment and/or slab. Facilities can reduce this source of 

wastewater by using dry cleaning methods, such as absorbent granules or fabrics and wiping or 

sweeping equipment. If washing is the only feasible option, then the minimal amount of water 

should be used. Additionally, PBSTs should minimize the use of detergents by tracking the 

amount of detergent used by each operator to avoid forming emulsions. Selected detergents 

should have minimal impact. 

To minimize vehicle wash water, vehicles can be taken offsite and washed at a 

commercial vehicle washing facility. This will prevent the detergents from mixing with oily 

wastewaters and forming emulsions. PBSTs can also discharge wash water into municipal 

sewers to avoid mixing with other oily wastewaters. If vehicles are washed onsite, the amount of 

detergent used should be minimized and vehicle wash water should be segregated from other 

oily wastewaters. 

Most vehicle maintenance wastes are comprised of vehicle fluids (e.g., brake fluid 

and antifreeze), which contain additives that stabilize emulsions. Facilities should haul these 

wastes offsite for recovery or disposal and not discharge them to the wastewater treatment 

system. Collection drums should be located in vehicle maintenance areas for each type of fluid. 

Cryogenic vapor recovery systems chill the air that is displaced when filling tanks 

to remove hydrocarbon vapors. This method also condenses the humidity in the air, which 

becomes saturated with hydrocarbons. Because this wastewater contains high concentrations of 

hydrocarbons, the condensates are discharged to product tanks or slop oil tanks to recover 

product; therefore, this source is not typically managed as a wastewater stream. If there is a 

large amount of vapor recovery water, then there likely is an air leak into the aspiration system, 

which must be fixed to prevent explosions. 

Haulback material water bottoms are generated by water entering service station 

tanks through leaks. To encourage service stations to fix such leaks and minimize the amount of 

haulback material water bottoms, PBSTs can charge service stations for the cost of hauling and 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

treating haulback materials. If the water originates from the product delivered from the PBST, 

then the PBST should minimize the entrainment of water as discussed previously. 

The purpose of hydrostatic testing is to detect leaks in vessels and pipelines. This 

process requires large amount of water at high flow rates. To minimize the contamination of this 

water, PBSTs should clean the vessel or pipeline being tested thoroughly before the hydrotest. 

Steam systems (or boilers) are used to heat heavy products to keep them fluid. 

The steam generated for heating becomes contaminated by corrosion inhibitors that are added to 

the boiler. To minimize wastewater generation, PBSTs should collect condensate from steam 

traps, return it to the boiler, and fix any leaks. In addition, internal steam-heating coils used in 

heavy products tanks may corrode, which can lead to leaks. To minimize this corrosion, PBSTs 

can use external heating coils on insulated tanks. 

Implementing the following methods can minimize laboratory wastewater flow 

and contamination: using a vacuum pump or recycle water aspirator; disposing separately or 

reprocessing spent solvents and test samples; not using regulated solvents; placing solids and 

wastewater contaminated with regulated pollutants into collection drums for disposal; and 

washing laboratory glassware in a water-saving dishwasher, minimizing the use of detergents in 

cleaning. 

Tanks accumulate sludge, which needs to be periodically removed by cleaning. 

During cleaning, none of the oily sludge should come in contact with the ground around the tank. 

In addition, having a contractor clean the tank and dispose the wastes generated off site can 

minimize tank cleaning wastewaters. Dry-cleaning methods can also be used to minimize the 

use of detergents. This wastewater should not come in contact with rainwater or oily 

wastewater. 

7.12.6.4 Conclusions 

EPA’s primary source of wastewater discharge information for PBSTs is TRI and 

PCS. These sources contain discharge information for only a small portion of this industry, 

however. Less than 1 percent of the number of PBSTs (as determined from the 1997 Census) are 

in the PCS system, while only 5.5 percent reported to TRI in 2000. 

Based on the information in TRI and PCS, pollutant discharges from PBSTs are 

small in comparison to those of other industrial categories, including refineries. Using 

information reported to TRI, EPA estimates that PBSTs discharge 8,010 TWPE to waters of the 

U.S. A few facilities contribute the overwhelming majority of this total TWPE. TRI 

information also indicates that the vast majority of these TWPEs are associated with stormwater 

discharges. Of the few facilities contributing to the overall TWPE, one (contributing 3,290 

TWPEs) ceased operations in 2000. Discharges from a second facility (contributing more than 

2,600 TWPE), are from a now-closed refinery that also performed PBST operations and are 

attributed to groundwater remediation activities only. Similarly, two facilities contribute the 

large majority of the 5,389 TWPE reported to PCS. Information from the PCS reporting 

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Section 7 - Petroleum Refining 

facilities that also report to TRI indicates that stormwater discharges are a significant source of 

the toxic pollutants discharged. 

Information collected from permit and control authorities, site visits, and 

comment responses supports the conclusions reached from the TRI and PCS data. With few 

exceptions, discharges from PBSTs appear to be primarily stormwater with low concentrations 

of toxic pollutants. In addition, these stormwater discharges are subject to general or individual 

stormwater permits. Moreover, commenters and control authorities widely reported that tank 

bottoms water, the source of the most toxic waters produced at PBSTs are, by and large, 

transferred off site for treatment. 

Therefore, based on this review, EPA has concluded that most PBSTs do not 

discharge toxic pollutants to waters of the United States. Of those that discharge, most discharge 

only stormwater which is subject to general or individual stormwater permitting requirements. 

For the few PBSTs that EPA identified as discharging toxic pollutants, EPA concludes it is 

reasonable to provide individual facility permit support, rather than an effluent guidelines 

rulemaking. 

While EPA is deferring the development of effluent guidelines for PBSTs as a 

new subcategory under 40 CFR Part 419, it will continue to examine this industrial activity in 

future review cycles. 

7.12.7 PBST References 

1. Siddiqui, M.A., U.S. EPA. Memorandum to the Effluent Guidelines Planning 

Docket. Discharge Status of PBST Facilities, as Enumerated by TRI and PCS 

Databases. March 10, 2004. 

2. Siddiqui, M.A., U.S. EPA. Telephone conversation regarding PBSTs with 

George Papadopoulos, U.S. EPA Region 1. April 29, 2004. 

3. Siddiqui, M.A., U.S. EPA. Memorandum to the Effluent Guidelines Planning 

Docket. Summary of Discussions with Permit Writers About PBST Facilities. 

April 29, 2004. 

4. Siddiqui, M.A., U.S. EPA. Memorandum to the Effluent Guidelines Planning 

Docket. Meeting with PBST Stakeholders. August 8, 2004. 

5. Siddiqui, M.A., U.S. EPA. Telephone discussion regarding PBSTs with Jim Ball 

and Eric Beck, Rhode Island Department of the Environment, Providence, Rhode 

Island. April 29, 2004. 

6. Pennsylvania State University. Thesis submitted in partial completion of Master 

of Science degree requirements by Julia DeNardo. 

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Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

SECTION 8 NUTRIENT ANALYSIS 

8.1 Introduction 

Nutrients entering surface waters can cause many problems for aquatic ecosystem 

conditions. Excess nutrients can lead to eutrophication resulting in algal blooms, depleted 

oxygen levels, fish kills, and reduced biodiversity. In its annual review of effluent guidelines 

under Section 304(b) of the Clean Water Act, EPA examined the potential water quality impacts 

of nutrient discharges from facilities in the two industries for which EPA performed detailed 

studies (petroleum refining and OCPSF) to surface waters (4). This analysis is described in the 

following sections. 

8.2 Reference Conditions 

EPA’s recommended Section 304(a) ecoregional water quality criteria for 

nutrients were developed with the aim of reducing and preventing cultural eutrophication (i.e., 

over enrichment of surface waters associated with human activities) on a national scale. The 

criteria were empirically derived to represent conditions of surface waters that are minimally 

impacted by human activities and protective of aquatic life and recreational uses. The nutrient 

criteria are numerical values for both causative (phosphorus and nitrogen) and response 

(chlorophyll a and turbidity) variables associated with the prevention and assessment of 

eutrophic conditions. They are not laws or regulations, but they represent EPA’s 

recommendations as a starting point for states and tribes to use in establishing (with assistance 

from EPA) more refined nutrient criteria. While cultural eutrophication occurs in all parts of the 

country, specific levels of overenrichment leading to these problems vary from one region of the 

country to another due to geographical variations in watershed characteristics such as 

geographical variations in geology, vegetation, climate, and soil types. EPA has, therefore, 

developed its recommended nutrient criteria on an ecoregional basis. 

Ecoregions are geographical areas based on similarities of natural 

geomorphological and biological characteristics and land use patterns. Ecoregions can be defined 

at multiple scales. For example, EPA has defined 14 nutrient ecoregions and 84 Level III 

subecoregions in the United States. Nutrient ecoregions are aggregations of Level III 

subecoregions where the landscape characteristics affecting nutrient levels are expected to be 

similar. 

For this analysis, EPA determined reference conditions for total nitrogen and total 

phosphorous in rivers and streams for the 14 aggregate nutrient ecoregions. The reference 

conditions represent the least impacted conditions for a given ecoregion. The reference 

conditions were statistically determined by EPA following analyses of EPA’s STOrage and 

RETrieval (STORET) legacy data, USGS National Stream Quality Accounting Network 

(NASQAN) data, USGS National Water-Quality Assessment (NAWQA) data, and other relevant 

nutrient data from EPA regions, states, and universities. EPA used readily available data 

collected between January 1990 and December 1999. For each stream for which data existed 

within an ecoregion, EPA calculated the median nutrient concentrations in that stream for each 

8-1
8.3 

Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

season of the year. Then, EPA took those median concentrations for each stream and calculated 

the 25th and 50th percentiles for the entire ecoregion during each of the four seasons. More 

information on the calculation of the reference conditions can be found in EPA’s published 14 

ecoregional documents for rivers and streams available at http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/ 

criteria/nutrient/ecoregions/rivers/index.html (3). The aggregate reference conditions for each 

ecoregion were then calculated as the median value of the 25th percentiles and the 50th percentiles 

of the four seasons. The reference conditions representing the 25th and 50th percentiles were used 

in the stream dilution modeling as described in Section 8.4. 

Decay Coefficients 

Several processes, such as denitrification, uptake by aquatic biota, and 

sedimentation, occur naturally in streams and rivers to reduce the available levels of nitrogen and 

phosphorus. Research indicates that the total effect of these processes can be modeled using a 

first-order decay reaction. As discussed in an analysis of the effects of nutrient export between 

subwatersheds that accounts for nutrient decay by Wickham, et al (8), the amount of nitrogen 

and phosphorus delivered to a point downstream is an exponential function of travel time and a 

decay coefficient. Smith et al (2) developed decay coefficient values for nitrogen and phosphorus 

to be used in the Spatially Referenced Regressions on Watershed Attributes (SPARROW) 

model. The values were developed using data from over 380 USGS NASQAN stations. The 

decay coefficients were developed for use with three stream flowrate categories: <1,000 ft3

/s, 

1,000 - 10,000 ft3

/s, and >10,000 ft3/s and are shown in Table 8-1. These values were also used 

in the development of the environmental assessment for Concentrated Animal Feeding 

Operations (see Estimation of National Economic Benefits Using the National Water Pollution 

Control Assessment Model to Evaluate Regulatory Options for Concentrated Animal Feeding 

Operations (CAFOs, EPA-821-R-03-009) December, 2002). For this analysis, 21 of the 68 

modeled petroleum refining facilities and 70 of the 190 modeled OPCSF facilities were located 

on streams with a mean flow rate of greater than 10,000 ft3

/s. 

These decay coefficients (Table 8-1) were used in the stream dilution modeling. 

8-2 
Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

Table 8-1. Decay Coefficients for Nitrogen and Phosphorus, Segregated by Stream 

Flowrate 

Flowrate Decay Coefficients (d-1)* 

(ft3/s) Nitrogen Phosphorus 

< 1,000 0.3842 0.2680 

1,000 - 10,000 0.1227 0.0956 

>10,000 0.0408 0.0156 

* Values were taken from the Final Model Bootstrap Coefficient column reported in Tables 1 and 2 from Smith et al 

(1997). The report did not develop a phosphorus decay coefficient for flowrates >10,000 ft3

/s, so the Final Model 

Lower 90 percent Confidence Interval for flowrates between 1,000 and 10,000 ft3

/s is being applied. This application 

is reasonable as the faster the flow rate, the longer it would take for the decay process to occur. Therefore, it is 

assumed that the lower 90 percent confidence is representative of the higher flow rates (i.e., those close to 10,000 

ft3

/s). 

8.4 Methodology for Developing Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorous Loads 

This section describes the methodology that was applied to calculate total 

nitrogen and phosphorus loads for OCPSF facilities and petroleum refineries. 

8.4.1 Total Nitrogen Load 

The PCS database contains approximately 50 different parameters that may be 

reported for nitrogen compounds, and the TRI database includes discharge data for three 

nitrogen compounds. Table 8-2 presents the nitrogen compounds that are reported to TRI and 

PCS by OCPSF and petroleum refining facilities. The following assumptions were made 

regarding the parameters in Table 8-2: 

C Total Nitrogen is the sum of organic nitrogen, ammonia, nitrite, and 

nitrate; 

C Total Inorganic Nitrogen is the sum of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate; 

C Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN) is the sum of organic nitrogen and 

ammonia; and 

C Unionized ammonia is a subset of total ammonia. 

8-3
Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

Table 8-2. Nitrogen Compounds Reported to TRI and PCS by OCPSF and Petroleum 

Refining Facilities 

PRAM Code or CAS Number Compound 

In PCS Database: 

00600 Nitrogen, Total (As N) 

00605 Nitrogen, Organic Total (As N) 

00610 Nitrogen, Ammonia Total (As N) 

00615 Nitrogen, Nitrite Total (As N) 

00619 Ammonia, Unionized 

00620 Nitrogen, Nitrate Total (As N) 

00625 Nitrogen, Kjeldahl Total (As N) 

00630 Nitrite plus Nitrate Total 1 DET (As N) 

00640 Nitrogen, Inorganic Total 

34726 Nitrogen, Ammonia, Total (As NH3) 

61574 Ammonia (As N) + Unionized Ammonia 

In TRI Database: 

7632000 Sodium Nitrite 

7664417 Ammonia 

N511 Nitrate Compounds 

Loads of compounds that are not reported as nitrogen, such as sodium nitrite, 

nitrate compounds, or ammonia, were converted to pounds of nitrogen using the following 

equation: 

Lbs Nitrogen = Lbs Compound * (Molecular Weight (MW) Nitrogen / MW Compound) 

The data obtained from the PCS and TRI databases required manual modification 

to avoid overestimating the nitrogen loads. For some facilities, a single NPDES number 

matched multiple TRI Ids, and vice versa. In the case where a single NPDES number matched 

multiple TRI Ids, the PCS loads were divided among the TRI Ids. In the case where a single TRI 

Id matched multiple NPDES numbers, the TRI releases were divided among the NPDES 

numbers. 

The following hierarchy was applied for calculating the total nitrogen load: 

1. Use PCS PRAM 00600, if reported, to represent total Nitrogen. 

8-4 
Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

2. If PCS PRAM 00600 is not reported, use the sum of TKN, Nitrite, and 

Nitrate. 

3. If neither of the first two rules apply, use the sum of Organic Nitrogen, 

Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate. 

4. Where applicable, use TRI data to fill in for missing PCS parameters in 

the total nitrogen calculation. 

5. If no nitrogen compounds are reported to PCS, use the sum of Ammonia, 

Sodium nitrite, and Nitrate compounds reported to TRI. 

The final loads table presents the TRI ID, NPDES number, total nitrogen load, REACH number, 

and the latitude/longitude coordinates for each facility. 

8.4.2 Total Phosphorus Load 

The total phosphorus load was calculated using PCS data. The TRI database only 

includes discharge data for elemental phosphorus, which is not reported by any of the facilities in 

OCSPF or Petroleum Refining. Table 8-3 presents the phosphorous parameters that are reported 

to PCS by OCPSF and petroleum refining facilities. 

Table 8-3. Phosphorus Parameters Reported to PCS by OCPSF and Petroleum Refining 

Facilities 

PRAM Code Phosphorus Parameter 

00665 Phosphorus, Total (As P) 

00662 Phosphorus, Total Recoverable 

00650 Phosphate, Total (As PO4) 

70507 Phosphorus, in Total Orthophosphate 

71888 Phosphorus, Total Soluble (As PO4) 

All discharges that were reported as phosphate were converted to pounds of 

phosphorus using the following equation: 

Lbs Phosphorus = Lbs Phosphate * (MW Phosphorus / MW Phosphate). 

The data obtained from the PCS database required manual modification to avoid 

overestimating the phosphorus loads. For some facilities, a single NPDES number matched 

multiple TRI Ids. For these facilities, the PCS loads were divided among the TRI Ids. 

The following hierarchy was applied for selecting PCS parameters to represent 

the total phosphorus load: 

8-5
8.5 

Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

1. Use PCS PRAM 00665, if reported, to represent total Phosphorus. 

2. If PCS PRAM 00665 is not reported, use the Total Recoverable 

Phosphorus load. 

3. If neither of the first two rules apply, use the Phosphate load. 

4. If no other Phosphorus parameters are reported, use the Soluble Phosphate 

load. 

The final loads table presents the TRI ID, NPDES number, total phosphorus load, REACH 

number, and the latitude/longitude coordinates for each facility. 

Stream Dilution Modeling 

EPA incorporated exponential decay loss for total nitrogen and total phosphorus 

into a simplified stream dilution model by projecting the concentration, under 7Q10 low flow 

(lowest consecutive seven-day average flow during any 10-year period) and mean receiving 

stream flow conditions, at a distance (1,000 m) downstream from 68 petroleum refining facilities 

discharging to 57 receiving streams and 190 OCPSF facilities discharging to 153 receiving 

streams (Equations 1 and 2). Facilities discharging to estuaries/bays were not evaluated. 

Cis = L/OD xCF Eq. 1

FF SF +

Cds =Cise − kt Eq. 2 

where 

Cis = instream pollutant concentration (milligrams per liter [mg/L]) 

L = facility pollutant loading (pounds per year [lbs/yr]) 

OD = facility operating days (days per year [days/yr]) 

FF = facility effluent flow (million gallons per day [MGD]) 

SF = receiving stream flow (million gallons per day [MGD]) 

CF = conversion factors for units 

Cds = in-stream pollutant concentration 1,000 meters downstream (milligrams 

per liter [mg/L])

k = decay coefficient (days-1)

t = time to travel 1,000 meters (days)

Receiving stream flow data were obtained from the W.E. Gates study data which is contained in 

EPA’s GAGE File (5). Facility effluent flow data were obtained from EPA’s Permit Compliance 

System (PCS) (1) or Industrial Facilities Discharge (IFD) File (6). All facilities were assumed to 

be in operation 365 days per year. The 1,000 m distance represents the maximum distance that 

the stream flow rates and velocities for a particular reach were considered applicable. EPA then 

estimated the travel time required in the exponential decay equation by dividing the travel 

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Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

distance (1,000 m) by the reach velocity (available from EPA’s GAGE File). The estimated 

instream concentrations were then compared to the appropriate total nitrogen and total 

phosphorous aggregate reference condition values to estimate the effects on the environment at 

current discharge levels. Each of the modeled facilities was assigned to one of the 14 nutrient 

ecoregions based on locational information and the use of ArcView GIS software. EPA 

identified the locations of facilities on receiving streams using the U.S. Geological Survey 

(USGS) cataloging and stream segment (reach) numbers contained in EPA’s REACH File (RF1) 

(7). Estimated instream concentrations were compared directly to the 25th and 50th percentile 

aggregate reference condition values to determine impacts. To determine a water quality 

excursion, EPA divided the projected instream concentration by the reference condition value. A 

number greater than 1.0 indicated an excursion. 

8.6 Results 

The results of this analysis indicate the potential water quality impacts of nutrient 

discharges from petroleum refining and OCPSF facilities. Tables 8-4 and 8-5 present a summary 

of the results. This analysis is not designed to predict actual instream concentrations, but instead 

evaluate, at a screening level, the relative impacts of facilities under current conditions. 

8.6.1 Petroleum Refining 

Under current discharge levels, in the absence of all other sources of nitrogen and 

phosphorus, and assuming 7Q10 low flow stream conditions, nitrogen concentrations in 12 

receiving streams (out of 57 modeled) would exceed the upper 25th percentile reference condition 

of ‘least impacted’ streams due to petroleum refining discharges. (Table 8-4. As noted above, 

EPA’s recommends that states and tribes use the upper 25th percentile reference condition of 

‘least impacted’ streams as a starting point for establishing more refined nutrient criteria.) 

Petroleum refining discharges would result in 11 receiving streams having estimated instream 

nitrogen concentrations higher than the 50th (i.e., median) percentile reference conditions. Under 

mean flow conditions, one receiving stream is projected to exceed both the 25th percentile 

reference condition of ‘least impacted’ streams and 50th (i.e., median) percentile reference 

conditions (Table 8- 4). When modeled similarly, phosphorus discharges from petroleum 

refining plants do not result in any streams having concentrations higher than the upper 25th 

percentile reference condition of ‘least impacted’ streams. (Table 8-4). EPA notes that, by 

definition, many receiving streams exceed the 25th and 50th percentile reference conditions, even 

in the absence of petroleum refining facility discharges, but this screening-level analysis 

demonstrates the potential for petroleum refining nutrient discharges to affect water quality. 

8-7
Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

Table 8-4. Summary of Screening-level Nutrient Analysis for Petroleum Refining Direct 

Discharge Facilities 

Total Nitrogen Total Phosphorus 

7Q10 Flow Mean Flow 7Q10 Flow Mean Flow 

25th Percentile 

Current 

Stream (No.) 12 1 0 0 

Magnitude 1.3 - 9.4 7.0 NA NA 

50th Percentile 

Current 

Stream (No.) 11 1 0 0 

Magnitude 1.2 - 5.4 4.8 NA NA 

Note: Magnitude represents the range in the extent of the excursions (i.e., ratio of instream concentrations to 

criteria >1.0) 

25th and 50th percentiles aggregate seasons and nutrient ecoregion reference conditions 

Number of streams evaluated = 57 and number of facilities = 68 

Assumes operating days = 365 

May 2004, Loadings File 

8.6.2 OCPSF 

Under current discharge levels, in the absence of all other sources of nitrogen and 

phosphorus, and assuming 7Q10 low flow stream conditions, nitrogen concentrations in 19 

receiving streams (out of 153 modeled) would exceed the upper 25th percentile reference 

condition of ‘least impacted’ streams due to OCPSF discharges. (Table 8-5. As noted above, 

EPA’s recommends that states and tribes use the upper 25th percentile reference condition of 

‘least impacted’ streams as a starting point for establishing more refined nutrient criteria.) 

OCPSF discharges would result in 14 receiving streams having estimated instream nitrogen 

concentrations higher than the 50th (i.e., median) percentile reference conditions. Under mean 

flow conditions, four receiving streams are projected to exceed both the 25th and 50th percentile 

reference conditions (Table 8-5). When modeled similarly, phosphorus discharges from OCPSF 

plants do not result in any streams having concentrations higher than the upper 25th percentile 

reference condition of ‘least impacted’ streams. (Table 8-5). EPA notes that, by definition, many 

streams exceed the 25th and 50th percentile reference conditions, even in the absence of OCPSF 

facility discharges, but this screening-level analysis demonstrates the potential for OCPSF 

nutrient discharges to affect water quality. 

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Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

Table 8-5. Summary of Screening-level Nutrient Analysis for OCPSF Direct Discharge 

Facilities 

Total Nitrogen Total Phosphorus 

7Q10 Flow Mean Flow 7Q10 Flow Mean Flow 

25th Percentile 

Current 

Stream (No.) 19 4 0 0 

Magnitude 1.0 - 355 1.9 - 75 NA NA 

50th Percentile 

Current 

Stream (No.) 14 4 0 0 

Magnitude 1.0 - 252 1.2 - 53 NA NA 

Note: Magnitude represents the range in the extent of the excursions (i.e., ratio of instream concentrations to criteria 

>1.0) 

25th and 50th percentiles aggregate seasons and nutrient ecoregion reference conditions 

Number of streams evaluated = 153 and number of facilities = 190 

Assumes operating days = 365 

May 2004, Loadings File 

8.7 References 

1. Permit Compliance System (PCS). Estimated Using the Effluent Data Statistics 

System (EDSS). Washington, D.C. April 1996. 

2. Smith R.A., G.E. Schwartz, and R.B. Alexander. “Regional Interpretation of 

Water-Quality Monitoring Data.” Water Resources Research 33:2781-2798. 

1997. 

3. U.S. EPA. Ecoregional Nutrient Criteria Documents for Rivers and Streams. 

Available online at: http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/criteria/nutrient/ 

ecoregions/rivers/index.html. Washington, D.C. Accessed October 2003. 

4. U.S. EPA, Office of Water, Engineering and Analysis Division. Petroleum 

Refining and OCPSF Loadings File. Washington, D.C. 2004. 

5. U.S. EPA, Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds. GAGE File. Washington, 

D.C. Downloaded February 2000.

6. U.S. EPA, Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds. Industrial Facilities 

Discharge (IFD) File. Washington, D.C. Downloaded November 1998. 

8-9
Section 8 - Nutrient Criteria Analysis 

7. U.S. EPA, Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds. REACH File (RF1). 

Washington, D.C. Downloaded February 2000. 

8. Wickham J.D., T.G. Wade, K.H. Riitters, R.V. O’Neill, J.H. Smith, E.R. Smith, 

K.B. Jones, and A.C. Neale. “Upstream-to-Downstream Changes in Nutrient 

Export Risk.” Landscape Ecology, 18:195-208. 2003. 

8-10
9.1 

Section 9 - Industries Identified as New By Commenters 

SECTION 9 INDUSTRIES IDENTIFIED AS NEW BY COMMENTERS 

This section discusses EPA’s identification of new industrial categories for 

effluent guidelines rulemaking. Section 304(m)(1)(B) of the Clean Water Act requires EPA to 

identify categories of sources discharging toxic and nonconventional pollutants in nontrivial 

amounts, for which effluent guidelines under Section 304(b)(2) and new source performance 

standards under Section 306 have not yet been published. EPA identified two industrial 

activities that meet the criteria specified in Section 304(m)(1)(B): airport deicing operations and 

drinking water supply and treatment facilities. EPA is identifying both of these activities in the 

2004 Final Effluent Guidelines Program Plan. This section provides information on the basis for 

EPA’s identification of these two new categories. 

Airport Deicing Operations 

EPA did not identify the airport deicing discharges (SIC code 4581) as a potential 

candidate for effluent guidelines development in the Preliminary Plan. At that time, EPA noted 

that it had inadequate data to determine if airport deicing discharges were nontrivial. Public 

comments on the Preliminary Plan suggested that EPA consider developing effluent guidelines 

for this industrial sector due to the potential for facilities in this industrial sector to discharge 

nontrivial amounts of nonconventional and toxic pollutants. In particular, commenters stated 

that airport deicing fluid (ADF) is not properly recaptured and re-used or properly treated before 

discharge. Commenters noted that these discharges can cause significant harm to natural 

resources such as fish kills, algae blooms, and contamination of surface or ground waters. 

Following the Preliminary Plan, EPA collected additional information and 

revisited the information in its docket. EPA's primary source of wastewater discharge 

information for this industry is its Preliminary Data Summary: Airport Deicing Operations, 

which was published in August 2000 (EPA-821-R-00-016). This study focused on 

approximately 200 U.S. airports with potentially significant deicing/anti-icing operations. The 

major source of pollutant discharges from deicing operations is deicing agent contaminated 

stormwater which typically contains water, glycols, and additives. However, the study showed 

that there was great disparity among airports in terms of permit requirements. Some airports, 

generally those with stringent stormwater discharge permits, had made great strides in terms of 

wastewater collection, containment, pollution prevention and/or recycling/treatment programs. 

Other airports, however, did much less to manage their stormwater. 

At the time of the study, annual discharge estimates to surface waters were 21 

million gallons of ADF. EPA also estimated that full implementation of stormwater permits 

would reduce these discharges to 17 million gallons annually. Finally, the study also estimated 

possible reductions in ADF discharges if effluent limitations guidelines and standards were 

implemented for discharges resulting from airport deicing operations. Using results from 

technologies and pollution prevention practices employed at some of the better performing 

airports, EPA estimated annual surface water discharges could be reduced to 4 million gallons. 

9-1
9.2 

Section 9 - Industries Identified as New By Commenters 

A review of current and proposed discharge permits for over 20 airports indicates 

that while some airports have more stringent permits and have reduced their ADF discharges 

since EPA's earlier study was conducted, there is still significant disparity among discharge 

requirements. For example, some are only required to implement BMPs and sample on a limited 

basis for a few conventional pollutants while others have instituted significant BMPs, collection, 

and/or treatment to comply with a 2 mg/L ADF discharge limitation. Based on the information 

in its study and a review of this permit information, EPA concludes that it is appropriate to 

identify discharges from airport deicing operations in this Final Plan, and to take final action on 

effluent guidelines within three years. 

For information about EPA’s economic analysis and small business 

considerations of this sector, see the August 16, 2004 Memorandum entitled Airport Industrial 

Discharges—Industry Profile and the August 6, 2004 memorandum entitled Airport Industrial 

Discharges: Number of Small Entities (located in the docket). 

Drinking Water Supply & Treatment 

EPA did not identify the drinking water supply and treatment industrial sector 

(SIC code 4941) as a potential candidate for effluent guidelines development in the Preliminary 

Plan. At that time, EPA concluded that almost all of the hazard posed by this industrial sector 

was due to a few facilities. In particular, EPA's analysis showed that a single facility was 

contributing over 97% of the TWPE discharges for the entire industrial sector. Public comments 

on the Preliminary Plan suggested that EPA consider developing effluent guidelines for this 

industrial sector due to the potential of facilities in this industrial sector to discharge nontrivial 

amounts of nonconventional and toxic pollutants (e.g., metals and salts). In particular, 

commenters stated that many drinking water facilities have the potential to discharge significant 

quantities of conventional and toxic pollutants. These commenters noted that the source of these 

pollutants can include drinking water treatment sludges and reverse osmosis reject wastewaters. 

Consequently, EPA attempted to collect additional information and re-evaluated the information 

in the docket supporting the 2004 Final Plan. 

Based on information in the 1997 Economic Census, EPA estimates there are 

3,700 drinking water treatment and supply facilities in the United States. For information about 

EPA’s economic analysis and small business considerations of this sector, see the August 11, 

2004 Memorandum entitled Drinking Water Facilities Profile and the August 4, 2004 

memorandum entitled Estimated Number of Small Entities Owning Drinking Water Facilities 

(located in the docket). 

EPA's primary source of wastewater data for this industry is EPA's Permit 

Compliance System (PCS). This database contains information required by the NPDES Permit 

Program for major dischargers across the country, including discharge flows and pollutant 

9-2
Section 9 - Industries Identified as New By Commenters 

concentrations1. EPA was therefore able to analyze this information for the 16 drinking water 

supply and treatment facilities with major permits for the year 2000. However, EPA does not 

require states to include such data for other dischargers (e.g., minor and indirect dischargers) in 

PCS, so little information is available about industries dominated by minor and indirect 

dischargers. PCS lists approximately 900 drinking water supply and treatment facilities as 

having minor permits for the year 2000, but does not include data on discharge flows or pollutant 

concentrations. Consequently, EPA was unable to quantify discharges from these minor and 

indirect discharging facilities. 

The TWPE for the sixteen facilities ranged from significant to very low. Total 

residual chlorine and metals (e.g., manganese and aluminum) represent most of the TWPE 

discharges from these sixteen facilities. The TWPE estimate for these sixteen facilities is largely 

related to the wastewater discharges from three facilities. For the remaining 13 facilities, PCS 

data indicate that pollutants are being discharged at or near the detection levels raising concerns 

about further treatability of these pollutants using end-of-pipe treatment. More recent PCS 

information suggests the TWPE discharges at some of these sixteen facilities have decreased. In 

particular, the top two hazard discharging facilities for the year 2000 have added technology to 

properly de-water their wastewater treatment sludges and are likely to reduce their wastewater 

discharges by 85 percent or more. Further, one of the two facilities no longer discharges any 

wastewater associated with drinking water operations. Analysis of PCS data from 2003 indicates 

that the sixteen facilities with quantitative data are currently discharging approximately 20,500 

TWPEs. 

While this PCS data suggests that some drinking water supply and treatment 

facilities with direct discharging permits are not discharging pollutants in significant 

concentrations, it also supports commenters' statements that other drinking water treatment and 

supply facilities may discharge nontrivial amounts of toxic and nonconventional pollutants, 

which EPA considers in deciding whether EPA should develop effluent guidelines for an 

industry that is not yet regulated by effluent guidelines. Therefore, EPA has identified the 

drinking water supply and treatment industry as a possible new category in the 2004 Final Plan 

and will take final action on potential effluent guidelines for this category within three years. 

See CWA Section 304(m)(1)(C). 

1

A major discharger is any NPDES facility or activity classified as such by the Regional Administrator, or, in the 

case of approved State Programs, the Regional Administrator in conjunction with the State Director. Major 

industrial facilities are determined based on specific ratings criteria developed by EPA and approved State Programs. 

9-3