bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tariff structure program: Guanajuato case study
Authors: Ruiz V.L.
Published: May 2018

Following careful planning and work with stakeholders, the State Water Commission of Guanajuato in Mexico has been implementing a process of change leading to a more rational tariff structure for the delivery of water services. By gaining support for tariffs that reflect realistic costs for the service, prices have been stabilised and unplanned subsidies replaced by properly targeted ones; lower volumes of water are being used while more people are being served; and a secure basis has been created for development to meet future needs.
Filtration of biological suspension: membrane performance
Authors: Delgado S. , Díaz F. , Villarroel R. , García M.D. , Vera L. , Regalado N. , Pérez E.B.
Published: May 2018

Wastewater reuse provides a substantial non-conventional water resource, mainly for agriculture. However, it requires appropriate treatment technologies and previous evaluation so as to meet quality requirements imposed by government regulations and crop needs. Among all the technologies applied to wastewater treatment, membrane-based systems have gained increasing importance, although their main drawback is progressive membrane fouling, which affects process efficiency enormously. The present study analyses the filterability of some biological suspensions as well as the influence of several variables in membrane fouling. Classic dead–end filtration models are used in an attempt to better understand fouling mechanisms and develop methods to prevent or retard it.
Sacramento implements guidance for river, growth and demand management
Authors: Pike Charles W.
Published: May 2018

The Sacramento California Region has long enjoyed ample water supplies and popular rivers providing esthetic, recreation and environmental resources. Ground and surface water supplies have been managed by twenty independent management agencies. In the 1980s and 1990s the region experienced dramatic population growth and increased water demand. Environmental organizations sought to preserve the environmental values of the Lower American River. Six years of negotiation resulted in the Water Forum Agreement, a memorandum of understanding signed by business and agricultural leaders, citizens groups, environmentalists, water managers, and local governments to fulfill two co-equal objectives: (i) to provide a reliable and safe water supply for the region's economic health and planned development to the year 2030; and (ii) to preserve the fishery, wildlife, recreational, and aesthetic values of the Lower American River. This paper describes three major parameters guiding the water future of the Sacramento Region, which may be a model for other regions of the world: (1) the seven policy elements of the Water Forum Agreement; (2) the Regional Water Authority (RWA) and the Sacramento Groundwater Authority help to implement the policies of the Water Forum Agreement; (3) RWA's regional water efficiency program provides “pick and choose” water efficiency measures to twenty water suppliers in three counties.
Ozonation of Aromatic Compounds pH-Dependence
Authors: Gilbert E
Published: May 2018

The ozonation of 2-nitro-p-cresol and p-toluenesulfonic acid (c = 1 mmole/l, ozone dose 10 mg O3/min l) in aqueous solution as a function of the pH-value (pH = 2,5 - 10,5) was investigated. At pH = 2,5 the reaction products of 2-nitro-p-cresol are measured quantitatively over the run of the reaction.

The results show that the elimination rates for the initial compounds and the mineralization of the heterogroups increase with the pH value. On account of this result the spectrum of oxidation products is different after 90 % elimination of the initial compound as a function of pH. The values of DOC-and COD-elimination increase with increasing pH-value.

Although the ozone absorption is better in the basic range one finds that 1,6 - 2,2 mg O3/mg ∆ COD are required in the basic range (pH 10), but only 1,1 mg O3/mg ∆3 COD in the acid range (pH 3).
The Elimination of Mineral Micropollutants
Authors: Regnier B , Goblet C , Genot J , Masschelein W J
Published: May 2018

Mineral micropollutants in waste waters and drinking water are essentially composed of heavy metal salts. Their elimination, when present in trace quantities, is discussed in this paper.

The techniques, which water treatment facilities can use, necessitate preclarification in open basins (efficiency varying between 20 and 90%), elimination by filtration, with efficiencies depending largely on preoxidation but particularly on coagulation-precipitation and related techniques. Our investigations, as well as certain literature data, demonstrate the predominating importance of contact between water and sludges in decanters-clarificators. Thus, Jar tests often yield only a poorly representative result of the elimination of heavy metals by coagulation-flocculation-decantation. As to the use of aluminium sulphate, for example, the elimination rates mentioned relating to the elimination rate or % removal in laboratory experiments, in pilot tests with sludge beds and in treatment plants respectively are as follows: Fe: 100, 95, 100; Mn: 4, 38, 97; Cu: 91, 83, 85; Cr: 29, 8, 83; Cd: 21, 29, 96; Ni: 0, 20, 50; Co: 0, 16, 51; Pb; -, 52, 61. It should be noted that treatment in plants is much more elaborate (oxidation by chlorine dioxide, application of activated silica and a one hour contact time with the sludge bed) than in pilot experiments (15 minutes contact time and a sludge bed without activated carbon).

The oxidation state of metals plays an important role in techniques for their elimination by the usual methods such as coagulation-flocculation-decantation as well as in coprecipitation phenomena of Fe and Mn for example.

The method of alkaline precipitation, in which the pH value needed is obtained by addition of lime, results in elimination rates over 80% and generally far over 90%. This method uses at the same time direct precipitation and coprecipitation in a calcium carbonate/magnesium oxide matrix.

Ion exchange gives highly variable elimination results according to the ion present and its concentration. In practice, strong cation exchange resin are generally applied.

In treatment plants, adsorption on carbon allows an overall yield of 50-100% removal of the metal concerned, provided that preoxidation and sufficient contact times are allowed. The experimental distinction of the specific effect due to adsorption is difficult, but according to our studies, adsorption occurs to a small extent only in the majority of cases.

30-50% of the remaining traces are eliminated by infiltration of purified waters underground, where a levelling of concentrations also occurs.

In addition to the investigations presented, studies still being carried out demonstrate a sufficient stabilization of heavy metals immobilized with lime in order to allow them to be dumped in the environment without risk. This method seems confirmed as a method of choice in treatment of waste waters loaded with heavy metals.
Methodology for Determining the Presence and Origin of Organic Micropollutants
Authors: Guiraud Alain , Larnicol Joseph
Published: May 2018

The article describes the approach taken by the Water Authority for the Paris Suburbs, the Compagnie Générale des Eaux and the Seine-Normandie River Basin Agency for the determination of organic micropollutants in the Oise River.

The objective of the very pragmatic approach outlined is to locate the origin of possible micropollutants in the Oise water which may cause problems during treatment, distribution or consumption of the drinking water produced at the Méry-sur-Oise plant, whose treatment combines in an original way the whole range of existing processes, both the physico-chemical and the biological.

The conventional method of searching for organic micropollutants consists of carrying out a series of analyses in a medium to identify a certain number of undesirable substances and of following their development in the stream.

The existence of a drinking water production process, that is, a line of treatment stages, distracts from the interest in testing for a number of micropollutants, since they are removed at various stages of the treatment process.

Nevertheless, the protection of reactors and, in particular, of biological reactors, requires that certain micropollutants be eliminated even before the beginning of the treatment sequence.

And, among the micropollutants which might possibly enter the plant, those which should be looked at are those which will entail baneful effects for consumption, it being understood that drinking water standards are respected in all circumstances.

The analytical method used is gas or liquid chromatography; where identification is essential, as in the case of suspected products, a combination of mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography is used.

The notion of a chromatogram or mass spectra bank is essential.

The assumption underlying the method's validity is that the discharge(s) likely to contain in large part the substances creating problems is that which usually contains them in small part.

Although available experience is still limited, there are good reasons to believe that this method can improve the identification and above all the elimination of the sources of “problematic” micropollutants for the modern treatment of surface water intended for the production of drinking water.
The Influence of Nitrogen on Phosphorus Removal in Activated Sludge Plants
Authors: Barnard J L
Published: May 2018

This paper discusses the need for anaerobiases as a pre-requisite for phosphorus removal in activated sludge plants and the effect of nitrates on the anaerobic conditions. If the plant could be operated to avoid nitrification, biological phosphorus removal presents no problems. When nitrification is required, the nitrates must be reduced to a low level through internal denitrification. If sufficient carbon is available to ensure complete removal of the nitrates and anaerobic conditions in a specific zone in the plant, good phosphate removal can be ensured. Below COD : TKN ratios of 10 : 1 it is becoming more difficult to control the plant and special care should be taken to determine not only the quantity of organic carbon available as electron donors for removal of the nitrates but also the form in which it arrives at the plant.
Environmental Legislation in the United States and Some Impacts upon the Goal of National Environmental Improvement
Authors: Garber W F
Published: May 2018

The Congress of the United States of America enacted legislation to control the environmental effects of the wastes generated by the various activities of American society upon the air, water and land resources of the nation. These laws involved the best thinking of the Congress and of the publics it consulted in their development; but not of other important publics including those involved in collecting, treating and disposing of waste materials. In additional the legislation appeared as a series of separaxe acts directed towards control of a single medium and were phrased and administered so that an overall review of the net impact upon all mediums (the total environment) was not readily possible. Furthermore the concept of a single national standard rather than individual evaluation of each waste problem was introduced as well as an adversary approach by the Federal government. The results do not appear to have substantially advanced the nation towards the goal of environmental improvement and may in fact have introduced substantial impediments. Examples of problems which have arisen because of this approach are given.
Effect of Turbulent Dispersion on the Fate of Ammonia Nitrogen in Rivers
Authors: Orhon D , Göneng E
Published: May 2018

Biochemical oxidation and longitudinal dispersion components are integrated in a model suggested for accurate prediction of the fate of ammonia in rivers subject to unsteady discharges. The proposed model is theoretically evaluated for major transient loadings to visualize the impact of turbulent diffusion. Experimental studies are also conducted at Porsuk river to test the model for pulse type of discharges identified as the most affected loading mode.
Water and Wastewater Treatment in Latin America – Applied Technology*
Authors: Mijares G Rivas
Published: May 2018

* Some of the information presented here was discussed in a conference read by the author at the Water Research Center, Medmenham Laboratory, England in 1978, under the auspices of the Royal Society.
Elements of the Inhibition of Nitrifying Bacteria
Authors: Martin G , Richard Y
Published: May 2018

Laboratory experiments were conducted on ammonia bio-oxidation to nitrates by mixed cultures of nitrifiers in order to quantify the influence of mineral and organic pollutants on biokinetics parameters.

First, the inhibitory effects of various heavy metal ions were studied using laboratory scale activated sludge and submerged filter units.

Depending on the unit process and the metal involved, inhibitory effects are observed at concentrations above 1 mg/l. Results obtained provide further support for an hypothesis suggested as an explanation of the toxicity of compounds such as heavy metals: this is based on a Freunclich's adsorption law of heavy metals on nitrifying sludge. No change of inhibitory effects are obtained using fixed films in submerged filters.

The effects of organic compounds were examined using the same laboratory procedure. Inhibitory effects of organic compounds in submerged filters depend on their absorptive property. Each of the organic compounds involved may affect nitrifying bacteria.
Economic Aspects of Oil Pollution
Authors: Lühr H.-P
Published: May 2018

The risk attending oil pollution is difficult to assess because of the different economic and ecological effects that may be caused, depending upon the geographical, hydrological and marine conditions. An enormous difference exists between estimates of oil losses from pipelines although from oil platforms the various estimates of losses are in closer agreement. On the basis of statistical data it is suggested that two or three major oil spills per year will occur in the North Sea, a major spill being one involving an oil loss of over 135 tonnes.

Supertankers carry oil at about 40% of the cost of transport in small tankers. The bigger the tanker the greater the loss of oil when an accident occurs though the frequency of accident is less. The tankers owned by oil companies have a better accident-free record than the independent carriers and tankers sailing under flags of convenience have a worse record than those under other national flags.

Oil spillages on the high seas usually causes little damage and on rocky coasts the damage is short lived. In shallow marine waters with minimal tidal effects and varied marine life the consequences could be disastrous and possibly irreversible. Beyond stating that the economic losses would be enormous under the last mentioned condition it is difficult to quantify the damage in economic terms. Consequently, a reasonable approach to an assessment of the economic costs of oil spillages is to estimate the cost of the measures that would have to be taken to prevent them and to deal with them if they occur. For instance in the AMOCO CADIZ accident resulting in a loss of about 220 000 tons of oil involved 10 000 persons in clean up operations, 4 500 metres of oil booms, 1000 vehicles, 50 vessels, aircraft and direct costs (ie. non-capital) estimated at 150 million DM, so that the primary economic damage during the year after the spillage would be 500-1000 million DM. This ignores the economic aspects of the ecological damage.

Since an analysis of the causes of tanker accidents shows that they are mostly due to human failure and vessel defects it becomes necessary to devise policies that will as far as possible prevent such accidents and their consequences. This principle of prevention is the environmental policy which the Federal Republic of Germany will follow. This policy takes into account the maximum tolerable pollution from oil, the maximum extent of oil pollution that could result from oil tanker disasters under given situations, the capital and operating costs of dealing with such emergencies and the manpower and administration required for such operations. These risks involved in oil transportation would be studied and the desirability of discouraging the use of supertankers would be taken into account.
Packaging of Information-Part and Parcel of Successful Technology Transfer
Authors: Pieterse M J
Published: May 2018

The correct packaging of information as a prerequisite for successful technology transfer is discussed and it is stressed that research findings should be tailored and packaged in a format and language that is understandable and acceptable to the user. The transfer should be directed at a target audience and the principle in the transfer process is simplicity. The various packaging techniques are described and these include mass media techniques, publications, and more specific techniques like seminars, conferences, demonstrations, education, etc. The important role of personal contact in a technology transfer programme is also stressed. Terminology regarding technology and information transfer is briefly discussed. The availability of the relevant information and the important role of the technology transfer specialist are also briefly examined.
Water Recycling: Review and Background
Authors: Linstedt K D
Published: May 2018

A review is provided of the world water resource situation. Water reuse is discussed as a means of augmenting conventional supplies, with types of potential reuse applications identified. Considerations of water quality, cost, public acceptance, and institutional constraints are discussed for their impact on decisions regarding implementation of water reuse.
Water Recycling Systems
Authors: Heaton R D
Published: May 2018

Water recycling systems implies the initial treatment requirements for various water reuse schemes including unit process descriptions, performance and cost data. Several volumes of text are required for adequate coverage of the above subject and this paper will only attempt to highlight important areas, provide guidelines and give needed direction. Cost functions of one important U.S. Research/ Demonstration Facility (Water Factory 21) are given in more detail. Much of the data has been summarized from four important publications shown below and the reader seeking additional information is encouraged to examine these in detail.1.Water Reuse and Recycling - Volume 2 - Evaluation of Treactment Technology, 1979, U.S. Office of Water Research & Technology (OWRT). Report by Culp/Wesner/Culp Engineers, NTIS #PB 80-131469.2.Guidelines for Water Reuse, August 1980, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Report by Camp Dresser & McKee Engineers, NTIS #PB 81-105017.3.Evaluation of, Membrane. Processes and Their Role in Wastewater Reclamation, 1981. OWRT sponsored report by Orange County Water District, Fountain Valley, California, USA.4.Municipal Wastewater Reuse News. OWRT sponsored monthly newsletter by AWWA Research Foundation, Denver, Colorado, USA.
Effect of Ionic Presence on Chlorine Disinfection of Animal Viruses
Authors: Cronier S , Scarpino P V , Wells C
Published: May 2018

Work by Scarpino in 1972 indicated that disinfection rates are affected by ionic presence. When disinfecting coxackievirus A9 with H0C1 at pH 6.0 in the presence of 0.05M KC1 the effect is to increase the disinfection rate 50 times. Disinfection of coxackievirus A9 at pH 10.0 shows that 0.05M KC1 increases the disinfection rate 10 times. This rate difference due to 0.05M KC1 between the two pH's may be due to the charge on the hypochlorite ion, the change of charge on the surface of the virion, or to a change in the chemical equilibrium of chlorine due to the pH. Studies with poliovirus 1 and 0.05M KC1 showed the same ion effect. When the disinfection of poliovirus 1 with hypochlorous acid (H0C1) was compared with the disinfection of E.coli, the E.coli was disinfected quicker than poliovirus 1. This relationship that viruses are more resistant than the fecal indicator organism E.coli is generally accepted. However, poliovirus 1 was more sensitive to hypochlorite ion (OCl−) than E. coli, when 0.05M KC1 was present in the buffer. Whereas the ion effect was present for coxsackievirus A9 and poliovirus 1, it was not present for E.coli.

We have been pursuing this ion effect phenomenon using both chlorine and chloramines. To determine whether this ion effect was present with chloramines, similar tests were run using monochloramine (NH2C1) as the disinfectant. Again the effect held. That is, the presence of KC1 in the buffers increased the efficiency of the disinfectant. This ion-effect was dose dependent between 0.05M KC1 and 0.1M KC1, where the effect was greater with 0.1M KC1. The OCl− and NH2C1 studies were both run at pH 10.0 and at 5°C. Tests were then run to determine whether the effect held for dichloramine (NHC12) at pH 4.5. The ion-effect was present using dichloramine. However, the level of dichloramine dropped from 11.5 ppm to 6.5 ppm during the test. The chloramine loss may be due to the shift of equilibrium as represented by the following equation:

With the formation of nitrogen tri-chloride (NC13) the ion-effect could be dissipated if the addition of KC1 was made at a different time. When the chlorine species was formed in the presence of KC1 the effect was present. When the KC1 was added to the already formed specie the effect was not present in the case of monochloramine and much reduced in the case of hypochlorous acid. Therefore, the time of the KC1 addition to the system was critical to the ion-effect phenomenon.
Modern Trends in Sludge Management: Sludge Conditioning
Authors: Eden G E
Published: May 2018

The origins and characteristics of sludges are described in relation to the need to dewater them for ultimate disposal. Various methods for conditioning sludge to facilitate subsequent dewatering are discussed, including physical, thermal and chemical methods. The special features of conditioning by polyelectrolytes are described and an account is given of laboratory techniques for comparing the relative efficiency of conditioners.
The Rheology and Pumping of Thickened Activated Sludge
Authors: Rose-Innes Ian H , Nossel Steven
Published: May 2018

The rheology of waste activated sludge (WAS) and of humus and digested sludges taken from full scale sewage treatment plants at solids concentrations between 1,5% and 9% (g/g) was investigated using a rotational viscometer. The results indicated that all the sludges behaved as pseudoplastic thixotropic fluids. The pseudo-plastic parameters, fluid consistency index K and flow behaviour index n, were related to concentration, and in the case of WAS to the sludge volume index (SVI). Concentration and SVI were found to be the most important variables. These relationships allow the prediction of resistency to flow in pipelines of WAS with various SVI values and of humus and digested sludges, within the range of solids concentrations tested.
Ocean Disposal in U.S. Coastal Waters, Philadelphia's Experience and U.S. Legislation
Authors: Guarino Carmen F , Townsend Steve
Published: May 2018

A review of Philadelphia's Ocean Disposal Experience and studies and a review of legislation and implementing regulations pertaining to disposal of sludge at sea in the United States was performed. The experiences under the law of two major municipalities that have employed disposal at sea were studied and compared.

Major changes are shown to have taken place in the Federal approach to regulating ocean disposal. Ocean dumping regulations are shown to have produced very different current situations for two major municipalities. The City of Philadelphia, operating under rigid federal policies, successfully ended ocean disposal over a year before the statutory deadline by implementing carefully managed, but costly, land-based sludge disposal alternatives. The City of New York, in contrast, still uses the ocean for sludge disposal and has recently won a ruling in Federal District Court which may allow continued ocean disposal for many years beyond the December 31, 1981 end-date proscribed by the law.
Coal Mine Drainage in the United States – An Overview
Authors: Lovell H L
Published: May 2018

Control approaches to minimize change in water quantity and quality from strata disturbance at coal mine sites have evolved in two decades by law-regulation, industry coordination, and research. A permit system (federal-state) involves pre-mine planning, bonding, inspection, enforcement, and prompt reclamation. Preventive control is sought rather than practice treatment to meet effluent guidelines for minimum quality. A tonnage production fee funds restoration of pre-law abandoned mine conditions. The bases of control are: Hydrologic budget maintenance, sedimentation to reduce particle transport and suspended solids, evaluate strata alkalinity and sulfide content, and maintenance of an alkaline strata environment for sulfide stability.
Some Seventy Years in the Shrouding of Mining Residue Deposits for Environmental Protection
Authors: Cartwright F D
Published: May 2018

Isolation of mine dumps and slimes dams to prevent damage to the environment. There are considered the need for isolation, the use of vegetation essentially for dust suppression and material bonding to create impervious surfaces in order to lead off precipitation in a fresh state and suppress dust at the same time.
Rapid Drainage of Coal Seams for Prevention of Acid Formation
Authors: Watson R B
Published: May 2018

While it is generally accepted that there is no known means of preventing the acid pollution of drainage from coal mines, it has been concluded that by removing the water from a mine as soon as practicably possible, the degree of acidity is reduced.

Emphasis on improved extraction of coal reserves is resulting in more pillar extraction, longwall and opencast mining.

A number of water drainage systems or methods are available and in use, these being pumping, drainage adits and boreholes. Drainage adits show encouraging results, but well planned, adequate pumping installations could be expected to give good results in achieving the objectives of rapid removal of water from the mine.

Depending on the circumstances of each mine, it is important that an acceptable system be installed to suit the particular need on that mine.
The Prevalence of Viral Hepatitis and Other Enteric Disease in Communities Utilizing Wastewater in Agriculture*
Authors: Fattal Badri
Published: May 2018

A retrospective epidemiological study was carried out on the association between enteric disease incidence and wastewater utilization in agriculture in 79 kibbutzim (cooperative agricultural settlements) in Israel. Medical records on disease incidence were collected directly from the patient files at the clinic of each kibbutz while environmental data was obtained from a detailed questionnaire. The kibbutzim included in the study were divided into four categories: I. thirty irrigating with wastewater effluent (population: 13,531), II. twenty-eight not utilizing effluent for any purpose (population: 11,096), III. ten using wastewater effluent as feed-water for fish ponds (population: 5,005), and IV. eleven which practiced two consecutive years of effluent utilization and another two consecutive years in which no effluent was utilized for any purpose or vice versa (population: 3,040).

The findings reported herein are part of a major research project to be published elsewhere.** The project is designed to determine the association between enteric disease and wastewater utilization in agriculture. The full study utilizes a regression type of analysis based on logistic and log linear models designed to control for the numerous confounding factors.

In this portion of the study, no excess in crude rates of viral hepatitis was found in effluent utilizing kibbutzim (categories I and III) when compared to non-effluent utilizing kibbutzim (category II). A significant (P<0.1) excess of shigellosis was found in all ages in effluent irrigating kibbutzim (I) (during the irrigation period), while a significant (P<0.01) excess of salmonellosis was found in kibbutzim using effluent as feed-water for fish ponds (III).

*Although the research described in this article has been funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under Grant R-805174 to the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, it has not been subjected to the Agency's Peer and Policy Review and it does not necessarily reflect the views of the Agency and no official endorsement should be inferred.

**Forthcoming E.P.A. reports.
The Role of Free-Living Amoebae Occurring in Heated Effluents as Causative Agents of Human Disease
Authors: Shapiro Maurice A , Karol Meryl H , Keleti Georg , Sykora Jan L , Martinez A J
Published: May 2018

It has been shown that several pathogenic organisms may be frequently found in thermal effluents and cooling systems of coal fired power plants. One of them is pathogenic Naegleria fowleri, the causative agent of an acute fatal human disease - primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). In our study two out of eight power plants investigated, harbored pathogenic N. fowleri in heated water or cooling towers. The occurrence of this organism was related to elevated temperatures. No significant correlation was found for other biological and chemical parameters. In addition, pathogenic Acanthamoeba which causes granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE) was found in the tested heated effluents from coal fired power plants. Non-pathogenic strains of N. fowleri as well as other free-living and “harmless” amoebae were also very abundant in effluents from all investigated coal fired power plants and cooling towers.

It has been reported that several species of nonpathogenic amoebae were isolated from humidifiers and air conditioning systems. Serological testing of symptomatic human subjects has indicated that these organisms may be one of the causative agents of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. An experimental study performed in our laboratory involved testing of guinea pigs sensitized by injection of axenic, non-pathogenic N. gruberi. Delayed onset skin reactivity was apparent in all animals injected with the antigen. Antibodies were detected in all sensitized animals. Bronchial provocation challenge employed to investigate pulmonary hypersensitivity was also used, and yielded positive results. All the sensitized animals displayed delayed onset respiratory responses.

The results of this study indicate that not only pathogenic but also non-pathogenic free-living amoebae may be important causative agents of human disease. The occurrence of these organisms in cooling systems from coal fired power plants indicates that these facilities may be an important source of infection.
Studies on the Leaching and Weathering Processes of Coal Ashes
Authors: Leim Hay , Sandstr Magnusöm , Wallin Tom , Carne Anders , Rydevik Ulla , Thurenius Birgitta , Per-Moberg Olof
Published: May 2018

Within the Swedish project Coal-Health-Environment (Kol-Hälsa-Mi1jö) leaching studies were made on several types of coal ashes, fly ashes, bottom ashes and scrubber sludges. Studies were made on the effects of pH, pCl, pCO3. pEDTA and pSO4, in the leaching solution on the leaching of metals from coal ashes. As a model for the leaching system, we studied the leaching of Cr, Co, Ni, tu, Zn, Mo, Se, As, Cd and Pb. The leaching of the metals was found to increase with pH for pH less than 2 and pH greater than 9, and to decrease for 2 > pH > 6. The metal leaching behaviour may in part be explained by the mass-action law. We have also made long-term leaching tests of several coal ashes from Danish and Finnish Power Plants using leaching water of different pH.

The dominating crystalline phases in the different coal ashes have been identified by X-ray diffraction technique. The major species in the different coal ashes were found to be mullite (3A12.2SiO2), α-quartz (Sio2) and the iron oxides magnetite and hematite.

Leaching and X-ray studies were also made on the magnetic fraction of the fly ashes.

Equilibrium analysis were made on the system Me-OH-Cl-CO32− - SO42−, where Me = Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mo, Se, As, Cd and Pb, partly using the computer program HALTAFALL.

A model for the metal leaching from a coal ash deposit will be discussed.
Model of Ion Equilibrium in Aqueous Solutions of Fly Ash in the Context of Prediction of Ground and Surface Water Contamination
Authors: Laczny M J , Krop E , Polak M
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a model for the calculation of saturation concentration Cs of ions of poorly soluble compounds contained in waste disposed of in a landfill site. Based on laboratory studies conducted on samples taken from the entire cross section of the disposal site, compounds were selected for which a qualitative-quantitive equilibrium model was calculated using electronic computers. The algorithm and equations used in the calculations are presented. An example of the calculation is given.
Design and Operation of a Pilot-Scale Biological Phosphate Removal Plant at Central Contra Costa Sanitary District
Authors: Miyamoto-Mills J , Larson J , Jenkins D , Owen W
Published: May 2018

A pilot plant incorporating side-stream biological phosphate (P) removal was operated at the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District (CCCSD), CA, USA wastewater treatment plant from Apr-Dec 1981. Secondary effluent total P< 1 mg P/L was obtained consistently both when the plant nitrified and did not nitrify. The P-stripper usually employed elutriation of solids with primary effluent, however operation with no elutriation was tested briefly. A minimum elutriation rate was required for successful P removal in this study. Uptake and release of Mg2+ and K+ accompanied P uptake and release. Bulking at low F/M was controlled by introducing two small-volume compartments at the head end of the aeration basin.
Volatile Substances from Actinomycetes: Their Role in the Odor Pollution of Water
Authors: Gerber Nancy N
Published: May 2018

In this review article the isolation, structure proof and chemical syntheses of three volatile, highly odorous metabolites of actinomycetes are presented as well as their relation to odor problems in natural waters. They are geosmin, methylisoborneol and 2-isopropyl-3-methoxy pyrazine. Other volatile but less odorous metabolites of actinomycetes including “mucidone” are mentioned.
Oscillatoria brevis (Kutz.) Gom. and Some Other Especially Odouriferous Benthic Cyanophytes in Norwegian Inland Waters
Authors: Berglind L , Johnsen I J , Ormerod K , Skulberg O M
Published: May 2018

The cyanophyte Oscillatoria brevis (Kütz.) Gom. has been investigated in field and laboratory. Axenic cultures of the clone NIVA CYA 7 produced strong muddy - smelling compounds, geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol. The correlation between profuse development of benthic cyanophytes and off-flavour problems indicates that these organisms are liable for the effect. The present study showed that Oscillatoria brevis was able to synthesize the off-flavour compounds concerned.
Ability of Bacillus to Degrade Geosmin
Authors: Danglot C , Amar G , Vilagines R
Published: May 2018

The ability of Bacillus strains to degrade geosmin, a musty off-flavor component present in superficial waters, led some authors to postulate the existence of a Bacillus exoenzyme: the “geosminase”. Such an enzyme, as an immobilized form onto a granular material, would be of a great interest to remove geosmin from water. This prospect prompted us to look for geosminase in Bacillus cultures. An aqueous solution of pure geosmin was added to Bacillus culture supernatants from exponential or stationary phases, and to a whole culture induced for 24 hours with 0.06 ppm of geosmin. Geosmin was determinated by GLC as a function of incubation time. No evidence of enzymatic activity was obtained, but an important adsorption of geosmin onto glass vessels was observed at neutral pH (6.7–7.5). Geosmin was recovered from glass by elution with methanol. Thus great care must be taken before assuming a biological origin to geosmin disappearance from superficial waters. However, preliminary results indicate that a “true” geosminase can be detected in Actinomycete lysates. The characterization and the purification of this enzyme are actually in progress.
Mathematical Modeling of the Anaerobic Filter Process
Authors: Lindgren M
Published: May 2018

A dilute synthetic waste water was anaerobica1ly treated in a filter. A mathematical model of the anaerobic filter process was also developed and analyzed. Analysis showed that mathematical models are an efficient tool for system understanding and design.
Granulation in UASB-Reactors
Authors: Hulshoff Pol L W , de Zeeuw W J , Velzeboer C T M , Lettinga G
Published: May 2018

The influence of the sludge loading rate, the addition of a small amount of granular sludge to the seed sludge and the effect of the NH4+- and Ca2+-concentration in the influent on the pelletization-process of anaerobic methanogenic sludge in UASB-reactors were studied. Two different types of sludge granules can be obtained with VFA's as feed-solution.
Ecotoxicology Today
Authors: Butler G C
Published: May 2018

The term “ecotoxicology” was adopted by the Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment (SCOPE) of the International Council of Scientific Unions (ICSU) to include its studies of the behaviour of environmental pollutants together with their effects on the health and welfare of human and non-human targets. This paper discusses the past, present and future activities of SCOPE in ecotoxicology, as well as the various perceptions of what subject matter ecotoxicology comprises.
Algal Based Bioassays for Heavy Metals
Authors: Jensen A
Published: May 2018

All aquatic organisms may be influenced by heavy metals present in their environment. The effect will depend on the organism itself and its tolerance to the actual metal, on one hand, and on the species of metal, its concentration, form of occurrence and exposure time, on the other. In addition, the physiological state of the organism and its behaviour together with environmental variables such as temperature, light, and presence of other chemicals or stress factors may have significant influence on the effect of the metal. This demonstrates both the need for and the complexity of the bioassay principle, and explains why most bioassays are based on simple organisms.

Microalgae are particularly suitable for heavy metal bioassay because of rapid growth, short generation time, wide range of tolerance and efficient accumulation of many metals. Growth, metal content and physiological reactions can be used to measure effects of exposure. Various techniques used (batch-dilution systems, chemostat-dialysis culture) are discussed, and the problems of keeping conditions constant and defined are evaluated. The importance of the form of the heavy metal, presence of other metals and of chelating and complexing compounds, as well as solubility of the metal salts involved is paid special attention. Applications in both laboratory and field studies are included.

Examples of successful use of algal bioassays for heavy metals are given.

Use of macroscopic brown algae is also discussed. These algae are especially well suited for field monitoring of sublethal exposure over extended periods. The special problems connected with the use of perennial plants (individual variation, seasonal changes and differences between year classes) are discussed.
Uptake and Excretion of Chemicals by Aquatic Fauna
Authors: Zitko V
Published: May 2018

Factors influencing the movement of chemicals across biological membranes are: solubility in lipids and in water, chemical stability, ionization, and molecular weight of the chemical.

On the part of aquatic fauna, the transport of chemicals is affected by metabolic activity and by the physiological state of the animals. Additional factors include water temperature, hardness or salinity, and presence of other chemicals. The effects of these factors will be discussed and illustrated by examples.

The uptake of highly lipid-soluble compounds by fish appears to be determined by their solubility in water, and compounds with extremely low solubility in water are not taken up in spite of their high solubility in lipids. Examples are hexabromo-benzene, highly brominated biphenyls, C24 chlorinated paraffins, and some flame retardants of the Dechlorane series. In addition to solubility in water, there may be a high molecular weight threshold, beyond which compounds are not taken up, and factors based on the chemical structure of the compounds may play a role as well. For example, Dechlorane 604, a tetrabromophenyl norbornene, is accumulated by fish to a much lesser degree than a tribromophenyl norbornene, present as a minor impurity in Dechlorane 604.

Chemical and biochemical stability of compounds are additional factors determining the extent of environmental contamination. Examples are the widespread contamination of aquatic biota by two nonachlors, present originally as relatively minor components in technical chlordane, and the contamination by some components of toxaphene.

The use of a one compartment model in studies of accumulation and excretion of chemicals by aquatic fauna, and its extension to the determination of lethality curves, will be mentioned.
Anaerobic Treatment of Pectin Wastes: Experiences with a Full Scale and a Semi Technical Plant
Authors: Seyfried C F , Bode H , Saake M
Published: May 2018

Pectin wastes are treated in a full scale anaerobic treatment plant which was built after extensive pilot test studies had been performed. The process used is an anaerobic activated sludge system. Between the reactor and the settling tank the mixed liquor passes through a vacuum degasser. This results in a proper settling of the return sludge. The efficiency of treatment is shown by a COD removal of 38 % and a BOD5 removal of 90 %.
Processed Biogas for Public Utility by Niersverband, F.R.G.
Authors: Kugel G
Published: May 2018

At the biggest sewage treatment plant of Niersverband methane gas is recovered from surplus digestion gas and injected into low pressure public utility pipeline in compliance with low calorific natural gas quality standards. The necessary surplus gas yield availability is evaluated. The variations of supply to utility and the probability of peak load capacity running time are displayed. Operation expenditures costs and economy are evaluated. Utilization of 1,6 Million m3/a processed biogas is expected.
Biogas Processing to Natural Gas Quality – An Alternative to Conventional Usage
Authors: Lohmann J
Published: May 2018

The use of digester gas to cover the energy balance of waste water treatment plants is not always an economical method of operation. In this way, 70 – 80 % of the plants operating in the FRG produce their own power at more cost than if it were to be taken from outside.

For this reason, the surplus digester gas at the Gruppenklärwerk I, Mönchengladbach, is processed and fed into a public gas supply network. A comparison of the various processing alternatives shows that the absorptive separation of CO2 and H2S by pressure washing at 10 bar and subsequent regeneration of the washwater in a stripper in counter-current flow to air, under the existing marginal conditions, offers the most favourable solution. Special efforts were made to achieve high availability of the plant and consistent quality.

Problems were experienced with the gas consumption characteristic of the network, the demands of which in the summer months are principally covered by bio-gas. These problems were, inter alia, solved by the subsequent installation of pressure gasholders. As a result, the expectations in respect of profit for the first year of operation have not yet been fulfilled. The process technology, machines and measurement and control equipment cause practically no problems.
Grevelingen: From an Estuary to a Saline Lake1
Authors: Nienhuis P H , Veld J C Huis in ‘t
Published: May 2018

A number of coastal engineering and ecological considerations are given, concerning the changes from Grevelingen estuary into saline Lake Grevelingen. New hydraulic methods were used to close the 5–7 km wide estuary at both ends. The eastern secondary dam was closed in 1964 by a combination of tight caissons and rubble-stone from a cable-way. The closure gaps in the western primary dam were closed simultaneously in 1971 by sluice caissons and large concrete blocks dumped from a cable-way. The main objects of damming up Grevelingen estuary were to shorten and to strengthen the total length of the coast and the sea-walls, and to improve the fresh-water economy of the area. In the course of time additional motives have been added. Lake Grevelingen evolved into a relatively stable and diversified saline ecosystem. The considerable values of water quality and ecology of the present lake have to be weighed against the bad quality of fresh Rhine-water and concomitant biotic communities.
The Effect of Coastal Engineering Projects on Microgradients and Mineralization Reactions in Sediments1
Authors: Lindeboom H J , Sandee A J J
Published: May 2018

Mineralization reactions can take place in sediments along different aerobic and anaerobic pathways. The recent introduction of microelectrodes for ecological research has enabled the determination of oxygen and sulphide gradients in situ in the sediment. These micro-gradients give insight into the actual mineralization reactions taking place, and changes in these reactions can now be rapidly recorded.

This paper describes the use of microelectrodes in the field in Lake Grevelingen. The effect of dam building on oxygen and sulphide microgradients and on mineralization reactions will be discussed.
Environmental Impact Statement on the Problem of a Fresh or Salt Lake Grevelingen
Authors: Meulen J H M v.d , Leentvaar J , de Rooy N M
Published: May 2018

An Environmental Impact Statement has to be prepared as to whether Lake Grevelingen will remain a salt-water basin or become a fresh-water basin in the near future.

This paper describes the system analysis approach applied for obtaining the information necessary for the Environmental Impact Statement and gives an outline of the quality of the salt-water and of the fresh-water Lake Grevelingen. The effects of the quality of the ecosystem of the lake on the fulfilment of several functions such as nature conservation, recreation, fisheries and water supply for agriculture are briefly described.