bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potato Processing Wastewater Treatment at Relatively High Loading Rates Using a Unified Anaerobic Fermenter-Filter
Authors: Landine R.C. , Brown G.J. , Cocci A.A. , Viraraghavan T.
Published: March 2019

A laboratory bench-scale study using a unified anaerobic fermenter-filter system (referred to as a BVF-HAF system) was conducted at room temperature over an 8 month period on potato processing wastewater for the purpose of verifying a proposed full-scale design concept. In addition to two-stage anaerobic treatment, the first stage anaerobic effluent (BVF effluent) was subjected to aerobic polishing in a simulated facultative aerated lagoon with a retention of 4 days. The basic design conditions entailed treatment of a clarified potato wastewater with a COD of 7600 mg/L and a retention of 4 d in the BVF (loading 1.71 kg/m3.d). After over-coming an upset condition believed due to toxicity of the vacuum filtrate feed, the model performed well achieving 78.9% COD removal in the BVF plus 5 3.4% in the HAF for a combined total of 90.2%. When the BVF effluent was aerated the combined BVF - aerated lagoon removal reached 94.8%.
Removal of Arsenic from Rural Water Supplies
Authors: Lutwick Gerald D.
Published: March 2019

Diatomite impregnated with ferric hydroxide has been field tested for removal of arsenic from rural domestic waters. The waters tested covered the pH range of 6.5 to 8.2 and the total arsenic concentrations of 0.04 to 0.58 mg/L. As the water passes through the bed of ferric hydroxide ferric arsenate is formed, an insoluble salt.

Arsenic is present in ground waters as arsenite and arsenate. Arsenite is removed from water supplies by oxidizing the arsenite to arsenate with hypochlorite before passage through the bed of ferric hydroxide.

The units contain a bed at least 48 cm deep and 25 cm in diameter. The diatomite is 10 to 50 mesh and contains 3 to 4% ferric iron as the hydroxide. The unit was designed for a minimum contact time of one minute allowing a maximum flow rate of 36 litres per minute.
Production of Livestock Feed by Ensilage of Waste Activated Sludge
Authors: Monteith H.D. , Pike J.W. , Stickney A.R. , Rush R.J.
Published: March 2019

Dewatered waste activated sludges (WAS's) from pollution control plants treating wastewaters from a combined municipal/vegetable processer, a vegetable canner, a dairy and a potato processor were each mixed with whole corn, a grain mixture, corn stover or wheat straw, and ensiled at 30°C for 30 days. [Blending ratios of WAS and each feedstuff were based on moisture content of the silage mixtures of 55-70%.]

Silages containing either whole corn or the grain mixtures ensiled better than mixtures with either straw or stover, based on lactic acid formation and pH depression. Indicator microorganisms (e.g. yeasts and molds, total and fecal coliforms, streptococci and salmonella) were greatly reduced in samples that ensiled successfully. Crude protein levels in the WAS silages were significantly higher than in conventional corn silages.

An inventory of quantities of WAS from both the Canadian food and beverage industry, and from municipal sewage treatment plants across Canada was established.
Investigation of the Love Canal Area of the Niagara River for the Presence of Unknown Organic Contaminants
Authors: Onuska F.I. , Terry K.A.
Published: March 2019

A qualitative analysis of organic contaminants in the Niagara River water by high resolution wall coated open tubular column (WCOT) gas chromatography with selective mass spectrometric detection is described. Qualitative analysis of organic pollutants in water is rather a complex task. After the collection of a large Volume of a water sample, the sample is usually run through several extraction and separation steps before identification. During these manipulations, losses of compounds may occur or new impurities may be introduced with various solvents. Therefore, simplification of this procedure is required.

This paper describes the detection of all of the major compounds by gas Chromatographic separation combined with mass spectrometric detection (GC-MS). A major advantage is the minimum requirement for cleanup and the injection of a particular fraction extract onto the WCOT column. Dedicated mass Chromatograms of preselected masses at the mass range of the total ion current profile have been used for comparative measurements and identification. For the detection of trace pollutants, a preliminary separation into acidic, neutral, and basic fractions results in simplification of the analysis.
Potential Effects of Metals on Benthic Organisms After Liming Acid Stressed Lake
Authors: Wren C.D.
Published: March 2019

Severe reductions of fish populations in lakes affected by acid precipitation have been documented in both Canada (Beamish and Harvey 1972; Beamish 1976) and Scandinavia (Grahn 1980; Bengtsson 1980). The addition of a base compound, usually lime, to acid stressed lakes has been suggested as a possible method of restoring some of the buffering capacity and raising the pH of these lakes. It is recognized, however, that liming of lakes is not a solution to the problem, but may represent a feasible stop-gap amelioration technique. The Swedish government has adopted a policy to lime acid stressed lakes in that country, with hundreds of lakes being treated annually (Bengtsson 1980). Canada, on the other hand, has adopted a more cautious approach to the situation, and began experimental liming projects in the Sudbury, Ontario area in 1974 (Scheider et al. 1975; Yan et al. 1977). Ontario and Quebec have adopted a policy to continue liming a limited number of lakes on an experimental basis.
The Continuous Induced Air Flotation of Highly Stabilized Oil in Water Emulsions
Authors: Behie Leo A. , Hanumanth Gurumkonda S. , Svrcek William Y.
Published: March 2019

The performance of a 12 L induced air flotation (IAF) cell has been evaluated for the continuous separation of highly stabilized oil in water (o/w) emulsions. Emulsions created for test purposes had stability rate constants (Ks) less than 0.06 h-1 and narrow droplet size distributions with mean diameters less than 20 um. Removal efficiences were expressed in terms of both total organic carbon (TOC) and oil removed. In addition, a solvent extraction/spectrophometric analysis enabled residual surfactant concentrations in the cell effluent to be determined. The main variables that affected the flotation cell operation were the following: air superficial velocity (O.5-4.O cm/s), liquid residence time (3-15 min), de-emulsifier concentration (0-160 mg solution/L), and gas distributor design. Under the best continuous operating conditions, the flotation cell removed oil droplets above 2.0 um giving oil removal rates greater than 95 percent. On the other hand, improper control of the independent variables resulted in poor cell performance with separations as low as 20 percent.
The Effects of Short-Term Storage and Elevated Temperatures on the Flocculation Activity of Aqueous Polymer Solutions
Authors: Gehr R. , Kalluri R.
Published: March 2019

Polyelectrolytes applied to water and waste treatment processes are generally assumed to be totally adsorbed to the sludge or solid phase. However it has previously been found that significant quantities of polyelectrolyte may appear in the effluent or liquid phase. This study developed a sensitive method, specifically a polystyrene latex test suspension, to detect trace concentrations of unmodified polyelectrolytes in distilled water as well as process effluents. A colloid titration method, as well as the test suspension were then used to assess the effects of storage at ambient and elevated temperatures.

Both methods indicated that storage of polyelectrolyte at ambient and elevated temperatures could significantly reduce the effective charge (as measured by the colloid titration method) and the effective flocculating ability (as measured by the test suspension).
Composition chimique des eaux de la Rivière Sainte-Marguerite en période de fonte
Authors: Lachance M. , Brouard D. , Van Coillie R. , Dutil J.D.
Published: March 2019

La présente étude fait partie d'une recherche visant à évaluer la sensibilité à l'acidification de quatre rivières à saumons de la Côte-Nord du Saint-Laurent, à savoir: les rivières Petit Saguenay, Sainte-Marguerite, des Escoumins et des Petits Escoumins. Une description des principales caractéristiques chimiques des eaux des quatre rivières a permis d'évaluer la représentativité de la rivière Sainte-Marguerite et sa haute sensibilité à l'acidification. Les analyses effectuées à la fois dans la neige au sol et dans la pluie ont fait ressortir d'une part que les apports atmosphériques en sulfates, en nitrates et en ions H+ sont importants, et d'autre part que la migration des ions dans la neige au sol est importante, les concentrations de sulfates, de nitrates, d'ammonium et d'ions H+ dans la pluie étant plus élevées que dans la neige d'un facteur 5 à 10.

L'évolution temporelle sur la rivière Sainte-Marguerite, du calcium, des sulfates, des nitrates et des ions H+ a permis d'expliquer les principaux phénomènes qui régissent le comportement physico-chimique des eaux en période de fonte. Au tout début de la fonte, on observe d'abord un important pic de concentration de calcium qui serait le résultat de la libération massive et soudaine des ions H+ contenus dans la neige au sol et de leur échange avec le calcium lorsque l'eau de fonte vient en contact avec le sol. L'augmentation de la concentration en ions H+ se produit seulement lorsque le niveau de calcium est redevenu faible. On observe également une augmentation relativement importante de la teneur en sulfates pendant la fonte, ce qui met en évidence l'importance des apports atmosphériques en sulfates. Les nitrates deviennent relativement importants dans la composition chimique des eaux de surface en période de fonte. Le rapport nitrates/sulfates qui avoisine 0,40 en hiver s'élève alors et dépasse parfois l'unité.
Ultraviolet Disinfection of Secondary Wastewater
Authors: Palmateer Garry , Cook Walter G. , Whitby G. Elliott , Maarschalkerweerd Jan , Huber Doug , Flood Ken
Published: March 2019

A full-scale study involving the disinfection of secondarily treated wastewater with ultraviolet light was initiated to determine the efficacy of an ultraviolet device designed and engineered specifically for this purpose when operated in parallel with chlorine disinfection. Results consistently demonstrated the ability of the UV device to reduce pollution indicator bacterial levels to well below 2500 and 200 total and fecal coliforms, respectively per 100 ml as well as the more disinfectant resistant Clostridium perfringens. In caged fish-toxicity assays, no significant mortality was observed in the stream following UV disinfection; however, within 24 hours 100% mortality resulted from the chlorinated effluents.
Comparison of the Characteristics of an Acidic Eutrophic, and an Acidic Oligotrophic Lake Near Halifax, Nova Scotia
Authors: Kerekes J. , Freedman B. , Howell G. , Clifford P.
Published: March 2019

The chemical and biological characteristics of two lakes near Halifax, N.S., are reported. Both lakes have been acidified as a result of the oxidation of exposed sulfide minerals in their drainage basins. Little Springfield Lake (mean pH = 3.6) is oligotrophic, with low concentrations of dissolved nutrients, high concentrations of metals, clear water, and relatively depauperate plant and animal communities. In contrast, Drain Lake (mean pH = 4.0) receives domestic sewage and is eutrophic, with high concentrations of phosphorus, low transparency, and relatively rich and productive plant and animal communities, including the anomalous occurrences of many taxa that are usually restricted to higher-pH waters. An important implication of this study is that fertilization may be a useful management technique to reverse the oligotrophication that generally occurs in acidified waters.
Tributary Effects on the Mainstream Suspended Sediment Chemistry
Authors: Ongley Edwin D. , Blachford Diane P.
Published: March 2019

The relative impact of tributaries on suspended sediment (organic + mineral particulate matter) chemistry below a confluence can be evaluated using suspended sediment concentration and particulate elemental concentrations from each of the two Inputs and from a mixed sample below the confluence. Although suspended sediment chemistry below a confluence is a product of mixing of mainstream and tributary inputs, variability in chemical data in field samples is caused by inhomogeneities in the sampled medium and by limitations inherent to sampling and analytical procedures. This study assesses data variability typical of a Canadian Plains' river during a period of substantial discharge, large suspended sediment transport, and turbulent mixing conditions. Using particulate elemental concentration from each of the two streams contributing to a confluence, element concentration below the confluence is predicted. Variance between observed and predicted element concentrations permits an assessment of analytical error for each element. We demonstrate that substantial variations in input chemistry cause small and predictable changes in downstream suspended sediment chemistry.
Neutralisation and Clean-Up of a 3,600 Tonnes Sulphuric Acid Spill
Authors: Moulins L.J. , Pannell D.G.
Published: March 2019

During the week-end of the 5th and 6th June, 1982, the rupture of a drain valve allowed some 3|600 tonnes of 93 % sulphuric acid to escape from a 10,000 tonne capacity reservoir. The spill found its way, via a municipal effluent treatment plant, to the first of two water holding lakes forming a part of the Mines Gaspé mining complex. The overflow from the second lake is the source of one of the tributaries of a salmon river, the York River.

An extensive neutralisation operation was successfully undertaken to protect this natural resource. The normal pH of the York River was maintained and the majority of the dissolved metals were precipitated in the second holding lake.

The ecological impact was limited to the upper part of the river. In the fall, the adult salmon spawned in sufficient numbers to ensure good natural reproduction.
Triated Water Uptake and Desorption Kinetics in a Primary Producer: Chlorella Pyrenoidosa
Authors: Dunstall Thomas G.
Published: March 2019

Chlorella pyrenoidosa, grown in batch culture under chronic exposure to tritiated water, was used to model behavior of tritium at the primary producer level of an aquatic food chain. The ratio of organically-bound tritium to tritium in the medium increased during initial growth, eventually reaching an asymptotic value of 0.59 after seven cell doublings. Loss of previously formed organically-bound tritium from cells transferred to tritium-free media averaged less than 5% for exponential growth phase cultures after three cell doublings. Over a comparable time period, organically-bound tritium lost from senescent cells averaged 13% which was attributed to increased degradative metabolism in stationary growth phase cultures. The concentration of tritium in organically-bound form may exceed environmental concentrations of tritium in water under dynamic conditions in which a pulse of tritiated water to the environment is dissipated over time.
Evaluation of Drinking Water Treatment Alternatives for Taste and Odour Reduction
Authors: Fok N. , Huck P.M. , Walker G.S. , Smith D.W.
Published: March 2019

The City of Edmonton draws its drinking water from the North Saskatchewan River. Periodic taste and odour episodes have been related to organic compounds from urban runoff draining into the river. This paper describes the testing of 3 water treatment processes to reduce taste and odour. Chlorine dioxide, ozone and granular activated carbon were evaluated at pilot scale. Ethyl benzene was spiked into the water as a surrogate for taste and odour to permit quantitative comparisons. Under the conditions tested, ozone provided better removals than chlorine dioxide. GAC provided effective removals as well.
Ground Water Flow Velocity Derived from Tritium Measurements at the Gloucester Landfill Site, Gloucester, Ontario
Authors: Michel F.A. , Kubasiewicz M. , Patterson R.J. , Brown R.M.
Published: March 2019

Ground water contaminated by organic compounds from a special waste disposal area at the Gloucester Landfill site is migrating through a confined glaciofluvial aquifer toward water supply wells. The distribution of tritium in ground water samples, collected in October 1982, indicates that tritium has originated from two distinct sources: atmospheric nuclear weapons testing in the 1950's and 60's and on-site waste disposal. By comparing the tritium concentration pattern in ground waters to the 1953 to 1982 record for tritium in precipitation at Ottawa, broad zones of the aquifer corresponding to different recharge periods may be defined. Based on the distribution of these zones, an average groundwater velocity of 5.5 cm/day is estimated. A zone of high tritium concentration immediately below the waste disposal compound is attributed to the disposal of tritiated wastes.
137Cs, 226Ra and Total U in Fish from Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron and Superior during 1976-1982
Authors: Joshi S.R.
Published: March 2019

Fish from Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron, and Superior, collected during 1976-82, are analysed for 1137Cs, 226Ra, and total U. The results suggest that 137Cs and 226Ra concentrations in these fish are declining. The bioaccumulation of U is found to be very low. Limited data available on the concentrations of these radionuclides and of 90Sr and 40K preclude application of the concept of biodiscrimination in any significant detail. Internal dose rates due to incorporated alpha and β-particle emitting radionuclides are estimated to be very low. Most of the dose received by the fish results from naturally-occurring radionuclides. It is concluded that the highest dose estimate of about 100 mrad/y is unlikely to produce any measurable genetic or somatic effects in Great Lakes fish.
A Comparison of Two Indices of Diatom Inferred pH
Authors: Dickman M. , Hayes P. , Fortescue J.
Published: March 2019

Autecological studies of diatoms as pH indicators have opened the way to estimating a lake's past pH on the basis of its diatom species compos it ion and relative abundance. Estimating the rate of lake acidification from its sediment subfossil diatoms is possible when these subfossils can be identified and accurately enumerated down the length of the lake sediment core. This technique holds considerable promise in assessing the temporal impact of acid precipitation for acid-sensitive lakes.

When diatom inferred pH was regressed against observed pH for 23 lakes located north of Lake Superior a significant (P<0.01) correlation (r=0.71) resulted. Diatom downcore stratigraphy for two of these lakes (lakes Cs & B) indicated that their pH had dropped from 6.3 to 5.3 (Lake Cs) and from 5.6 to 5.3 (Lake B) over the last 20 years. However, when the "B" index was used instead of log alpha, no significant change in downcore diatom inferred pH was apparent for Lake B. We concluded that log alpha was overly sensitive to small changes in the relative abundance of alkaliphilic diatoms. Thus, in lakes where alkaliphilic diatoms are rare, index "B" rather than log alpha should be employed. In lakes of pH 6 or above where the relative abundance of alkaliphilic diatoms is higher (e.g. Cs & Fenton Lakes) index "B" and log alpha provide essentially identical downcore pH profiles.
Distribution of Organochlorine Pesticides and PCBs between Aqueous and Suspended Sediment Phases in the Lower Great Lakes Region
Authors: McCrea Robert C. , Fischer John D. , Kuntz Kenneth W.
Published: March 2019

Suspended sediment and extracts of the aqueous phase were collected in 1981 at eleven locations in the Lower Great Lakes Region and analyzed for 17 organochlorine pesticide residues and PCB's. Mirex, and p,p'-DDE when found were predominantly in the suspended sediment fraction, whereas α-BHC, γ-BHC, dieldrin, endrin, p,p'-TDE and trans-chlordane were most abundant in the aqueous phase. Several pesticide residues, notably cis-chlordane, p,p'-DDT and p,p'-methoxychlor were found to have variable distribution characteristics between the suspended sediment and aqueous phases. The greater proportion of organochlorine pesticides present in Lake Erie and the Niagara River were found in the aqueous phase samples, which contained at least 90% of the total pesticide concentration at 5 of the 6 stations sampled. Virtually all of the organochlorine contaminants present in Lake Ontario were found in the aqueous phase, which contained 100% of the pesticides and 91% of total PCB's. Similar results were obtained for the St Lawrence River.
Use of Laboratory Studies in Assessing the Behaviour of Contaminants in Fish Inhibiting Natural Ecosystems
Authors: Niimi A.J.
Published: March 2019

The behavior of environmental contaminants in fish was examined using information from chemical, toxicological, and physiological laboratory studies, and field residue measurements to establish the relative importance of the bioconcentration and biomagnification pathways, and environmental concentrations on residue accumulation in natural ecosystems. It is suggested that indices such as the bioconcentration factor (BCF) and octanol-water partition coefficient (Kow) can be effectively used to analyze the fate of contaminants in natural ecosystems provided their limitations are recognized. It is proposed that other indices like the bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and biological half-life could also be used for evaluation. A simulation of the contaminant dynamics of a salmonid is presented, and the kinetics are used to illustrate the differences in behavior of the more environmentally relevant organic contaminants present in the Lake Ontario environment.
An Approach to Recognizing Low Level Inorganic Contamination of Groundwaters in Shallow Sedimentary Aquifers
Authors: Howard K.W.F.
Published: March 2019

Groundwaters from shallow surficial sediments of southern Ontario regularly contain total dissolved solids in excess of the maximum desirable level of 500 mg/L. In such cases a major difficulty lies in determining whether the elevated concentrations reflect contamination of the groundwaters by pollutants or are simply the product of natural rock-water chemical reactions.

A comprehensive hydrochemical study involving major and minor ion analysis of over 260 groundwater samples was carried out in the Duffins Creek - Rouge River drainage basins to the north and east of Metropolitan Toronto. As an aid to interpreting the wealth of data, a specially modified form of trilinear diagram was used to identify uncontaminated waters and determine their degree of chemical variability under naturally evolving conditions. This allowed chemical anomalies to be recognized at concentrations only marginally above background and considerably below present water quality standards. Significantly, most of the anomalies were found to occur either in groundwaters from wells adjacent to major highways, where road de-icing chemicals cause elevated calcium (through ion exchange) and chloride, or in rural areas, where high nitrate concentrations are associated with agricultural practices.
Uptake and Depuration of Two Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Fluorene and Benzo(a)pyrene, in the Mussel Mytilus Edulis and the Diatom Phaeodactylum Tricornuteum
Authors: Majewski H.S. , Scherer E.
Published: March 2019

In laboratory exposures, uptake rates from water for both benzo(a)pyrene and fluorene were 1-2 orders of magnitude higher in missels than in diatoms, while depuration rates were similar. Bioconcentration factors in mussels were 21428 and 394 for benzo(a)pyrene and fluorene, respectively, and 636 and 11 in diatoms. Accumulation of benzo(a)pyrene in mussels through trophic transfer from algae amounted to 1.3% of total residue in molluscs.
Repartition spatiale des contaminants dans les sediments du Lac St-Louis (Fleuve St-Laurent)
Authors: Jarry V. , Ross P. , Champoux L. , Sloterdijk H. , Mudroch A. , Couillard Y. , Lavoie F.
Published: March 2019

Les sédiments de 39 stations du lac St-Louis ont été échantillonnés et analysés pendant l'été 1984 pour la granulométrie, dix éléments majeurs et les contaminants (Ni, Co, Cr, V, Pb, Zn, Hg, As, HCB, pp'-DDE, Aroclor1242™, Aroclorl254™, Aroclorl260™). Dans la plupart des stations les teneurs sont plus élevées que les normes établies par le ministère de l'Environnement de l'Ontario pour le dépôt de déchets de dragage en eau libre. Avec ces données, nous avons réalisé des cartographies du lac, ce qui nous a permis de discerner trois zones où les teneurs en contaminants sont plus élevées : entre la baie de Valois (Dorval) et la Grande Anse (île Perrot), au sud des îles de la Paix (Beauharnois) et au sud de l'île Perrot (Anse au Sable). D'autre part, nous avons calculé des corrélations entre les variables, ce qui nous a permis de constater qu'il existe de fortes corrélations entre les métaux lourds et entre les contaminants organiques entre eux, mais beaucoup moins entre ces deux groupes de contaminants. Finalement, des méthodes statistiques multidimensionnelles ont été utilisées pour regrouper les stations en fonction de leur composition chimique, et cartographier le lac St-Louis. Il en ressort un groupe principal pour les éléments majeurs comprenant les 3 zones de sédimentation. Cependant, ces trois zones semblent avoir des caractéristiques différentes quant à leur composition en contaminants.
Use of Low Pressure Mercury Lamps for the Photodecomposition of Iron Cyanide in Gold Mill Effluents
Authors: Carey J.H. , Zaidi S.A.
Published: March 2019

The use of ultraviolet light (UV) from low pressure mercury lamps for destroying iron cyanide in synthetic and actual gold mill effluents was evaluated in this study.

For the light intensities used in this study, UV irradiation was not able to efficiently destroy cyanide. However, it converted iron cyanide to a weak acid dissociable form which was destroyed by chlorine. Data from several bench-scale tests and one pilot scale test were used to estimate quantum efficiencies (moles iron cyanide destroyed/einstein). These efficiencies ranged from 0.2% to 1%; approximately 30% to 90% lower than those reported in the literature for potassium ferricyanide.

The data collected during the study demonstrated the technical feasibility of using UV in conjunction with chlorination for destroying iron cyanide in gold mill effluents. However, low pressure mercury lamps do not appear to be a practical UV source for this purpose. Irradiation with high intensity lamps may be more practical and is recommended for experimental evaluation.
Natural Removal of Cyanide in Gold Milling Effluents - Evaluation of Removal Kinetics
Authors: Simovic L. , Snodgrass W.J.
Published: March 2019

Research using synthetic solutions was conducted to examine factors influencing the natural removal of cyanides from gold mill lagoons. Factors examined included: pH, temperature, ultraviolet irradiation and degree of aeration. Temperature was the principal factor affecting the rate of cyanide loss from solution. UV irradiation had some effect while the effect of aeration was limited. The dominant mechanism for cyanide removal from solution was volatilization. Cyanide degradation was found to follow a first order reaction with respect to free cyanide and metallo-cyanide complexes of Zn, Ni, Cu and Fe.

Data from each single metallo-cyanide solution were fitted to a mathematical model which considered volatilization of free cyanide, dissociation of the metallo-cyanide species, and one cyanide complex per metal. The best estimates of the rate constants found for the single metallo-cyanide solutions were used to simulate the removal characteristics of cyanide in a synthetic mixed solution of four metals. The coefficient of determination ranged from 0.93 to 0.99 for model predictions fitted to data from single metallo-cyanide solutions. Estimates for volatilization coefficients varied widely with some of the variation resulting from data which did not completely describe the decay process. The simulation of cyanide removal from the synthetic mixed solution suggested the need to recalibrate the model or to examine the formation of more than one metallo-cyanide species.
New Developments in Landfill Leachate Treatment
Authors: Henry J.G.
Published: March 2019

Treatment of Leachate from sanitary landfills has been found to be a much different and more complex problem than the treatment of municipal wastewater. Greater variability in the characteristics and quantities, of the waste, isolation of the landfill site and the need for simple treatment methods are three reasons why leachate treatment needs special consideration. Typical characteristics of this waste are high strength, a low BOD/COD ratio, limited phosphorus and excessive ammonia nitrogen, along with various toxic contaminants.

A number of aerobic and anaerobic methods used to treat leachate are described in this paper and the advantages and shortcomings of each are noted. Supplementary processes including nitrification, nitrogen removal, recirculation and land spraying are also discussed. From experience with these earlier systems it appears that, in the future, more consideration should be given to: equalization of leachate flow, anaerobic rather than aerobic processes, nitrification of the leachate and utilization of landfill gas. Land spraying and recirculation of leachate also warrant wider application.
Leachate Generation and Control at Landfill Disposal Sites
Authors: Pohland Frederick G. , Harper Stephen R. , Chang Ker-Chi , Dertien Joseph T. , Chian Edward S. K.
Published: March 2019

A two-part overview of the state-of-the-art in landfill management is presented with emphasis on the production and characteristics of landfill leachate and gas and methods for control and treatment. The patterns of production of landfill leachate and gas are illustrated with results from a landfill simulation study with and without leachate recycle. Leachate treatment options are summarized and fortified by information derived from selected literature reports.
Leachate Production and Characteristics as a Function of Water Input and Landfill Configuration
Authors: Jasper S.E. , Atwater J.W. , Mavinic D.S.
Published: March 2019

A field sampling programme was carried out at a Vancouver Lower Mainland landfill to study leachate flow and characterization. A water balance and simple hydrogeologic model were developed for the site In order to calculate leachate discharge rates. Details of leachate composition are presented and related to site water input patterns. The interdependance of leachate composition, water input and fill retention time is hypothesized. Implications are presented in terms of site configuration and treatment process design.
Attenuation of Leachate in a Designed, Engineered and Instrumented Unsaturated Zone Beneath a Domestic Waste Landfill
Authors: Robinson Howard D , Lucas John L
Published: March 2019

In recent years the effectiveness and reliability of “dilute and disperse” type landfills has been the subject of much debate. Much research has been reported which supports the view that intergranular unsaturated zones beneath sites can provide a high degree of aquifer protection, although detailed and continuing monitoring of such zones has been extremely rare.

Aspinwall and Company are carrying out a major research project on behalf of the UK Department of the Environment at a landfill site in Southern England, which is operated by ARC South Eastern. The design of this landfill was produced by Aspinwall and Company, and is innovative in that it has incorporated an engineered, semi-permeable, attenuation blanket, using locally-available calcareous sands and silt, emplaced to a minimum height of 6 m above the water table. The site has a licence to deposit up to 1300 tonnes per day of domestic wastes derived from London.

In early 1982 one portion of the quarry floor was selected for a programme of research, and over 100 instruments and sampling devices were installed before waste disposal began. A drilling programme during the summer of 1984 allowed further sampling, and the installation of more instruments within the wastes themselves, now about 2b to 30 m deep.

This paper summarises and describes data obtained over the 3-year monitoring period to early 1985. The performance of the unsaturated zone is assessed, in terms of the attenuation of inorganic ions such as ammonia and chloride, and degradation of organic compounds such as fatty acids, which have occurred as leachate and gases have migrated from the wastes.
RBC Treatment of a Municipal Landfill Leachate: A Pilot Scale Evaluation
Authors: Peddle C. , Atwater J.W.
Published: March 2019

This study evaluated the on-site treatment of a weak municipal landfill leachate with a Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) at pilot scale (0.9 m dia.). The leachate generally had COD and NH3-N values of less than 1000 mg/L and 50 mg/L respectively. A high treatment efficiency for both carbon removal and nitrification was achieved despite variable and intermittent loading conditions. The effluent filtrable BOD5 was generally less than 10 mg/L and the effluent NH3-N concentration was usually less than 1.0 mg/L. This effluent quality was achieved at mass loading levels comparable to those for sewage treatment (10.0 kg BOD5/ 1000 m2 · d for carbon removal and 0.7 kg TKN/1000 m2·d). An aside to this study showed that trace organics, some of which are on the EPA priority pollutant list, were present in this leachate and were effectively removed by the RBC.
The Control of Iron Bacterial Plugging of a Well by Tyndallization Using Hot Water Recycling
Authors: Cullimore D. R. , Mansuy N.
Published: March 2019

A small diameter water well drilled in 1977 in the Town of Bulyea, Saskatchewan generated such a rapid plugging (biofouling) that by 1979 the flow rate was reduced by 59%. Heavy growths of non-specific iron bacteria were found in the water and biofouling projected to be the principal cause of the flow loss. Tyndallization (repeated pasteurizations) treatment was applied using a hot water recycling system installed above the well head. Using a displacement passive gravity direct injection of hot water at 82°C from a water heater into the well, a sequential elevation of water column temperatures occurred until bio-film dispersion occurred (pasteurization) at 45°C+. A recovery to original flow specifications was repeatedly obtained at time intervals ranging from 6 to 403 days. Between treatments, a recurrence of biofouling was noted with flow reductions of 0.06 – 0.07 1/min/day frequently being noted. The rate of plugging appeared to be affected by the previous sequence of pasteurization treatments. Tyndallization was found to satisfactorily control iron bacterial biofouling and maintain flow rates.
Effects of Bleached Kraft Mill Effluent on Freshwater Fish: A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Kovacs T.
Published: March 2019

The published information on sublethal effects of untreated and biologically-treated bleached kraft mill effluents (BKME) on freshwater fish has been critically reviewed from a Canadian perspective. Despite the vast data base, a clear assessment of BKME effects to fish was difficult. Based on the available information to date, BKME discharges do not seem to cause serious sublethal toxic effects on fish at concentrations expected to be found in Canada's receiving freshwaters. Only the tainting of fish flesh (a non-toxic effect) has been identified to be a possible consequence of BKME discharges at certain dilution levels. In order to properly assess the effect of BKME, future studies should be aimed at identifying possible problems relating to fish tainting compounds, fish reproduction, early development and habitat alteration (e.g. colour, nutrients).
Application of Image Analysis System for Study of Activated Sludge Flocs
Authors: Li Da-hong , Ganczarczyk J. J.
Published: March 2019

The computerized image analysis system has been successfully used for determination and statistical processing of the following geometric characteristics of activated sludge flocs: longest dimension, breadth, equivalent diameter, cross-sectional area, perimeter, elongation, and circularity. These parameters could be effectively and precisely determined by the system applied. In addition, the studied method, as compared to direct microscope observation and photography floc-sizing methods, was found to be more accurate, less time-consuming, and less dependent on the investigators.
Organics Removal by Anaerobic-Aerobic Treatment of Potato-Processing Wastewater at Different Temperatures
Authors: Lin K.C.
Published: March 2019

Potato-processing wastewater was treated in a lab-scale UASBR-UAF-EAAS system between 1O–25°C. The overall COD and BOD removals were 98–99%; SS and VSS removals averaged 99%. Over 94% of the above were removed in the anaerobic stage. The first unit (UASBR) was much more sensitive to temperature change than the subsequent units in series. Solids settling in the EAAS clarifier was better at 10°C than at 25°C. Sludge removal from the UASBR was required when sludge height exceeded 70% of the volume. No filter clogging was observed in this study. Within 10–25cC, the lower the temperature, the lesser was the amount of biogas produced by the anaerobic units, but the higher the methane content in the biogas.
Benthic Communities in Five Major Rivers of the Hudson Bay Lowland, Canada
Authors: Campbell D. , Kwiatkowski R. , McCrea R.C.
Published: March 2019

A total of one hundred and twenty six species of macroinvertebrates were collected from five major Ontario rivers (Moose, Albany, Attawapiskat, Winisk and Severn) of the Hudson Bay Lowland. Benthic communities in all rivers were dominated primarily by chironomids and oligochaetes except in the East channel of the Moose River where gastropods were also a common taxon. Diversity, as measured by both species richness and the Shannon-Weiner index, was not significantly different in each river. Species distribution was related to substrate composition, river velocity and depth at each station. Community similarity analysis showed that rivers geographically closest together, sharing common flow directions and similar drainage basins resembled each other most in terms of benthic communities. The exception to this was the East channel of the Moose River which showed little resemblance to the other Lowland rivers studies. This was attributed to the highly channelized nature of the Moose River and the origin of the East channel itself which is fed by waters draining the Clay Belt, a unique subprovince of the Canadian shield.
Volatile Halocarbon Contaminant Survey of the St. Clair River
Authors: Kaiser Klaus L.E. , Comba Michael E.
Published: March 2019

Analysis of over 30 volatile halocarbon contaminants in St. Clair River bottom water samples at 20 transects, each covering the three stations at 10 m, 25 m, and 100 m offshore shows considerable inputs of perchloroethylene and carbon tetrachloride in the nearshore zone along the highly industrialized area below Sarnia, Ontario. Minimum loadings of 32 kg.day−1 perchloroethylene and of 22 kg.day−1 carbon tetrachloride are calculated from the observed concentrations. In addition, smaller loadings of 1,1,1-trichloroethane, chloroform, and a variety of other volatile compounds, some of which have yet to be identified, are indicated.
Chlorinated Organics in Nearshore Waters and Tributaries of the St. Clair River
Authors: Oliver Barry G. , Kaiser Klaus L.E.
Published: March 2019

The concent rat ions of hexachloroethane (HCE), hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD), pentachlorobenzene (QCB), hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and octachlorostyrene (OCS) in large volume water samples show that the major sources of these chemicals to the St. Clair River are Dow Chemical Company effluents and, to a lesser degree, Sarnia’s Township ditch which drains one of Dow’s waste disposal sites. Tributaries entering the river on both sides of the Canada/United States border contain measurable concentrations of these chemicals indicating low level contamination throughout the area. The degree of water/suspended sediment partitioning of the chemicals (Kp) was studied. Kp values for the individual chemicals changed in a manner consistent with changes in their physical-chemical properties.
Chlorinated Contaminants in St. Clair River Sediments
Authors: Oliver Barry G. , Pugsley Chris W.
Published: March 2019

The concentrations of many chlorinated organics including chlorobenzenes, hexachloroethane, hexachlorobutadiene, octachlorostyrene, carbon tetrachloride, and perchloroethylene have been measured in an extensive number of bot torn sediment samples from the St. Clair River. The sediment data pinpointed major sources of contamination in the Sarnia industrial area and demonstrated widespread downstream contamination to Lake St. Clair.
Chlorinated Organic Contaminants on suspended Sediments in Lake St. Clair
Authors: Charlton Murray N. , Oliver Barry G.
Published: March 2019

Sediment traps were used to study the presence and fate of chlorinated organics on suspended material in Lake St. Clair. The bulk of the material caught by the traps was resuspended bottom sediment. The highest concentrations of organics were usually found in the center of the lake while the lowest concentrations were found in the southeast area near the Thames River outlet. Organic contaminants were distributed throughout the lake on suspended material. Some results suggest that lateral mixing of contaminants in the St. Clair River results in transboundary pollution. Evidence of sporadic loadings of PCB was found. Inter-contaminant ratios were fairly consistent throughout the St. Clair-Detroit system indicating eventual transport of industrial contaminants from the St. Clair River to Lake Erie.
Municipal Sources of Selected Trace Organics in Sarnia
Authors: Marsalek Jiri
Published: March 2019

As a contribution to the systematic evaluation of sources of selected trace organics discharged into the St. Clair River in Sarnia, municipal sources, such as urban runoff, drainage ditch flow and wastewater treatment plant effluent, were evaluated. The sampling of these sources indicated the presence of trace organics at fairly low levels. The treated effluent conveyed the highest loadings of perchloroethylene (560 kg/yr) and carbon tetrachloride (4 kg/yr). The drainage ditch receiving some industrial discharges conveyed the highest loadings of hexachlorobutadiene (9 kg/yr) and hexachloroethane (2 kg/yr). The annual loadings of pentachlorobenzene, hexachlorobenzene and octachlorostyrene were smaller than 0.1 kg/yr. The loadings from municipal sources were found insignificant in comparison to those from industrial sources.
Bulk Deposition of Ions in the Turkey Lakes Watershed
Authors: Semkin R.G. , Jeffries Dean S.
Published: March 2019

Bulk deposition has been collected at the Turkey Lakes Watershed (near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario) on a weekly basis since September 1981. Average precipitation quantity was 1212 mm over four years with rain fall accounting for approximately 70% of the total. The chemistry of bulk deposition is dominated by hydrogen and sulphate ions. Seasonal variations in chemistry were observed with summer concentrations of SO4, NH4, and Ca exceeding winter values by about 40%. The hydrogen ion content of hulk deposition is lower in the summer months while the SO4:NO3 equivalent ratio is at a maximum. Sulphate, NO3, NH4 and H ion concentrations are significantly correlated (p<.001). A greater proportion of NO3, appears to be associated with HNO3, than SO4 with its strong acid counterpart, e.g. sulphate is better correlated with NH4 and Ca than H. Annual deposition to the watershed is comparable to other areas experiencing more acidic precipitation due to the relatively high precipitation rate in this location.
Adhesion and Growth of Anaerobic Biofilms on Ion Exchange Resins
Authors: Selle Sardi R.F.G. , Bulani W. , Cairns W.L. , Kosaric N.
Published: March 2019

Ion exchanger beads are explored as aids in accelerating the development of anaerobic biofilms for use in advanced anaerobic reactors.

Initial adhesion and subsequent changes in adhesion and growth of anaerobic biofilms (as reflected in total supported biomass and metabolic activity) were monitored on different ion exchangers (strong cation, strong anion and weak anion) over a period of 12 days.

Metabolic activity was recorded for the first time in this type of study using ATP biolumininescence assays which allowed monitoring of rapid changes in the biofilm development.

Results indicate that the strong cation exchanger is a better overall substratum for anaerobic biofilm development due to its favorable property of dialent cation binding and adsorption of volatile fatty acid substrate for methanogens.
Heavy Metal Effects on Marsh Treatment Systems
Authors: Desjardins Robert M. , Seyfried Patricia L. , Palmateer Garry
Published: March 2019

Higher land and energy costs have prompted interest in marshes for wastewater treatment. To date, four marsh treatment systems have been built in Ontario at Listowel, Cobalt, Bradford and Port Perry. Of these, the Cobalt marsh is unique in that it is situated in the area of a mine tailings basin. Because metals from mine tailings have been shown to reach the overlyinq waters, it was essential that the effect of leached metals on the micro-bial activities in the system be examined. Factors that were studied were chemical pollutant and pathogen removal, activities of sulfur and nitrogen bacteria, as well as inhibitory effects of toxic metals on the microbiota. Comparisons were made of data collected from the Cobalt and Listowel marshes. Although the metals present in the Cobalt area were shown to be potentially toxic to the marsh microflora, the concentrations of metals in the marsh were not hiqh enough to interfere with microbial activities.
A Review of Processes Affecting the Fate of Contaminants in Groundwater
Authors: Jackson R.E. , Hoehn E.
Published: March 2019

The hydrological and hydrochemical processes controlling the fate of contaminants in groundwater flow systems are reviewed. The transport of these contaminants is controlled by hydrogeological phenomena, while chemical reactions, such as sorption, hydrolysis and biodegradation, act to retard and/or attenuate these substances. The results of recent research by European and North American workers are summarized for the benefit of readers unfamiliar with groundwater pollution.
The Distribution of Volatile Organics in a Leachate Plume, Gloucester, Ontario
Authors: Devlin J.F. , Gorman W.A.
Published: March 2019

The Gloucester Landfill is located near Ottawa, Ontario, on a northeast trending ridge of Quaternary age. The ridge comprises outwash sediments which make up two aquifer systems. A confined system exists next to bedrock, and is overlain by a silty-clayey stratum (the confining layer) which is, in turn, overlain by an unconfined aquifer system. Two independent volatile organic plumes have previously been identified at the landfill: the southeast plume, which has penetrated the confined aquifer system, and the northeast plume which is migrating in the unconfined aquifer.

The distribution of volatile organic contaminants at the northeast plume site appears to be a function of two factors: (1) heterogeneities in the aquifer sediments are causing the channeling of contaminants through a narrow path; (2) the low fraction of organic carbon in the unconfined aquifer sediments at the northeast site is resulting in little retardation of the contaminants there, relative to those at the southeast site.

Acetate was the only volatile fatty acid detected in the leachate. It was measurable only in areas where the volatile organic contamination was significant. Although methane was detected in the contaminated sediments, suggesting that microbial activity was present, the high concentration of acetate (>1000 ppm) which was detected down-gradient from the source area indicates that any biodegradation which is occurring is proceeding at a very slow rate.