bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fulvic Acid Removal by Aluminum Salts in the Presence and Absence of a Nonionic Polymer
Authors: Evangelos Diamadopoulos , Woods Donald R.
Published: March 2019

The removal of fulvic acid by means of aluminum salts and a nonionic polymer (nonionic polyacrylamide) was investigated in accordance with jar test procedures. Both aluminum chloride and aluminum sulfate demonstrated similar efficiencies in removing fulvic acid from water. Removals after nitration were highest at the lowest pH studied (pH ~ 6) and depending on the aluminum dose, removals up to 10')% were observed. The settleability of the flocs, however, was very poor. Only for the highest Al done employed (0 5 v 10-3M) and for the AlCl3 case, removals higher than 80 percent after 20 minutes of settling were observed.

The presence of the polymer enhanced both the settleability of the flocs and the removals after filtration. The latter was attributed to the flocculation of the micro-colloidal particles that passed through the pores of the filter in the absence of the polymer.
Feasibility of Polysulfide Detoxification of Concentrated Waste-water
Authors: Takaoka P.T. , Ganczarczyk J.J.
Published: March 2019

Collecting of concentrated cyanide solutions in electroplating shops is quite a common occurrence. These accumulations of 4.5 to 9.0 cu m volume, which may be collected over a period of years, are usually in the concentration range of 1 to 3 per cent cyanide and present considerable dangers as they are stored on-site or transported for treatment or disposal. Common technologies available for the treatment of cyanide-containing wastewaters are generally not applicable to concentrated cyanide solutions, and some special technologies which could be applicable, usually show high capital costs and/or complexity of operation which render them unsuitable for smaller plating shop practice.

In recent years, considerable work has been carried out to investigate a reaction of cyanide with polysulphide to form relatively innocuous thiocyanate. However, this reaction has been studied_only for cyanide solutions of low concentration (less than 100 mg/L CN-). This study was undertaken to investigate the feasibility of using the cyanide-polysulphide reaction to detoxify concentrated cyanide solutions (e.g. 2% CN-) and to investigate the initial kinetics of the cyanide-polysulphide reaction.

It was found that the cyanide-polysulphide reaction is moderately exothermic and proceeds very rapidly both at room temperature and at 3°C. This process was capable of reducing cyanide concentrations to non-detectable levels within two weeks at a cyanide-to-polysulphide-sulphur ratio of 1:2 by weight. It was also found that the initial reaction rate kinetics of the cyanide-polysulphide reaction in concentrated solutions differed significantly from previously reported values for solutions low in cyanide concentration and that high concentrations of polysulphides tended to suppress the reaction rate.
Nitrogen Removal from Anaerobically Treated Leachate
Authors: Prasad D. , Henry J.G. , Elefsiniotis P.
Published: March 2019

Laboratory studies were conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of diffused aeration for the removal of nitrogen by ammonia desorption from the effluent of an anaerobic filter treating leachate. The effects of pH, temperature and air flow on the process were studied. The coefficient of desorption of ammonia, Kd for the anaerobic filter effluent (TKN 75 mg/L with NH3-N 88%) was determined at pH values of 9 , 10 and 11, temperatures of 10, 15, 20, 30 and 35°C, and air flow rates of 50, 120 and 190 cm3/sec/L.

Results indicated that nitrogen removal by ammonia desorption from the effluent of anaerobic filters treating leachate was feasible. Removals exceeding 90% were obtained with 8 hours aeration at a pH of 10, a temperature of 20°C, and an air flow rate of 190 cm3/sec/L. Ammonia desorption coefficients, KD, determined at other temperatures and air flow rates can be used to predict ammonia removals for this leachate under various operating conditions.
Comparison of Fill-and-Draw Reactors for Treatment of Landfill Leachate
Authors: Raina Sanjay , Mavinic Donald S.
Published: March 2019

A study was undertaken to examine the feasibility of biologically treating a combined waste stream of landfill leachate and domestic sewage. Two different aerobic, reactor feeding modes were employed in a fill-and-draw treatment system: once-daily and twice-daily feed, in equal time intervals. The ratios of sewage: leachate used were 80:20 and 60:40, by volume, while operating solids retention times (SRT) were 5, 10 and 20 days. Liquid temperatures were 22°C, 8°C and 5°C, on average, for the three different temperature profiles.

Results indicated that successful biotreatment of combined leachate and domestic sewage is possible, with both low effluent COD and suspended solids achievable under certain types of operating conditions. For example, the once-a-day system performed most efficiently at a 10-day SRT and 22°C temperature, for all organic loadings investigated, while the twice-a-day system performed best at the 20-day SRT and the highest organic loading. On the basis of specific oxygen uptake rate values, the twice-a-day system was found to be more efficient and faster at utilizing the available substrate. However, liquid temperatures down to 5°C resulted in reduced treatment efficiency and produced significant changes in the sludge settling characteristics. In some cases, enhanced filamentous growth prevailed, leading to extensive sludge bulking, while in other circumstances, filamentous growth was totally absent and pin-point flocs predominated. The sludge settling problems encountered had a direct effect on effluent quality.
Pilot Scale Testing of a New Radium-226 Removal Process
Authors: Anderson W.B. , Huck P.M. , Meadley T.M.R. , Hynes T.P.
Published: March 2019

This paper describes the on-going pilot scale development of a new treatment process designed to remove radium-226 from uranium milling effluents. Presently, decants from Canadian uranium mining and milling tailings areas are treated with barium chloride to remove radium-226 prior to discharge into the environment. This is usually accomplished in large natural or man-made ponds which provide an opportunity for a (Ba,Ra)SO4 precipitate to form and subsequently settle. Sand filtration is sometimes used as a polishing step. This new process differs from conventional and other experimental processes in that it involves the use of a fluidized bed to facilitate the deposition of a (Ba,Ra)SO4 precipitate on a granular medium of high surface area. As a stand-alone treatment process, the new process is consistently able to reduce incoming radium-226 activity levels by 90-99%. Effluent levels of 10 pCi/L (0.370 Bq/L) or less have been achieved, depending on the influent activity levels. Recent testing of the process as a polishing step has demonstrated radium removal efficiencies up to 60% when the process influent was already less than 5 pCi/L (0.185 Bq/L). The process has been operated at temperatures ranging from 26°C down to 0.3°C with no reduction in efficiency. In contrast to treatment times in the order of days for conventional settling pond systems and hours for mechanical stirred tank/filtration systems, the new process is able to achieve these radium removal efficiencies in times on the order of one minute.
Transmission Electron Microscopy Applied to Water Fractionation Studies - A New Look at DOC
Authors: Leppard Gary G.
Published: March 2019

Research on the particle-mediated transport of “bound pollutants” tends to be conducted in the absence of a proper definition of particle and with a minimal consideration of colloidal phenomena. Recent developments in the use of transmission electron microscopy to monitor water fractionation schemes are providing a technology to correct this situation. This review summarizes the current status of the routine application of TEM in monitoring such schemes and in extending them into new areas of water research. It summarizes new findings on DOC relating to the extensive interpenetration of aggregated DOC “particles” with their aquatic milieu. Also, it relates colloidal phenomena to artifact generation in filter cascade schemes and in "particle-pollutant" interaction experiments. The usefulness of TEM in defining the ultrastructure of carbon-rich particulate materials and in elucidating colloid-particle interactions is demonstrated, as is the relevance of such measures to understanding pollutant dispersion.
Effect of Phosphorus Addition on Treatment Efficiency of a Lab Scale Anaerobic Filter, Treating Landfill Leachate
Authors: Muthukrishnan K. , Atwater J.W.
Published: March 2019

Sanitary landfill leachate has been a source of environmental concern due to its high organic strength and chemical diversity. A number of lab-scale and pilot scale studies have indicated that the anaerobic filter is highly competitive with other forms of biological treatment and has distinct economic advantages. While there have been a number of studies based on a general overall approach to leachate treatment by the anaerobic filter, limited information is available on the role played by essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus in the biological treatment process.

Laboratory studies were conducted at room temperature (22 °C) to study the effect of nutrient addition (specifically, phosphorus, the deficient constituent of leachate) on treatment efficiency of landfill leachate by the upflow anaerobic filter. Two anaerobic filters (0.975 metres x 0.15 metres diameter) were constructed using plexiglass pipes and packed with strips of corrugated fibre-glass sheets in four layers to form the filter bed. Leachate collected from a nearby landfill was applied at moderate organic loadings (1.8-4.0 kg COD/m3/day) to the two units maintaining a HRT of 0.987 days.

Results indicate phosphorus addition may be made to organically diverse wastes such as landfill leachate with distinct advantages.
Ammonia Removal from a Landfill Leachate by Nitrification and Denitrification
Authors: Dedhar S. , Mavinic D.S.
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this research project was to study the biological treatability of a leachate from an “older” landfill, with specific regard to the removal of ammonia by nitrification and denitrification. A single sludge denitrification system with recycle was used. Leachate ammonia concentrations of up to 288 mg/L-N were reduced to less than 1 mg/L. The ammonia was removed by nitrification and bacterial uptake. Glucose was added to aid denitrification. The degree of denitrification was dependent on the glucose loading to the anoxic reactor. The influent leachate COD removal was 20%; however after the addition of glucose to the system, a mean COD removal of 74% was obtained. The four metals monitored, zinc, manganese, nickel and iron were removed by the biomass, but not to the same extent. At the metal concentrations observed, there was no inhibitory/toxic effect to the ammonia removal system employed.
Bacterial Formation of Humus-like Materials from Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Authors: Baxter R. M.
Published: March 2019

A pseudomonad isolated from activated sludge produced a black humus-like material from a commercial PCB mixture, Aroclor 1221. A similar product was produced from a more highly chlorinated PCB, Arochlor 1242, in the presence of biphenyl. The meta-oxidation product from the bacterial metabolism of Aroclor 1242 reacted with catechol (1,2-diphenol), yielding a dark product similar to that produced by the metabolism of Arochlor 1221.

It is suggested that the reaction involves the oxidative co-polymerization of a meta-oxidation product derived from a 2,4’-substituted chlorobiphenyl with a diphenol derived from biphenyl.

The possible significance of such polymerization reactions in immobilizing PCB components in the environment is discussed.
Anaerobic/Aerobic Treatment of Municipal Landfill Leachate
Authors: Thirumurthi Dhandapani , Austin Thomas P. , Ramalingaiah  , Khakhria Sudhir
Published: March 2019

Laboratory-model studies were conducted to develop design guidelines for treatment of high-strength leachate (23,000 mg COD/L, 17,500 mg BOD/L, 8,000 mg TOC/L, 1,000 mg Fe/L and 80 mg Zn/L) generated from a landfill site that serves the metropolitan area of Halifax, Canada. The selected processes included two treatment systems, I and II. System I consisted of an anaerobic fixed film reactor (AFFR1), the effluent from which was further treated by an aerated lagoon and a settling lagoon in parallel. System II consisted of a second AFFR, but was not followed by any other treatment.

The AFFR’s were upflow cylindrical tanks with plastic "Tellerette" rings which provided the fixed surface. This is the first known investigation which utilized the rings (patented by Pennwalt Corporation) that are manufactured as packing material in air pollution control devices. The pH-adjusted, settled and nutrient-supplemented leachate (pre-treatment step) was added to AFFR1, and AFFR2 to maintain organic loads of about 2 and 1.6 kg COD/day.m3, respectively. The two fixed film reactors were kept at 32 ± 1°C and the two lagoons at 20 ± 2°C.

The 12-week study showed that system Ia, consisting of pre-treatment, AFFR1, and aerated lagoon, resulted in the best performance; system Ib, (pre-treatment, AFFR1 and settling lagoon) generated the second best effluent, followed by System II, which produced an inferior effluent. System la resulted in greater than 99% removal of COD, BOD, TOC, Fe and Zn. System Ib removed between 98% and 99% of COD and TOC and more than 99% of BOD, Fe and Zn. System II (pre-treatment and AFFR2), however, could remove between 97% and 98% of COD and TOC, and in excess of 99% of BOD, Fe and Zn. Similar data for the remaining 36 parameters are also included. Biogas generated by the two AFFR’s ranged from about 0.4 to 0.57 m3 per kg of COD destroyed. Comparisons have been made between the performance potentials, capital and operating costs and energy requirements, of the Systems Ia, Ib and II.
Application of a Nonparametric Approach for Monitoring and Detecting Trends in Water Quality Data for the St
Authors: Cailas Michael D. , Cavadias George , Gehr Ronald
Published: March 2019

To overcome some of the restrictions due to the irregular structure of water quality data, a nonparametric approach has been developed based on Kendall’s T and a seasonal adjustment model, which enables one to test for the significance of trends as well as to monitor the trend variations with time. This methodology has been applied to water quality data for the St. Lawrence river obtained from Environment Canada and the municipality of Varennes. The results from the first source indicate that a positive trend is developing for conductivity and pH downstream from the Island of Montreal, whereas upstream from the Island pH is the only parameter indicating a positive trend. Data from the municipality of Varennes, due to their excellent quality, were used to verify the validity of the previous results as well as the reliability of the applied methodology. Analysis of the Varennes data with a parametric method indicated that a positive trend in pH is indeed evident. This finding will be of consequence for future studies to ascertain the effect on the river of the new Montreal Urban Community Sewage Treatment Plant.
Bottom Sediments and Morphology of the Upper St. Clair River
Authors: Rukavina Norman A.
Published: March 2019

New data on bottom sediments and bathymetry provide a more detailed picture of the physical character of the Upper St. Clair River Channel than was previously available. The data indicate that the channel has a complex erosional mid-section cut in glacial deposits and a steep inshore slope with a veneer of modern sediments. Deposits along the Canadian industrial shoreline consist of a thin wedge of nearshore sediment overlying a stiff glacial clay. Estimated volume of the deposit is 63000 m3; average texture is 63% sand, 32% gravel and 5% silt-clay. Tarry interstitial material occurs at or near the surface in shallow-water cores. Size data from surface samples show two strong modes - a sand mode which is consistent with either local derivation or bedload transport and a gravel mode which appears to be too coarse to be natural sediment and may represent fill.
Movement of Perchloroethylene in Flowing Water
Authors: Lau Y. Lam , Marsalek J.
Published: March 2019

Observations of the movement of perchloroethylene (PERC) puddles and their interaction with moving sand waves are described. The dissolution rate of PERC in flowing water was measured. Calculations of probably characteristics of sand waves and dispersion from hypothetical point sources in the St. Clair River were made.
An Investigation of the Quantity, Quality and Sources of Groundwater Seepage into the St. Clair River near Sarnia, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Sklash Michael , Mason Sharon , Scott Suzanne , Pugsley Chris
Published: March 2019

We used seepage meters and minipiezometers to survey a 100 m by 7 km band of streambed of the St. Clair River near Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, to determine the quantity, quality, and sources of groundwater seepage into the river. The average observed seepage rate, 1.4 x 10−8 m3/s/m2, suggests higher than expected hydraulic conductivities and/or hydraulic gradients in the streambed. We found detectable levels of some organic contaminants in streambed groundwater samples from 1.0 and 1.5 m depths, however , concentrations did not exceed drinking water guidelines. Our isotopic and electrical conductivity data indicate that: (l) the streambed groundwater is not just river water, (2) groundwater from the “freshwater aquifer” at the base of the overburden Is not a significant component of the streambed groundwater, (3) some of the streambed groundwater is partially derived from a shallow groundwater flow system, and (4) an unidentified source of water with low tritium, river water-like δ18O, and very high electrical conductivity, contributes to the streambed groundwater.
Hydrocarbons in St. Clair River Sediments
Authors: Nagy E. , Carey J.H. , Hart J.H.
Published: March 2019

A survey of St. Clair River sediments at Sarnia, Ontario, showed that the highest concentrations of normal alkanes and polyaromatic hydrocarbons occurred in the vicinity of the petrochemical industrial area on the Canadian side of the river. The absence of an odd-carbon predominance in the alkanes, and the presence of several alkylated polyaromatics indicate a petroleum source for both classes of hydrocarbons. Both classes of compounds were present, at increased concentrations, in the lower sections of two shallow cores. The distribution of organics reflected the highly localized character of inputs, currents, and sediments.
Modelling the Pathways of Toxic Contaminants in the St. Clair-Detroit River System Using the Toxfate Model: The Fate of Perchloroethylene
Authors: Halfon Efraim
Published: March 2019

Perchloroethylene (PERC) is a heavier-than-water, soluble and volatile solvent used primarily in the dry cleaning business. Black puddles (popularly known the the “blob”), containing several contaminants inducing PERC, were reported in the St. Clair River bottom sediments downstream from Sarnia in 1984 and in 1985. The TOXFATE model is used to predict the fate of PERC and the relative importance of volatilization in relation to water transport. Simulations show that in the St. Clair-Detroit River system about 82% (78-87%). under a variety of temperature and wind conditions) of the PERC loading is volatilized, about 17% (12-21%) of loading enters Lake Erie (more in winter, less in summer) and only about 1% remains in the system. The residence half life of PERC being transported in the water from Sarnia to Lake Erie is 350-400 hours and the half life of PERC being volatilized is 80-85 hours. A sensitivity analysis shows the importance of knowing the daily loadings to compute, in real time, local water concentrations following a PERC spill. The high water levels in the St. Clair River system do not influence the fate of PERC. Given the high volatility of PERC low temperatures and wind speeds do not reduce significantly the rate of removal of PERC from the system through volatilize nation.
Point Sources of Toxic Organics to the Upper St. Clair River
Authors: King Lawrence , Sherbin Griff
Published: March 2019

A one-day effluent screening survey was conducted in the Sarnia area to characterize point sources and to determine possible sources of the so called "toxic blob" found on the bottom of the St. Clair River. Two of Dow Chemical's 1st Street sewers were shown to contain the same spectrum of compounds found in these perchloroethylene puddles and were the principle sources of perchloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride, hexachlorobenzene, hexachloroethane and hexachlorobutadiene. Other effluents did not contain the same fingerprint or mixture of trace organics.

Additional sources of toxic organics were: the Polysar 72″ sewer, the Dow Chemical 3rd and 4th Street sewers and 1st Street 54″ sluice and the Township Ditch which drains industrial property and a number of waste disposal sites in the area. The Dow Chemical Landfill on Scott Rd. (periodic discharge) was a source of volatile organics, trichlorobenzene, hexachlorobutadiene and the chlorophenoxy acid 2,4-D. Esso Petroleum, Esso Chemical, the Sarnia WPCP and Suncor were minor sources of trace contaminants.

The impact of upstream discharges on near-shore water quality was evident at Suncor which is located downstream of the other point sources and which had the most contaminated intake water.
Microbial Responses to Trace Elements and Nutrients in the St. Lawrence River
Authors: Rao S.S. , Mudroch A.
Published: March 2019

Over 100 surface sediment samples from Lac St. Louis (St. Lawrence River) were examined for various microbial physiological types and densities. These organisms were correlated to the concent rat ions of trace elements (Ni, Co, Cr, V, Cu, Pb, Zn, As, Fe, Mn and Ti) and nutrients (P and organic matter). Results indicated a relationship between bacterial densities and trace element concentrations. Data also suggested there was an apparent indication of bacterial inhibit ion due to toxic substances in the lake sediment. Generally, high and low bacterial density zones existed in the sediment with low bacterial density zones being associated with high concentrations of trace elements. Because of the relationships and the distribution of trace elements and organic matter, the lake bottom exhibited a heterogeneous nature. The availability of trace elements in the surface sediments was assessed by determination of chemical species of the trace elements in solutions obtained by elutriation of the sediment with distilled water. Data and methodology are presented.
Water Research to 2020: Issues and Opportunities
Authors: Ongley Edwin D.
Published: March 2019

Important water issues having environmental, social and economic consequences for the Canadian public will require federal leadership. Knowledge gaps often inhibit effective policy advice to various levels of government. Many emerging water issues are manifestations of larger global phenomena, such as climate change.

Public policy concerns will likely require research into such topics as long-range hydrological forecasting, drought forecasting and the use of non-standard proxy data to extend hydrological records, and incorporation of hydrological information into econometric modelling. Toxic chemicals management will require more focussed research on pathways, fate and effects of contarinants within land-water systems, including important developments in ecotoxicology and knowledge of effects of chronic exposure of humans to toxins. Long-range planning in the north requires improvements in knowledge of arctic hydrology, aquatic ecology and toxic input. Climate change may place greater stress on groundwater resources. Knowledge of persistence and fate of toxins in groundwater is poor. It is not yet known whether toxic rain is a national concern.

Large savings can be made in the pollution Control industry by operations research. Research into pollution control technologies has major economic implications for the Canadian environmental industry. Socio-economic research is needed into legal and social implications of alternative environmental ethics, of various forms of demand management, of risk assessment, and of means for dealing with uncertainty in public policy development. The interrelationship of research and water management, and of the nature of university involvement in the national effort must be reassessed. Greater focus of effort around issues of national concern will be necessary.
Sediment Microbial Activity in Acidic and Non-Acidic Lakes
Authors: Burnison B. K. , Rao S. S. , Jurkovic A. A. , Nuttley D. J.
Published: March 2019

The sediments from an acidic lake, a slightly acidic lake and a non-acidic lake were studied to determine the effect of lake acidification on organic biodegradation rates and bacterial numbers. Organic biodegradation was determined by mano-metric respirometry and mineralization of 14C-labeled compounds. All measurements were normalized to the same temperature (20°C). The oxygen consumption rate and bacterial numbers (based on spread plate counts) were greater in the non-acidic lake sediment throughout the study period. The oxygen consumption rates in the other lake sediments were 18-20 times lower and the bacterial numbers were 15 times lower than the non-acidic lake. In contrast, the results from experiment s using 14C-labeled glucose and glutamic acid often showed that the acidic sediments had twice the heterotrophic potential of the non-acidic sediments. 14C-labeled compounds should be used cautiously when measuring the acidification effects on organic matter decomposition.
Organic and Inorganic Contaminants in the St. Lawrence River: Some Preliminary Results on Their Distribution
Authors: Lum Ken R. , Kaiser Klaus L.E.
Published: March 2019

Volatile hydrocarbons (VHC’s) have been measured at many locations in the St. Lawrence River, Several concentrations of VHC’s were higher than those measured at other polluted Great Lakes sites, e.g. the St. Clair River. Tributaries to the St. Lawrence River were found to be significant sources of VHC’s.

Cadmium in the St. Lawrence River is mostly found in dissolved (bioavailable) forms as compared to the Mississippi River where dissolved cadmium accounts for about 10% of the total cadmium. The major sources of cadmium appear to be in the Montreal area.

Although the analytical results show local impairment in water quality, intensive sampling is required to pinpoint sources and/or quantify loadings, However, none of the VHC or cadmium concentrations exceed water quality guidelines or objectives. In fact there are no guidelines for most VHC’s. Nevertheless, the concentrations of VHC’s and cadmium found should have no toxic effect on aquatic organisms.

The results of this study indicate that there are major sources of VHC’s and cadmium in Quebec. For example, inputs on the southwestern portion of Lac St.Louis may be a major source of perchloroethylene, and effluents in the vicinity of the Montreal STP may be a major source of cadmium. U.S. tributaries, e.g. the Grassy River, may also be a significant source of VHC’s.
A Review of Remedial Measures for Groundwater Pollution in Canada
Authors: Schmidt J.W.
Published: March 2019

An overview of groundwater contamination and remedial measures undertaken in Canada is presented. Information drawn from a consultant’s report to Environment Canada has been briefly summarized. It is noteworthy that at the majority of the 173 sites identified, substantive remedial actions have been undertaken. In addition, two case histories where remedial actions are currently underway are highlighted.
Screening / Indicator Parameters for Organic Contaminants in Groundwater
Authors: Feenstra Stan
Published: March 2019

Parameters such as total organic carbon (TOC), chemical oxygen demand (COD), oil and grease, total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), Microtox Toxicity, total phenolics, total organic halogen (TOX), total aromatic hydrocarbons (TAH), total chromatographable organics (TCO) and total volatile organics (TVO) have been used as screening/indicator parameters for the monitoring of organic contaminants in groundwater. The suitability of these various parameters will depend on the selectivity of the analysis method to the organic contaminants of interest, the detection limit of the method relative to the concentrations of interest, the background concentrations of the screening/indicator parameters in the groundwater and any analytical interferences. There are no screening/indicator parameters currently available which are suitable for all situations in which toxic organic contaminants are of concern at sub-milligram per litre concentrations. Suitable screening/indicator parameters must be selected on a case-by-case basis depending on the organic contaminants of interest, the concentrations at which they are a concern, and the presence of any interferences. However, in general, because the organic contaminants which are most frequently of concern in groundwater are chlorinated compounds, total organic halogen (TOX) will likely be the most commonly applicable screening/indicator parameter.
Surface Area and Radionuclide Sorption in Contaminated Aquifers
Authors: Inch K.J. , Killey R.W.D.
Published: March 2019

Strong linear correlations between 90Sr and 60Co sorption and BET surface area have been found in samples of sands from three contaminated aquifers. The sands have a granitic mineralogy, and the sequence for both surface area and radionuclide retention is vermiculite >> sericite > amphibole > muscovite = biotite > feldspar > quartz. Where aqueous geochemistry of the aquifer is relatively constant, a strong linear correlation between whole-sediment surface area and in situ radionuclide distribution coefficients was found. Distribution coefficients cannot be reliably predicted from surface area measurements if substantial differences in major ion chemistry are known or suspected at the various soil sampling localities. From the results presented here, we conclude that surface coatings (predominantly iron oxyhydroxides) provide most of the surface area and sorption capacity. Particle mineralogy has a major influence on the development of coatings, but plays a minor role in the direct sorption of contaminants.
Migration and Fate of Aldicarb in the Sandstone Aquifer of Prince Edward Island
Authors: Priddle M.W. , Jackson R.E. , Novakowski K.S. , Denhoed S. , Graham B.W. , Patterson R.J. , Chaput D. , Jardine D.
Published: March 2019

The persistence of aldicarb in groundwater of the fractured, sandstone aquifer of Prince Edward Island, Canada is assessed. Two potato fields were instrumented with nests of piezometers which were used in the hydraulic and chemical testing of the sandstone aquifer. Groundwaters were sampled and analysed for pH, EH, dissolved oxygen and ammonia, major ions and the toxic aldicarb species - aldicarb, aldicarb sulfoxide and aldicarb sulfone. Aldicarb persistence appears related to (1) its application at time of planting when soil water temperatures are low (<10°C) and (2) the inhibiting pH effect that the oxidation of ammonia-based fertilizers has on aldicarb degradation. It is recommended that aldicarb (i.e. Temik) be applied at the time of plant emergence rather than seeding, and only where the depth to the water table is 5 metres or more.
Chlorophenols and Chlorinated Hydrocarbons in Starry Flounder (Platichthys stellatus) and Contaminants in Estuarine Sediments near a Large Municipal Outfall
Authors: Rogers Ian H. , Hall Kenneth J.
Published: March 2019

Starry flounders, collected near a large municipal sewage outfall in the Fraser River Estuary, between March 1984 and April 1985, were quantified for chlorophenols, DDTs, and PCBs. Sediments from the polluted zone were analyzed for EPA Priority Pollutants and herbicides. Muscle tissue contained maximum chlorophenol levels about one half the Canadian limit and one tenth the limit for PCBs in edible fish tissue. Contaminants in matched tissue samples from the polluted zone and an adjacent control area showed statistically significant higher levels of all target compounds in muscle tissue from the outfall area except for DDD which was greater in the control. Bone and liver tissue were rich in PCBs and DDTs. The sediments contained phthalate esters, PCBs, PAHs and phenol. However the levels of pesticides, chlorophenols and herbicides were close to or below the detection limits. The sediment data were compared with values from nine other sites in the estuary.
Automatic Control of Supplemental Chemical Addition for Primary Treatment Enhancement
Authors: Forgie D.J.L. , Kerc P.T.
Published: March 2019

Chemical coagulation can be used to improve the efficiency of a primary wastewater treatment plant. Using statistical and fuzzy mathematical techniques, models of this process were developed from data gathered at a plant which was using liquid alum and a polymeric coagulant aid to reduce its primary effluent strength. Mathematical simulation of on-line process control using these models and fixed and variable chemical feed rate regimes were conducted using “typical day” influent strength and flow rate data. The results of these simulations show that on-line process control with a variable feed regime adjusted on the basis of current and projected conditions would generally provide a more effective use of chemicals than a fixed feed rate regime. Only at higher target efficiencies did the fixed feed rate regime approach the effectiveness of the variable fixed rate regime.
Concentration of Tributyltin in the Surface Microlayer of Natural Waters
Authors: Maguire R. James , Tkacz Richard J.
Published: March 2019

High concentrations of the very toxic antifouling agent tributyltin have been found in 24 surface microlayer samples in a survey of 74 locations in Ontario, Quebec, and New York State. In 6 of these 24 locations the concentration of tributyltin in the surface microlayer exceeded the 24-hr LC-50 value for adult rainbow trout. The most heavily contaminated area was the mouth of the Moira River at Belleville, Ontario, where the concentration of tributyltin in the surface microlayer was 42 times the 24-hr LC-50 value for trout. The concentration of tributyltin in the surface microlayer was occasionally so much greater than that in subsurface water that the microlayer contained a significant amount of tributyltin relative to that in the whole depth of the subsurface water. Similar findings were observed for the less toxic degradation products of tributyltin - dibutyltin, monobutyltin and inorganic tin.
Impact of Acid Drainage Pollution from Mineralized Slate at Halifax Airport
Authors: Lund Ole Peter , Vaughan James G. , Thirumurthi Dhandapani
Published: March 2019

In January 1982, 224,000 m3 of excavated slate at the Halifax International Airport was placed at a disposal site situated in the watershed of the Salmon River. When acid drainage from the site was identified in June 1982, lime addition and settling (ponds) were initiated as treatment. Acid drainage continued into the watershed, contributing 250,000 kg of acidity (CaC03) annually.

An environmental impact study was conducted to determine the effects of this loading on the Salmon River aquatic system. The study concluded that there was significant loading of acidity and heavy metals. The lowering of pH from 4.6-5.2 to 3.8-4.6, combined with aluminum concentrations of 0.3-0.5 mg/l, had adverse physiological effects on fish in two lakes.
Priority Site Selection for Degraded Areas in the Aquatic Environment
Authors: Dutka B.J. , Jones K. , Xu H. , Kwan K.K. , McInnis R.
Published: March 2019

The suitability of a variety of biochemical, microbiological and bioassay tests to become part of a battery of test procedures to identify degraded or degrading sediments and waterbodies are evaluated in this report. Data were obtained from 40 river (Detroit and Niagara) and inshore Lake Erie sampling sites. These data indicate that the top six areas of highest concern were: (1) mouth of the Rouge R., (2) mouth of Little R., (3) mouth of Two Mile Creek at Tonawanda, N.Y., (4) offshore Port Burwell, (5) mouth of Turkey Creek, and (6) Detroit R. offshore of the Grosse Ile WTP
An Investigation of the Distribution of Trihalomethanes Within GAC Contactors
Authors: Andrews R.C. , Huck P.M. , Gammie L.
Published: March 2019

This study examined the loading distribution of trihalomethanes and total organic carbon within pilot scale granular activated carbon (GAC) contactors receiving finished drinking water and operating in the downflow mode. Three carbons originating from different sources were used for this comparison. Observed column loadings were compared to isotherms. As well, loadings were evaluated as a function of carbon particle size.

Significantly higher loadings of trihalomethanes were found in the upper 10 cm (7%) of the GAC beds. Enhanced adsorption in this region was correlated with finer size carbon particles. Isotherms successfully predicted full bed depth trihalomethane loadings for two of the carbons but underestimated loadings in the top 10 cm. A replacement of the top 30 cm of the carbon in one of the beds resulted in a noticeable capacity increase for trihalomethanes.
Treatment of Domestic Strength Wastewater with Anaerobic Hybrid Reactors
Authors: Droste R.L. , Guiot S.R. , Gorur S.S. , Kennedy K.J.
Published: March 2019

Anaerobic treatment of dilute synthetic wastewater (300-1,000 mg chemical oxygen demand/L using laboratory upflow sludge blanket filter reactors with and without effluent recycle is described. Treatment of dilute synthetic wastewater at hydraulic retention times less than 1 and 2 h in reactors without and with recycle, respectively, resulted in biomass washout as the solids retention time decreased to less than 12 d. Reseeding would be required to operate at these critical hydraulic retention times for extended periods. Treatment of dilute synthetic wastewater at hydraulic retention times between 3-12 h resulted in soluble COD removal efficiencies between 84-95% treating 300 mg COD/L. At a 3 h hydraulic retention time, solids retention time of 80 d and stable reactor biomass concentrations of 25 g volatile suspended solids/L were maintained.
Improving Aquatic Environmental Impact Assessment in Canada – A Northern Case Study
Authors: Duncan William F. A. , Neil Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2019

This paper presents and applies a conceptual framework which addresses the causal relationships linking contaminant doses with responses in aquatic environments. The paper is focused on metal contaminants and reviews a northern case study in which the framework was applied. The approach emphasizes the environmental factors regulating the potential effects of contaminants and stresses the importance of understanding the physical environmental processes in monitoring design and the selection of linkages between the contaminant dose and the valued ecosystem components.
Treatment of and Gold Recovery from Effluent at Giant Yellowknife Mines Limited
Authors: Halverson G.B. , Raponi T.R.
Published: March 2019

The milling of refractory gold ore at Giant Yellowknife Mines Limited results in several effluent waste streams which are combined and sent to a tailings pond. Prior to being released to the environment, tailings effluent is treated to make the solution environmentally acceptable. This involves removing contaminants such as cyanide, arsenic and heavy metals. Initial investigations into various treatment processes to remove cyanide and arsenic showed that alkaline chlorination and iron salt precipitation were the best available technologies. In 1976 Giant Yellowknife Mines and Environment Canada entered into a DPAT (Development of Pollution Abatement Technology) program to investigate various treatment processes for the removal of cyanide and arsenic including those stated. In August 1981, the Effluent Treatment Plant became operational employing an “alkaline chlorination-arsenic precipitation-flocculation process. This paper describes the development of the effluent treatment process, process chemistry, plant facilities, plant practice and reviews the Effluent Treatment Plant performance over its six seasons of operation to date.

Subsequent analysis of the discharge from the Effluent Treatment Plant in 1982 showed that recoverable quantities of gold were being discharged to the environment through the final decant. Laboratory testwork showed that these gold values could be effectively recovered on activated carbon by passing the decant solution through a bed of activated carbon. A description of the various carbon column configurations used as well as operational and cost analyses for each are included.
The Influence of Surface Coal Mining on Potential Salmonid Spawning Habitat in the Fording River, British Columbia
Authors: MacDonald D.D. , McDonald L.E.
Published: March 2019

A total of six sites, with similar physical and hydraulic characteristics, located upstream and downstream of the Fording Coal Ltd. mining operation were selected to assess the Influence of mining activities on the quality of stream-bed substrates. The particle size distributions of gravel-bed materials in the Fording River were described using substrate statistics commonly found in the literature. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) between upstream (control) and downstream sites were detected in the percentage of sediments smaller than 2.00 mm and 6.35 mm. The differences between upstream and downstream sites were also statistically significant (p < 0.005) for the variables geometric mean particle diameter and Fredle Index. Differences between areas were evident for both sampling periods (September 1985 and April 1986). The biological significance of these differences in stream-bed composition was examined using empirically derived egg to fry survival models for salmonids currently available in the literature. The preliminary results of this study suggest that activities associated with coal mining can increase the content of fine sediment in stream-bed substrates, and thereby compromise the production of salmonids when stream reaches downstream of the development are used as spawning habitats.
Hydrocarbons and Complaints About Fish Quality in the Mackenzie River, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Lockhart W.L , Metner D.A. , Murray D.A.J. , Muir D.C.G.
Published: March 2019

The Mackenzie River in northwestern Canada is the largest North American source of freshwater to the Arctic Ocean There are continuous discharges of petroleum into the river from an oil field at Norman Wells both from refinery and natural seepage sources. Recently oil production was expanded using several artificial islands constructed in the river Coincident with the expansion native DENE fishermen in downstream communities complained that the quality of fish deteriorated. Specifically, the liver of burbot (Lota lota) was reported to have become small and dark in colour, and our investigation of that complaint is the subject of this report. Examination of the burbot revealed that the liver condition was associated with a low content of fat The question posed was whether this quality problem could be related to petroleum inputs from Norman Wells. Residue analyses of the fish showed low, but consistent, contamination with low-boiling aromatic hydrocarbons, with fish taken in winter more highly contaminated than fish taken in summer. The low levels in summer fish were found in fish from many freshwater locations with no obvious connection to a petroleum source This may reflect a broad atmospheric dispersal of these materials. Burbot from the lower Mackenzie River did not have elevated liver mixed-function oxidase enzyme activities relative to a reference population from Lake Winnipeg Experimental treatments with oil induced these enzyme activities, and so fish seem unlikely to have been affected by the enzyme inducing components of petroleum. Experimental starvation of burbot in the laboratory resulted in a loss of liver fats and in development of apparently the same liver condition The condition of the fish seems more likely to be of natural origin through factors related to nutrition or parasitism, although pollution cannot be ruled out definitively. Unexpectedly high concentrations of toxaphene (up to 5000 ng/g wet weight) and other organochlorines were found in burbot livers
A Review of Fish Habitat Issues in the Fraser River System
Authors: Birtwell I.K. , Levings C.D. , Macdonald J.S. , Rogers I.H.
Published: March 2019

The 1,253 km-long Fraser River drains a 230,400 km2 area of British Columbia and has a mean annual discharge of 2,700 m3 s−1. The river currently supports the most valuable salmon runs in western Canada. However, the system has the capacity to produce approximately 70% of the sockeye and chinook, 50% of the pink, 35% of the chum, and 10% of the coho salmon in British Columbia, if potentials were realized.

The majority of British Columbia’s population lives within the watershed, and this has led to widespread changes in aquatic, and terrestrial, habitats. Physical impacts have occurred, for example, due to dyking intertidal areas, from water regulation and abstraction, land filling and dredging. Contaminants enter the river system from various sources, such as from industry (pulp mills) and urban developments (sewage), through the use of pesticides, from terrestrial activities (logging, silviculture, agriculture) and in “stormwater”. Concerns associated with these activities and the discharge of contaminants are documented in relation to their effects upon aquatic habitats and fishery resources.
Identity and Distribution of Chlorophenols in the North Arm of the Fraser River Estuary
Authors: Carey J. H. , Fox M. E. , Hart J. H.
Published: March 2019

Chlorophenol concentrations in fish and water from the North Arm of the Fraser River were determined. Geographical distributions and regression analyses indicated that 2,4-dichlorophenol, 2,3,5- and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol were correlated and likely entered the estuary from upstream sources whereas the source of 2,3,4,6-tetrachlorophenol and pentachlorophenol was likely lumber mills within the estuary. Concentrations of the latter two Chlorophenols in fish were from 100 to 14 00 times greater than in the water indicating the these compounds were bioconcentrating. Sculpins accumulated proportionately higher levels than other species and may be a good candidate biomonitor organism.
Tracking a Pollutant in the Lower Fraser River: A Computer Simulation
Authors: Ages Alard , Woollard Anne
Published: March 2019

A one-dimensional numerical model of the tidal portion of the Fraser estuary has been adapted to simulate the path and residence time of contaminants released in any of the lower reaches of the river. A brief discussion of the model’s original development and purpose is followed by an assessment of its accuracy in predicting currents as compared to water surface elevations. Since the flow computations in this type of model are vertically and laterally integrated, they had to be corrected to represent transport in mid-channel. These correction factors were established by several time series and spot measurements along the river, taking into account the local topography. The results were verified by tracking surface floats during three representative discharges.
Salt and Freshwater Exchange on Roberts Bank, British Columbia
Authors: Crean P.B. , Murty T.S. , Stronach J.A.
Published: March 2019

One of the aspects of the seaward movement of fresh water from the Fraser River is its passage tangential to Roberts Bank and subsequent recirculation onto the bank. A synoptic study of the oceanography of the bank is described, part, of a larger study of surface currents in the Strait of Georgia. Seasonal changes in salinity and temperature over Roberts Bank are presented. The freshwater flows and motions of the salt wedges in the river and on the bank are described. Under the restraints of a retaining wall immediately north of the river, and on the incoming tide, a shallow layer of fresh water briefly forms an eddy, varying in size with river discharge and extending over the bank to the south. The influence of the two-layer flow on sedimentation is also discussed.