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ECN publication
Title:
Characteristics, treatment and utilization of residues from municipal waste incineration
 
Author(s):
 
Published by: Publication date:
ECN 1-5-1999
 
ECN report number: Document type:
ECN-RX--99-017 Article (scientific)
 
Number of pages:
18  

Published in: Contribution to the Sustain 99 Conference, RAI Amsterdam, May 26th, 1999 (), , , Vol., p.-.

Abstract:
As a result of Waste-To-Energy conversion of Municipal Solid Waste Solid,in which high standards of emission control are reached, solid residues remain that need to be dealt with in an environmentally acceptable manner. Advanced air pollution control measures in incinerators shift constituents of concern from air emissions to solid residues, which potentially may lead to soil and water pollution. The evaluation of the environmental quality of such residues is necessary before decisions can be taken on the utilization, treatment or disposal of the residues. The quality of the residues from Waste-To-Energy conversion is very diverse, as has been identified in the International Ash Working Group's (IAWG) book 'Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Residues (MSWI)'. In addition, the ash management practices are very different in different jurisdictions. As a result of recent developments in waste management, consideration is given to recycling and reuse of residues in construction. This necessitates a judgement on the short and long term environmental acceptability of such utilization scenarios. In addition to the environmental aspects, the new material will have to meet technical specifications similar to those of natural materials traditionally used for the same purpose. In Europe, utilization of MSWI bottom ash is either practised (Netherlands, Denmark, Germany) or considered more and more as a viable option (France, Belgium). In the Netherlands and in France national legislation has been implemented to regulate utilization of MSWI bottom ash. In the Netherlands, bottom ash is placed in a special category, because bottom ash, as currently produced, does not always meet the regulatory requirements. It is anticipated that improvement in ash quality will bring the material within the regulatory specifications. Quality control programs and certification of bottom ash are in progress to ensure production of a marketable product. 24 refs.


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