Safe waste disposal is necessary to limit the impact of waste on human health and the environment. This paper evaluates the status of solid waste (SW) disposal in the Wa Municipality, Ghana. The study adopted a descri...Safe waste disposal is necessary to limit the impact of waste on human health and the environment. This paper evaluates the status of solid waste (SW) disposal in the Wa Municipality, Ghana. The study adopted a descriptive research design and applied quantitative and qualitative research methods. 200 questionnaires were administered to two residential areas, each representing high-income, middle-income, and low-income residential dwellings. The study revealed that the majority of the respondents (33.5%) disposed of their SW in open spaces because any collection service did not cover them and those respondents who were covered by a collection service were not satisfied with the collection service due to irregular collection and inconvenient locations of communal collection containers. In addition, all collected SW in the Wa Municipality are openly dumped in illegal dumping sites across the municipality without any form of processing and treatment. The adoption of an integrated solid waste management system could improve SW disposal in the municipality.展开更多
Disposal of spent nuclear fuel and long lived radioactive waste in deep clay geological formations is one of the promising options worldwide. In this concept of the geological disposal system, the host clay formation ...Disposal of spent nuclear fuel and long lived radioactive waste in deep clay geological formations is one of the promising options worldwide. In this concept of the geological disposal system, the host clay formation is considered as a principal barrier on which the fulfillment of key safety functions rests. Between 2006 and 2010, the European Commission project TIMODAZ, which gathered 15 partners from 8 countries, has investigated the coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical （THM） effects on clay formations for geological disposal of radioactive waste, and specific attention was paid to investigating the thermal effect on the evolution of the damaged zone （DZ）. Three types of potential host clay formations were investigated： the Boom Clay （Belgium）, the Opalinus Clay （Switzerland） and the Callovo-Oxfordian argillite （France）. Intensive experimental （laboratory and in situ in underground research laboratories） and numerical studies have been performed. Multi-scale approach was used in the course of the project. High degree of similarities between the failure modes, sealing process, stress paths, deformation, etc., observed in laboratories and in situ has been obtained, which increased the confidence in the applicability of laboratory test results and up-scaling perspective. The results of the laboratory and in situ tests obtained allowed the parameters for numerical models at various scales to be derived and provided the basis for the simplified performance assessment models that are used to assess the long-term safety of a repository. The good cooperation between the numerical modeler and experimenters has allowed an in-depth analysis of the experimental results and thus better understanding the underlying processes, and consequently increased the capabilities to model the THM effects in claystones. This paper presents the main achievements obtained by TIMODAZ project and shows how a European scientific community investigates a problem of concern in a collaborative way and how the obtained main results are applied to the performance assessment of a geological repository.展开更多
Clays and argillites are considered in some countries as possible host rocks for nuclear waste disposal at great depth.The use of compacted swelling clays as engineered barriers is also considered within the framework...Clays and argillites are considered in some countries as possible host rocks for nuclear waste disposal at great depth.The use of compacted swelling clays as engineered barriers is also considered within the framework of the multi-barrier concept.In relation to these concepts,various research programs have been conducted to assess the thermo-hydro-mechanical properties of radioactive waste disposal at great depth.After introducing the concepts of waste isolation developed in Belgium,France and Switzerland,the paper describes the retention and transfer properties of engineered barriers made up of compacted swelling clays in relation to microstructure features.Some features of the thermo-mechanical behaviors of three possible geological barriers,namely Boom clay（Belgium）,Callovo-Oxfordian clay（France） and Opalinus clay（Switzerland）,are then described,including the retention and transfer properties,volume change behavior,shear strength and thermal aspects.展开更多
Throughout the world, the coastal zones of many countries are used increasingly for aquaculture in addition to other activities such as waste disposal. These activities can cause environmental problems and health prob...Throughout the world, the coastal zones of many countries are used increasingly for aquaculture in addition to other activities such as waste disposal. These activities can cause environmental problems and health problems where they overlap. The interaction between aquaculture and waste disposal, and their relationship with eutrophication are the subjects of this paper. Sewage discharge without adequate dispersion can lead to nutrient elevation and hence eutrophication which has clearly negative effects on aquaculture with the potential for toxic blooms. Blooms may be either toxic or anoxia-causing through the decay process or simply clog the gills of filter-feeding animals in some cases. With the development of aquaculture, especially intensive aquaculture, many environmental problems appeared, and have resulted in eutrophication in some areas. Eutrophication may destroy the health of whole ecosystem which is important for sustainable aquaculture. Sewage discharge may also cause serious public health problems. Filter-feeding shellfish growing in sewage-polluted waters accumulate micro-organisms, including human pathogenic bacteria and viruses, and heavy metal ion, presenting a significant health risk. Some farmed animals may also accumulate heavy metals from sewage. Bivalves growing in areas affected by toxic algae blooms may accumulate toxins (such as PSP, DSP) which can be harmful to human beings.展开更多
Early detection of groundwater contamination from waste disposal facilities is challenging in karst terranes. First, one needs to demonstrate that the groundwater system at the study site is monitorable. Both springs ...Early detection of groundwater contamination from waste disposal facilities is challenging in karst terranes. First, one needs to demonstrate that the groundwater system at the study site is monitorable. Both springs and wells are potential monitoring locations if they are effectively connected to the groundwater system, and they are not impacted by any other disposal facilities. Second, due to dynamic responses to recharge events, particularly discharge and chemical constituents at karst springs, multiple-parameter, long-term, and high-frequency monitoring may be required to collect background data. Sampling and analysis plans should be designed to reflect the unique characteristics of the monitoring locations. Characterization of the natural variations in water quality may require sampling efforts under different flow conditions. Third, evaluation of the potential impact of waste disposal units on the groundwater system requires an effective statistical evaluation program. Due to heterogeneity of karst aquifers, intra-locational comparison is generally preferred to inter-locational comparison. Sufficient groundwater monitoring data prior to construction of waste disposal units are required to develop the intra-locational statistical evaluation. In the case study presented in this paper, procedures to address these above-mentioned challenges were presented for two springs using seven dye tracing tests, two spring instrumentations, nine background sampling, flow-weighted concentrations, and an innovative statistical evaluation method were presented. These procedures were developed to evaluate potential contaminant release from a solid waste disposal facility constructed in a relatively isolated karst terrane. Although the specific procedures may not be duplicated, the overall technical approaches discussed in the paper may shed light on groundwater monitoring programs in other karst areas.展开更多
The waste referred to includes solid waste and sludge. Solid waste is mainly from urban garbage and industrial waste. Sludge is from water treatment factories, paper mills, chemical factories, pharmaceutical factories...The waste referred to includes solid waste and sludge. Solid waste is mainly from urban garbage and industrial waste. Sludge is from water treatment factories, paper mills, chemical factories, pharmaceutical factories, rivers and lakes. The waste and sludge are very harmful to water organisms, human health and drinking water, and directly affect the environment. Sludge and waste also occupy large areas of land. There are several methods to treat waste and sludge, such as burial, chemical treatment and incineration. Incineration is more effective than the展开更多
The present study focuses on the isolation of bacterial pathogens from waste disposal sites,and examination of their efficiencies for degrading various plastics.Seven bacterial isolates such as E.coli,Corynebacterium ...The present study focuses on the isolation of bacterial pathogens from waste disposal sites,and examination of their efficiencies for degrading various plastics.Seven bacterial isolates such as E.coli,Corynebacterium spp.,Micrococcus spp.,Azotobacter spp.,Pseudomonas spp.,Staphylococcus spp.,and Bacillus spp.were identified.Bacillus spp.exhibited the highest percentage reduction in black plastic weight(47.46%),while Corynebacterium spp.,and E.coli achieved a maximum reduction of 45.76 and 46.42%for pink plastic respectively.Pseudomonas spp.and Micrococcus spp.demonstrated notable reductions of 46.43%and 56.60%in white and Canteen Stores Department(CSD)biodegradable plastics,respectively.Optical density(OD)measurements revealed that bacterial isolates achieved maximum OD values with CSD plastics,emphasizing their proficiency in plastic degradation.Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FTIR)confirmed the degradation process,with a decrease in the peak value from 2916 to 2914 cm^(-1) for pink plastic,signifying alkane,and alkene presence.Three new peaks at 1398,1371,and 1361 cm^(-1) in the FTIR spectrum of CSD plastic indicated presence of alcohol.Scanning Electron Microscopic(SEM)micrographs illustrated bacterial colonization,cracks,and spots on plastic surfaces,while Xray Diffraction(XRD)spectra showed peaks at 4.083,3.705,3.020,and 1.909,suggesting plastic degradation.In conclusion,soil of waste disposal site harbored diverse microbial species,and have highlighted their effectiveness in mitigating environmental pollution by degrading hazardous plastic waste.展开更多
In order to realize the OY Smelting Furnace disposal of solid waste,municipal waste,form a model of steel enterprises and urban integration,through the production practice of smelting furnace,analyzes the mechanism of...In order to realize the OY Smelting Furnace disposal of solid waste,municipal waste,form a model of steel enterprises and urban integration,through the production practice of smelting furnace,analyzes the mechanism of solid waste disposal,and proposed the disposal of solid waste desulfurization agent and disposal method:According to the theory to guide the actual production process,the test ton of iron with 10-15kg of desulfurizer in the production process does not affect the quality of molten iron and slag quality.展开更多
One of the major problems of agricultural soils in the tropical regions of the Pacific is the low organic matter content.Because of the hot and humid environment,the soil organic matter(SOM)is minimal due to rapid dec...One of the major problems of agricultural soils in the tropical regions of the Pacific is the low organic matter content.Because of the hot and humid environment,the soil organic matter(SOM)is minimal due to rapid decomposition.Composted organic material is being applied on agricultural fields as an amendment to provide nutrients and enhance the organic matter content for improving the physical and chemical properties of the cultivated soils.In addition land application of composted material as a fertilizer source effectively disposes of wastes that otherwise are buried in landfills.In our soil program at the University of Guam,we are evaluating the use of organic material as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers.Its goal is to develop management strategies and use available resources for improving crop production while conserving resources and preserving environmental quality.Our case study project is designed to improve soil fertility status by using composted organic wastes and assessing how the nitrogen and other essential nutrients contribute to long-term soil fertility and crop productivity without application of synthetic fertilizers.In our pilot project,compost is produced from wood chips,grinded typhoon debris mixed with animal manure,fish feed,shredded paper and other organic wastes.Mature compost is then applied on the field at the rates of 0,5,10 and 20 t/ha as a soil amendment on the eroded cobbly soils of southern Guam.Corn is planted and monitored for growth performance and yield.The effect of land application of composted material on the SOM content and overall soil quality indices are being evaluated in this pilot study.展开更多
The accumulation of generated chemical wastes posed a serious problem for the UP College of Pharmacy. The faculty from the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry devised a scheme for the identification and segregation...The accumulation of generated chemical wastes posed a serious problem for the UP College of Pharmacy. The faculty from the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry devised a scheme for the identification and segregation of the chemical wastes and created a system for proper disposal of future chemical wastes. There were a total of 1,142 of accumulated chemical waste bottles, 804 of which were subjected to identification and segregation procedures. The wastes were preliminarily tested for its solubility/miscibility in water and acidity or basicity. The identification was done by qualitative tests for cyanide, sulfide, halogenated, non-halogenated, oxidizing, nitro, and heavy metal compounds. The final segregation was based on the presence of the most hazardous component or on pH and water-miscibility. The Department then developed and implemented a scheme for the proper disposal of the chemical wastes generated in laboratory experiments done in the College. Laboratory experiments were also modified to use less toxic and less amounts of chemicals.展开更多
Commonly proposed concepts, like KBS-3V, for disposal of highly radioactive waste imply construction at medium depth （400-600 m） in granitic rock, which is excellent for constructing a stable repository. VDH （very ...Commonly proposed concepts, like KBS-3V, for disposal of highly radioactive waste imply construction at medium depth （400-600 m） in granitic rock, which is excellent for constructing a stable repository. VDH （very deep boreholes） represent an altemative concept with the advantage that the rock is much less permeable and that the very salt, heavy groundwater is stagnant. Both require engineered barriers in the form of canisters and waste-embedding clay but for somewhat different purposes. Canisters are the most important waste-isolating barriers for KBS-3V but are less important for VDH. The waste-embedding clay is needed for preserving the KBS-3V canisters by being tight and ductile, but plays a minor role for the VDH. The backfilled deposition tunnels in a KBS-3V repository provide very limited hindrance of radionuclides to move to the biosphere while the clay seals of VDH effectively prevent possibly released radionuclides to reach up to the biosphere. Comparison of the KBS-3V and VDH concepts indicates that the last mentioned one has several advantages but that certain issues remain to be worked on for becoming a number one candidate.展开更多
One daunting task faced by waste managers is to appropriately identify safe sites for waste disposal and this study combined expert knowledge, field observations and GIS-based modelbuilder to model and identify suitab...One daunting task faced by waste managers is to appropriately identify safe sites for waste disposal and this study combined expert knowledge, field observations and GIS-based modelbuilder to model and identify suitable dumpsites. Overview of the study area confirmed the random siting of dumpsites that poses threat to environmental safety. Land use and land cover classification produced an overall accuracy of 81.97% with kappa coefficient = 0.78, which was employed in the suitability search criteria. Other key derived parameters vital for safe dumpsite locations were distances to catchment > 100 m, distances to water bodies > 100 m, soil characteristics—clayey, topology (slope of 2 and 4) and geology—Granitoids. The weightings (%) obtained for the key parameters were: water = 32, connection to catchment area = 28, topology = 23, soil = 10 and geology = 7. The exclusion criteria and suitability analysis, based on assigned suitable values from the key weighted parameters in the modelbuilder, produced a map of potential waste disposal sites rating them as most suitable, suitable and less suitable for the Sunyani Municipality. The model for the site identification could be used as a guideline to provide first and quick impression on potential waste disposal sites for stakeholders in waste management. The suitable sites give an indicator for sites with the least possible environmental impact. The study however recommends that for specific locations, further in-depth research be done to suit site-specific conditions in order to improve accuracy.展开更多
The deep geological repository for radioactive waste in Switzerland will be embedded in an approximately 100 m thick layer of Opalinus Clay.The emplacement drifts for high-level waste(approximately 3.5 m diameter)are ...The deep geological repository for radioactive waste in Switzerland will be embedded in an approximately 100 m thick layer of Opalinus Clay.The emplacement drifts for high-level waste(approximately 3.5 m diameter)are planned to be excavated with a shielded tunnel boring machine(TBM)and supported by a segmental lining.At the repository depth of 900 m in the designated siting region Nordlich Lagern,squeezing conditions may be encountered due to the rock strength and the high hydrostatic pressure(90 bar).This paper presents a detailed assessment of the shield jamming and lining overstressing hazards,considering a stiff lining(resistance principle)and a deformable lining(yielding principle),and proposes conceptual design solutions.The assessment is based on three-dimensional transient hydromechanical simulations,which additionally consider the effects of ground anisotropy and the desaturation that may occur under negative pore pressures generated during the drift excavation.By addressing these design issues,the paper takes the opportunity to analyse some more fundamental aspects related to the influences of anisotropy and desaturation on the development of rock convergences and pressures over time,and their markedly different effects on the two lining systems.The results demonstrate that,regardless of these effects,shield jamming can be avoided with a moderate TBM overcut,however overstressing of a stiff lining may be critical depending on whether the ground desaturates.This uncertainty is eliminated using a deformable system with reasonable dimensions of yielding elements,which can also accommodate thermal strains generated due to the high temperature of the disposal canisters.展开更多
Safe emplacement of high-level nuclear waste(HLNW)arising from the utilization of nuclear power is a frequently en-countered and considerably challenging issue.The widely accepted and feasible approach for the permane...Safe emplacement of high-level nuclear waste(HLNW)arising from the utilization of nuclear power is a frequently en-countered and considerably challenging issue.The widely accepted and feasible approach for the permanent disposal of HLNW involves housing it in a corrosion-resistant container and subsequently burying it deep in a geologic repository.The focus lies on ensuring the dur-ability and integrity of the container in this process.This review introduces various techniques and strategies employed in controlling the corrosion of used fuel containers(UFCs)using copper(Cu)as corrosion barrier in the context of deep geological disposal.Overall,these corrosion prevention techniques and methods have been effectively implemented and employed to successfully mitigate the corrosion challenges encountered during the permanent disposal of Cu containers(e.g.,corrosion mechanisms and corrosion parameters)in deep geologic repositories.The primary objective of this review is to provide an extensive examination of the alteration in the corrosion envir-onment encountered by the UFCs when subjected to deep geologic repository conditions and focusing on addressing the potential corro-sion scenarios.展开更多
Freetown which is the capital city of Sierra Leone is facing challenges with population growth, urbanization, and industrialization, leading to an increase in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation. The study aims to ...Freetown which is the capital city of Sierra Leone is facing challenges with population growth, urbanization, and industrialization, leading to an increase in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation. The study aims to evaluate MSW generation, composition, and disposal methods, as well as the impact of collection fees, policy implementation, and women’s participation in municipal solid waste management (MSWM). The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis. The study administered 393 structured questionnaires in three selected sections to collect data on variables such as family size, education, level of knowledge, etc. The study used door-to-door data collection to determine the rate of solid waste generation, composition, and disposal in 66 households from two of the selected sections and 34 households from the other section to evaluate the current situation of MSWM practices among households in Freetown. The study used a descriptive statistic to analyze the data collected using Origin-Pro9 and MS Excel software. The findings showed that with a 4.2% urban growth rate, Freetown had a population of 1,467,543 in 2023, generating 851 tons of MSW per day, with organic waste accounting for 78% of the total MSW generated. Plastic waste generation also increased from 7.6% in 2020 to 13% in 2023. The study emphasizes the need to sustain the MSWM system by prioritizing solid waste collection fees, policy enforcement, and women’s participation in the MSWM sector. It further suggests and provides recommendations for developing an efficient and sustainable MSWM system in Sierra Leone, including knowledge transfer from countries like China and the US.展开更多
Underground research laboratories （URLs）, including ＂generic URLs＂ and ＂site-specific URLs＂, are un- derground facilities in which characterisation, testing, technology development, and/or demonstration activiti...Underground research laboratories （URLs）, including ＂generic URLs＂ and ＂site-specific URLs＂, are un- derground facilities in which characterisation, testing, technology development, and/or demonstration activities are carried out in support of the development of geological repositories for high-level radioactive waste （HLW） disposal. In addition to the generic URL and site-specific URL, a concept of ＂areaspecific URL＂, or the third type of URL, is proposed in this paper. It is referred to as the facility that is built at a site within an area that is considered as a potential area for HLW repository or built at a place near the future repository site, and may be regarded as a precursor to the development of a repository at the site. It acts as a ＂generic URL＂, but also acts as a ＂site-specific URL＂ to some extent. Considering the current situation in China, the most suitable option is to build an ＂area-specific URL＂ in Beishan area, the first priority region for China＇s high-level waste repository. With this strategy, the goal to build China＇s URL by 2020 mav be achieved, but the time left is limited.展开更多
Radioactive wastes arising from a wide range of human activities are in many different physical and chemical forms, contaminated with varying radioactivity. Their common features are the potential hazard associated wi...Radioactive wastes arising from a wide range of human activities are in many different physical and chemical forms, contaminated with varying radioactivity. Their common features are the potential hazard associated with their radioactivity and the need to manage them in such a way as to protect the human environment. The geological disposal is regarded as the most reasonable and effective way to safely disposing high-level radioactive wastes in the world. The conceptual model of geological disposal in China is based on a multi-barrier system that combines an isolating geological environment with an engineered barrier system. The buffer is one of the main engineered barriers for HLW repository. It is expected to maintain its low water permeability, self-sealing property, radio nuclides adsorption and retardation properties, thermal conductivity, chemical buffering property, canister supporting property, and stress buffering property over a long period of time. Bentonite is selected as the main content of buffer material that can satisfy the above requirements. The Gaomiaozi deposit is selected as the candidate supplier for China＇s buffer material of high level radioactive waste repository. This paper presents the geological features of the GMZ deposit and basic properties of the GMZ Na-bentonite. It is a super-large deposit with a high content of montmorillonite （about 75 %）, and GMZ-1, which is Na-bentonite produced from GMZ deposit is selected as the reference material for China＇s buffer material study.展开更多
The effect of temperature on the corrosion behavior of copper in simulated high-level nuclear waste environment wassystematically studied.Electrochemical methods,including electrochemical impendence spectra,Mott–Scho...The effect of temperature on the corrosion behavior of copper in simulated high-level nuclear waste environment wassystematically studied.Electrochemical methods,including electrochemical impendence spectra,Mott–Schottky technology,cyclicpolarization,and potentiostatic polarization,were employed to characterize the corrosion behavior of copper at different temperatures.Stereoscopic microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to examine the surface morphology,and X-ray photoelectronspectroscopy analysis was used to identify the composition of the passive film.The experimental results show that corrosionresistance of the passive film does not blindly decrease with the increase of temperature but increases at60°C owing to a compactouter layer;there is a potential for pitting corrosion,which decreases as the temperature increases.The main product of copper in ananaerobic aqueous sulfide solution is Cu2S but the content of CuS increases at higher temperatures.The whole passivation rangeshows p-type semiconductor characteristics and the magnitude of the acceptor density is1023cm-3,which increases with increasingtemperature.展开更多
For sustainable wastewater management in developing countries, the implementation of low\|cost, simple treatment systems should be encouraged. In this study, the performance of three treatment schemes was evaluated. T...For sustainable wastewater management in developing countries, the implementation of low\|cost, simple treatment systems should be encouraged. In this study, the performance of three treatment schemes was evaluated. The first step in all schemes was upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB). The post treatment was either Algal Pond (AP). Lemna Pond (LP) or Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC). The results show that the performance of the UASB was satisfactory. Mean COD and BOD removal values were 78% and 85% respectively. The combination of UASB with an AP achieved significant improvement in the microbiological quality of the effluent. The geometric mean of fecal coliform in the effluent was 1.3×10 3 MPN/100ml. Residual COD was 143 mg O\-2/L. This relatively high value was due to the presence of algae in the AP effluent. The use of the LP as a post treatment achieved better quality effluent. As indicated by the physico\|chemical characteristics. However, fecal coliform removal was less by one log as compared to the AP effluent. When the RBC was used as a second stage. COD and BOD removal rates were 47% and 66% respectively. Also complete nitrification took place. Fecal coliform density declined by 5 logs.展开更多
The China-mock-up test is to evaluate the performance of the compacted Gaomiaozi （GMZ） bentonite under coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical （THM） conditions in deep geological disposal. A numerical study of the test is...The China-mock-up test is to evaluate the performance of the compacted Gaomiaozi （GMZ） bentonite under coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical （THM） conditions in deep geological disposal. A numerical study of the test is conducted in this paper. The principal THM characteristics of the bentonite are presented at first. A THM model is then presented to tackle the complex coupling behavior of the bentonite. The model of Alonso-Gens is incorporated to reproduce the mechanical behavior of the bentonite under unsaturated conditions. With the proposed model, numerical simulations of the China-mock-up test are carried out by using the code of LAGAMINE. The time variations associated with the temperature, degree of saturation, suction and swelling pressure of the compacted bentonite are studied. The results suggest that the proposed model is able to reproduce the mechanical behavior of the bentonite, and to predict moisture motion under coupled THM conditions.展开更多
文摘Safe waste disposal is necessary to limit the impact of waste on human health and the environment. This paper evaluates the status of solid waste (SW) disposal in the Wa Municipality, Ghana. The study adopted a descriptive research design and applied quantitative and qualitative research methods. 200 questionnaires were administered to two residential areas, each representing high-income, middle-income, and low-income residential dwellings. The study revealed that the majority of the respondents (33.5%) disposed of their SW in open spaces because any collection service did not cover them and those respondents who were covered by a collection service were not satisfied with the collection service due to irregular collection and inconvenient locations of communal collection containers. In addition, all collected SW in the Wa Municipality are openly dumped in illegal dumping sites across the municipality without any form of processing and treatment. The adoption of an integrated solid waste management system could improve SW disposal in the municipality.
基金funded by the European Commission through the TIMODAZ project within the 6th framework programme (Contract Number: FI6W-CT-2007-036449)
文摘Disposal of spent nuclear fuel and long lived radioactive waste in deep clay geological formations is one of the promising options worldwide. In this concept of the geological disposal system, the host clay formation is considered as a principal barrier on which the fulfillment of key safety functions rests. Between 2006 and 2010, the European Commission project TIMODAZ, which gathered 15 partners from 8 countries, has investigated the coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical （THM） effects on clay formations for geological disposal of radioactive waste, and specific attention was paid to investigating the thermal effect on the evolution of the damaged zone （DZ）. Three types of potential host clay formations were investigated： the Boom Clay （Belgium）, the Opalinus Clay （Switzerland） and the Callovo-Oxfordian argillite （France）. Intensive experimental （laboratory and in situ in underground research laboratories） and numerical studies have been performed. Multi-scale approach was used in the course of the project. High degree of similarities between the failure modes, sealing process, stress paths, deformation, etc., observed in laboratories and in situ has been obtained, which increased the confidence in the applicability of laboratory test results and up-scaling perspective. The results of the laboratory and in situ tests obtained allowed the parameters for numerical models at various scales to be derived and provided the basis for the simplified performance assessment models that are used to assess the long-term safety of a repository. The good cooperation between the numerical modeler and experimenters has allowed an in-depth analysis of the experimental results and thus better understanding the underlying processes, and consequently increased the capabilities to model the THM effects in claystones. This paper presents the main achievements obtained by TIMODAZ project and shows how a European scientific community investigates a problem of concern in a collaborative way and how the obtained main results are applied to the performance assessment of a geological repository.
文摘Clays and argillites are considered in some countries as possible host rocks for nuclear waste disposal at great depth.The use of compacted swelling clays as engineered barriers is also considered within the framework of the multi-barrier concept.In relation to these concepts,various research programs have been conducted to assess the thermo-hydro-mechanical properties of radioactive waste disposal at great depth.After introducing the concepts of waste isolation developed in Belgium,France and Switzerland,the paper describes the retention and transfer properties of engineered barriers made up of compacted swelling clays in relation to microstructure features.Some features of the thermo-mechanical behaviors of three possible geological barriers,namely Boom clay（Belgium）,Callovo-Oxfordian clay（France） and Opalinus clay（Switzerland）,are then described,including the retention and transfer properties,volume change behavior,shear strength and thermal aspects.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC),project(No.40006007)DFID of the UK
文摘Throughout the world, the coastal zones of many countries are used increasingly for aquaculture in addition to other activities such as waste disposal. These activities can cause environmental problems and health problems where they overlap. The interaction between aquaculture and waste disposal, and their relationship with eutrophication are the subjects of this paper. Sewage discharge without adequate dispersion can lead to nutrient elevation and hence eutrophication which has clearly negative effects on aquaculture with the potential for toxic blooms. Blooms may be either toxic or anoxia-causing through the decay process or simply clog the gills of filter-feeding animals in some cases. With the development of aquaculture, especially intensive aquaculture, many environmental problems appeared, and have resulted in eutrophication in some areas. Eutrophication may destroy the health of whole ecosystem which is important for sustainable aquaculture. Sewage discharge may also cause serious public health problems. Filter-feeding shellfish growing in sewage-polluted waters accumulate micro-organisms, including human pathogenic bacteria and viruses, and heavy metal ion, presenting a significant health risk. Some farmed animals may also accumulate heavy metals from sewage. Bivalves growing in areas affected by toxic algae blooms may accumulate toxins (such as PSP, DSP) which can be harmful to human beings.
文摘Early detection of groundwater contamination from waste disposal facilities is challenging in karst terranes. First, one needs to demonstrate that the groundwater system at the study site is monitorable. Both springs and wells are potential monitoring locations if they are effectively connected to the groundwater system, and they are not impacted by any other disposal facilities. Second, due to dynamic responses to recharge events, particularly discharge and chemical constituents at karst springs, multiple-parameter, long-term, and high-frequency monitoring may be required to collect background data. Sampling and analysis plans should be designed to reflect the unique characteristics of the monitoring locations. Characterization of the natural variations in water quality may require sampling efforts under different flow conditions. Third, evaluation of the potential impact of waste disposal units on the groundwater system requires an effective statistical evaluation program. Due to heterogeneity of karst aquifers, intra-locational comparison is generally preferred to inter-locational comparison. Sufficient groundwater monitoring data prior to construction of waste disposal units are required to develop the intra-locational statistical evaluation. In the case study presented in this paper, procedures to address these above-mentioned challenges were presented for two springs using seven dye tracing tests, two spring instrumentations, nine background sampling, flow-weighted concentrations, and an innovative statistical evaluation method were presented. These procedures were developed to evaluate potential contaminant release from a solid waste disposal facility constructed in a relatively isolated karst terrane. Although the specific procedures may not be duplicated, the overall technical approaches discussed in the paper may shed light on groundwater monitoring programs in other karst areas.
文摘The waste referred to includes solid waste and sludge. Solid waste is mainly from urban garbage and industrial waste. Sludge is from water treatment factories, paper mills, chemical factories, pharmaceutical factories, rivers and lakes. The waste and sludge are very harmful to water organisms, human health and drinking water, and directly affect the environment. Sludge and waste also occupy large areas of land. There are several methods to treat waste and sludge, such as burial, chemical treatment and incineration. Incineration is more effective than the
基金Deanship of Scientific Research,Qassim University for funding the publication of this project.
文摘The present study focuses on the isolation of bacterial pathogens from waste disposal sites,and examination of their efficiencies for degrading various plastics.Seven bacterial isolates such as E.coli,Corynebacterium spp.,Micrococcus spp.,Azotobacter spp.,Pseudomonas spp.,Staphylococcus spp.,and Bacillus spp.were identified.Bacillus spp.exhibited the highest percentage reduction in black plastic weight(47.46%),while Corynebacterium spp.,and E.coli achieved a maximum reduction of 45.76 and 46.42%for pink plastic respectively.Pseudomonas spp.and Micrococcus spp.demonstrated notable reductions of 46.43%and 56.60%in white and Canteen Stores Department(CSD)biodegradable plastics,respectively.Optical density(OD)measurements revealed that bacterial isolates achieved maximum OD values with CSD plastics,emphasizing their proficiency in plastic degradation.Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FTIR)confirmed the degradation process,with a decrease in the peak value from 2916 to 2914 cm^(-1) for pink plastic,signifying alkane,and alkene presence.Three new peaks at 1398,1371,and 1361 cm^(-1) in the FTIR spectrum of CSD plastic indicated presence of alcohol.Scanning Electron Microscopic(SEM)micrographs illustrated bacterial colonization,cracks,and spots on plastic surfaces,while Xray Diffraction(XRD)spectra showed peaks at 4.083,3.705,3.020,and 1.909,suggesting plastic degradation.In conclusion,soil of waste disposal site harbored diverse microbial species,and have highlighted their effectiveness in mitigating environmental pollution by degrading hazardous plastic waste.
文摘In order to realize the OY Smelting Furnace disposal of solid waste,municipal waste,form a model of steel enterprises and urban integration,through the production practice of smelting furnace,analyzes the mechanism of solid waste disposal,and proposed the disposal of solid waste desulfurization agent and disposal method:According to the theory to guide the actual production process,the test ton of iron with 10-15kg of desulfurizer in the production process does not affect the quality of molten iron and slag quality.
文摘One of the major problems of agricultural soils in the tropical regions of the Pacific is the low organic matter content.Because of the hot and humid environment,the soil organic matter(SOM)is minimal due to rapid decomposition.Composted organic material is being applied on agricultural fields as an amendment to provide nutrients and enhance the organic matter content for improving the physical and chemical properties of the cultivated soils.In addition land application of composted material as a fertilizer source effectively disposes of wastes that otherwise are buried in landfills.In our soil program at the University of Guam,we are evaluating the use of organic material as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers.Its goal is to develop management strategies and use available resources for improving crop production while conserving resources and preserving environmental quality.Our case study project is designed to improve soil fertility status by using composted organic wastes and assessing how the nitrogen and other essential nutrients contribute to long-term soil fertility and crop productivity without application of synthetic fertilizers.In our pilot project,compost is produced from wood chips,grinded typhoon debris mixed with animal manure,fish feed,shredded paper and other organic wastes.Mature compost is then applied on the field at the rates of 0,5,10 and 20 t/ha as a soil amendment on the eroded cobbly soils of southern Guam.Corn is planted and monitored for growth performance and yield.The effect of land application of composted material on the SOM content and overall soil quality indices are being evaluated in this pilot study.
文摘The accumulation of generated chemical wastes posed a serious problem for the UP College of Pharmacy. The faculty from the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry devised a scheme for the identification and segregation of the chemical wastes and created a system for proper disposal of future chemical wastes. There were a total of 1,142 of accumulated chemical waste bottles, 804 of which were subjected to identification and segregation procedures. The wastes were preliminarily tested for its solubility/miscibility in water and acidity or basicity. The identification was done by qualitative tests for cyanide, sulfide, halogenated, non-halogenated, oxidizing, nitro, and heavy metal compounds. The final segregation was based on the presence of the most hazardous component or on pH and water-miscibility. The Department then developed and implemented a scheme for the proper disposal of the chemical wastes generated in laboratory experiments done in the College. Laboratory experiments were also modified to use less toxic and less amounts of chemicals.
文摘Commonly proposed concepts, like KBS-3V, for disposal of highly radioactive waste imply construction at medium depth （400-600 m） in granitic rock, which is excellent for constructing a stable repository. VDH （very deep boreholes） represent an altemative concept with the advantage that the rock is much less permeable and that the very salt, heavy groundwater is stagnant. Both require engineered barriers in the form of canisters and waste-embedding clay but for somewhat different purposes. Canisters are the most important waste-isolating barriers for KBS-3V but are less important for VDH. The waste-embedding clay is needed for preserving the KBS-3V canisters by being tight and ductile, but plays a minor role for the VDH. The backfilled deposition tunnels in a KBS-3V repository provide very limited hindrance of radionuclides to move to the biosphere while the clay seals of VDH effectively prevent possibly released radionuclides to reach up to the biosphere. Comparison of the KBS-3V and VDH concepts indicates that the last mentioned one has several advantages but that certain issues remain to be worked on for becoming a number one candidate.
文摘One daunting task faced by waste managers is to appropriately identify safe sites for waste disposal and this study combined expert knowledge, field observations and GIS-based modelbuilder to model and identify suitable dumpsites. Overview of the study area confirmed the random siting of dumpsites that poses threat to environmental safety. Land use and land cover classification produced an overall accuracy of 81.97% with kappa coefficient = 0.78, which was employed in the suitability search criteria. Other key derived parameters vital for safe dumpsite locations were distances to catchment > 100 m, distances to water bodies > 100 m, soil characteristics—clayey, topology (slope of 2 and 4) and geology—Granitoids. The weightings (%) obtained for the key parameters were: water = 32, connection to catchment area = 28, topology = 23, soil = 10 and geology = 7. The exclusion criteria and suitability analysis, based on assigned suitable values from the key weighted parameters in the modelbuilder, produced a map of potential waste disposal sites rating them as most suitable, suitable and less suitable for the Sunyani Municipality. The model for the site identification could be used as a guideline to provide first and quick impression on potential waste disposal sites for stakeholders in waste management. The suitable sites give an indicator for sites with the least possible environmental impact. The study however recommends that for specific locations, further in-depth research be done to suit site-specific conditions in order to improve accuracy.
文摘The deep geological repository for radioactive waste in Switzerland will be embedded in an approximately 100 m thick layer of Opalinus Clay.The emplacement drifts for high-level waste(approximately 3.5 m diameter)are planned to be excavated with a shielded tunnel boring machine(TBM)and supported by a segmental lining.At the repository depth of 900 m in the designated siting region Nordlich Lagern,squeezing conditions may be encountered due to the rock strength and the high hydrostatic pressure(90 bar).This paper presents a detailed assessment of the shield jamming and lining overstressing hazards,considering a stiff lining(resistance principle)and a deformable lining(yielding principle),and proposes conceptual design solutions.The assessment is based on three-dimensional transient hydromechanical simulations,which additionally consider the effects of ground anisotropy and the desaturation that may occur under negative pore pressures generated during the drift excavation.By addressing these design issues,the paper takes the opportunity to analyse some more fundamental aspects related to the influences of anisotropy and desaturation on the development of rock convergences and pressures over time,and their markedly different effects on the two lining systems.The results demonstrate that,regardless of these effects,shield jamming can be avoided with a moderate TBM overcut,however overstressing of a stiff lining may be critical depending on whether the ground desaturates.This uncertainty is eliminated using a deformable system with reasonable dimensions of yielding elements,which can also accommodate thermal strains generated due to the high temperature of the disposal canisters.
基金study received financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U22B2065),EditChecks(https://editchecks.com.cn/)for providing linguistic assistance during the preparation of this manuscript.
文摘Safe emplacement of high-level nuclear waste(HLNW)arising from the utilization of nuclear power is a frequently en-countered and considerably challenging issue.The widely accepted and feasible approach for the permanent disposal of HLNW involves housing it in a corrosion-resistant container and subsequently burying it deep in a geologic repository.The focus lies on ensuring the dur-ability and integrity of the container in this process.This review introduces various techniques and strategies employed in controlling the corrosion of used fuel containers(UFCs)using copper(Cu)as corrosion barrier in the context of deep geological disposal.Overall,these corrosion prevention techniques and methods have been effectively implemented and employed to successfully mitigate the corrosion challenges encountered during the permanent disposal of Cu containers(e.g.,corrosion mechanisms and corrosion parameters)in deep geologic repositories.The primary objective of this review is to provide an extensive examination of the alteration in the corrosion envir-onment encountered by the UFCs when subjected to deep geologic repository conditions and focusing on addressing the potential corro-sion scenarios.
文摘Freetown which is the capital city of Sierra Leone is facing challenges with population growth, urbanization, and industrialization, leading to an increase in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation. The study aims to evaluate MSW generation, composition, and disposal methods, as well as the impact of collection fees, policy implementation, and women’s participation in municipal solid waste management (MSWM). The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis. The study administered 393 structured questionnaires in three selected sections to collect data on variables such as family size, education, level of knowledge, etc. The study used door-to-door data collection to determine the rate of solid waste generation, composition, and disposal in 66 households from two of the selected sections and 34 households from the other section to evaluate the current situation of MSWM practices among households in Freetown. The study used a descriptive statistic to analyze the data collected using Origin-Pro9 and MS Excel software. The findings showed that with a 4.2% urban growth rate, Freetown had a population of 1,467,543 in 2023, generating 851 tons of MSW per day, with organic waste accounting for 78% of the total MSW generated. Plastic waste generation also increased from 7.6% in 2020 to 13% in 2023. The study emphasizes the need to sustain the MSWM system by prioritizing solid waste collection fees, policy enforcement, and women’s participation in the MSWM sector. It further suggests and provides recommendations for developing an efficient and sustainable MSWM system in Sierra Leone, including knowledge transfer from countries like China and the US.
文摘Underground research laboratories （URLs）, including ＂generic URLs＂ and ＂site-specific URLs＂, are un- derground facilities in which characterisation, testing, technology development, and/or demonstration activities are carried out in support of the development of geological repositories for high-level radioactive waste （HLW） disposal. In addition to the generic URL and site-specific URL, a concept of ＂areaspecific URL＂, or the third type of URL, is proposed in this paper. It is referred to as the facility that is built at a site within an area that is considered as a potential area for HLW repository or built at a place near the future repository site, and may be regarded as a precursor to the development of a repository at the site. It acts as a ＂generic URL＂, but also acts as a ＂site-specific URL＂ to some extent. Considering the current situation in China, the most suitable option is to build an ＂area-specific URL＂ in Beishan area, the first priority region for China＇s high-level waste repository. With this strategy, the goal to build China＇s URL by 2020 mav be achieved, but the time left is limited.
文摘Radioactive wastes arising from a wide range of human activities are in many different physical and chemical forms, contaminated with varying radioactivity. Their common features are the potential hazard associated with their radioactivity and the need to manage them in such a way as to protect the human environment. The geological disposal is regarded as the most reasonable and effective way to safely disposing high-level radioactive wastes in the world. The conceptual model of geological disposal in China is based on a multi-barrier system that combines an isolating geological environment with an engineered barrier system. The buffer is one of the main engineered barriers for HLW repository. It is expected to maintain its low water permeability, self-sealing property, radio nuclides adsorption and retardation properties, thermal conductivity, chemical buffering property, canister supporting property, and stress buffering property over a long period of time. Bentonite is selected as the main content of buffer material that can satisfy the above requirements. The Gaomiaozi deposit is selected as the candidate supplier for China＇s buffer material of high level radioactive waste repository. This paper presents the geological features of the GMZ deposit and basic properties of the GMZ Na-bentonite. It is a super-large deposit with a high content of montmorillonite （about 75 %）, and GMZ-1, which is Na-bentonite produced from GMZ deposit is selected as the reference material for China＇s buffer material study.
基金Project(FRF-TP-14-011C1) supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,ChinaProject(2014CB643300) supported by the National Basic Research Program of China
文摘The effect of temperature on the corrosion behavior of copper in simulated high-level nuclear waste environment wassystematically studied.Electrochemical methods,including electrochemical impendence spectra,Mott–Schottky technology,cyclicpolarization,and potentiostatic polarization,were employed to characterize the corrosion behavior of copper at different temperatures.Stereoscopic microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to examine the surface morphology,and X-ray photoelectronspectroscopy analysis was used to identify the composition of the passive film.The experimental results show that corrosionresistance of the passive film does not blindly decrease with the increase of temperature but increases at60°C owing to a compactouter layer;there is a potential for pitting corrosion,which decreases as the temperature increases.The main product of copper in ananaerobic aqueous sulfide solution is Cu2S but the content of CuS increases at higher temperatures.The whole passivation rangeshows p-type semiconductor characteristics and the magnitude of the acceptor density is1023cm-3,which increases with increasingtemperature.
文摘For sustainable wastewater management in developing countries, the implementation of low\|cost, simple treatment systems should be encouraged. In this study, the performance of three treatment schemes was evaluated. The first step in all schemes was upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB). The post treatment was either Algal Pond (AP). Lemna Pond (LP) or Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC). The results show that the performance of the UASB was satisfactory. Mean COD and BOD removal values were 78% and 85% respectively. The combination of UASB with an AP achieved significant improvement in the microbiological quality of the effluent. The geometric mean of fecal coliform in the effluent was 1.3×10 3 MPN/100ml. Residual COD was 143 mg O\-2/L. This relatively high value was due to the presence of algae in the AP effluent. The use of the LP as a post treatment achieved better quality effluent. As indicated by the physico\|chemical characteristics. However, fecal coliform removal was less by one log as compared to the AP effluent. When the RBC was used as a second stage. COD and BOD removal rates were 47% and 66% respectively. Also complete nitrification took place. Fecal coliform density declined by 5 logs.
文摘The China-mock-up test is to evaluate the performance of the compacted Gaomiaozi （GMZ） bentonite under coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical （THM） conditions in deep geological disposal. A numerical study of the test is conducted in this paper. The principal THM characteristics of the bentonite are presented at first. A THM model is then presented to tackle the complex coupling behavior of the bentonite. The model of Alonso-Gens is incorporated to reproduce the mechanical behavior of the bentonite under unsaturated conditions. With the proposed model, numerical simulations of the China-mock-up test are carried out by using the code of LAGAMINE. The time variations associated with the temperature, degree of saturation, suction and swelling pressure of the compacted bentonite are studied. The results suggest that the proposed model is able to reproduce the mechanical behavior of the bentonite, and to predict moisture motion under coupled THM conditions.
