Peer-Reviewed Journal Details
Mandatory Fields
Buckley, R,Curtin, T,Courtney, R
2016
July
Environmental Science And Pollution Research
The potential for constructed wetlands to treat alkaline bauxite residue leachate: laboratory investigations
Published
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Optional Fields
Hyperalkaline Passive treatment Bauxite residue Mine closure Red mud RED MUD NEUTRALIZATION SEAWATER PRECIPITATION REVEGETATION CARBONATE REMOVAL PH
23
14115
14122
High alkalinity (pH > 12) of bauxite residue leachates presents challenges for the long-term storage and managements of the residue. Whilst the use of constructed wetlands is gaining in interest for its use in the treatment of alkaline waters, thus far, there is limited evidence of its suitability for treating NaOH dominated bauxite residue leachate. A series of batch trials were conducted to investigate the potential for constructed wetland conferred mechanisms (dilution water quality, contact with CO2, and substrate type) for treating NaOH solutions to levels permissible for discharge (p < 9). Results demonstrate that significant reductions in solution pH can be achieved depending on the diluting water quality. Levels achieved may not always be suitable for direct discharge (i.e. pH a parts per thousand currency sign 9), but further reductions occur with carbonation and soil contact. The extent of pH decrease and the timeframe required are influenced by soil quality, with greater efficiency observed in soils with higher organic matter content. Decrease in solution pH to discharge permit values are possible through a combination of the mechanisms occurring in a constructed wetland. Formation of a calcite precipitate was observed in some treatments and further characterisation by XRD and XPS suggested surface coating with Na2CO3. It is therefore suggested that, under suitable conditions, constructed wetland technology can reduce leachate pH to < 9 through mechanisms supporting the precipitation of sodium carbonate from solution. Further trials should investigate the activity under biological conditions representative of an operating constructed wetland.
10.1007/s11356-016-6582-8
Grant Details