Leaching behaviour of elements from coal combustion fly ash: An overview

Surface ionization and complexation at the oxide/water interface. 3. Adsorption of anions

Interest in coal residue research has recently been increased with anticipated increased dependence on coal as a source of energy. United States coal reserves are estimated at 3.6 trillion metric tons, from which 396 billion metric tons can economically be mined (Swanson et al. 1976). United States electric power utilities consume from 60 to 65% of the amount of coal produced (Brackett 1973). In 1974, the power industry utilized approximately 400 million tons of coal (Ash at Work 1975). The magnitude of trace element mobilization into the environment from fossil-fuels is substantial and is comparable to that originating from major sedimentary cycles such as river flows and natural sediments (Bertine and Goldberg 1971). Consequently, increasing regulatory measures have been imposed on power industries by federal and local authorities restricting the amount of coal residue entering the atmosphere.

Physical and chemical properties of fly ash from coal-fired power plants with reference to environmental impacts

Mobility of trace elements from selected Australian fly ashes and its potential impact on aquatic ecosystems

Fly ash for soil amelioration: A review on the influence of ash blending with inorganic and organic amendments

Trace elements were extracted from a coal-fired power plant electrostatic precipitator ash with nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, citric acid, redistilled water, and ammonium hydroxide as extractants. Effluent waters at this plant were sampled to assess the elevation of trace element concentrations compared with intake waters. The results showed a positive correlation between those elements most extractable by water (B, F, Mo, and Se) or acid (As, B, Cd, F, Mo, and Se) and those elements most elevated in effluent waters (As, B, F, Mo, and Se).

Betty L. Perkins

Papers

Comparison of levels of trace elements extracted from fly ash and levels found in effluent waters from a coal-fired power plant