Molecular Insights into the Transformation of Dissolved Organic Matter in Landfill Leachate Concentrate during Biodegradation and Coagulation Processes Using ESI FT-ICR MS.

TLDR: Molecular compositions of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in leachate concentrate, as well as changes after anaerobic/aerobic biodegradation and coagulation with salts, were characterized using electrospray ionization (ESI) coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS).

Abstract: Landfill leachate concentrate is a type of refractory organic wastewater with high environmental risk. Identification of refractory components and insights into the molecular transformations of the organics are essential for the development of efficient treatment process. In this report, molecular compositions of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in leachate concentrate, as well as changes after anaerobic/aerobic biodegradation and coagulation with salts, were characterized using electrospray ionization (ESI) coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). DOM in leachate concentrate were more saturated and less oxidized with more nitrogen and sulfur-containing substances (accounting for 50.0%), comparing with natural organic matter in Suwannee River. Selectivity for different classes of organics during biodegradation and coagulation processes was observed. Substances with low oxidation degree (O/C < 0.3) were more reactive during biodegradation process, leading to the f...