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Hydrogeochemistry of alkaline steel slag leachates in the UK

Mayes, W. M.; Younger, P. L.; Aumônier, J.

Authors

P. L. Younger

J. Aumônier



Abstract

Drainage from steel slag disposal sites can be extremely alkaline and a source of pollution to surface and ground waters. Data is presented detailing the hydrogeochemistry of seven highly alkaline (pH > 10) steel slag surface discharges in the UK. While there is the consistent presence of Ca-OH type groundwater in all the discharges, there are clear disparities in hydrochemical facies within and between sites, reflecting native hydrochemistry, source material and hydrogeological setting. The longevity of the pollution problem from steel slag disposal sites is highlighted at one site where the water quality records date back three decades. The consistent presence of Al, B, Ba, Fe, Sr, V and occasional presence of Cr, Mo, Ni, Pb were found at concentrations typically below surface water quality standards in the leachates. Some of the monitored metals (Al, Fe, Ni, V) were found to be lost from solution downstream of emergence in calcite-dominated precipitates which rapidly form at all sites at rates up to 100 g m(-2) day(-1). The low concentrations of potentially problematic trace elements in both solution and the sediments are discussed with regard development of economically viable passive treatment wetlands for highly alkaline industrial discharges.

Citation

Mayes, W. M., Younger, P. L., & Aumônier, J. (2008). Hydrogeochemistry of alkaline steel slag leachates in the UK. Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, 195(1-4), 35-50. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-008-9725-9

Journal Article Type Article
Online Publication Date May 28, 2008
Publication Date 2008-11
Journal WATER AIR AND SOIL POLLUTION
Print ISSN 0049-6979
Publisher Springer Verlag
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 195
Issue 1-4
Pages 35-50
DOI https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-008-9725-9
Keywords Steel slag; Leachate; Alkaline; Remediation; Wetland
Public URL https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/409487
Publisher URL https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11270-008-9725-9