Treatment of Stormwater Using Large Particle Size Fraction of Incineration Bottom Ash

Abstract

Adsorbent amended filters to improve treatment of the dissolved fraction of heavy metals from stormwater are currently receiving increased research interest. This paper presents a pilot scale laboratory-based study carried out to investigate the metal removal capacity of municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash particles larger and equal to 12.5 mm. Five plexiglas columns with height 40 cm and 10 cm diameter were used to study the adsorption performance of the bottom ash. An artificial stormwater consisting of tapwater added 2 mg/L of Cu, Pb, Zn and Ni was used. Variable hydraulic loads were tested. The result showed good adsorption abilities of bottom ash larger and equal to 12.5 mm towards heavy metals. A leaching test following CEN/TS 14429 was carried out to evaluate the leaching potential. It showed in general leaching below Norwegian and Swedish limits. Hence, the leaching potential was considered low. To enable industrial use, further research should be carried out in field conditions.