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Potential Problems of Leachate Collection Systems
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Posted On :
Nov-01-2012
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Article Word Count :
541
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As rain washes through landfills or waste seeps into the ground, the water supply can become compromised. Protecting groundwater is an important goal of landfill design, and leachate collection systems are designed to help reduce the toxic impact of waste on a community's water source.
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As rain washes through landfills or waste seeps into the ground, the water supply can become compromised. Protecting groundwater is an important goal of landfill design, and leachate collection systems are designed to help reduce the toxic impact of waste on a community's water source. Landfills are generally built on a slope, which allows the leachate to drain toward a series of pipes. From there, the contaminated water is pumped away and treated at a waste water treatment facility.
While the theory behind leachate collection is a good one, it does pose some practical concerns as several things can go wrong:
- Sediment such as mud or trash can clog the pipes
- Microorganisms in the pipes can multiply and clog up the drainage system
- Chemical reactions inside of the pipes can cause a buildup of minerals
- Corrosive materials can weaken the pipes, which will subsequently break under pressure
Whenever the pipes are backed up or burst, leachate can back up into the landfill or escape the boundaries of the facility. From there, it may run off and contaminate groundwater sources or cause other problems for local plants and wildlife. It generally takes less than a decade for these systems to fail, and replacing them frequently can become costly and invasive due to the extent of excavation required to replace worn pipes.
Finding Alternative Collection Systems
Although these systems are quite common, they are not the only method used to protect groundwater from contaminants. Other solutions work by either preventing water contamination or treating the contaminated water. Sometimes a combination of factors can be used simultaneously for effective results.
Permeable Reactive Barriers
One solution that can help reduce the problems with leachate collection systems is the installation of a permeable reactive barrier, or PRB. The barriers are permeable, which allows water to flow through them but keeps solid waste and contaminants out. They are also treated with several reactive substances, such as activated carbon or granular iron, which play a role in purifying the water that comes into contact with them.
PRB Mechanics
These barriers are placed vertically in the ground to block the flow of contaminated groundwater. As water passes through the barrier, chemical reactions take place that remove contaminants from the water and allow it to flow freely through to the other side. In effect, a PRB functions in the same way as a water treatment facility without needing to transport the water away for treatment.
Advantages of a Permeable Reactive Barrier
A permeable reactive barrier can reduce the need for pipe-based collection systems or even replace them entirely. On the whole, these barriers face fewer problems than pipe-based systems. They are easier to install as they do not require extensive excavation, and there are no long networks of pipes to protect from breakage. They also do not become easily clogged thanks to the shape and design of the barrier.
Plan Landfills Carefully
Ultimately, the issue of maintaining safe groundwater is something that requires substantial consideration from landfill designers and others associated with the business. Employing a wide array of technologies will have the best effect in ensuring safe and sanitary waste disposal.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Potential Problems of Leachate Collection Systems_233333.aspx
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Author Resource :
The author has an immense knowledge on leachate collection. Know more about permeable reactive barrier related info in his website.
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Keywords :
permeable reactive barrier, leachate collection,
Category :
Business
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Business
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