The application of batch extraction tests for the characterisation of solidified ferro alloy waste products

Leach testing is arguably the best indicator of the effectiveness of pre-landfill treatments, including solidification/stabilisation (S/S), in reducing mobility of waste constituents. The results of leach tests can, however, also be interpreted to provide an understanding of the mechanisms via which toxic species are retained in the S/S product. An understanding of retention mechanisms contributes to the development of improved waste treatment systems. In this paper, we explore the applicability of four extraction tests, Pore Solution Expressions, the TCLP, the Equilibrium Extraction (EE) and the Sequential Chemical Extraction (SCE) for providing a description of the mechanisms of containment within an S/S product. The waste materials explored here are ferrochrome dusts with high levels of metals including Cr and Zn. The errors in results from the pore solution expressions and sequential chemical extractions were too high to draw any quantitative conclusions, although some qualitative comments could be made. The latter observations, however, were consistent with those from the other two tests, and together these build a comprehensive picture of the S/S products. For these specific products, it is suggested that a small amount (approximately 1%) of the Cr is Cr(VI) which is readily mobile, approximately 5% is Cr(III) which is mobile under acidic conditions and the remainder is a stabile chromite which is not readily mobile. For Zn, however, roughly equal proportions are contained as a species (possibly Zn(OH)2) whose release is pH dependent, and as a stable, immobile species on the surface of the dust particles.