PROBLEM
Remtech Engineers was engaged to close three latex ponds.
Concern was expressed by the client that the latex may contain
hazardous chemicals.
SOLUTION
Remtech conducted a site characterization of the SBR Latex in the
ponds that confirmed that a potential for HSRA chemicals over
reporting triggers may be present.
Analysis of bench-scale chemically fixed and aerated latex waste
samples did not contain hazardous chemicals indicating that the heat
of hydration of chemical fixation with cement kiln dust and Portland
Cement and air stripping was an effective treatment methodology.
This treatment methodology removed 99% of phthalates,
formaldehyde, and other volatile organic compounds. In addition, the
compressive strength of the treated waste was sufficient to be used as
a compatible backfill for construction of a parking lot at the site.
8,000 tons of latex sludge were dewatered and leachates
treated with Remtech’s mobile treatment system. The 100-gallon per
minute treatment system consisted of a 10,000-gallon clarifier followed by a Low-Profile Air Stripper, diatomaceous earth and activated carbon filters. Over 460,000 gallons of pond leachates were treated below detection limits for volatile and semi-volatile organics and discharged to the City’s sanitary sewer system.
Latex sludges were chemically fixed and then placed on inclined
dewatering beds and degassed with hot air on biobeds constructed
over perforated piping in three foot lifts. The stabilized material was
used for backfill for construction of a parking lot on site. Compaction ratios
greater than 90% were achieved. An asphalt cap was used as a final
cover.
COST/BENEFITS
Converting potentially hazardous latex waste insitu into a usable
backfill material for construction of a parking lot saved the client
several hundred thousand dollars compared to excavation, transport,
disposal, and backfill.