Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Fuel – Environmental aspects'
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1
Bose, Arun Chand. "Pulverized coal combustion: Fuel nitrogen mechanisms in the rich post-flame." Diss., The University of Arizona, 1989. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/184635.
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Chemical kinetic mechanisms governing the fate of coal nitrogen in the fuel-rich stage of a pulverized-coal staged combustion process were investigated. Emphasis was on determination of the effects of coal rank, temperature and stoichiometric ratios on the speciation and rates of destruction of nitrogenous species and correlation of coal data by a unif1ed mechanism. The relative importance of homogeneous and heterogeneous mechanisms during post-flame interconversion reactions of the fuel nitrogen pool was quantified. Experiments with doped propane gas and a high- and low-grade coals, burned under a variety of conditions in a 2 Kg/h downflow combustor, yielded timeresolved profiles of temperature, major (H₂, CO, CO₂, O₂ and N₂), nitrogenous (NO, HeN and NH₃) and hydrocarbon (CH₄ and C₂H₂) species. These profiles allowed global mechanisms describing the speciation and destruction of fuel nitrogen species to be explored, using predictive models of increasing levels of sophistication. Fuel nitrogen speciation varied significantly from coal to coal and depended on stoichiometric ratio and temperature, which were varied independently. A general correlation describing the destruction rate of NO was derived from data. This rate, which was first-order in both NO and NH₃, was generally valid for all coals and all conditions examined. Fuel nitrogen interconversion reactions, especially destruction of NO and HeN, was predominantly homogeneous, but no single elementary reaction was controlling. Temperature quench down the combustor is the origin of OH equilibrium overshoot. Expressions for estimating the OH equilibrium overshoot as a function of the axial temperature decay along the combustor were derived both empirically and kinetically from fundamental considerations using data from doped propane gas runs. These expressions, together with available literature values of gas phase rate coefficients, could adequately describe the post-flame NO and HeN profiles of coal and gas runs. HeN profiles in the far postflame zone of the coal flames are strongly influenced by the slow release of nitrogen from the coal residue. This devolatilization plays a critical role in supplying the HeN that drives the multistep process converting fuel N into molecular nitrogen.
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Yates, Christopher Lee. "The study of anode materials for an intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cell utilizing hydrogen sulfide as the fuel." Thesis, Georgia Institute of Technology, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/1853/10054.
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Ip, Mei-fong Phyllis, and 葉美芳. "Environmental management options for pulverised fuel ash (PFA)." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1994. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31252849.
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顧振彪 and Chun-piu Benedict Koo. "Study on a biodiesel fuel produced from restaurant waste animal fats." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2001. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31224519.
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Chow, Kwok-on Desmond, and 周國安. "The environmental improvement due to the relocation of base load gas production plant from Ma Tau Kok to Tai Po industrial estate." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1994. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B4257433X.
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Jebe, Thulisa. "Potential socio-economic implications of ethanol production as a green economic initiative in Cradock, Eastern Cape." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2776.
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Thesis (MTech (Environmental Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.South Africa is taking a continental lead towards the transition of the green economy, and the energy sector has been identified as one of the cornerstones integral in this transition. This transition pays attention to alternative energy sources to gradually replace fossil fuels. Recently, the production of ethanol is seen as an energy source that is an integral player in achieving a green economy. The ethanol production project is linked to the improvement of the economy, and social well-being concomitant with the enhancement of the environmental quality tenets embodied by the green economy. Scholars have noted that these projects tend to ignore socio-economic realities of under privileged people especially in rural areas and small towns. While the green energy is often presented by the state there is, however, no evidence of the positive as well as negative impacts of ethanol projects on improving the livelihoods of the local communities or contributing to the substance of the local economies while protecting the quality of the environment. This thesis explored the subject of ethanol projects as green economic models in the context of the ethanol project in Cradock. The thesis investigated the socio-economic implications of the ethanol project in Cradock as a green economic model. The research study argues that the inclusion of the local people in decision making for the ethanol project is crucial to securing their benefits from the project. This means that local people should be involved early in the decision making process. Failure to engage the local residents in the initial stages of decision making, may create a lack of sense of ownership resulting in a lack of socio-economic benefits for the residents. The research study adopted a qualitative research design and an inductive approach. The ethanol project in Cradock was used as a case study for the research, and two sampling techniques, purposive sampling and random sampling were used. Interviews, questionnaires and observations were used to collect data from the residents of Cradock, the business sector (hospitality, tourism and agricultural retail), the emerging farmers, the farm workers, the Agrarian Research Development Agency, and Government Departments (Local Economic Development, Department of Agriculture, Department of Rural Development and Land Reform). The findings illustrate that the ethanol project in Cradock is not consistent with the tenets of a green economic model. The results suggested that the project does not improve the livelihood of the community or contribute to the sustenance of the local economies while protecting the quality of the environment. From an environmental perspective, while the ethanol project regarding providing ethanol fuel contributes positively to the global green agenda, it deteriorates the quality of the local environment. The project pollutes the local environment which is a source of livelihood for the local people and the economy. Therefore, the adverse effect of the project on the local environment contributes to a negative effect on the local economy and livelihood of the residents. The results also revealed that the project stakeholders, particularly the residents of Cradock and the emerging farmers, were not involved in the early stages of the project where the benefits were determined. As a result, the stakeholders do not have a sense of ownership of the project, and there are uncertainties about the sustainability of their socio-economic benefits. The ethanol project introduces a shift from the traditional commercial agriculture to the production of biofuel feedstock. This causes an effect on the local economy and livelihood because traditional commercial agriculture has sustained the town for more than 200 years. The thesis raises questions about the notion that ethanol projects are green economic models.
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Haynes, Comas Lamar. "Simulation of tubular solid oxide fuel cell behavior for integration into gas turbine cycles." Diss., Georgia Institute of Technology, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/1853/21797.
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Runyon, Thomas Alvin 1963. "Microcosm experiments to enhance the bioremediation of a No.2 fuel oil-contaminated soil." Thesis, The University of Arizona, 1989. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/277064.
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Soil microcosm experiments were conducted to identify soil amendments which enhance the biodegradation of a No. 2 (diesel) fuel in soil. Microcosm amendments in Phase 1 included yeast extract, acetate, methane, and activated sludge. Combinations of these amendments resulted in 16 different treatments. Phase 2 soil microcosms contained combinations of methane and methanotroph additions resulting in four different treatments. Gas chromatography was used to determine the time and treatment-dependent concentration of C12-C18 n-alkanes during Phase 1 and, C14-C19 n-alkanes during Phase 2. Results from Phase 1 indicated that the most extensive biodegradation occurred in methane and activated sludge-supplemented microcosms. Acetate and/or yeast extract inhibited biodegradation by soil and/or activated sludge microorganisms. Addition of methane relieved inhibition by these amendments. Methane and/or methanotroph additions to Phase 2 microcosms did not enhance biodegradation relative to unamended microcosms. In general, n-alkanes longer than n-C12 were equally degraded in soil microcosms.
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Delaforce, Philip M. "Feasibility study of conventional metals as current collectors in solid oxide fuel cells : technical performance, environmental aspects and economic factors." Thesis, University of Surrey, 2006. http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/842758/.
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In the integrated planar solid oxide fuel cell (IP-SOFC) design individual cells are printed on a porous substrate and connected in series. This minimises the costs by using minimal amounts of functional materials, coupled with mass production techniques. However, the configuration is unfavourable in terms of current collection from the electrodes. From a survey of potential materials for the anode current collector, nickel (from the in-situ reduction of nickel oxide) was identified as the most promising material in terms of cost, availability and the environmental impact compared with the precious metals that are used currently. A novel composite anode microstructure, consisting of small nickel oxide tracks printed within a nickel oxide/yttria tracks doped zirconia anode, was found to provide a level of in-plane conductivity suitable for use in the IP-SOFC. There were, however, issues with the use of nickel oxide. It was found to migrate and react with the magnesium oxide from the support tube, to form a solid solution during sintering of the fuel cell layers. Furthermore, the presence of nickel oxide was found to cause grain growth and phase changes in yttria doped zirconia at high temperatures the extent of which was dependent on the yttria content. For 3 mol% yttria doped zirconia, nickel oxide was found to cause rapid grain growth and stabilise the cubic phase at lower yttria concentrations. Additionally nickel was observed to migrate over 200 mum through the zirconia samples in one hour at 1500°C. For the 8 mol% yttria doped zirconia, which was predominantly cubic initially, the nickel oxide also caused rapid grain growth but the nickel migration was confined to a depth of approximately twice the size of the large grains. The problems associated with nickel oxide are only significant at the high temperatures used during manufacture, so if these can be reduced or eliminated then the benefits a nickel based anode current collector could be realised.
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Adefeso, Ismail Babatunde. "Techno-economic analysis of a gasification system using refuse-derived fuel from municipal solid waste." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2753.
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Thesis (Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering)--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017.The search for alternatives to fossil fuel is necessary with a view to reducing the negative environmental impact of fossil fuel and most importantly, to exploit an affordable and secured fuel source. This study investigated the viability of municipal solid waste gasification for a fuel cell system. Potential solid fuels obtained from the study in the form of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) had high heating value (HHV) between 18.17 MJ/Kg - 28.91 MJ/Kg with energy density increased from 4142.07 MJ/m3 to 10735.80 MJ/m3. The molecular formulas of RDF derived from Ladies Smith drop-off site, Woodstock drop-off site and an average molecular formula of all thirteen municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal facilities were CH1.43O1.02, CH1.49O1.19, and CH1.50O0.86 respectively. The comparative ratios of C/H were in the range of 7.11 to 8.90. The Thermo Gravimetric Analysis showed that the dehydration, thermal decompositions, char combustions were involved in the production of gaseous products but flaming pyrolysis stage was when most tar was converted to syngas mixture. The simulation of RDF gasification allowed a prediction of the RDF gasification behaviour under various operating parameters in an air-blown downdraft gasifier. Optimum SFR (steam flowrate) values for RDF1, RDF2 and RDF3 were determined to be within these values 2.80, 2.50 and 3.50 and Optimum ER values for RDF1, RDF2 and RDF3 were also determined to be within these values 0.15, 0.04 and 0.08. These conditions produced the desired high molar ratio of H2/CO yield in the syngas mixture in the product stream. The molar ratios of H2/CO yield in the syngas mixture in the product stream for all the RDFs were between 18.81 and 20.16. The values of H2/CO satisfy the requirement for fuel cell application. The highest concentration of heavy metal was observed for Al, Fe, Zn and Cr, namely 16627.77 mg/Kg at Coastal Park (CP), 17232.37 mg/Kg at Killarney (KL), 235.01 mg/Kg at Tygerdal (TG), and 564.87 mg/Kg at Kraaifontein (KF) respectively. The results of quantitative economic evaluation measurements were a net return (NR) of $0.20 million, a rate of return on investment (ROI) of 27.88 %, payback time (PBP) of 2.30 years, a net present value (NPV) of $1.11 million and a discounted cash flow rate of return (DCFROR) of 24.80 % and 28.20 % respectively. The results of the economic evaluations revealed that some findings of the economic benefits of this system would be viable if costs of handling MSW were further quantified into the costs analysis. The viability of the costs could depend on government responsibility to accept costs of handling MSW.
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Moore, Paul 1962. "The Analysis of PCDD and PCDF Emissions from the Cofiring of Densified Refuse Derived Fuel and Coal." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1990. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc330690/.
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The United States leads the world in per capita production of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), generating approximately 200 million tons per year. By 2000 A.D. the US EPA predicts a 20% rise in these numbers. Currently the major strategies of MSW disposal are (i) landfill and (ii) incineration. The amount of landfill space in the US is on a rapid decline. There are -10,000 landfill sites in the country, of which only 65-70% are still in use. The Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) predicts an 80% landfill closure rate in the next 20 years. The development of a viable energy resource from MSW, in the form of densified Refuse Derived Fuel (dRDF), provides solutions to the problems of MSW generation and fossil fuel depletions. Every 2 tons of MSW yields approximately 1 ton of dRDF. Each ton of dRDF has an energy equivalent of more than two barrels of oil. At current production rates the US is "throwing away" over 200,000,000 barrels of oil a year. In order to be considered a truly viable product dRDF must be extensively studied; in terms of it's cost of production, it's combustion properties, and it's potential for environmental pollution. In 1987 a research team from the University of North Texas, in conjunction with the US DOE and Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), cofired over 550 tons of dRDF and bdRDF with a high sulfur Kentucky coal in a boiler at ANL. This work examines the emission rates of polychlorinated dioxins (PCDDs) and furans (PCDFs) during the combustion of the dRDF, bdRDF, and coal. Even at levels of 50% by Btu content of dRDF in the fuel feedstock, emission rates of PCDDs and PCDFs were below detection limits. The dRDF is shown to be an environmentally acceptable product, which could help resolve one of the major social and environmental problems facing this country today.
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Weiland, Daniel Albert. "Rooftop pv impacts on fossil fuel electricity generation and co2 emissions in the pacific northwest." Thesis, Portland State University, 2013. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=1547603.
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This thesis estimates the impacts of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) capacity on electricity generation and CO2 emissions in America's Pacific Northwest. The region's demand for electricity is increasing at the same time that it is attempting to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The electricity generated by rooftop PV capacity is expected to displace electricity from fossil fueled electricity generators and reduce CO2 emissions, but when and how much? And how can this region maximize and focus the impacts of additional rooftop PV capacity on CO2 emissions? To answer these questions, an hourly urban rooftop PV generation profile for 2009 was created from estimates of regional rooftop PV capacity and solar resource data. That profile was compared with the region's hourly fossil fuel generation profile for 2009 to determine how much urban rooftop PV generation reduced annual fossil fuel electricity generation and CO2 emissions. Those reductions were then projected for a range of additional multiples of rooftop PV capacity. The conclusions indicate that additional rooftop PV capacity in the region primarily displaces electricity from natural gas generators, and shows that the timing of rooftop PV generation corresponds with the use of fossil fuel generators. Each additional Wp/ capita of rooftop PV capacity reduces CO2 emissions by 9,600 to 7,300 tons/ year. The final discussion proposes some methods to maximize and focus rooftop PV impacts on CO2 emissions, and also suggests some questions for further research.
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Leung, Pui-yin, and 梁佩賢. "A study of the application of alternative fuels in public light buses in Hong Kong." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2001. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B44569890.
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Choi, Ya-yin, and 蔡雅然. "A review of the control of motor vehicle fuel specifications and its effects on air quality." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2003. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31255450.
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Zullo, Johnathon. "A model and optimization of alternative fuel vehicle fleet composition with triple bottom line concerns." Thesis, Georgia Institute of Technology, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/1853/44870.
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Alternative fuel types and technologies are increasingly being advocated for transportation needs to ameliorate concerns around energy security, climate change, and fuel cost. Each fuel type has unique advantages and disadvantages for cost structure and emissions. Meanwhile, corporate fleet customers are often making more sustainable choices of vehicle type due to public perception and other influencing factors. The sustainability of these vehicles can be viewed from a triple bottom line perspective of financial, environmental, and societal implications. However, there is currently a lack of organized knowledge that would allow a decision-maker to elect the appropriate vehicle type beyond lifecycle cost and carbon emissions. The simplification of the impact of fuel type choice disregards issues that are emerging in prominence around water consumption and public health. Water consumption is of particular importance to investigate as fuel types that have reduced carbon emissions are often more water intensive.
This thesis develops a tool that examines these issues through modeling to provide a more holistic lifecycle view of a prospective fleet's impact. The choice of vehicle type then can be optimized by utility theory preference elicitation of the different customer desires. Various scenarios of corporate preference and fleet specifications are explored to provide case studies that exemplify the complexity of the decision process. Each potential scenario has its own characteristics that cannot be optimally fulfilled by an overarching fuel type but rather should be thoroughly examined individually to understand the true consequences.
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Ng, Tze-on, and 吳子安. "A study of sustainable fuel in public transport: the case of public light buses in Hong Kong." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2001. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31945557.
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Jahani, Aghamolla. "Comparative Toxicity of Refuse-Derived Fuel Fly Ash on Two Species of Earthworms, Lumbricus terrestris and E. foetida, Using an Artificial Soil Exposure Protocol." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1991. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc504583/.
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Research estimated toxicity of refuse-derived fuel fly ash (RDF-FA) on two earthworms species, Lumbricus terrestris and Eisenia foetida. Specific objectives were to: (1) Compare their 14-day LC50s under light and dark conditions; (2) separate toxicity due to osmotic, pH and physical factors from that of heavy metal contaminants; (3) compare relative differences of artificial soil and commercial soil as exposure media for evaluating toxicity to earthworms. The 14-d LC50s for L. terrestris in dark and light were 57.0 and 48.34 % RDF-FA, and 59.25 and 41.00 % RDF-FA for E. foetida using artificial soil. All of the toxicity resulted from heavy metals within the RDF-FA. Using L. terrestris, the LC50s for artificial soil and commercial soil were 52.30 and 64.34%.
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Mattos, Luis Antonio Terribile de. "Proposta metodológica para a identificação e avaliação de aspectos e impactos ambientais em instalações nucleares do IPEN: estudo de caso aplicado ao Centro do Combustível Nuclear." Universidade de São Paulo, 2013. http://www.teses.usp.br/teses/disponiveis/85/85131/tde-14012014-143650/.
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O trabalho apresenta uma aplicação da ferramenta metodológica conhecida como FMEA (Failure Mode Effect Analysis) ao processo de identificação de aspectos e impactos ambientais. Tal processo é parte importante na implantação e na manutenção de Sistemas de Gestão Ambiental (SGA), baseados na norma NBR ISO 14001. Além disso, pode contribuir, de forma complementar, para a avaliação e aperfeiçoamento da segurança nuclear da instalação analisada. Como objeto de estudo elegeu-se o Centro de Combustíveis Nucleares (CCN) do IPEN/CNEN-SP, localizado junto ao Campus da Universidade de São Paulo-Brasil, destinado à realização de pesquisas científicas e à produção de elementos combustíveis para o Reator IEA-R1. A partir de um levantamento sistemático de dados, obtidos por meio de entrevistas, documentos e registros operacionais foi possível identificar os processos, suas interações e atividades, cuja análise permitiu definir os diversos modos de falhas potenciais, as respectivas causas e conseqüências para o meio ambiente. Como resultado da avaliação criteriosa dos modos causas foi possível identificar e classificar os principais impactos ambientais potenciais, que constitui uma etapa essencial para a implantação e manutenção de um Sistema de Gestão Ambiental para a instalação em estudo. Os resultados obtidos permitiram demonstrar a validade da aplicação da técnica FMEA aos processos de instalações nucleares, identificando aspectos e impactos ambientais, cujos controles são essenciais para a obtenção da conformidade com os requisitos ambientais do Sistema de Gestão Integrada do IPEN (SGI). Contribuíram também para fornecer uma ferramenta gerencial poderosa para a solução de questões relacionadas ao processo de atendimento de exigências legais aplicáveis no âmbito da Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN) e do Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente (IBAMA).This work presents an application of Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) to the process of identification of environmental aspects and impacts as a part of implementation and maintenance of an Environmental Management System (EMS) in accordance with the NBR ISO 14001 standard. Also, it can contribute, as a complement, to the evaluation and improvement of safety of the installation focused. The study was applied to the Nuclear Fuel Center (CCN) of Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN), situated at the Campus of University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The CCN facility has the objective of promoting scientific research and of producing nuclear fuel elements for the IEA-R1 Research Reactor. To identify the environmental aspects of the facility activities, products, and services, a systematic data collection was carried out by means of personal interviews, documents, reports and operation data records consulting. Furthermore, the processes and their interactions, failure modes, besides their causes and effects to the environment, were identified. As a result of a careful evaluation of these causes it was possible to identify and to classify the major potential environmental impacts, in order to set up and put in practice an Environmental Management System for the installation under study. The results have demonstrated the validity of the FMEA application to nuclear facility processes, identifying environmental aspects and impacts, whose controls are critical to achieve compliance with the environmental requirements of the Integrated Management System of IPEN. It was demonstrated that the methodology used in this work is a powerful management tool for resolving issues related to the conformity with applicable regulatory and legal requirements of the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) and the Brazilian Institute of Environment (IBAMA).
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Ndamase, Zola. "The implication of fuel-wood use and governance to the local environment: a case study of Ward Seven of Port St Johns Municipality in the Eastern Cape." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/448.
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The importance of ecological systems in supporting social systems has been identified as one of the most important facets of sustainable development. Consequently, a number of international and local laws and policy interventions have been established to ensure that natural resource use remains sustainable. In rural areas, overdependence on fuel wood has commonly been identified as one of the biggest threat to forestry ecosystems. This in turn has led to environmental degradation that includes among others species depletion, soil erosion and decline in water and air quality. Based on the myriad problems caused by over-reliance on fuel wood, this study sought to identify usage, management and perceived implication of woodland exploitation in Port St Johns local municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Using interviews and questionnaires for key respondents in the local community, the study identified two key threats to socio-ecological stability resulting from wood fuel exploitation namely; high poverty levels and lack of coordination in the management of wood fuel resources. Apart from using fuel wood for domestic use, local fuel wood exploitation has been commercialized to augment household incomes. Lack of coordination in the management of natural resources has also created a vacuum in the exploitation and management of fuel wood resources. The study did not have inclination towards statistics such as chi-square and t-tests since the research questions and objectives did not refer to any relationship or significance level. The study recommends non-wood based alternative sources of energy, improved coordination and harmonization of functions among different stakeholders and emphasis on collaboration between traditional and local governance in the management fuel wood and the local physical environment. The study further recommends resuscitation of indigenous knowledge and socio-ecological stability
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Fung, Kin-lin, and 馮建蓮. "A review of the effectiveness of the Government LPG Taxi Scheme as a fuel switch program for cleaner air: itsimplication for public acceptance and for future policies." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1999. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31254196.
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Poslusny, Matthew. "Analysis of PAH and PCB Emissions from the Combustion of dRDF and the Nondestructive Analysis of Stamp Adhesives." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1989. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331998/.
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This work includes two unrelated areas of research. The first portion of this work involved combusting densified refuse derived fuel (dRDF) with coal and studying the effect that Ca(0H)2 binder had on reducing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) emissions. The second area of work was directed at developing nondestructive infrared techniques in order to aid in the analysis of postage stamp adhesives. With Americans generating 150-200 million tons a year of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and disposing of nearly ninety percent of it in landfills, it is easy to understand why American landfills are approaching capacity. One alternative to landfilling is to process the MSW into RDF. There are technical and environmental problems associated with RDF. This work provides some answers concerning the amount of PAH and PCB emissions generated via the combustion of RDF with coal. It was found that the Ca(OH)2 binder greatly reduced both the PAH and the PCB emissions. In fact, PAH emissions at the ten-percent level were reduced more by using the binder than by the pollution control equipment. If the Ca(0H)2 binder can reduce not only PAH and PCB emissions, but also other noxious emissions, such as acid gases or dioxin, RDF technology could soon be the answer to the current landfill problems. The second portion of this work focused on developing a method to analyze stamp adhesives nondestructively. Using this method, it was fairly easy to differentiate among the three different types of adhesives that have been used by the United States Postal Service: gum arabic, dextrin, and polyvinyl alcohol. Differences caused by changes in chemicals added to the adhesives were also detected. Also, forgeries were detected with as much success, if not more, than by conventional methods. This work also led to the construction of equipment that allows large samples to be analyzed by reflectance infrared methods.
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Sørum, Lars. "Environmental aspects of municipal solid waste combustion." Doctoral thesis, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 2000. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:no:ntnu:diva-1488.
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MATTOS, LUIS A. T. de. "Proposta metodológica para a identificação e avaliação de aspectos e impactos ambientais em instalações nucleares do IPEN: estudo de caso aplicado ao Centro do Combustível Nuclear." reponame:Repositório Institucional do IPEN, 2013. http://repositorio.ipen.br:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/10595.
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Tese (Doutoramento)
IPEN/T
Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares - IPEN-CNEN/SP
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Yu, Chuan, and 余川. "Life cycle analysis of different feedstocks of biodiesel production." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2012. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B49618027.
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The scarcity of fossil fuel and its environmental impact have shifted the world focus on green innovations At a time when the use of fossil fuel means increasing energy scarcity and an environmental crisis in the world in which we live, we need green innovations now more than ever. Growing attention has been drawn to the use of biofuels, such as bioethanol and biodiesel, which have gradually come to make up part of the total energy supply. Uncertainties about the environmental and ecological aspects of the production and consumption of biofuel still exist despite its rapid development.
A life cycle analysis (LCA) evaluates the two principal functional parameters 1) energy efficiency and 2) Greenhouse Gas (GHG) balance of different feedstocks for biodiesel production from the cradle to the grave. By accounting a life cycle analysis stage by stage, we can ascertain the change in GHG emissions and energy demand that result from the various uses of feedstocks for the production of biodiesel.
In this thesis, various life cycle analysis models are reviewed and evaluated with emphasis on specific biofuels. Different LCA models depend on different LCA calculation under different situations, including GREET, LEM, SimaPro, etc. The software SimaPro was used to compare the life cycle GHG emissions and energy demand from conventional petroleum fuels and several hydro-processed renewable green diesels. A consistent methodology was used for selected fuel pathways to facilitate relatively equitable comparisons. The building of life cycle flow tree in SimaPro combined the input and output with an emphasis on the following stages 1) raw material farming and acquisition, 2)liquid fuel production, 3)transport, 4)refueling, 5)liquid fuel conversion to biodiesel and 6) end uses. Consistent impact assessment methods were chosen for simulation, equitable comparisons and comprehensive analysis of selected fuel pathways for the calculation of Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Cumulative Energy Demand (CED).
However, the results of the entire lifetime estimates vary dramatically in production chains, which make it difficult to take a holistic view about energy intake and yields, economic costs and values, environmental impacts and their benefits. Apart from the diversity in system boundaries and life cycle inventories, a variance in terminologies and the limitations of interdisciplinary communication are the main factors that affect the quality of the results.published_or_final_version
Mechanical Engineering
Master
Master of Philosophy
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Walecka-Hutchison, Claudia. "Nitrogen dynamics in diesel biodegradation : effects of water potential, soil C:N ratios, and nitrogen cycling on biodegradation efficacy." Diss., The University of Arizona, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/191274.
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Respirometric experiments were performed to evaluate the role of nitrogen in aerobic diesel biodegradation. Specific objectives included 1) evaluating the effects of water potential induced by various nitrogen amendments on diesel biodegradation rates in arid region soils, 2) comparing concurrent effects of C:N ratios and soil water potential on diesel degradation rates, and 3), measuring gross rates of nitrogen cycling processes in diesel-contaminated soil to determine duration of fertilizer bioavailability. In all studies, increasing nitrogen fertilization resulted in a decrease in total water potential and correlated with an increase in lag phase and overall reduction in microbial respiration. Highest respiration and estimated diesel degradation was observed in the 250 mg N/kg soil treatments regardless of diesel concentration, nitrogen source, or soil used, suggesting an inhibitory osmotic effect from higher rates of nitrogen application. The depression of water potential resulting in a 50% reduction in respiration was much greater than that observed in humid region soil, suggesting higher salt tolerance by microbial populations of arid region soils. Due to the dependence on contaminant concentrations, use of C:N ratios was problematic in optimizing nitrogen augmentation, leading to over-fertilization in highly contaminated soils. Optimal C:N levels among those tested were 17:1, 34:1, and 68:1 for 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 mg/kg diesel treatments respectively. Determining nitrogen augmentation on the basis of soil pore water nitrogen (mg N/kg soil H₂0) is independent of hydrocarbon concentration but takes into account soil moisture content. In the soil studied, optimal nitrogen fertilization was observed at an average soil pore water nitrogen level of 1950 mg N/kg H₂0 at all levels of diesel contamination. Based on the nitrogen transformation rates estimated, the duration of fertilizer contribution to the inorganic nitrogen pool at 5,000 mg/kg diesel was estimated at 0.9, 1.9, and 3.2 years in the 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg nitrogen treatments respectively. The estimation was conservative as ammonium fixation, gross nitrogen immobilization, and nitrification were assumed as losses of fertilizer with only gross mineralization of native organic nitrogen contributing to the most active portion of the nitrogen pool.
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May, John R. (John Robert) 1978. "Sustainability of electricity generation using Australian fossil fuels." Monash University, Dept. of Chemical Engineering, 2003. http://arrow.monash.edu.au/hdl/1959.1/9537.
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Thellier, Lionel. "Environmental impacts of the electricity produced by a solid oxide fuel cell and nuclear reactors." Thesis, Lille 1, 2008. http://www.theses.fr/2008LIL10107.
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L'humanité fait face à de nombreux défis dans le domaine de l'énergie: explosion de la demande, émissions de gaz à effet de serre, raréfaction de certaines ressources fossiles, pollution, etc. La réponse à ces défis passe en particulier par le développement de systèmes de conversion d'énergie à haute efficacité et à faibles impacts environnementaux. Elle requiert, de plus, la mise au point d'approches permettant d'évaluer ces impacts et de communiquer les résultats à un très large public. Le travail de thèse présenté est une contribution aux efforts menés pour satisfaire ces deux exigences. Il est composé de deux parties qui ont consisté respectivement: - à évaluer à l'aide d'une approche mâture les impacts environnementaux de l'électricité produite par un système de conversion d'énergie en cours de mise au point. Il s'agissait d'effectuer l'Analyse de Cycle de Vie (LCA) de l'électricité issue d'un "stack" de pile à combustible de type Solid Oxyde Fuel Cell (SOFC). L'étude visait à définir les conditions optimales de fabrication, d'utilisation et de recyclage de ce stack d'un point de vue environnemental, afin d'aider les concepteurs et utilisateurs dans leurs choix technologiques. - à mettre au point une approche permettant d'évaluer les impacts environnementaux de l'électricité produite par un système de conversion d'énergie mâture. Il s'agissait d'adapter les concepts d'Empreinte Ecologique et de Biocapacité afin qu'ils intègrent correctement la production d'électricité à partir de réacteurs nucléaires. L'étude visait à disposer d'un indicateur simple permettant d'évaluer les impacts environnementaux de ce type d'électricitéHumankind faces many challenges in the energy field: explosion in demand, greenhouse gas emissions, rarefaction of certain fossi! resources, pollution etc. The answer to these challenges lies in particular in the development of energy conversion systems with a high efficiency and low environmental impacts. Furthermore, it requires the development of approaches which enable to evaluate these impacts and communicate the results to a very wide audience. The work undertaken in this Phd thesis is a contribution to the efforts underway to me et this dual demand. It is made up of two parts which have consisted respectively: - in evaluating with a mature approach the environmental impacts of the electricity produced by an energy conversion system currently under development. The objective was to carry out a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of the electricity provided by a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) "stack". The study was aimed to define the optimal manufacturing, use and end-of-life conditions for this stack from an environmental point of view, in order to help the designers and users in their technological choices. - in developing an approach which allows the assessment of the environmental impacts of the electricity produced by a mature energy conversion system. The objective was to adapt the concepts of Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity in order that they properly integrate nuclear electricity production. The study was aimed to propose a simple indicator for evaluating the environmental impacts ofthis type of electricity
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Nordin, Anders. "On the chemistry of combustion and gasification of biomass fuels, peat and waste : environmental aspects." Doctoral thesis, Umeå universitet, Kemiska institutionen, 1993. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:umu:diva-110672.
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Myburgh, Dirk Petrus. "The treatment of biodiesel wastewater using an integrated electrochemical and adsorption process." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2693.
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Thesis (Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering)--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.The production of biodiesel is an energy and water intensive process. The wastewater that is produced during this process is high in concentrations of COD, BOD, FOG and various other contaminants. Since it contains low levels of nutrients, it is difficult to degrade using natural processes such as conventional activated sludge wastewater treatment. The discharge of untreated biodiesel wastewater also raises serious environmental concern. It interferes when remediated with biological processes and results in additional costs during the production of biodiesel when penalties and fines are applied. Conventional treatment processes are not capable of treating contaminants and pollutants in biodiesel to satisfactory concentrations and hence advanced treatment processes are necessary. In this research, a lab scale integrated treatment process was used to investigate the successful reduction of contaminants, in particular COD, BOD and FOG. The integrated treatment process used in this study consisted of three consecutive steps; acidification, electrochemical oxidation and adsorption using chitosan as an adsorbent. The electrochemical oxidation process with IrO2-Ta2O5/Ti anodes was applied to treat biodiesel wastewater. Different operating conditions were tested to establish favourable conditions. The current density applied as well as the concentration of NaCl as the supporting electrolyte greatly affected the process. A NaCl concentration of 0.08M was deemed sufficient, whereas a current density of 1 mA/cm² showed superior performance compared to lower or higher current densities. Adsorption of pollutants in biodiesel wastewater was investigated using Chitosan as the adsorbent. Various chitosan concentrations, initial pH of the wastewater and repetitive adsorption stages were investigated. It was discovered that all three operating conditions greatly affect the performance of the process. The three consecutive adsorption stages using a chitosan concentration of 4.5 g/L at a pH of 2 resulted in the highest pollutant removal. It was observed that the integrated treatment process could reduce COD, BOD and FOG levels by 94%, 86% and 95% respectively. This concludes that the treated effluent complies with local industrial effluent discharge standards, which could be disposed safely without further treatment.
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Yuan, Tao 1968. "Dechlorination of environmentally recalcitrant chlorinated aromatic compounds." Thesis, McGill University, 2002. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=79208.
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Chlorinated aromatic compounds are an important group of compounds. Many of them have been produced in large quantities and they are indispensable to technological and societal benefits. But regulatory agencies have tightened regulations on the use and release of chlorinated aromatic compounds because of the scientific understanding of their toxicity, persistence, behavior in the environment and their potential to cause adverse effects on the ecosystem and human health.Pentachlorophenol (PCP), octachloronaphthalene and decachlorobiphenyl are all highly chlorinated aromatic compounds, of which, PCP has been used mainly as a biocide. Octachloronaphthalene and decachlorobiphenyl don't have practical use, but their congeners have been used widely as chemicals in industry. These compounds are toxic, recalcitrant and bio-accumulated within organisms. As the conventional treatment, incineration of these compounds can cause more serious problems, so that suitable alternatives need to be developed for their detoxification.
When compared with biodegradation or the thermal treatment of these compounds, chemical degradations have several merits. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
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Hengnirun, Somgiat. "A computer simulation model for manurial nitrogen management : environmental aspects (MANIMEA)." Thesis, McGill University, 1996. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=40357.
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The MANIMEA $ rm ( underline{MA}nurial underline{NI}trogen underline{M}anagement{:} underline{E}nvironmental underline{A}spects)$ model is a one-dimensional dynamic model that simultaneously simulates nitrogen transformations (volatilization, net mineralization-immobilization, and denitrification), nitrogen transport (runoff and leaching), plant uptake, and adsorption in homogeneous, unsaturated soils. The simulated system is divided into two components: the applied manure layer and the soil. The model describes the transformation processes occurring in both components separately. It is also capable of accounting for both micro and macroporous flows. In addition, the simulation can be done for time steps shorter than 1 day.The model was developed to be interactive and user-friendly and was constructed on a modular basis using Microsoft FORTRAN PowerStation$ sp circler$ as a compiler. It can be run on an IBM$ sp circler$ or IBM compatible microcomputer with a minimum requirement of a 386 microprocessor with 4 MB RAM. This model was developed as a nitrogen management-oriented model. However, it can also be used to gain further understanding of nitrogen processes for research and teaching purposes.
The accuracy of the stimulation was enhanced by taking into account moisture and temperature variation and distribution in the soil. The SWACROP and the HEAT programs were integrated into the MANIMEA model to generate transient moisture and temperature profiles, respectively. The Numerical Method Of Lines (NMOL) technique, which implements finite difference method, was used to numerically solve the partial differential equations in the model.
Generally, the results generated by the MANIMEA model using the parameters from literature agreed with the results obtained by analytical solutions and from experiments. It was found that the model is highly sensitive to the volatilization and net mineralization rate constants $(K sb{v}$ and $K sb{m}).$ The study showed that the MANIMEA model can be implemented to evaluate nitrogen transformations, transport, and plant uptake for a wide range of climatic and soil conditions and organic type of wastes. Such a tool can contribute to the protection of our environment through a better management of organic nitrogen fertilizer and a better understanding of the nitrogen processes.
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Anestis, Ioannis D. "Preference avoidance reactions of rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) following long term sublethal exposure to chromium and copper." Thesis, McGill University, 1988. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=75767.
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A standard methodology was developed for performing avoidance-preference tests, using Rainbow Trout (Salmo gairdneri) as the test organism. Experiments were conducted in a hydraulic channel, 9.15 m long by 0.30 m wide, partly divided along its length, and at a flow depth of 0.30 m. The design combined steep and shallow gradient characteristics. The toxicants investigated included Cu(II), Cr(III) and Cr(VI). The lowest avoidance threshold values were established at 2.1 $ mu$g/l for Cu(II) and 0.0026 mg/l and 0.026 mg/l for Cr(III) and Cr(VI) respectively while avoidance reactions increased with levels of toxicant in the channel. Similar experiments were performed with rainbow trout which were pre-exposed at sublethal levels to the toxicant, in order to assess the influence of toxic pre-exposure to the subsequent fish avoidance response. The length of pre-exposure varied between 7-20 weeks. Avoidance threshold values were correlated with safe levels of toxicant exposure.Pre-exposed fish exhibited decreasing avoidance reactions compared to non-exposed populations. Increased tolerance to the toxicant, was suggested by the increase in avoidance threshold values with pre-exposure levels. Fish exposed to test concentrations matching their pre-exposure levels, clearly preferred this same concentration over the adjacent lower or higher test concentration.
A two mechanism avoidance model was proposed independent of toxicant used or level of pre-exposure. The toxicant concentration where the second mechanism begins to dominate was referred to as avoidance breakpoint, and was correlated to a MATC level for the toxicant in question. Olfactory responses were proposed to be associated with fish avoidance responses below the avoidance breakpoint, while hypoxic stress along with osmo- and iono regulatory stress appeared to be responsible for driving fish avoidance reactions beyond the avoidance breakpoint.
A clearance period of 7 days was sufficient to allow fish to recover normal avoidance behaviour following pre-exposure to Cr(VI) below the avoidance breakpoint.
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Kabir, Anwar. "Dechlorination of chlorinated organic compounds by zero-valent and bimetallic mixture." Thesis, McGill University, 2000. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=31246.
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Organochlorine (OC) compounds that include several pesticides as well as an array of industrial chemicals were very efficacious for their intended use but were also characterized by deleterious environmental impacts when released either intentionally or inadvertently. Their lipophilic nature, long persistence in the environment and threat to human health caused all the developed countries to ban the production of these chemicals as well as restricted the use of formulations containing these material for food production.A number of scientists have become involved in the development of intentional degradation methods/techniques for these compounds using zero-valent metals or bimetallic mixtures. To date, there is no single, simple and continuous procedure available to completely dechlorinate lindane or pentachlorophenol (PCP). This work describes the complete dechlorination of lindane and pentachlorophenol by zero-valent Zn, Fe and Fe/Ag bimetallic mixture as well as a supercritical fluid extraction technique for a more efficient mass transfer of the substrates to the surfaces of the metal catalyst. The dechlorination reaction occurs on the surface of metal particles with the removal of all the chlorine atoms from lindane and PCP in a matter of minute, and yields completely dechlorinated hydrocarbon molecules and chloride as products. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
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Tam, Chee-yun Joyce, and 談知恩. "Review on application and feasibility of biodiesel in Hong Kong and how government policies can support industry efficiency?" Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2012. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B48543561.
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Hong Kong is vulnerable to energy and economic security due to the heavy dependence on imported fossil fuels. Waste has also been a major environmental management problem due to the amount of rubbish produced every year but lacking the technology and capital to manage different types properly. The objective of the dissertation is to study the feasibility of the use of biofuel in Hong Kong by recycling local waste. Current government policies in Hong Kong and overseas are being investigated on the appropriateness for domestic use. Literature reviews and stakeholders’ questionnaires are accounted to analyse the adaptability and popularity of the biodiesel application.
The methodology of the dissertation is to firstly examine literature reviews regarding biodiesel’s environmental aspect, technical efficiencies, economic aspect, government incentives and tax constraints. The consensus outcome of these researches advocated high popularity of biodiesel consumption and production in Europe and U.S. due to lower environmental impact, equivalent output efficiency and strong government support. Their successful implementation is a good example to improvise biodiesel domestically in Hong Kong.
Secondly, interviews were conducted with Hong Kong’s limited stakeholders. Respondents such as Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong Jockey Club, Fairwood Fastfood MTR Maritime Square were interviewed as these participants have been the pioneers in Hong Kong by recycling waste into biodiesel. On the production side, two out of three bio-refineries in Hong Kong provided their business sustainability and feasibility comments to pursue a long term goal. The limitation on responses might be focused solely on a few peer groups, and not the appropriate stakeholders with proper sampling size. However, the results are concurrent that biodiesel is one of the best alternative energy in Hong Kong. The dissertation draws positive results based on the following factors. Biodiesel can diminish the tremendous cost on waste management and landfill dumping. Using local food waste and industrial wastes from restaurants and food factories as feedstock to produce biodiesel is positive. This will also minimise the heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels to diversify energy sources. Refuelling of biodiesel fuel can be performed in any gas stations with the use of the existing infrastructure without any further requirement of new investment.
Nonetheless, in order to facilitate the use of biodiesel, incentives programmes initiated by Hong Kong Government and the biofuel producers have to coherently promote this alternative fuel. The conclusion states that Hong Kong is completely feasible to adopt the use of biodiesel in medium to heavy sized vehicles and vessels in the commercial sector. The environmental benefit of Hong Kong using biodiesel stood out compared to other form of renewable energy.published_or_final_version
Environmental Management
Master
Master of Science in Environmental Management
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El-dabbagh, Fadi. "Novel technique and facility for thermal treatment of solid residues." Thesis, McGill University, 2003. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=84238.
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De-inking sludge generated from pulp and paper industry is considered hazardous since it may contain heavy metals such as Cd, Cr, and Pb. Hence, the de-inking sludge needs to be treated before being disposed of. Sludge combustion is a proven disposal technology, which generates fly ash containing a portion of the heavy metals that may leach out under uncontrolled conditions. The aim of this thesis is to implement a new multi-zone temperature combustion technique (Low-High-Low temperature combustion, LHL) to help contain and immobilize the heavy metals within fly ash particles. During the LHL, the waste will be initially fed into a low-temperature zone (<1100 K) and then subjected to the high-temperature treatment (~1480 K) that will be followed by another low-temperature zone (~1100 K).This dissertation describes the detailed design and construction of a novel pilot-scale combustion facility, called the Multi-Mode Combustion Facility (MCF), used as a multidisciplinary research tool for investigating the thermal remediation of contaminated solid residues. The MCF is capable of operating in two different modes: Fluidized-Bed combustion mode (FBC) and Single burner furnace mode (SBF). However, this project focuses on the FBC mode (minimum fluidization velocity of 0.42 m/s and bed temperature of 1073 K).
This research compares the combustion characteristics of de-inking sludge obtained in the LHL and in the conventional combustion techniques. The following properties of particulates were studied: morphological evolution of solid particles, structural porosity, metals interactions with fly ash particles, and leachability.
The LHL's final supermicron spherical fly ash went through a molten phase with submicron particles attached to the fly ash particles surfaces. Thus, reducing its porosity to 19%. However, the amorphous final fly ash obtained in the conventional technique reveals 32% porosity. It was found that the physical characteristics of the final LHL's fly ash are the main cause for the reduced heavy metals leachability rates of 0.18, 0.046, and 0.92% for Cd, Cr, and Pb, respectively. The conventional technique had 53.28, 16.79, and 5.20% of Cd, Cr, and Pb respectively, leaching out due to the high porosity percentages. In conclusion, the LHL technique allows for controlling the heavy metals emission from FBCs, while using a waste to energy approach and maintaining environmentally acceptable gas emission levels.
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Deumié, Florence. "The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety and the international trade of genetically modified organisms : a new element of the conflict between trade and the environment." Thesis, McGill University, 2000. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=31156.
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The present thesis deals with the international legal consequences of the Biosafety Protocol. If this Protocol answers the problem of GMOs, by enforcing the application of the precautionary principle to the international trade of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), it does not solve the conflict between the interests of trade and those of the environment. On the contrary, the Biosafety Protocol conflicts with the rules of the GATT and the national norms inspired by it would risk being contested before the dispute-settlement institutions of the World Trade Organisation. The Protocol therefore constitutes a new element in the conflict, pre-existing and unsolved, which sets the implicit supremacy of the GATT against the international environmental norms. It confirms the necessity to find a solution enabling the equal authority and mutual respect of the international environmental and trade rules.All information is correct as at 14 November 2000.
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Heatherington, Tracey. "Environmental politics in a highland Sardinian community." Thesis, McGill University, 1993. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=68102.
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The movement to protect wilderness resources can conflict with local intentions for land use and development, particularly in economically marginal areas. In rural Italy, on the island of Sardinia, the plan to create a Gennargentu National Park has incited active opposition on the part of the communities affected. In the town of Baunei, responses to environmental legislation are motivated by the desire to maintain communal control over common lands. Political action, both formal and informal, is organised by local understandings about the impact of certain laws and institutions on the town economy, principally by the restriction of residents' usi civici (traditional rights of usufruct). This thesis considers the role and meaning of the usi civici in Baunei, and the implications of this for environmental politics in Sardinia.
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Orie, Kenneth Kanu. "Legal aspects of groundwater quantity allocation and quality protection in Canada." Thesis, McGill University, 1992. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=41192.
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Groundwater quantity allocation and quality protection in Canada largely proceed in a fragmented fashion. Each jurisdiction pursues the management of its water resources and the aquatic environment separately as well as independently of other jurisdictions. This approach is at odds with the unity of the natural environment and the inter-connectedness of groundwater resources.The challenge facing Canada is to make the law recognize and be more responsive to the unity of the aquatic environment and water resources. An active federal role in uniting and coordinating the efforts of the provinces in this regard is crucial if this challenge is to be met. However, since the constitutional division of powers in Canada encourages a fragmented approach to managing environment and water resources, the federal government is incapacitated, purely on a legal score, with respect to pulling together the efforts of the provinces. A cooperative approach, based on political rather than legal coordination, is therefore, the most realistic option for the federal government to meet the challenge.
In this work, the writer examines the various areas for federal-provincial cooperation regarding groundwater allocation and protection. Such institutional integration or cooperation cannot be effective unless groundwater is addressed together with the other component of the hydrologic cycle, namely: surface water and the ecosystem they support. At the same time, in adopting an integrated hydrologic cycle approach, specific groundwater management strategies canvassed in this work must be taken into account if groundwater is to be more efficiently allocated and protected. Pursuant to these considerations, this writer is of the opinion that groundwater resources in Canada should be managed in a way that meets both present and future needs of Canadians, thus in a sustainable fashion. This can best be achieved if resource management relies upon a combination of contaminant-focused and resource-focused approaches adopted under unified federal-provincial efforts as well as under an integrated hydrologic cycle management.
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Cantin, Danielle 1967. "Response of Pinus banksiana (Lamb.) families to a global change environment." Thesis, McGill University, 1994. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=68159.
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We examined how fast- and slow-growing families (based on height at 10 years) of Pinus banksiana Lamb. are affected by a climate altered by CO$ sb2$ during their first growing season. Our primary objective was to evaluate the possibility that genotypes performing best under present conditions may not necessarily do best under projected warmer climate. Seedlings were grown for six months in two climatic environments (350 $ mu$L/L CO$ sb2$ x present temperatures and 700 $ mu$L/L CO$ sb2$ x 4$ sp circ$C warmer temperatures) and with 100 ppm and 5 ppm nitrogen.The CO$ sb2$T$ sp circ$ environment had a significant effect on most biomass components of seedlings and water-use efficiency but not on height and other growth variables. The nitrogen fertilization was generally the most significant effect of the treatments for most growth variables.
All the families responded in a similar way to variations in the growing environments except for WUE. Family differences were more important for measurements of height and growth variables than for biomass components. The architecture of seedlings was also highly variable between families. Norm of reaction graphs were built for several growth variables to outline which families were overall most successful in an enriched CO$ sb2$T$ sp circ$ environment. Of the 15 families studied, four of them were classified as most successful in a projected high CO$ sb2$T$ sp circ$ climate.
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Cook, Nicola. "Bioavailability of trace metals in urban contaminated soils." Thesis, McGill University, 1997. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=34934.
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There are two main components to the research: the theoretical and the experimental. Chapter 2 contains an analysis of the state of soil quality guidelines and the scientific methods used to determine them. A number of recommendations to improve soil quality criteria for trace metals are offered including the importance of considering bioavailability and the need to use realistic conditions, trace metal sources and organisms.A critical review of the literature dealing with predicting the availability of trace metals to plants is presented in Chapter 3. We found little agreement among hundreds of similar studies which relate plant metal uptake to the amount of metal extracted by selective chemical dissolution procedures. An extensive summary of the data shows clearly that the extraction methods are not widely applicable. Differences between individual soils, their metal retention capacities, as well as plant factors and environmental conditions contribute to the variability of the results. Alternative ways of assessing bioavailability are suggested.
The experimental component of the thesis focuses on the availability of trace metals to plants. In Chapter 4 the uptake of Cu from different soil pools was examined and the free metal ion (Cu2+) was found to be the best predictor of uptake by lettuce (Latuca sativa cv. Buttercrunch), ryegrass (Lolium perenne cv. Barmultra) and radish (Raphanus sativus cv. Cherry Belle).
In Chapters 5 and 6 we examined the effect of low-cost in-situ treatments on the availability of metals to plants in greenhouse and field experiments. Synthetic zeolites, P amendments, organic matter and clean soil were used and their effect on the bioavailability of Cd, Cu, Pb, Ni and Zn evaluated. The plants for the experimental work were lettuce and perennial ryegrass. Only the clean soil treatment was consistently effective in reducing the concentration of metals in the plant. We also wanted to determine whether the trace metals in the plant tissue came from the soil or from direct deposition of pollutants on the leaf surfaces. We found little evidence that metals in plants were a result of atmospheric fallout.
A method for the accurate analysis of total metal concentrations in a range of contaminated soils including those containing oil and grease was developed (Chapter 7). For this research the trace metals of concern are Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn---all commonly found in urban/industrial soils. The proposed method using HNO3/HClO4 has several advantages over the common HNO3/H2O2 procedure. We were able to digest larger soil samples and hence the final concentration of trace metals was usually in the range for analysis by inductively coupled plasma atomic absorption spectrometry or flame atomic absorption spectrometry.
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Lin, Zhi-Qing. "Trace metal contamination in forests of southern Quebec and pathway studies of airborne metal deposits." Thesis, McGill University, 1996. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=40177.
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Trace metal contamination of the air-soil-tree system was examined in southern Quebec, where acid deposition and tree dieback have been recorded in high elevation forests. Mn pollution was emphasized due to its large emission from gasoline combustion in Canada. Airborne Cu, Mn, V, and Zn showed higher concentrations than those reported for other remote locations. Significant fluctuation in Mn concentrations during the winter-spring season was explored by air mass back trajectory analysis. The study suggested that high Mn concentrations resulted from the atmospheric long-range transport from Canadian industrialized and metropolitan regions. Metal concentrations in podzolic topsoils were generally higher than their world-wide average values. Concentrations of trace metals in balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill) needles were below their suggested potential phytotoxic levels, except for Mn, which also increased with elevation. The scanning of needles with micro-PIXE showed no significant correlation between metal accumulation and epistomatal distribution on foliar surfaces.Pathways of trace metals deposited in the soil-tree system were elucidated through application of $ sp{54}$Mn and $ sp{65}$Zn on shoot, bark, and soil surfaces in growth-chamber experiments with balsam fir seedlings. Uptake and accumulation by seedlings 70 days after application on the shoot surface was about 25-30% of the remaining activities for $ sp{54}$Mn and $ sp{65}$Zn. Less than 1% of absorbed isotopes was translocated from the bark surface to other plant organs, whereas more than 50% of the radioisotopes absorbed at the shoot moved to the rest of the seedling. Acidic wetness facilitated the metal absorption through tree surfaces. Downward movement of the radioisotopes in podzolic soils was documented, and accumulation in seedlings by root uptake was 5% of the remaining activity for $ sp{54}$Mn and 3% for $ sp{65}$Zn 70 days after application. No appreciable elemental migration from internal tissues to epicuticular wax layers was found, and the leaching ratio was below 0.5 and 1.0% for $ sp{54}$Mn and $ sp{65}$Zn, respectively. This study helps to understand the links between atmospheric deposition and the elevated levels of Mn in trees, and potential effects of acid deposition on the bioaccumulation of toxic metal pollutants in high elevation forests in southern Quebec.
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Bernardo, Sandra Maria de Vasconcelos. "Socioeconomic and Environmental Aspects in settlements that produce Mammon: A Case Study in Recreation and New Canaan, Quixeramobim - CE." Universidade Federal do CearÃ, 2010. http://www.teses.ufc.br/tde_busca/arquivo.php?codArquivo=9088.
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FundaÃÃo Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Cientifico e TecnolÃgicoA busca de novas alternativas de energia renovÃvel à de grande relevÃncia, pois a problemÃtica do aquecimento global tem causado consequÃncias adversas para a populaÃÃo. Fontes advindas dos Ãleos vegetais para a produÃÃo do biodiesel tÃm sido adotadas no Brasil e constituem uma boa opÃÃo para que os produtores rurais possam se inserir na cadeia produtiva dos biocombustÃveis. No contexto do semiÃrido nordestino, a mamona tem sido usada, pois à uma cultura adequada Ãs condiÃÃes de semiaridez. A partir desta compreensÃo, este trabalho teve o objetivo geral de analisar e comparar os aspectos econÃmicos, sociais e ambientais dos grupos de produtores e nÃo produtores de mamona nos assentamentos Recreio e Nova Canaà e, os objetivos especÃficos foram: (i) analisar os indicadores de qualidade de vida, capital social, ambiental, econÃmico e de sustentabilidade entre os nÃo produtores e produtores de mamona, (ii) mensurar os custos e renda da produÃÃo dos produtores de mamona com o plantio e venda no ano de 2009 e (iii) avaliar a situaÃÃo ambiental atravÃs da anÃlise da variaÃÃo dos atributos quÃmicos do solo em funÃÃo dos plantios . A metodologia se baseou em trÃs aspectos visando abranger uma interdisciplinaridade. Primeiramente adotou-se o mÃtodo estatÃstico usando uma amostragem nos dois assentamentos em estudo e a partir dessas amostras foram calculados os Ãndices de qualidade de vida, capital social, ambiental, econÃmico e a partir destes o Ãndice de sustentabilidade. No segundo aspecto foi calculada a renda dos agricultores atravÃs do calculo dos custos, receita e lucro com o plantio da mamona tomando como base o ano de 2009. No terceiro aspecto, o solo foi avaliado nas Ãreas cultivadas e nas Ãreas preservadas coletando-se amostras compostas e realizando-se anÃlises fÃsicas e quÃmicas do material em laboratÃrio. Entre os resultados verificados concluiu-se que nÃo houve diferenÃa significativa entre os grupos de produtores e nÃo produtores de mamona em relaÃÃo aos Ãndices de capital social e ambiental, porÃm houve diferenÃa nos Ãndices de qualidade de vida, econÃmico e de sustentabilidade. NÃo se comprovou incremento de renda entre os produtores de mamona. No aspecto pedolÃgico foi comprovado que as Ãreas preservadas se mostraram com teores mais elevados de matÃria orgÃnica e de nutrientes, representando indÃcios de degradaÃÃo na Ãrea cultivada.
The search for new alternatives of renewable energy is of great importance, since the issue of global warming has caused adverse consequences for the population. Resulting sources of vegetable oils for biodiesel production have been adopted in Brazil and are a good option so that farmers may be inserted in the production chain of biofuels. Within the semiarid Northeast, castor bean has been used because it is an appropriate culture semiarid condition. From this understanding, this work was the general purpose of analyzing and comparing the economic, social and environmental groups of producers rather than producers of castor in the settlements Recreio and Nova CanaÃ, and the specific objectives were: (i) review the indicators quality of life, social equity, environmental and economic sustainability among non-producers and producers of castor, (ii) measure the costs of production and income of producers of castor oil with the planting and sale in 2009 and (iii) assess the environmental situation by analyzing the variation of soil chemical properties depending on the plantations. The methodology was based on three aspects in order to cover an interdisciplinary approach. First, we adopted the method using statistical sampling in a study in two settlements and from these samples were calculated for quality of life, social equity, environmental, economic and from these sustainability index. The second aspect was calculated farmers' income through the calculation of costs, revenue and profit with the planting of castor beans using as a base year of 2009. In the third aspect, the soil was evaluated in cultivated areas and preserved areas by collecting composite samples and performing chemical and physical analysis of the material in the laboratory. Among the results obtained it was concluded that there was no significant difference between groups of producers rather than producers of castor oil o growth of capital and environmental, but there was difference in the indices of quality of life and economic sustainability. No consistent increase in income between the producers of castor oil. In pedological point was proven that the preserved areas are shown with a higher content of organic matter and nutrients, suggesting a degradation in the cultivated area
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Lima, Rita Mileni de Souza. "Avaliação de risco à saúde humana decorrente da contaminação da água subterrânea por BTEX provenientes de postos de revenda de combustíveis em Manaus." Universidade Federal do Amazonas, 2010. http://tede.ufam.edu.br/handle/tede/4184.
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CAPES
Nowadays, Manaus has 175 gas stations, and it is estimated that de lifespan of them, that is around 25 years it is near to the end. This increase the probability of gasoline spills that contains Benzene, Toluene, Methylbenzene and Xylenes (BTEX), and, because of their toxicity and potentially adverse health effects it may become a risk for the general population, if groundwater is contaminated. Hence, the main goal of this study was estimate BTEX exposure through groundwater, as well as the human health risks associated with this exposure. A total of 38 gas stations were visited, and samples of groundwater were taken. Samples were analyzed by gas chromatography fitted with a flame ionization detector (FID), after headspace solid phase microextraction. Human exposure was estimated as a combination of three pathways: inhalation, direct ingestion, and dermal absorption during bath for adult men and women, children and babies. Deterministic and probabilistic risk was assessed. Cancer risk for benzene was estimated in 70% of gas stations from south zone and in 40% from north zone, for all genders and ages. At central-south and west zone, no cancer risk associated with benzene was determined. Cancer risk for benzene was estimated to be between 5xE−05 and 105xE−05 above the limit value of 1xE-05. The children were exposed a higher risks. Non-cancer risk associated with benzene were determined in North and South zones, and associated with xylenes in CentralSouth zone. For probabilistic assessment the 95th percentile of risk was estimated to be 6E−05, indicating that cancer risk is not negligible. Non-carcinogenic risks for toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes were lower than the specified level of 1.0. Since health risk associated to BTEX was identified, a monitoring routine need to be implemented by environmental and public health agencies.
Em Manaus existem atualmente 175 postos de gasolina, e estima-se que a vida útil dos tanques de armazenamento de combustíveis desses postos, que é de aproximadamente 25 anos, esteja próxima do final. Assim, aumenta a possibilidade de ocorrência de vazamento ou derramamento de gasolina que contém Benzeno, Tolueno, Etilbenzeno e Xilenos - BTEX, substâncias tóxicas que podem colocar em risco a saúde da população se houver contaminação da água subterrânea, importante fonte de abastecimento domiciliar. Desta forma o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os riscos à saúde humana decorrentes da contaminação da água por BTEX a partir da gasolina provenientes dos postos de revenda de combustíveis da cidade de Manaus. Para isso foi realizado um levantamento dos postos de revenda com poços de água subterrânea, bem como suas condições e tempo de funcionamento. Para quantificação de BTEX na água foram amostrados 38 poços. A análise dos BTEX foi realizada por cromatografia gasosa com detector FID após micro - extração em fase sólida – SPME com headspace. A exposição pela ingestão da água, absorção dérmica e inalação durante o banho foram estimadas para homens, mulheres, crianças e bebês. Foi avaliado o risco de forma determinística e probabilística. Riscos carcinogênicos pela exposição ao benzeno foram encontrados em 70% dos postos na zona sul e 40% da zona Norte para todas as faixas etárias e gêneros. Nas zonas centro-sul, leste e oeste não foram detectados riscos carcinogênicos pela exposição ao benzeno. Nas zonas onde foi encontrado risco de câncer, o mesmo variou de 5 a 10 casos a cada 100.000 habitantes, estando estes valores acima do limite estabelecido de 1 caso para cada 100.000 habitantes. As crianças são o grupo etário exposto a maiores riscos. Em relação aos riscos não carcinogênicos pela exposição aos BTEX, a exposição ao benzeno representou riscos nas zonas norte e sul, e a exposição aos xilenos na zona centro sul. Na avaliação probabilística, o risco carcinogênico para o percentil de 95% da população foi menor que 6 casos por zona, confirmando os dados da avaliação determinística. Os riscos não carcinogênicos com exceção do benzeno, não foram significativos para os demais TEX. Assim, a avaliação indicou riscos à saúde relacionados aos BTEX oriundos de vazamentos de combustíveis de posto de revenda existentes na cidade. As zonas centro-sul, norte e sul são as zonas onde os riscos aos BTEX foram significativos, logo a implantação de uma rotina de monitoramento por parte da agência de controle ambiental bem como da vigilância à saúde se faz necessário, uma vez que o uso da água subterrânea oferece riscos carcinogênicos à população.
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Kim, Jun-Kyoung 1973. "Catalytic hydrodechlorination of chlorophenols." Thesis, McGill University, 2006. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=98739.
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Chlorine has been used extensively as an industrial compound for synthesis of innumerable commercial product, including bleaches, organic diluents, adhesives, dust reducing agents, cutting oils, disinfectants, and monomers for plastics, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. Despite societal contribution of chlorinated chemicals, there have recent suggestion by some environmental associations and scientists to ban the industrial use of chlorine. After their release into environment, organochlorine pollutants are stable and resistant to chemical and biodegradation and preferentially accumulation in the sequence food chain.As a detoxification hydrodechlorination (HDC) reactions change neither the thermodynamics of the reaction nor the equilibrium composition. Also, there is no possibility of producing hazard by-product such as polychlorodibenzodioxins and polychlorodibenzofuran.
Liquid phase hydrodechlorination of 4-chlorophenols was studied over the temperature range from room temperature (R.T) to 80°C using various Nickel catalysts and active hydrogen sources. Raney Nickel system converted 4-chlorophenol to ~49 mol% of phenol and ~34 mol% cyclohexanol at R.T. and proved to be more reactive than Ni0 and Ni-Fe. The HDC system with borohydrides as hydrogen source achieved hydrodechlorination at lower temperature than the system with molecular hydrogen. Ni-Al proved to be reactive for hydrogenolysis in the presence of borohydride at R.T. A somewhat surprising temperature dependence of Ni-Al mediated HDC in absence of H2 and borohydride was absented. Optimization with Ni-Al under mild condition was performed using central composite design (CCD). Optimal condition for maximum phenol production was predicted to be 80°C, for 11 h with 30 mg of catalyst. 98 mol% phenol is produced under this condition.
A continuous stream of pentachlorophenol (PCP, 0.5 mg/min) in mixture of supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) and hydrogen was hydrodechlorinated by a heated column of gamma-alumina supported palladium (5 % w/w). Dechlorination efficiencies and time to reach equilibrium were influenced appreciable by the temperature and substrate delivery rate. The product from reaction at 210°C, 2000 psi accounted for 92 mol% phenol and 2.3 mol% cyclohexanone. The temperature was maintained at 210°C while the pressure and content of H2 in the gas mixture was changed to 1000 ~ 2000 psi, 5 % and 16 % (v/v) H2/CO2. The production of phenol and cyclohexanone was greater at higher pressures (2000 psi.) with the formation of methoxy-cyclohexane. The content of H2 in the gas mixture was not appreciable influenced the product distribution.
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Samuel, Hilary R. (Hilary Ruth). "Educating for sustainable development : a case study of an environmental immersion school." Thesis, McGill University, 1991. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=60475.
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A new environmental immersion school has opened in Canada. This case study examines early stages of the project's implementation in order to contribute to an understanding of how best to implement environmental education in schools.Examination of the literature on educational change led to an analytical framework which included: (1) Characteristics of the innovation; (2) Strategies and tactics used; (3) Contextual characteristics; (4) Macro sociopolitical factors. This was used to categorize qualitative data collected through interviews, observation, a questionnaire and documents.
The study uncovered a number of obstacles to implementation in the school, principally: (1) Conceptual problems about environmental education; (2) Poorly defined school philosophy and goals; (3) Difficulties in coordinating the project between individual efforts and departments; (4) A hiatus between administration and teacher perceptions.
The case study provided insight on the process of curriculum implementation as well as specific issues relating to environmental education and the theme of sustainable development.
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Beaudry, Suzanne. "Effects of forest site preparation methods on carabid beetle (Coleoptera:Carabidae) diversity." Thesis, McGill University, 1995. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=22718.
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The objective was to analyze the effects of logging and prescribed burning on carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) at a jack pine stand and white spruce plantations in order to assess short-term impacts of these forestry practices on the diversity of this beetle group. In addition, soil scarification was also included at the jack pine stand. Based on previous reports on forest disturbance influences on carabids, it is hypothesized that short-term effects of studied forestry practices do not reduce carabids' diversity. Four carabid assemblage characteristics were compared: (a) number of catches; (b) dry mass; (c) species richness; and, (d) diversity index. Species responses and dry mass distributions were also investigated. Treatments either increased or maintained studied variables compared with control sites. Diversity indices were highest in burnt-over areas. Similar response patterns of species or groups of species were observed in both forest types. The presence of regenerating sites among the natural landscape increased carabid diversity.
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Reyes, Delgadillo Dulce B. "Modeling natural attenuation of trace elements in soils." Thesis, McGill University, 2006. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=101169.
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Trace elements added to the soil by human activities could contaminate it and occasionally cause a threat to environmental and human health. The toxicity and mobility of a trace element are affected by the element's solubility, which in turn is influenced by the soil properties. When mobile, trace elements can be leached out of the soil. If leaching occurs at a faster rate than atmospheric deposition, element concentrations in the soil will decrease by natural attenuation.We analyzed soil properties in 40 soils and their soil solutions to obtain a set of equations with the most significant predictors of As, Cd, Co, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb and Zn in solution. The total element concentration and the pH were the best predicting variables of the amount of element in solution for all trace elements analyzed, while organic carbon and Al or Mn oxides also influenced the solubility of some trace elements. Using the equations predicting elemental solubility, we wrote a model for natural attenuation in the computer program Stella that considers atmospheric deposition as the input for trace elements and leaching as the output. Simulations were carried out for the 40 soils during 1,000 years with steady deposition inputs.
At current atmospheric deposition rates and the neutral to alkaline pH of these soils, attenuation occurred in most soils for Mo. For As, Cd, Co, Cu and Ni it occurred only in soils with abundant total element concentrations or an acidic pH. Minor retention occurred with Pb and Zn. Only Cd and Cu were of concern in leaching waters. The developed model can serve as a decision making tool in the selection of natural attenuation as a remediation strategy.
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De, Serres Martine. "Environmental policymaking for air transportation : toward an emissions trading system." Thesis, McGill University, 2007. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=112600.
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Aviation is at a turning point. Considerable improvements in aircraft emissions efficiencies are expected through technological improvements, air traffic management, and managerial strategies. But global demand for air travel is increasing at an even faster rate. Mostly for political reasons, aviation has been left behind in international efforts to tackle climate change. However, increasing pressure is on the industry for immediate action, thus making further delays impossible.This thesis is an attempt to determine the best possible course of action for the industry. To this end, it begins by assessing contemporary understanding of aviation's impact on the environment, and provides an overview of efforts being made toward reducing aircraft emissions. It then examines various policymaking tools available to best address the issue, concluding with an emissions trading system. Finally, design characteristics of such a system are suggested, and used to provide an analysis of the European attempt to include aviation into its own emissions trading system.
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De, Icaza Aneiros Carlos. "The effects of the North American Free Trade Agreement on Mexican environmental laws and policies and their enforcement : evaluating six years of cooperation (1994-2000)." Thesis, McGill University, 2000. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=31155.
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During the last fifty years trade liberalization has stimulated different levels of industrial and technological development and economic growth around the world. However, during that same period, the world has witnessed a rapid degradation of the environment and an excessive exploitation of natural resources. The urgency of the situation requires the reconciliation of trade liberalization and environmental protection goals.In this context, on January 1, 1994, the North American Free Trade Agreement entered into between Canada, Mexico and the United States came into force. This agreement has significant environmental content and includes a side agreement on environmental matters. This new framework of environmental protection is serving to reconcile trade and environmental goals in the region, and is shaping the new legal framework for environmental protection and enforcement in Mexico.
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MacDonald, Elaine. "Aspects of competitive adsorption and precipitation of heavy metals by a clay soil." Thesis, McGill University, 1994. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=26406.
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This thesis examines the retention of three heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Zn) on a predominantly illite clay soil initially saturated with calcium and magnesium. The heavy metal retention mechanisms were examined both experimentally, using batch equilibrium and precipitation tests, and analytically, using the geochemical equilibrium speciation model MINTEQA2. Heavy metal retention was examined in both non-competitive (single metal) situations and competitive (multi-metal) situations. A definite adsorption selectivity order of Pb $>$ Cu $ gg$ Zn was established, as has been found by many other researchers. Retention by ion exchange adsorption was observed by comparing the total amount of heavy metals retained to the total amount of initially adsorbed calcium and magnesium released. In most cases, it was found that ion exchange was the dominant retention mechanism, even at neutral equilibrium pH values. The effect of initial heavy metal solution pH on heavy metal retention was explored. A comparison was made between batch equilibrium tests performed with metal solutions adjusted to an initial pH of 3 and tests performed with metal solutions that were not adjusted and thus at a higher initial pH. In many cases it was found that greater overall retention occurred when initial metal solutions were at a pH of 3 as opposed to a higher initial pH. The speciation modelling, when compared to the experimental results, was found to adequately predict heavy metal retention in simple single metal batch equilibrium tests but in more complicated multi-metal scenarios the modelling had limited success.