Methodological Aspects of Using Blast Furnace Slag for Wastewater Phosphorus Removal
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 132, Issue 11
Abstract
Blast furnace (BF) slag is a by-product of steel plants. The objective of this study was to evaluate experimental methods to determine the phosphorus sorption capacity of BF slag. The handling of BF slag, before usage and clogging were also considered, as well as estimating the phosphorus retention capacity. Agitation and pilot-scale experiments were performed using both wastewater and phosphate solutions. This investigation showed that sorption capacities derived by wastewater experiments were considerably lower compared to those by phosphate solutions. Fresh BF slag briefly exposed to rainfall had a higher phosphorus sorption than weathered BF slag, indicating the importance of handling the slag carefully before usage. The risk for leakage of sulfuric compounds is considerable, especially during the initial operation phase of BF slag filters. Locations of BF slag filter beds for wastewater treatment must be carefully chosen from an environmental point of view.
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Acknowledgments
This study was financed by “The Swedish Water and Wastewater Association,” and is hereby acknowledged. The information and delivery of blast furnace slag offered by Mr. Tore Sandström at SSAB, Luleå, was appreciated. Mrs. Lotta Lind at Merox, Oxelösund, is gratefully acknowledged for interesting discussions. The writers are especially thankful for all assistance during the experimental work offered by Ms. Kerstin Nordqvist and Mr. Roger Lindfors at Luleå University of Technology (LTU). Finally, Professor Jorgen Hanaeus at the Division of Sanitary Engineering, LTU, is particularly thanked for his academic support during this project.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 132 • Issue 11 • November 2006
Pages: 1431 - 1438
Copyright
© 2006 ASCE.
History
Received: May 31, 2005
Accepted: Apr 10, 2006
Published online: Nov 1, 2006
Published in print: Nov 2006
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