Project Number: 6435-41000-084-03
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Sep 30, 2002
End Date: Aug 31, 2004

Objective:
To design an improved matrix for solidification/stabilization of hazardous metals by using agricultural by-products as adsorbents and cement as a solidifying agent where development of the matrix will be both effective and economically feasible. To use X-ray spectroscopy to determine if and how hazardous metals are bound to a matrix consisting of a by-product and cement.

Approach:
Agricultural by-products from commodities of value to the Louisiana economy, such as sugarcane bagasse and soybean hulls, will be mixed with hazardous metals, such as lead, copper, zinc and chromium, under different experimental conditions, which will include contact time between the by-product and metal, by-product particle size and different by-product:cement ratios. Agricultural by-products will also be modified to enhance their ability to bind metals and metal complexes in both the cationic and anionic forms. Samples will be evaluated by the EPA approved Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) to determine whether the adsorbents are stabilizing the hazardous metals to EPA standards. X-ray spectroscopy will be used to evaluate matrices that show good stabilization (little if any leaching of metals or metal complexes) and poor stabilization (considerable leaching of metals or metal complexes). An attempt will be made to explain leaching differences on a molecular or atomic level. The Center for Microstructure at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, will be used for this purpose.

Project Team

Marshall, Wayne Pepperman, Armand Michael Janusa - Associate Professor 504-286-4356

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003

Related National Programs

Quality and Utilization of Agricultural Products (306)