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LAND TREATMENT OF PETROLEUM REFINERY SLUDGES
Citation:
Streebin, L., J. Robertson, H. Schornick, P. Bowen, AND K. Bagawandoss. LAND TREATMENT OF PETROLEUM REFINERY SLUDGES. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/2-84/193 (NTIS PB85148708), 1984.
Description:
Petroleum API Separator sludge was applied to field plots to evaluate optimization of loading rates and frequencies for waste disposal by land treatment. Loading rates 3 to 13 weight percent and frequencies 1 to 12, respectively, per year were studied over an 18 month period. Total oil losses were proportional to the amount applied and averaged 54 percent over the study period. Saturates fraction loss was highest followed by aromatics, polars, and asphaltenes. Volatile losses were substantial at application, but relatively small over the long-term. Biodegradation of the oil followed first order kinetics with a rate coefficient of 0.003/day. Heavy metals were immobile in the top 30 cm zone of incorporation. Facility design factors are discussed relating to field equipment operation, oil percolation prevention, runoff control, and proper tillings.