| Abstract |
The current applicability of alternative materials as daily cover at landfills was assessed from an operational, performance, environmental, and economic perspective. The types of products and materials considered included commercially available foams, spray-ons and geosynthetics, as well as indigenous materials, such as ash-based materials, green waste, sludge, compost and shredded tires. Information on characteristics, material and equipment requirements, methods of preparation and application, climatic and operational considerations, effectiveness, and costs were obtained from manufacturers/users of alternative daily cover materials (ADCMs) and from available reports. Results of the investigation indicated that use of alternative materials for daily cover in lieu of soil can augment landfill operations and performance, while enhancing environmental control. Although applicability varied depending on site specificity and the particular alternative material used, most materials were easily applied, satisfied operational and regulatory requirements, saved landfill capacity, decreased requirements for soil, and facilitated leachate and gas management and control. |
