The report gives results of the first 15 months of an environmental assessment of solid residues generated by fluidized-bed combustion (FBC) of coal and gasification of oil. Included are a literature search, chemical and physical residue characterization, laboratory leaching studies, and testing of residues in various materials and agricultural applications. The literature search reviewed current FBC technology, identified products in which residues might be used, and gave data on typical soil and geologic conditions at the evaluated disposal sites. Laboratory tests included total chemical characterization, composition of acid-, base-, and water-soluble fractions, cation exchange capacity, BOD, temperature change from water addition, particle size distribution, dry density, specific gravity, permeability, water-holding capacity, moisture content, and small-scale column leaching studies. Pilot-scale columns simulated abandoned coal mines, dolomite and limestone quarries, sanitary landfills, soils, and the ocean. Water was added to columns on a prescribed schedule and the resulting leachate was collected and analyzed for chemical constituents. The data were used to assess the potential for impact on water quality, and the capacity of the disposal environment to attenuate degradation. Residue use was considered for concrete, asphalt, soil cement, and lime/flyash aggregate.

Prepared under contract no. 68-03-2347. Issued Dec. 1977. "EPA Project Officer: Walter B. Steen." "Prepared for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Washington, D.C. 20460." Bibliography: pages 235-251.