The report gives results of a 4-year study to determine environmentally sound methods for disposing of wastes from nonregenerable flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems. Data presented incorporates results obtained during the fourth year with material from report EPA-600/7-77-052, covering the first 3 years of the study. Untreated and treated wastes from 10 different scrubbers at eastern and western plants using lime, limestone, and double-alkali processes were characterized. The report relates concentrations of salts and trace elements in the wastes to the potential for water pollution. Physical properties (e.g., bulk density, load bearing strength, permeability, and viscosity) are given. Disposal by ponding, landfilling of chemically fixed wastes, ponding with underdrainage, and conversion to gypsum was assessed. Disposal cost estimates for a 1000-MW eastern plant are 0.55, 0.90, and 1.20 mills/kWh for ponding on indigenous clay, ponding with liner added, and chemical treatment/landfill, respectively. Companion studies, pertaining to field disposal evaluations and a summary of all EPA projects related to FGD waste and water studies, have been reported separately.

"The Aerospace Corporation, Environment and Energy Conservation Division." "February 1979." Includes bibliographical references. "Contract no. 68-02-1010, program element no. EHE 624A."