Document Type

Article

Abstract

In response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s new rule regarding the disposal of coal combustion residuals (CCRs), many utilities need to re-examine their waste disposal practices and make decisions regarding if and how unlined surface impoundments (SIs) should be closed. The two primary options for closing SIs are in-place closure, with capping and engineering controls, and excavation of the CCR for transport to and re-disposal in a lined landfill. To help inform closure option decisions, we supported the Electric Power Research Institute’s development of a practical, science-based decision framework that comprehensively evaluates the potential impacts to human health and the environment associated with SI closure alternatives. We have applied this framework to several sites and have performed a detailed sensitivity analysis of individual parameters on the framework results. Based on these applications, we developed a set of lessons learned that can be used to scope and streamline further SI closure option assessments.

First Page

34

Last Page

36

DOI

10.4177/1946-0198.9.2.34.1

Volume

9

Publication Date

1-1-2017

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