Assessment of the occurrence, spatiotemporal variations and geoaccumulation of fifty-Two inorganic elements in sewage sludge: A sludge management revisit
Journal
Scientific Reports
Journal Volume
7
Journal Issue
1
Date Issued
2017
Author(s)
Abstract
DS for rare earth elements. The geo-accumulation studies indicated a moderate to high levels of buildup of some elements in the sewage sludge. Principal components analysis (PCA) indicated strong spatial and weak temporal variations in the concentrations of the elements. Therefore, the sludge disposal operations, based on the element concentrations, geoaccumulation and economic potential are suggested for each WWTP. Sludge from W1 and W2 were found suitable for agricultural usage, while that from W3 showed a higher economic potential for the recovery of precious metals. This study concludes that a comprehensive analysis of the elements in the sewage sludge could provide critical information for the disposal and management of the sludge.
Type
journal article