Microbially mediated attenuation potential of landfill bioreactor systems

Abstract

The origin and fate of landfill leachate and gas constituents generated during the sequential phases of solid waste transformation and stabilization are emphasized within the perspective of the in situ processes of microbially mediated attenuation. The fundamental biochemical and physicochemical reaction mechanisms are presented in terms of their spatial and temporal dimensions and their significance for transformation of both nonhazardous and hazardous waste constituents. Supporting information from laboratory, pilot-scale and full-scale applications is used as a basis for interpretive analysis and for providing operational guidance and promoting future developments. The diversity, domains, and functional interdependence of the acidogenic, methanogenic, sulfate and nitrate reducing, nitrifying and denitrifying, and methanotrophic consortia are addressed in order to reveal opportunities for landfill process modifications and associated operational optimization. Controlled attenuation, linked with operational and regulatory realities, are used to suggest innovative landfill configurations involving prospective compartmentalization and integrated waste loading, dedicated treatment zones for in situ transformation of waste and leachate constituents with associated gas capture, control and utilization. Monitoring requirements are emphasized to provide guidance and feedback for operational control and environmental compliance. Finally, technology needs for establishing a more unified approach to the development and management of bioreactor landfills are presented.