Treatment and Utilization of the Concentrate from Membrane Separation Processes of Landfill Leachates

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of the paper was to assess the effectiveness of selected physico-chemical processes to improve the quality of retentates/concentrates obtained during the treatment of landfill leachates using membrane separation. Among the physico-chemical methods, Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) and electrocoagulation were analysed. Landfill leachate resulting from the infiltration of waste mass by atmospheric precipitation as well as the dissolution and leaching of waste components are most often subjected to membrane separation. Permeate is usually discharged to the receiver, while the concentrate is recirculated and sprinkled on a waste pile. However, such action is only the retention of impurities in the body of the landfill and has an impact on the chemistry of raw leachates. Due to the very high concentrations of organic and inorganic compounds identified in the retentate, it is necessary to treat it, which will effectively reduce the amount of impurities in the leachate. Economic use seems to be another solution. An example would be growing energy crops but such application requires additional research.