Assessment of True Impacts of E-Waste Disposal
in Florida
Project Description:
UF investigators are conducting research on the potential impact
of discarded electronic devices (commonly called E-waste) on the
solid waste management facilities in Florida. Previous EES
Department research found that cathode ray tubes from color
televisions and computer monitors failed the TCLP for lead (and
would thus be a RCRA characteristic hazardous waste in many
situations). On-going research is examining whether other
devices (particularly computer CPUs) also fail the RCRA toxicity
characteristic for lead.
The TCLP is designed to represent a worse-case mismanagement
scenario so wastes that deserve special management (as hazardous
wastes) can be identified. The true impact of E-waste
disposal on the environment is less clear. This research
examines the potential of E-waste on Florida's waste disposal
facilities through a number of steps. Research includes
collecting samples of Florida landfill leachates and measuring
concentrations of brominated flame retardants and heavy metals;
constructing simulated landfill columns to examine the impact of
E-waste on leachate concentrations; and conducting leaching
tests in actual landfill leachate (and comparing to results
using TCLP extraction fluid).
Status Work
continues on the project through a grant from the FCSHWM (see
Lysimeter Project).
The results gathered through Dec 2003 have been summarized in a
draft report which is currently under review. These
results will be incorporated and discussed in greater detail in
the final report for the new project. Investigators
Timothy
Townsend (PI), Erik Spalvins (GRA), Brian Pearson (GRA), Jae Hac
Ko (GRA), Yong-Chul Jang (Post-Doctoral Associate)
Project Sponsored by:
The
Florida Center for Solid and Hazardous Waste Management
|
