Investigation of effluent filtering systems for dredged material containment facilities.

This study was conducted to establish the functional capabilities and performance characteristics of effluent filtering systems and to provide guidance for the design of filtering systems to improve the quality of effluent from dredged material containment facilities. All available data were collected, pertinent literature was reviewed, amd about 300 laboratory and field filtration tests were conducted. Conventiona, technically feasible systems were identified and new concepts were developed (previous dykes, sandfill weirs, 'forced choice triangle' olfactometer). Although significant problems with malodours were not observed beyond the disposal area dykes during site visits, noteworthy odor episodes had occurred at some sites. An odour abatement strategy is presented for handling the expected range of odour conditions at dredged material disposal sites. Its aim is to reduce to an acceptable level the perceived intensity of malodors in an affected community. The main steps in the strategy cover: selection of the disposal site: site preparation; odour characteris ation of sediments to be dredged; malodour abatement during dredging and disposal operations; malodor abatement after filling of the disposal site; and the handling of malodor complaints. (A) (Microfiche)