Research project: Transport of toxic metals in clay landfill linings: influence of nanoparticles
Landfill leachates contain a wide range of pollutants such as potentially toxic metals. The most widely used strategy for containing these toxic substances is with low hydraulic conductivity clay linings. Models of landfill lining systems, which are used to assess the risk of pollution to the surrounding environment are largely based on solute transport models derived from batch sorption data, in which contaminants are defined as partitioned between liquid and solid phases. Colloidal materials, in particular nanoparticles are not considered in these models; however, it is apparent that they interact with both solid and dissolved phases and play an important role in the transport of dissolved organic matter and metals. This research will produce data to contribute towards the development of more robust models and provide accurate and precise predictions of toxic metal behaviour.
