Interpretation of standard leaching test BS EN 12457-2: is your sample hazardous or inert?
A slag sample from a lead refiner has been obtained and given to two analytical laboratories to determine the release of trace elements from the sample according to BS EN 12457-2. Samples analysed by one laboratory passed waste acceptance criteria, leading it to be classified as an inert material; samples of the same material analysed by the other laboratory failed waste acceptance criteria and were classified as hazardous. It was found that the sample preparation procedure is the critical step in the leaching analysis and that the effects of particle size on leachability should be taken into account when using this standard. The purpose of this paper is to open a debate on designing a better defined standard leaching test and making current waste acceptance criteria more flexible.
Zandi
Mohammad
M
Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK S1 3JD.
Russell
Nigel V
NV
Edyvean
Robert G J
RG
Hand
Russell J
RJ
Ward
Philip
P
D001151:Arsenic / Q000032:analysis; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards*; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D006256:Hazardous Waste / Q000032:analysis*; D007220:Industrial Waste / Q000032:analysis*; D019216:Metals, Heavy / Q000032:analysis; D010316:Particle Size
D006256:Hazardous Waste; D007220:Industrial Waste; D019216:Metals, Heavy; D001151:Arsenic