Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) Treatment
Loureiro has expanded our remedial service capabilities to address groundwater impacts associated with coal combustion residuals (CCR). Using our state-of-the-art treatability laboratory, we evaluate multiple treatment processes designed to reduce concentrations of dissolved and total metals. These processes can be implemented either in situ or through aboveground treatment systems, depending on site conditions and regulatory requirements. Each treatment approach is evaluated based on the following key factors:
- Cost Efficiency: We design treatment trains that are cost-competitive with conventional alternatives such as excavation and landfilling, helping clients minimize long-term remediation expenses.
- Rapid Reaction Kinetics: Selected processes must achieve treatment objectives quickly, avoiding the need for large reaction vessels and reducing system footprint, capital costs, and operational complexity.
- Performance: CCR-impacted groundwater often contains a diverse mix of metals, including boron, arsenic, molybdenum, and barium. Our solutions are engineered to consistently meet stringent groundwater and surface water discharge standards.
Example Treatment Process:
Once the treatment process has been evaluated, Loureiro’s services include both pilot testing and full-scale implementation. Loureiro conducted a pilot operation at Ameren’s Rush Island Energy Center to validate the treatability results and gain information for full-scale design. Loureiro completed the full-scale system in 2022, which consists of a series of extraction wells to control groundwater emanating from below the CCR ash pond. The extracted groundwater is treated and then re-injected to create linear hydraulic control with zero-net difference to the flow rate or direction.
Since installation, the Rush Island system has demonstrated the ability to meet Missouri Department of Natural Resources permit requirements (quantified by monthly sampling) by reducing metals concentrations by up to 99%.
| Dissolved Metal | Influent (ppb) | Effluent (ppb) |
|---|---|---|
| Barium | 76.3 | 10.6 |
| Boron | 7,940 | < 20 |
| Molybdenum | 880 | 10 |
| Arsenic | 163 | 1.6 |
| Lead | 11.3 | < 1.0 |
Additional Resources
Loureiro is performing treatability studies and pilot test designs for similar systems at two other Ameren sites. Click here for more details.
Loureiro’s process can work for any site with metals contamination in groundwater, please feel free to contact us for more information about our services.
