Evaluation of pore structure and infiltration behavior in waste layers consisting of incombustible residue or incineration ash using X-ray CT analysis

Abstract

This study investigated the pore structure and water infiltration behavior of samples taken from landfills where incombustible residues or incinerator ash are landfilled using a combination of X-ray CT analysis and FEM fluid analysis. The study results confirm the formation of ‘water channels’ in incombustible residue landfill layers, where water moves through specific and limited pore spaces. It is important to understand how much water channels exist within the landfill layer (effective porosity) for future predictions. On the other hand, it was shown that water infiltration is homogenous in the incinerated ash landfill layer and that leachate concentrations may be higher because water is in contact with all wastes.Different types of landfill waste cause significant differences in infiltration behavior and the resulting water quality. This has a direct impact on the maintenance of landfill sites. Knowledge of the difference in the mass transfer depending on types of landfill waste could contribute to improved design and management strategies for landfill sites.