Critical Review of Environmental Forensic Techniques: Part II

A multitude of forensic techniques are available for age dating and source identification, including aerial photography interpretation, corrosion models, the commercial availability of a chemical, chemical associations with discrete types of equipment, chemical profiling, degradation models and contaminant transport models. The success of these techniques in environmental litigation and their applicability to a particular fact situation is rarely discussed in the literature. When these techniques are introduced as scientific evidence, their governing assumptions and the adequacy of the underlying data are rigorously scrutinized and often, successfully challenged. The purpose of this paper is to review selected forensic techniques and discuss their merits so that the user can select the technique or combination of techniques most appropriate for the factual elements of the case.     

Critical Review of Environmental Forensic Techniques: Part II

A multitude of forensic techniques are available for age dating and source identification, including aerial photography interpretation, corrosion models, the commercial availability of a chemical, chemical associations with discrete types of equipment, chemical profiling, degradation models and contaminant transport models. The success of these techniques in environmental litigation and their applicability to a particular fact situation is rarely discussed in the literature. When these techniques are introduced as scientific evidence, their governing assumptions and the adequacy of the underlying data are rigorously scrutinized and often, successfully challenged. The purpose of this paper is to review selected forensic techniques and discuss their merits so that the user can select the technique or combination of techniques most appropriate for the factual elements of the case.     

Designing Treatability Studies for CERCLA Sites: Three Critical Issues

A great urgency has developed in the past few years within the U.S. EPA remediation program to perform treatability studies at Superfund (CERCLA) sites. The major reasons for this urgency is to ensure the selected treatment technology is applicable to the waste characteristics, and that Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) cleanup goals can be achieved. However, prior to conducting a treatability study, three critical issues must be resolved by the site manager. First, what scale and timing are appropriate? Second, should the treatability study be performed by a treatment technology vendor using proprietary equipment and processes, or can a generic study be performed? Third, should the study be performed in the field or should the waste be taken to the laboratory for testing? The objectives of the treatability study will have a major impact on how these issues are resolved. This paper discusses these major issues and provides information for the design and conduct of Superfund treatability programs.     

A History of Dry Cleaners and Sources of Solvent Releases from Dry Cleaning Equipment

Approximately 25, 000–35, 000 dry cleaning facilities currently operate in the U.S. The release of perchloroethylene and other solvents from these establishments represents a major source of soil and groundwater contamination. The manner in which dry cleaning solvents escape from dry cleaning plants is, for all practical purposes, identical for chlorinated and petroleum hydrocarbon solvents and is related to one of the following events: the catastrophic failure of a component of the dry cleaning system, the improper installation, operation or maintenance of the dry cleaning equipment or a combination of all of these causes. Acceptable customs, codes and regulations can also dictate what is authorized for operation of a dry cleaning facility in a particular community, geographic area during a particular time frame. Environmental litigation dealing with the origin of a solvent release from dry cleaners tends to focus on the design and manufacture of dry cleaning industry machines such as washers, washer extractors, tumblers, solvent filters, water separators, stills and spotting boards. A thorough analysis of the daily operations of dry cleaners often reveals that poor maintenance, failure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and the actions of the operator are the most likely causes of soil and groundwater pollution. In order to forensically evaluate the most probable origins of a solvent release and to examine issues regarding liability, a thorough understanding of the history of dry cleaning and a detailed analysis of the operation and maintenance of the dry cleaning equipment are necessary. The discovery of solvent plumes in the vicinity of dry cleaning plants may suggest that the solvent source is the dry cleaning plant; however, the presence of these plumes does not necessarily indicate that the dry cleaning equipment was defectively designed or manufactured. A thorough review of the type of equipment used over the life of the dry cleaning plant and verifiable solvent mileage records frequently indicates that operators of the plant have disposed of solvent and contaminated solids into the municipal sewer or on ground surfaces.     

A History of Dry Cleaners and Sources of Solvent Releases from Dry Cleaning Equipment

Approximately 25, 000-35, 000 dry cleaning facilities currently operate in the U.S. The release of perchloroethylene and other solvents from these establishments represents a major source of soil and groundwater contamination. The manner in which dry cleaning solvents escape from dry cleaning plants is, for all practical purposes, identical for chlorinated and petroleum hydrocarbon solvents and is related to one of the following events: the catastrophic failure of a component of the dry cleaning system, the improper installation, operation or maintenance of the dry cleaning equipment or a combination of all of these causes. Acceptable customs, codes and regulations can also dictate what is authorized for operation of a dry cleaning facility in a particular community, geographic area during a particular time frame. Environmental litigation dealing with the origin of a solvent release from dry cleaners tends to focus on the design and manufacture of dry cleaning industry machines such as washers, washer extractors, tumblers, solvent filters, water separators, stills and spotting boards. A thorough analysis of the daily operations of dry cleaners often reveals that poor maintenance, failure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and the actions of the operator are the most likely causes of soil and groundwater pollution. In order to forensically evaluate the most probable origins of a solvent release and to examine issues regarding liability, a thorough understanding of the history of dry cleaning and a detailed analysis of the operation and maintenance of the dry cleaning equipment are necessary. The discovery of solvent plumes in the vicinity of dry cleaning plants may suggest that the solvent source is the dry cleaning plant; however, the presence of these plumes does not necessarily indicate that the dry cleaning equipment was defectively designed or manufactured. A thorough review of the type of equipment used over the life of the dry cleaning plant and verifiable solvent mileage records frequently indicates that operators of the plant have disposed of solvent and contaminated solids into the municipal sewer or on ground surfaces.     

Some Applications of Microscopy to Air Pollution

The microscope as it has been and is now applied to air pollution work is discussed. A summary of the most common particulate sampling equipment is presented and distinctions as to the area of usage (suspended, or settled particulates) are made in each instance. Actual cases are discussed in which the polarizing microscope was used to determine identities and source of particulate pollutants. Particles from such sources as power plants, feed mills, and combustion sources are discussed and photomicrographs of known samples and unknown particles causing complaints are presented and compared as part of the discussion. References are given which deal with sampling equipment and microscopic analysis of various particulates.     

The Basic Economics of Hydrocarbon Vapor Control

The best interest of any company is well served when responsibility for procurement of vapor control equipment is properly fixed. From discovery of need, to final operation of the equipment, many events must occur and much effort must be expended. In many petroleum industry marketing terminals today, decentralization of control has forced terminal managers to become cost center managers as well as distribution facility managers, and this added responsibility is valuable. Who else is in a better position to evaluate the true operating costs of any equipment and to carry out the responsibility of finding the right equipment for the job at hand? Where companies employ central engineering staffs, the necessary support studies should be made available to the terminal manager so that he can understand and review: (1) the capital investment and related depreciation expense; (2) the need for preventive maintenance programs as suggested by bidding equipment suppliers; (3) the need for local contractors to bid on preventive maintenance programs; (4) company maintenance routines and all labor expense involved; and (5) budget preparation for both capital and expense budgets.     

Survey on the Use of Pulse-Jet Fabric Filters

Pulse-jet fabric filters rely on the filtration of dirty flue gas by the outside surface of the bags, which are then cleaned by a shock wave generated by an air pulse entering each bag from the top. As it travels down the length of the bag, the shock wave flexes the fabric and dislodges the dust cake. Enhancement of the pulse may be achieved by using a venturi, and cleaning may be on-line or off-line. This paper summarizes the results of an exhaustive study conducted for the Electric Power Research Institute to provide a convenient and versatile information base about the use of pulse-jet fabric filters on coal-fired boilers. Predominant features of the many pulse-jet installations identified by vendor survey and literature survey are shown in graphical and tabular form.     

1992 Environmental Software Survey

By some accounts, there are up to 1,000 different software packages on the market today. These range from specialized products that calculate releases from fixed roof storage tanks to comprehensive chemical inventory tracking and reporting systems. One of the positive benefits to this proliferation of software is that there is a wide selection of products available. The down side is that many times the hardest part of purchasing an environmental software product is figuring out which product to buy, and where to find it. The 1992 Environmental Software Survey is intended to fill this gap for those who rely upon computers as a tool to perform their job functions. This paper summarizes information on more than 600 environmental software products produced by over 200 vendors. Information includes environmental media addressed by the software, program functions and vendor information.     

Salem Revisited: Updating the MTBE Controversy

This article provides background information regarding the emerging controversies involving methyltert -butyl ether (MTBE) and litigation involving leaking underground storage tanks (USTs) in general. It examines (1) the administrative, legislative and litigation history of MTBE in the context of the Clear Air Act and state environmental statues; (2) the importance of applicable RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) deadlines regarding UST compliance in these cases; (3) the question of MTBE toxicity for personal injury claims; and (4) the scope of damages available in cases filed by plaintiffs who are not physically impacted by contamination. The authors conclude that the MTBE controversy does not appear to be a legitimate public health or environmental crisis, but rather is yet another speculative product of the American legal industry.     

Effectiveness of Odor Counteractants for the Treatment of Stack Gases

Successful control of some contaminant sources is extremely difficult to achieve technically and there remains a need for more information specific to control procedures. The cost of air cleaning equipment installations can be exceedingly high depending upon the performance standards to be satisfied and the physical and chemical characteristics of the contaminants. Control of emissions from the foundry cupola, the steel mill, metal refining operations, coal burning utilities, and incinerators still presents imposing cost and operational and performance problems—despite the technological progress made in recent years. The interrelationship of the source, the degree of control necessary, the equipment available to do the job, and the costs are discussed.     

A review on the requirements for environmentally friendly insulating oils used in high-voltage equipment under the eco design framework

Environmental Science and Pollution Research - The advancements in electricity production and distribution, as well as the growing consumption of electrical energy, have made electrical equipment a...     

Critical Review of Environmental Forensic Techniques: Part I

A multitude of forensic techniques are available for age dating and source identification, including aerial photography interpretation, corrosion models, the commercial availability of a compound, chemical associations with discrete type processes, chemical profiling, degradation models and contaminant transport models. These techniques, however, are rarely challenged or discussed in the literature relative to the scrutiny encountered in environmental litigation. When introduced as scientific evidence, the governing assumptions and quality of the data are critically evaluated and frequently successfully challenged. The purpose of this paper is to review five types of forensic techniques and discuss their merits so that a user can decide which technique, or combination of techniques, is most appropriate for developing the technical portion of a case.     

Critical Review of Environmental Forensic Techniques: Part I

A multitude of forensic techniques are available for age dating and source identification, including aerial photography interpretation, corrosion models, the commercial availability of a compound, chemical associations with discrete type processes, chemical profiling, degradation models and contaminant transport models. These techniques, however, are rarely challenged or discussed in the literature relative to the scrutiny encountered in environmental litigation. When introduced as scientific evidence, the governing assumptions and quality of the data are critically evaluated and frequently successfully challenged. The purpose of this paper is to review five types of forensic techniques and discuss their merits so that a user can decide which technique, or combination of techniques, is most appropriate for developing the technical portion of a case.     

The Microscopic Identification of Atmospheric Particulates

Lime has become the world’s leading reagent for use in the treatment of both water and air pollution and, after sulfuric acid, is the No. 2 basic chemical in commercial use. As a result, the production capacities of the manufacturing plants are being rapidly expanded to meet the increasing demand for liming materials. This paper describes the achievements of the lime industry in developing methods of handling and controlling the various finely divided products which they produce. An extensive survey provides useful data on the availability and performance of many of the control devices that are currently in use, and an analysis is made of the operating efficiencies and costs of this equipment. The environmental control programs which are currently underway in this industry are described and an evaluation is made of these programs. The ultimate goals that are believed to be attainable are presented from the standpoint of emission control from individual processes as well as from operating plant complexes. While the paper deals primarily with practical operating and engineering aspects of the subject, some information is also included on methods of tests and the monitoring systems that are in use.     

Application of Forensic Techniques for Age Dating and Source Identification in Environmental Litigation

A multitude of forensic techniques are available for age dating and source identification, including corrosion models for underground storage tanks, the commercial availability of a compound, chemical associations with discrete types of manufacturing processes, chemical profiling, proprietary additives, stable isotope analysis, degradation models, biomarkers and contaminant transport models. The selection and use of these techniques in environmental litigation must be thoroughly understood and applied to be effective as forensic evidence. When introduced as scientific evidence, the governing assumptions and quality of the data are critically evaluated and frequently successfully challenged. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of commonly used environmental forensic techniques and their possible applications so that a user can decide which technique or combination of methods is most appropriate for their case.     

Wet vs Dry Gas Cleaning In the Steel Industry

Deciding whether the gas should be cleaned by a “dry” system or a “wet” system requires a full consideration of all factors of which the capital cost is only one. Anticipating the various problems which might be expected and designing adequate measures for each calls for major engineering effort,but onlythen can a best choice be made. The principles which govern the above are illustrated by a typical selection of gas cleaning equipment to be used as part of a BOF steel making installation. Two entirely different gas cleaning systems are presently in BOF service in North America. Both will do an excellent job if properly designed. Either system will cost in excess of $2,000,000 and will require careful control and large amounts of electrical power. One system, the dry electrostatic precipitator, requires humidification of the gas; protection against explosions; elaborate electrical controls, insulators, etc.; and a rugged handling system for the bone dry dust collected. The other system, wet washing with water, Is easier to control but uses large quantities of water and electric power. As in the case of the “dry” system, handling the dirt collected is a difficult problem requiring careful study and choice of equipment. In either case the dust may be discarded or reused, but it must be handled with care lest it become an air or stream pollution problem all over again.     

牛粪厌氧发酵的载体筛选试验研究

为了提高厌氧发酵装置的效率,人们研究了各种各样的方法和措施,其中应用填料或载体使生物菌能够延长驻留期是其中的方法之一,开展载体筛选及其结构设计在厌氧发酵装置中的试验,有助于对此问题的深入研究以及将其成果应用于生产实践。通过静态载体筛选试验选择了玻璃纤维作为载体、PVC塑料管作为载体骨架制成的装置在动态序批式厌氧发酵装置中进行了试验。结果表明：此载体骨架结构对于牛粪动态厌氧发酵具有明显的提高产气效率、改变产气质量和促进有机物转化为挥发性脂肪酸的作用。     

Evaluation of a low-cost transient mass measurement system in vehicle inspection and maintenance testing: results of a Gordon-Darby Study

A study was performed at a Gordon-Darby centralized inspection and maintenance (I/M) test lane in Phoenix, AZ, in December 1999 for the purpose of evaluating the accuracy of production Vehicle Mass Analysis System (VMAS) equipment relative to standard IM240 equipment. Simultaneous transient mass measurements were made on random vehicles using VMAS and IM240 systems on two test lanes during regular I/M testing. Cumulative mass emissions for 846 valid tests were correlated using least-squares regression analysis. Correlation indices were > 0.99 for both carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric oxide (NO) and 0.93 for hydrocarbon (HC), and the standard errors of regression were 1.38 g/mi, 0.123 g/mi, and 0.245 g/mi for CO, NO, and HC, respectively. These strong correlation results are reflected by high excess emission identification rates of 99.4% for CO, 99.3% for NO, and 94.5% for HC when applying final IM240 cut points with a < 2% error of commission for all pollutants.