Characterization of the organic matter of sludge: determination of lipids, hydrocarbons and PAHs from road retention/infiltration ponds in France

This paper presents the results of the organic matter characterization of sludge from two ponds (retention and infiltration) located in France. Special focus was placed on studying hydrocarbons and PAHs. This investigation is part of a global project on road and urban sludge with the aim of identifying a better means for managing these materials. Gas chromatographic and GC/MS analyses indicate that the main component of the organic fraction stems from petroleum-derived products like diesel fuel and motor oil. This finding was confirmed by the presence of biomarkers from the hopane series, as well as by pyrolytic and alkylated PAHs. Results from this study clearly show that the contaminants are mainly generated from anthropogenic petroleum sources. Due to their levels of hydrocarbon contamination, these sludge deposits must be considered as waste and cannot therefore be disposed anywhere, especially within the current context of sustainable development.