Abstract
Montana Tech of the University of Montana and Universal Dynamics of British Columbia have developed a hydrometallurgical process for recovering and recycling mercury from chlorine plant wastewater sludge materials (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA]hazardous-waste classification K106). The hydrometallurgical process is also applicable for the treatment of mercury-contaminated soils (EPA hazardous waste classification D009) and other mercury-bearing waste materials. The process, which is capable of lowering the mercury content in the K106 solids from 10% to <50 mg/kg Hg, has been commercialized and utilized at three U.S. plants. This paper describes the fundamental chemistry of the process, the flowsheet being used, and operating plant case histories.
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References
M.A. Rockandel and L.G. Twidwell, “Hydrometallurgical Process for Treating Mercury Contaminated Muds,” U.S. patent 5,209,774 (1993).
M.A. Rockandel and L.G. Twidwell, “Mercury Contaminated Mud Treatment,” U.S. patent 5,314,527 (1994).
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For more information, contact L.G. Twidwell, Montana Tech, University of Montana, 1300 W. Park, Butte, Montana 59701; (406) 496-4208; e-mail Itwidwell@mtech.edu.
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Twidwell, L.G., Thompson, R.J. Recovering and recycling Hg from chlor-alkali plant wastewater sludge. JOM 53, 15–17 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-001-0155-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-001-0155-z