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CE 521 Environmental Biotechnology

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Utilizing Bioreactor Technology in Landfills 

David B. Conner

 ABSTRACT

The purpose of this article is to examine the use of bioreactors in landfills.  Modern landfills are an enormous improvement over past methods of integrated waste disposal.  However, the features that have enabled landfills be a successful method of disposal also slow the natural decomposition of waste by keeping moisture from degrading the waste and they prevent it from becoming stabilized.  Moisture is the most important factor in promoting waste decomposition.  Utilizing bioreactor technology in landfills can speed the decomposition of landfill waste while improving environmental protection.  Advantages of landfill bioreactors provide substantial benefits over conventional Subtitle D landfills by providing a means for site re-utilization, site life extension and sustainability, increased potential for waste to energy conversion, improved LFG management, and reduced closure costs and liabilities.  Also, current landfill designs and existing landfills may accommodate them.  Research on waste biodegradation has shown that it occurs in five phases.  The Lag Phase, Transition Phase, Acid Formation Phase, Methane Fermentation Phase, and the Maturation Phase are the phases through which it progresses.  Bioreactor landfills that depend on aerobic or aerobic bacteria or a combination of these with other decomposition processes are feasible and beneficial options to accelerate the biodegradability of waste in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills.  Landfill gas (LFG) and leachate management, geotechnical stability, pH, and regulations and permitting are important factors to consider when designing, operating, and monitoring bioreactor landfills.     

 KEYWORDS:  Bioreactor landfills, leachate, waste decomposition, design, operation, monitoring

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