Clogging of Leachate Drains in Landfills due to Biochemical Precipitation: a Literature Review

• Published in: RGSA : Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental Vol. 18; no. 11; p. e09846
• Main Authors: Pfeiffer, Simone Costa, Carvalho, Eraldo Henriques de
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 18.11.2024
• ISSN: 1981-982X; 1981-982X
• DOI: 10.24857/rgsa.v18n11-140

Objective: Review the relevant literature and analyze the causes that lead to the clogging of leachate drains in landfills due to biochemical precipitation.   Theoretical Framework: Although leachate drainage systems have greatly evolved in terms of performance, clogging can occur in all designs due to physical, biological, and chemical mechanisms.   Method: To investigate the issue of clogging in leachate drainage systems, an extensive literature review was conducted through consultations on relevant websites. National and international technical papers were sought, as well as regulations from environmental agencies of different countries.   Results and Discussion: The removal of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), primarily in the form of acetic acid, transforms this stronger acid into weaker acids such as carbonic acid, which results in an increase in the pH of the environment. The concentration of carbonate also increases, consequently accelerating the precipitation of calcium carbonate. These precipitates are usually mixed with the biofilm and exhibit very characteristic shapes and structures.   Research Implications: The lifespan of a vertical landfill can be strongly determined by the clogging phenomena in the leachate drainage system. Therefore, the monitoring of this system must be carried out with great care.   Originality/Value: This review stands out for addressing a relevant and underexplored topic, especially in the national technical literature. Understanding the processes that can lead to clogging of the leachate drainage system is of interest to everyone working in the field, particularly those who design and/or operate a landfill.