LegalizeCommission Implementing Decision (EU) 2018/1147 of 10 August 2018 establishing best available techniques (BAT) conclusions for waste treatment, under Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (notified under document C(2018) 5070) (Text with EEA relevance.)
| Substance/Parameter | Substance/Parameter | BAT-AEL [^E0024] | Waste treatment process to which the BAT-AEL applies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total organic carbon (TOC) [^E0025] | Total organic carbon (TOC) [^E0025] | 10-60 mg/l | — All waste treatments except treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Total organic carbon (TOC) [^E0025] | Total organic carbon (TOC) [^E0025] | 10-100 mg/l [^E0026] [^E0027] | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Chemical oxygen demand (COD) [^E0025] | Chemical oxygen demand (COD) [^E0025] | 30-180 mg/l | — All waste treatments except treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Chemical oxygen demand (COD) [^E0025] | Chemical oxygen demand (COD) [^E0025] | 30-300 mg/l [^E0026] [^E0027] | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Total suspended solids (TSS) | Total suspended solids (TSS) | 5-60 mg/l | — All waste treatments |
| Hydrocarbon oil index (HOI) | Hydrocarbon oil index (HOI) | 0,5-10 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Total nitrogen (Total N) | Total nitrogen (Total N) | 1-25 mg/l [^E0028] [^E0029] | — Biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil |
| Total nitrogen (Total N) | Total nitrogen (Total N) | 10-60 mg/l [^E0028] [^E0029] [^E0030] | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Total phosphorus (Total P) | Total phosphorus (Total P) | 0,3-2 mg/l | — Biological treatment of waste |
| Total phosphorus (Total P) | Total phosphorus (Total P) | 1-3 mg/l [^E0027] | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Phenol index | Phenol index | 0,05-0,2 mg/l | — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value |
| Phenol index | Phenol index | 0,05-0,3 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Free cyanide (CN-) [^E0031] | Free cyanide (CN-) [^E0031] | 0,02-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Adsorbable organically bound halogens (AOX) [^E0031] | Adsorbable organically bound halogens (AOX) [^E0031] | 0,2-1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Arsenic (expressed as As) | 0,01-0,05 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Cadmium (expressed as Cd) | 0,01-0,05 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Chromium (expressed as Cr) | 0,01-0,15 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Copper (expressed as Cu) | 0,05-0,5 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Lead (expressed as Pb) | 0,05-0,1 mg/l [^E0032] | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Nickel (expressed as Ni) | 0,05-0,5 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Mercury (expressed as Hg) | 0,5-5 μg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Zinc (expressed as Zn) | 0,1-1 mg/l [^E0033] | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Arsenic (expressed as As) | 0,01-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Cadmium (expressed as Cd) | 0,01-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Chromium (expressed as Cr) | 0,01-0,3 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Hexavalent chromium (expressed as Cr(VI)) | 0,01-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Copper (expressed as Cu) | 0,05-0,5 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Lead (expressed as Pb) | 0,05-0,3 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Nickel (expressed as Ni) | 0,05-1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Mercury (expressed as Hg) | 1-10 μg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0031] | Zinc (expressed as Zn) | 0,1-2 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
The averaging periods are defined in the General considerations.
Either the BAT-AEL for COD or the BAT-AEL for TOC applies. TOC monitoring is the preferred option because it does not rely on the use of very toxic compounds.
The upper end of the range may not apply: — when the abatement efficiency is ≥ 95 % as a rolling yearly average and the waste input shows the following characteristics: TOC > 2 g/l (or COD > 6 g/l) as a daily average and a high proportion of refractory organic compounds (i.e. which are difficult to biodegrade); or — in the case of high chloride concentrations (e.g. above 5 g/l in the waste input).
The BAT-AEL may not apply to plants treating drilling muds/cuttings.
The BAT-AEL may not apply when the temperature of the waste water is low (e.g. below 12 °C).
The BAT-AEL may not apply in the case of high chloride concentrations (e.g. above 10 g/l in the waste input).
The BAT-AEL only applies when biological treatment of waste water is used.
The BAT-AELs only apply when the substance concerned is identified as relevant in the waste water inventory mentioned in BAT 3.
The upper end of the range is 0,3 mg/l for mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste.
The upper end of the range is 2 mg/l for mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 7.
Table 6.2
BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for indirect discharges to a receiving water body
| Substance/Parameter | Substance/Parameter | BAT-AEL [^E0034] [^E0035] | Waste treatment process to which the BAT-AEL applies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrocarbon oil index (HOI) | Hydrocarbon oil index (HOI) | 0,5-10 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Free cyanide (CN-) [^E0036] | Free cyanide (CN-) [^E0036] | 0,02-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Adsorbable organically bound halogens (AOX) [^E0036] | Adsorbable organically bound halogens (AOX) [^E0036] | 0,2-1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Arsenic (expressed as As) | 0,01-0,05 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Cadmium (expressed as Cd) | 0,01-0,05 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Chromium (expressed as Cr) | 0,01-0,15 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Copper (expressed as Cu) | 0,05-0,5 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Lead (expressed as Pb) | 0,05-0,1 mg/l [^E0037] | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Nickel (expressed as Ni) | 0,05-0,5 mg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Mercury (expressed as Hg) | 0,5-5 μg/l | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Zinc (expressed as Zn) | 0,1-1 mg/l [^E0038] | — Mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste — Treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs — Mechanical biological treatment of waste — Re-refining of waste oil — Physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value — Physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste — Regeneration of spent solvents — Water washing of excavated contaminated soil |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Arsenic (expressed as As) | 0,01-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Cadmium (expressed as Cd) | 0,01-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Chromium (expressed as Cr) | 0,01-0,3 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Hexavalent chromium (expressed as Cr(VI)) | 0,01-0,1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Copper (expressed as Cu) | 0,05-0,5 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Lead (expressed as Pb) | 0,05-0,3 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Nickel (expressed as Ni) | 0,05-1 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Mercury (expressed as Hg) | 1-10 μg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
| Metals and metalloids [^E0036] | Zinc (expressed as Zn) | 0,1-2 mg/l | — Treatment of water-based liquid waste |
The averaging periods are defined in the General considerations.
The BAT-AELs may not apply if the downstream waste water treatment plant abates the pollutants concerned, provided this does not lead to a higher level of pollution in the environment.
The BAT-AELs only apply when the substance concerned is identified as relevant in the waste water inventory mentioned in BAT 3.
The upper end of the range is 0,3 mg/l for mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste.
The upper end of the range is 2 mg/l for mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 7.
1.6. Emissions from accidents and incidents
BAT 21. In order to prevent or limit the environmental consequences of accidents and incidents, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below, as part of the accident management plan (see BAT 1).
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Protection measures | These include measures such as: — protection of the plant against malevolent acts; — fire and explosion protection system, containing equipment for prevention, detection, and extinction; — accessibility and operability of relevant control equipment in emergency situations. |
| b. | Management of incidental/accidental emissions | Procedures are established and technical provisions are in place to manage (in terms of possible containment) emissions from accidents and incidents such as emissions from spillages, firefighting water, or safety valves. |
| c. | Incident/accident registration and assessment system | This includes techniques such as: — a log/diary to record all accidents, incidents, changes to procedures and the findings of inspections; — procedures to identify, respond to and learn from such incidents and accidents. |
1.7. Material efficiency
BAT 22. In order to use materials efficiently, BAT is to substitute materials with waste.
Description
Waste is used instead of other materials for the treatment of wastes (e.g. waste alkalis or waste acids are used for pH adjustment, fly ashes are used as binders).
Applicability
Some applicability limitations derive from the risk of contamination posed by the presence of impurities (e.g. heavy metals, POPs, salts, pathogens) in the waste that substitutes other materials. Another limitation is the compatibility of the waste substituting other materials with the waste input (see BAT 2).
1.8. Energy efficiency
BAT 23. In order to use energy efficiently, BAT is to use both of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Energy efficiency plan | An energy efficiency plan entails defining and calculating the specific energy consumption of the activity (or activities), setting key performance indicators on an annual basis (for example, specific energy consumption expressed in kWh/tonne of waste processed) and planning periodic improvement targets and related actions. The plan is adapted to the specificities of the waste treatment in terms of process(es) carried out, waste stream(s) treated, etc. |
| b. | Energy balance record | An energy balance record provides a breakdown of the energy consumption and generation (including exportation) by the type of source (i.e. electricity, gas, conventional liquid fuels, conventional solid fuels, and waste). This includes: (i) information on energy consumption in terms of delivered energy; (ii) information on energy exported from the installation; (iii) energy flow information (e.g. Sankey diagrams or energy balances) showing how the energy is used throughout the process. The energy balance record is adapted to the specificities of the waste treatment in terms of process(es) carried out, waste stream(s) treated, etc. |
1.9. Reuse of packaging
BAT 24. In order to reduce the quantity of waste sent for disposal, BAT is to maximise the reuse of packaging, as part of the residues management plan (see BAT 1).
Description
Packaging (drums, containers, IBCs, pallets, etc.) is reused for containing waste, when it is in good condition and sufficiently clean, depending on a compatibility check between the substances contained (in consecutive uses). If necessary, packaging is sent for appropriate treatment prior to reuse (e.g. reconditioning, cleaning).
Applicability
Some applicability restrictions derive from the risk of contamination of the waste posed by the reused packaging.
2. BAT CONCLUSIONS FOR THE MECHANICAL TREATMENT OF WASTE
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in Section 2 apply to the mechanical treatment of waste when it is not combined with biological treatment, and in addition to the general BAT conclusions in Section 1.
2.1. General BAT conclusions for the mechanical treatment of waste
2.1.1. Emissions to air
BAT 25. In order to reduce emissions to air of dust, and of particulate-bound metals, PCDD/F and dioxin-like PCBs, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Cyclone | See Section 6.1. Cyclones are mainly used as preliminary separators for coarse dust. | Generally applicable. |
| b. | Fabric filter | See Section 6.1. | May not be applicable to exhaust air ducts directly connected to the shredder when the effects of deflagration on the fabric filter cannot be mitigated (e.g. by using pressure relief valves). |
| c. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. | Generally applicable. |
| d. | Water injection into the shredder | The waste to be shredded is damped by injecting water into the shredder. The amount of water injected is regulated in relation to the amount of waste being shredded (which may be monitored via the energy consumed by the shredder motor). The waste gas that contains residual dust is directed to cyclone(s) and/or a wet scrubber. | Only applicable within the constraints associated with local conditions (e.g. low temperature, drought). |
Table 6.3
BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled dust emissions to air from the mechanical treatment of waste
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL (Average over the sampling period) |
|---|---|---|
| Dust | mg/Nm3 | 2-5 [^E0039] |
When a fabric filter is not applicable, the upper end of the range is 10 mg/Nm3.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
2.2. BAT conclusions for the mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section apply to the mechanical treatment in shredders of metal waste, in addition to BAT 25.
2.2.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 26. In order to improve the overall environmental performance, and to prevent emissions due to accidents and incidents, BAT is to use BAT 14g and all of the techniques given below:
- (a) implementation of a detailed inspection procedure for baled waste before shredding;
- (b) removal of dangerous items from the waste input stream and their safe disposal (e.g. gas cylinders, non-depolluted EoLVs, non-depolluted WEEE, items contaminated with PCBs or mercury, radioactive items);
- (c) treatment of containers only when accompanied by a declaration of cleanliness.
2.2.2. Deflagrations
BAT 27. In order to prevent deflagrations and to reduce emissions when deflagrations occur, BAT is to use technique a. and one or both of the techniques b. and c. given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Deflagration management plan | This includes: — a deflagration reduction programme designed to identify the source(s), and to implement measures to prevent deflagration occurrences, e.g. inspection of waste input as described in BAT 26a, removal of dangerous items as described in BAT 26b; — a review of historical deflagration incidents and remedies and the dissemination of deflagration knowledge; — a protocol for response to deflagration incidents. | Generally applicable. |
| b. | Pressure relief dampers | Pressure relief dampers are installed to relieve pressure waves coming from deflagrations that would otherwise cause major damage and subsequent emissions. | Generally applicable. |
| c. | Pre-shredding | Use of a low-speed shredder installed upstream of the main shredder | Generally applicable for new plants, depending on the input material. Applicable for major plant upgrades where a significant number of deflagrations have been substantiated. |
2.2.3. Energy efficiency
BAT 28. In order to use energy efficiently, BAT is to keep the shredder feed stable.
Description
The shredder feed is equalised by avoiding disruption or overload of the waste feed which would lead to unwanted shutdowns and start-ups of the shredder.
2.3. BAT conclusions for the treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section apply to the treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs, in addition to BAT 25.
2.3.1. Emissions to air
BAT 29. In order to prevent or, where that is not practicable, to reduce emissions of organic compounds to air, BAT is to apply BAT 14d, BAT 14h and to use technique a. and one or both of the techniques b. and c. given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Optimised removal and capture of refrigerants and oils | All refrigerants and oils are removed from the WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs and captured by a vacuum suction system (e.g. achieving refrigerant removal of at least 90 %). Refrigerants are separated from oils and the oils are degassed. The amount of oil remaining in the compressor is reduced to a minimum (so that the compressor does not drip). |
| b. | Cryogenic condensation | Waste gas containing organic compounds such as VFCs/VHCs is sent to a cryogenic condensation unit where they are liquefied (see description in Section 6.1). The liquefied gas is stored in pressurised vessels for further treatment. |
| c. | Adsorption | Waste gas containing organic compounds such as VFCs/VHCs is led into adsorption systems (see description in Section 6.1). The spent activated carbon is regenerated by means of heated air pumped into the filter to desorb the organic compounds. Subsequently, the regeneration waste gas is compressed and cooled in order to liquefy the organic compounds (in some cases by cryogenic condensation). The liquefied gas is then stored in pressurised vessels. The remaining waste gas from the compression stage is usually led back into the adsorption system in order to minimise VFC/VHC emissions. |
Table 6.4
BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled TVOC and CFC emissions to air from the treatment of WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL (Average over the sampling period) |
|---|---|---|
| TVOC | mg/Nm3 | 3-15 |
| CFCs | mg/Nm3 | 0,5-10 |
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
2.3.2. Explosions
BAT 30. In order to prevent emissions due to explosions when treating WEEE containing VFCs and/or VHCs, BAT is to use either of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Inert atmosphere | By injecting inert gas (e.g. nitrogen), the oxygen concentration in enclosed equipment (e.g. in enclosed shredders, crushers, dust and foam collectors) is reduced (e.g. to 4 vol-%). |
| b. | Forced ventilation | By using forced ventilation, the hydrocarbon concentration in enclosed equipment (e.g. in enclosed shredders, crushers, dust and foam collectors) is reduced to < 25 % of the lower explosive limit. |
2.4. BAT conclusions for the mechanical treatment of waste with calorific value
In addition to BAT 25, the BAT conclusions presented in this section apply to the mechanical treatment of waste with calorific value covered by points 5.3(a)(iii) and 5.3(b)(ii) of Annex I to Directive 2010/75/EU.
2.4.1. Emissions to air
BAT 31. In order to reduce emissions to air of organic compounds, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. |
| b. | Biofilter | See Section 6.1. |
| c. | Thermal oxidation | See Section 6.1. |
| d. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. |
Table 6.5
BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled TVOC emissions to air from the mechanical treatment of waste with calorific value
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL (Average over the sampling period) |
|---|---|---|
| TVOC | mg/Nm3 | 10-30 [^E0040] |
The BAT-AEL only applies when organic compounds are identified as relevant in the waste gas stream, based on the inventory mentioned in BAT 3.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
2.5. BAT conclusions for the mechanical treatment of WEEE containing mercury
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section apply to the mechanical treatment of WEEE containing mercury, in addition to BAT 25.
2.5.1. Emissions to air
BAT 32. In order to reduce mercury emissions to air, BAT is to collect mercury emissions at source, to send them to abatement and to carry out adequate monitoring.
Description
This includes all of the following measures:
- — equipment used to treat WEEE containing mercury is enclosed, under negative pressure and connected to a local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system;
- — waste gas from the processes is treated by dedusting techniques such as cyclones, fabric filters, and HEPA filters, followed by adsorption on activated carbon (see Section 6.1);
- — the efficiency of the waste gas treatment is monitored;
- — mercury levels in the treatment and storage areas are measured frequently (e.g. once every week) to detect potential mercury leaks.
Table 6.6
BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled mercury emissions to air from the mechanical treatment of WEEE containing mercury
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL (Average over the sampling period) |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury (Hg) | μg/Nm3 | 2-7 |
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
3. BAT CONCLUSIONS FOR THE BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF WASTE
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in Section 3 apply to the biological treatment of waste, and in addition to the general BAT conclusions in Section 1. The BAT conclusions in Section 3 do not apply to the treatment of water-based liquid waste.
3.1. General BAT conclusions for the biological treatment of waste
3.1.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 33. In order to reduce odour emissions and to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to select the waste input.
Description
The technique consists of carrying out the pre-acceptance, acceptance and sorting of the waste input (see BAT 2) so as to ensure the suitability of the waste input for the waste treatment, e.g. in terms of nutrient balance, moisture or toxic compounds which may reduce the biological activity.
3.1.2. Emissions to air
BAT 34. In order to reduce channelled emissions to air of dust, organic compounds and odorous compounds, including H2S and NH3, BAT is to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. |
| b. | Biofilter | See Section 6.1. A pretreatment of the waste gas before the biofilter (e.g. with a water or acid scrubber) may be needed in the case of a high NH3 content (e.g. 5-40 mg/Nm3) in order to control the media pH and to limit the formation of N2O in the biofilter. Some other odorous compounds (e.g. mercaptans, H2S) can cause acidification of the biofilter media and necessitate the use of a water or alkaline scrubber for pretreatment of the waste gas before the biofilter. |
| c. | Fabric filter | See Section 6.1. The fabric filter is used in the case of mechanical biological treatment of waste. |
| d. | Thermal oxidation | See Section 6.1. |
| e. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. Water, acid or alkaline scrubbers are used in combination with a biofilter, thermal oxidation or adsorption on activated carbon. |
Table 6.7
BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled NH3, odour, dust and TVOC emissions to air from the biological treatment of waste
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL (Average over the sampling period) | Waste treatment process |
|---|---|---|---|
| NH3 [^E0041] [^E0042] | mg/Nm3 | 0,3-20 | All biological treatments of waste |
| Odour concentration [^E0041] [^E0042] | ouE/Nm3 | 200-1 000 | All biological treatments of waste |
| Dust | mg/Nm3 | 2-5 | Mechanical biological treatment of waste |
| TVOC | mg/Nm3 | 5-40 [^E0043] | Mechanical biological treatment of waste |
Either the BAT-AEL for NH3 or the BAT-AEL for the odour concentration applies.
This BAT-AEL does not apply to the treatment of waste mainly composed of manure.
The lower end of the range can be achieved by using thermal oxidation.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
3.1.3. Emissions to water and water usage
BAT 35. In order to reduce the generation of waste water and to reduce water usage, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Segregation of water streams | Leachate seeping from compost piles and windrows is segregated from surface run-off water (see BAT 19f). | Generally applicable to new plants. Generally applicable to existing plants within the constraints associated with the layout of the water circuits. |
| b. | Water recirculation | Recirculating process water streams (e.g. from dewatering of liquid digestate in anaerobic processes) or using as much as possible other water streams (e.g. water condensate, rinsing water, surface run-off water). The degree of recirculation is limited by the water balance of the plant, the content of impurities (e.g. heavy metals, salts, pathogens, odorous compounds) and/or the characteristics of the water streams (e.g. nutrient content). | Generally applicable. |
| c. | Minimisation of the generation of leachate | Optimising the moisture content of the waste in order to minimise the generation of leachate. | Generally applicable. |
3.2. BAT conclusions for the aerobic treatment of waste
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section apply to the aerobic treatment of waste, and in addition to the general BAT conclusions for the biological treatment of waste in Section 3.1.
3.2.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 36. In order to reduce emissions to air and to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to monitor and/or control the key waste and process parameters.
Description
Monitoring and/or control of key waste and process parameters, including:
- — waste input characteristics (e.g. C to N ratio, particle size);
- — temperature and moisture content at different points in the windrow;
- — aeration of the windrow (e.g. via the windrow turning frequency, O2 and/or CO2 concentration in the windrow, temperature of air streams in the case of forced aeration);
- — windrow porosity, height and width.
Applicability
Monitoring of the moisture content in the windrow is not applicable to enclosed processes when health and/or safety issues have been identified. In that case, the moisture content can be monitored before loading the waste into the enclosed composting stage and adjusted when it exits the enclosed composting stage.
3.2.2. Odour and diffuse emissions to air
BAT 37. In order to reduce diffuse emissions to air of dust, odour and bioaerosols from open-air treatment steps, BAT is to use one or both of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Use of semipermeable membrane covers | Active composting windrows are covered by semipermeable membranes. | Generally applicable. |
| b. | Adaptation of operations to the meteorological conditions | This includes techniques such as the following: — Taking into account weather conditions and forecasts when undertaking major outdoor process activities. For instance, avoiding formation or turning of windrows or piles, screening or shredding in the case of adverse meteorological conditions in terms of emissions dispersion (e.g. the wind speed is too low or too high, or the wind blows in the direction of sensitive receptors). — Orientating windrows, so that the smallest possible area of composting mass is exposed to the prevailing wind, to reduce the dispersion of pollutants from the windrow surface. The windrows and piles are preferably located at the lowest elevation within the overall site layout. | Generally applicable. |
3.3. BAT conclusions for the anaerobic treatment of waste
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section apply to the anaerobic treatment of waste, and in addition to the general BAT conclusions for the biological treatment of waste in Section 3.1.
3.3.1. Emissions to air
BAT 38. In order to reduce emissions to air and to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to monitor and/or control the key waste and process parameters.
Description
Implementation of a manual and/or automatic monitoring system to:
- — ensure a stable digester operation;
- — minimise operational difficulties, such as foaming, which may lead to odour emissions;
- — provide sufficient early warning of system failures which may lead to a loss of containment and explosions.
This includes monitoring and/or control of key waste and process parameters, e.g.:
- — pH and alkalinity of the digester feed;
- — digester operating temperature;
- — hydraulic and organic loading rates of the digester feed;
- — concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFA) and ammonia within the digester and digestate;
- — biogas quantity, composition (e.g. H2S) and pressure;
- — liquid and foam levels in the digester.
3.4. BAT conclusions for the mechanical biological treatment (MBT) of waste
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section apply to MBT, and in addition to the general BAT conclusions for the biological treatment of waste in Section 3.1.
The BAT conclusions for the aerobic treatment (Section 3.2) and anaerobic treatment (Section 3.3) of waste apply, when relevant, to the mechanical biological treatment of waste.
3.4.1. Emissions to air
BAT 39. In order to reduce emissions to air, BAT is to use both of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Segregation of the waste gas streams | Splitting of the total waste gas stream into waste gas streams with a high pollutant content and waste gas streams with a low pollutant content, as identified in the inventory mentioned in BAT 3. | Generally applicable to new plants. Generally applicable to existing plants within the constraints associated with the layout of the air circuits. |
| b. | Recirculation of waste gas | Recirculation of waste gas with a low pollutant content in the biological process followed by waste gas treatment adapted to the concentration of pollutants (see BAT 34). The use of waste gas in the biological process may be limited by the waste gas temperature and/or the pollutant content. It may be necessary to condense the water vapour contained in the waste gas before reuse. In this case, cooling is necessary, and the condensed water is recirculated when possible (see BAT 35) or treated before discharge. | Generally applicable to new plants. Generally applicable to existing plants within the constraints associated with the layout of the air circuits. |
4. BAT CONCLUSIONS FOR THE PHYSICO-CHEMICAL TREATMENT OF WASTE
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in Section 4 apply to the physico-chemical treatment of waste, and in addition to the general BAT conclusions in Section 1.
4.1. BAT conclusions for the physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste
4.1.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 40. In order to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to monitor the waste input as part of the waste pre-acceptance and acceptance procedures (see BAT 2).
Description
Monitoring the waste input, e.g. in terms of:
- — content of organics, oxidising agents, metals (e.g. mercury), salts, odorous compounds;
- — H2 formation potential upon mixing of flue-gas treatment residues, e.g. fly ashes, with water.
4.1.2. Emissions to air
BAT 41. In order to reduce emissions of dust, organic compounds and NH3 to air, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. |
| b. | Biofilter | See Section 6.1. |
| c. | Fabric filter | See Section 6.1. |
| d. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. |
Table 6.8
BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled emissions of dust to air from the physico-chemical treatment of solid and/or pasty waste
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL (Average over the sampling period) |
|---|---|---|
| Dust | mg/Nm3 | 2-5 |
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
4.2. BAT conclusions for the re-refining of waste oil
4.2.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 42. In order to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to monitor the waste input as part of the waste pre-acceptance and acceptance procedures (see BAT 2).
Description
Monitoring of the waste input in terms of content of chlorinated compounds (e.g. chlorinated solvents or PCBs).
BAT 43. In order to reduce the quantity of waste sent for disposal, BAT is to use one or both of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Material recovery | Using the organic residues from vacuum distillation, solvent extraction, thin film evaporators, etc. in asphalt products, etc. |
| b. | Energy recovery | Using the organic residues from vacuum distillation, solvent extraction, thin film evaporators, etc. to recover energy. |
4.2.2. Emissions to air
BAT 44. In order to reduce emissions of organic compounds to air, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. |
| b. | Thermal oxidation | See Section 6.1. This includes when the waste gas is sent to a process furnace or a boiler. |
| c. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. |
The BAT-AEL set in Section 4.5 applies.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
4.3. BAT conclusions for the physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value
4.3.1. Emissions to air
BAT 45. In order to reduce emissions of organic compounds to air, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1 |
| b. | Cryogenic condensation | See Section 6.1 |
| c. | Thermal oxidation | See Section 6.1 |
| d. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1 |
The BAT-AEL set in Section 4.5 applies.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
4.4. BAT conclusions for the regeneration of spent solvents
4.4.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 46. In order to improve the overall environmental performance of the regeneration of spent solvents, BAT is to use one or both of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Material recovery | Solvents are recovered from the distillation residues by evaporation. | Applicability may be restricted when the energy demand is excessive with regards to the quantity of solvent recovered. |
| b. | Energy recovery | The residues from distillation are used to recover energy. | Generally applicable. |
4.4.2. Emissions to air
BAT 47. In order to reduce emissions of organic compounds to air, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Recirculation of process off-gases in a steam boiler | The process off-gases from the condensers are sent to the steam boiler supplying the plant. | May not be applicable to the treatment of halogenated solvent wastes, in order to avoid generating and emitting PCBs and/or PCDD/F. |
| b. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. | There may be limitations to the applicability of the technique due to safety reasons (e.g. activated carbon beds tend to self-ignite when loaded with ketones). |
| c. | Thermal oxidation | See Section 6.1. | May not be applicable to the treatment of halogenated solvent wastes, in order to avoid generating and emitting PCBs and/or PCDD/F. |
| d. | Condensation or cryogenic condensation | See Section 6.1. | Generally applicable. |
| e. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. | Generally applicable. |
The BAT-AEL set in Section 4.5 applies.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
4.5. BAT-AEL for emissions of organic compounds to air from the re-refining of waste oil, the physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value and the regeneration of spent solvents
Table 6.9
BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled emissions of TVOC to air from the re-refining of waste oil, the physico-chemical treatment of waste with calorific value and the regeneration of spent solvents
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL [^E0044] (Average over the sampling period) |
|---|---|---|
| TVOC | mg/Nm3 | 5-30 |
The BAT-AEL does not apply when the emission load is below 2 kg/h at the emission point provided that no CMR substances are identified as relevant in the waste gas stream, based on the inventory mentioned in BAT 3.
4.6. BAT conclusions for the thermal treatment of spent activated carbon, waste catalysts and excavated contaminated soil
4.6.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 48. In order to improve the overall environmental performance of the thermal treatment of spent activated carbon, waste catalysts and excavated contaminated soil, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
| a. | Heat recovery from the furnace off-gas | Recovered heat may be used, for example, for preheating of combustion air or for the generation of steam, which is also used in the reactivation of the spent activated carbon. | Generally applicable. |
| b. | Indirectly fired furnace | An indirectly fired furnace is used to avoid contact between the contents of the furnace and the flue-gases from the burner(s). | Indirectly fired furnaces are normally constructed with a metal tube and applicability may be restricted due to corrosion problems. There may be also economic restrictions for retrofitting existing plants. |
| c. | Process-integrated techniques to reduce emissions to air | This includes techniques such as: — control of the furnace temperature and of the rotation speed of the rotary furnace; — choice of fuel; — use of a sealed furnace or operation of the furnace at a reduced pressure to avoid diffuse emissions to air. | Generally applicable. |
4.6.2. Emissions to air
BAT 49. In order to reduce emissions of HCl, HF, dust and organic compounds to air, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Cyclone | See Section 6.1. The technique is used in combination with further abatement techniques. |
| b. | Electrostatic precipitator (ESP) | See Section 6.1. |
| c. | Fabric filter | See Section 6.1. |
| d. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. |
| e. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. |
| f. | Condensation | See Section 6.1. |
| g. | Thermal oxidation [^E0045] | See Section 6.1. |
Thermal oxidation is carried out with a minimum temperature of 1 100 °C and a two-second residence time for the regeneration of activated carbon used in industrial applications where refractory halogenated or other thermally resistant substances are likely to be present. In the case of activated carbon used for potable water- and food-grade applications, an afterburner with a minimum heating temperature of 850 °C and a two-second residence time is sufficient (see Section 6.1).
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
4.7. BAT conclusions for the water washing of excavated contaminated soil
4.7.1. Emissions to air
BAT 50. In order to reduce emissions of dust and organic compounds to air from the storage, handling, and washing steps, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. |
| b. | Fabric filter | See Section 6.1. |
| c. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. |
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
4.8. BAT conclusions for the decontamination of equipment containing PCBs
4.8.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 51. In order to improve the overall environmental performance and to reduce channelled emissions of PCBs and organic compounds to air, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Coating of the storage and treatment areas | This includes techniques such as: — resin coating applied to the concrete floor of the whole storage and treatment area. |
| b. | Implementation of staff access rules to prevent dispersion of contamination | This includes techniques such as: — access points to storage and treatment areas are locked; — special qualification is required to access the area where the contaminated equipment is stored and handled; — separate ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’ cloakrooms to put on/remove individual protective outfit. |
| c. | Optimised equipment cleaning and drainage | This includes techniques such as: — external surfaces of the contaminated equipment are cleaned with anionic detergent; — emptying of the equipment with a pump or under vacuum instead of gravity emptying; — procedures are defined and used for filling, emptying and (dis)connecting the vacuum vessel; — a long period of drainage (at least 12 hours) is ensured to avoid any dripping of contaminated liquid during further treatment operations, after the separation of the core from the casing of an electrical transformer. |
| d. | Control and monitoring of emissions to air | This includes techniques such as: — the air of the decontamination area is collected and treated with activated carbon filters; — the exhaust of the vacuum pump mentioned in technique c. above is connected to an end-of-pipe abatement system (e.g. a high-temperature incinerator, thermal oxidation or adsorption on activated carbon); — the channelled emissions are monitored (see BAT 8); — the potential atmospheric deposition of PCBs is monitored (e.g. through physico-chemical measurements or biomonitoring). |
| e. | Disposal of waste treatment residues | This includes techniques such as: — porous, contaminated parts of the electrical transformer (wood and paper) are sent to high-temperature incineration; — PCBs in the oils are destroyed (e.g. dechlorination, hydrogenation, solvated electron processes, high-temperature incineration). |
| f. | Recovery of solvent when solvent washing is used | Organic solvent is collected and distilled to be reused in the process. |
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
5. BAT CONCLUSIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF WATER-BASED LIQUID WASTE
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in Section 5 apply to the treatment of water-based liquid waste, and in addition to the general BAT conclusions in Section 1.
5.1. Overall environmental performance
BAT 52. In order to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to monitor the waste input as part of the waste pre-acceptance and acceptance procedures (see BAT 2).
Description
Monitoring the waste input, e.g. in terms of:
- — bioeliminability (e.g. BOD, BOD to COD ratio, Zahn-Wellens test, biological inhibition potential (e.g. inhibition of activated sludge));
- — feasibility of emulsion breaking, e.g. by means of laboratory-scale tests.
5.2. Emissions to air
BAT 53. In order to reduce emissions of HCl, NH3 and organic compounds to air, BAT is to apply BAT 14d and to use one or a combination of the techniques given below.
| Technique | Technique | Description |
|---|---|---|
| a. | Adsorption | See Section 6.1. |
| b. | Biofilter | See Section 6.1. |
| c. | Thermal oxidation | See Section 6.1. |
| d. | Wet scrubbing | See Section 6.1. |
Table 6.10
BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions of HCl and TVOC to air from the treatment of water-based liquid waste
| Parameter | Unit | BAT-AEL [^E0046] (Average over the sampling period) |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrogen chloride (HCl) | mg/Nm3 | 1-5 |
| TVOC | mg/Nm3 | 3-20 [^E0047] |
These BAT-AELs only apply when the substance concerned is identified as relevant in the waste gas stream, based on the inventory mentioned in BAT 3.
The upper end of the range is 45 mg/Nm3 when the emission load is below 0,5 kg/h at the emission point.
The associated monitoring is given in BAT 8.
6. DESCRIPTION OF TECHNIQUES
6.1. Channelled emissions to air
| Technique | Typical pollutant(s) abated | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Adsorption | Mercury, volatile organic compounds, hydrogen sulphide, odorous compounds | Adsorption is a heterogeneous reaction in which gas molecules are retained on a solid or liquid surface that prefers specific compounds to others and thus removes them from effluent streams. When the surface has adsorbed as much as it can, the adsorbent is replaced or the adsorbed content is desorbed as part of the regeneration of the adsorbent. When desorbed, the contaminants are usually at a higher concentration and can either be recovered or disposed of. The most common adsorbent is granular activated carbon. |
| Biofilter | Ammonia, hydrogen sulphide, volatile organic compounds, odorous compounds | The waste gas stream is passed through a bed of organic material (such as peat, heather, compost, root, tree bark, softwood and different combinations) or some inert material (such as clay, activated carbon, and polyurethane), where it is biologically oxidised by naturally occurring microorganisms into carbon dioxide, water, inorganic salts and biomass. A biofilter is designed considering the type(s) of waste input. An appropriate bed material, e.g. in terms of water retention capacity, bulk density, porosity, structural integrity, is selected. Also important are an appropriate height and surface area of the filter bed. The biofilter is connected to a suitable ventilation and air circulation system in order to ensure a uniform air distribution through the bed and a sufficient residence time of the waste gas inside the bed. |
| Condensation and cryogenic condensation | Volatile organic compounds | Condensation is a technique that eliminates solvent vapours from a waste gas stream by reducing its temperature below its dew point. For cryogenic condensation, the operating temperature can be down to – 120 °C, but in practice it is often between – 40 °C and – 80 °C in the condensation device. Cryogenic condensation can cope with all VOCs and volatile inorganic pollutants, irrespective of their individual vapour pressures. The low temperatures applied allow for very high condensation efficiencies which make it well-suited as a final VOC emission control technique. |
| Cyclone | Dust | Cyclone filters are used to remove heavier particulates, which ‘fall out’ as the waste gases are forced into a rotating motion before they leave the separator. Cyclones are used to control particulate material, primarily PM10. |
| Electrostatic precipitator (ESP) | Dust | Electrostatic precipitators operate such that particles are charged and separated under the influence of an electrical field. Electrostatic precipitators are capable of operating under a wide range of conditions. In a dry ESP, the collected material is mechanically removed (e.g. by shaking, vibration, compressed air), while in a wet ESP it is flushed with a suitable liquid, usually water. |
| Fabric filter | Dust | Fabric filters, often referred to as bag filters, are constructed from porous woven or felted fabric through which gases are passed to remove particles. The use of a fabric filter requires the selection of a fabric suitable for the characteristics of the waste gas and the maximum operating temperature. |
| HEPA filter | Dust | HEPA filters (high-efficiency particle air filters) are absolute filters. The filter medium consists of paper or matted glass fibre with a high packing density. The waste gas stream is passed through the filter medium, where particulate matter is collected. |
| Thermal oxidation | Volatile organic compounds | The oxidation of combustible gases and odorants in a waste gas stream by heating the mixture of contaminants with air or oxygen to above its auto-ignition point in a combustion chamber and maintaining it at a high temperature long enough to complete its combustion to carbon dioxide and water. |
| Wet scrubbing | Dust, volatile organic compounds, gaseous acidic compounds (alkaline scrubber), gaseous alkaline compounds (acid scrubber) | The removal of gaseous or particulate pollutants from a gas stream via mass transfer to a liquid solvent, often water or an aqueous solution. It may involve a chemical reaction (e.g. in an acid or alkaline scrubber). In some cases, the compounds may be recovered from the solvent. |
6.2. Diffuse emissions of organic compounds to air
| Leak detection and repair (LDAR) programme | Volatile organic compounds | A structured approach to reduce fugitive emissions of organic compounds by detection and subsequent repair or replacement of leaking components. Currently, sniffing (described by EN 15446) and optical gas imaging methods are available for the identification of leaks. Sniffing method: The first step is the detection using hand-held organic compound analysers measuring the concentration adjacent to the equipment (e.g. using flame ionisation or photo-ionisation). The second step consists of enclosing the component in an impermeable bag to carry out a direct measurement at the source of the emission. This second step is sometimes replaced by mathematical correlation curves derived from statistical results obtained from a large number of previous measurements made on similar components. Optical gas imaging methods: Optical imaging uses small lightweight hand-held cameras which enable the visualisation of gas leaks in real time, so that they appear as ‘smoke’ on a video recorder together with the normal image of the component concerned, to easily and rapidly locate significant organic compound leaks. Active systems produce an image with a back-scattered infrared laser light reflected on the component and its surroundings. Passive systems are based on the natural infrared radiation of the equipment and its surroundings. |
| Measurement of diffuse VOC emissions | Volatile organic compounds | Sniffing and optical gas imaging methods are described under leak detection and repair programme. Full screening and quantification of emissions from the installation can be undertaken with an appropriate combination of complementary methods, e.g. Solar occultation flux (SOF) or Differential absorption LIDAR (DIAL) campaigns. These results can be used for trend evaluation over time, cross-checking and updating/validation of the ongoing LDAR programme. Solar occultation flux (SOF): The technique is based on the recording and spectrometric Fourier Transform analysis of a broadband infrared or ultraviolet/visible sunlight spectrum along a given geographical itinerary, crossing the wind direction and cutting through VOC plumes. Differential absorption LIDAR (DIAL): This is a laser-based technique using differential absorption LIDAR (light detection and ranging), which is the optical analogue of radio wave-based RADAR. The technique relies on the backscattering of laser beam pulses by atmospheric aerosols, and the analysis of the spectral properties of the returned light collected with a telescope. |
6.3. Emissions to water
| Technique | Typical pollutant(s) targeted | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Activated sludge process | Biodegradable organic compounds | The biological oxidation of dissolved organic pollutants with oxygen using the metabolism of microorganisms. In the presence of dissolved oxygen (injected as air or pure oxygen), the organic components are transformed into carbon dioxide, water or other metabolites and biomass (i.e. the activated sludge). The microorganisms are maintained in suspension in the waste water and the whole mixture is mechanically aerated. The activated sludge mixture is sent to a separation facility from where the sludge is recycled to the aeration tank. |
| Adsorption | Adsorbable dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory pollutants, e.g. hydrocarbons, mercury, AOX | Separation method in which compounds (i.e. pollutants) in a fluid (i.e. waste water) are retained on a solid surface (typically activated carbon). |
| Chemical oxidation | Oxidisable dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory pollutants, e.g. nitrite, cyanide | Organic compounds are oxidised to less harmful and more easily biodegradable compounds. Techniques include wet oxidation or oxidation with ozone or hydrogen peroxide, optionally supported by catalysts or UV radiation. Chemical oxidation is also used to degrade organic compounds causing odour, taste and colour and for disinfection purposes. |
| Chemical reduction | Reducible dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory pollutants, e.g. hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) | Chemical reduction is the conversion of pollutants by chemical reducing agents into similar but less harmful or hazardous compounds. |
| Coagulation and flocculation | Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals | Coagulation and flocculation are used to separate suspended solids from waste water and are often carried out in successive steps. Coagulation is carried out by adding coagulants with charges opposite to those of the suspended solids. Flocculation is carried out by adding polymers, so that collisions of microfloc particles cause them to bond to produce larger flocs. The flocs formed are subsequently separated by sedimentation, air flotation or filtration. |
| Distillation/rectification | Dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory pollutants that can be distilled, e.g. some solvents | Distillation is a technique to separate compounds with different boiling points by partial evaporation and recondensation. Waste water distillation is the removal of low-boiling contaminants from waste water by transferring them into the vapour phase. Distillation is carried out in columns, equipped with plates or packing material, and a downstream condenser. |
| Equalisation | All pollutants | Balancing of flows and pollutant loads by using tanks or other management techniques. |
| Evaporation | Soluble pollutants | The use of distillation (see above) to concentrate aqueous solutions of high-boiling substances for further use, processing or disposal (e.g. waste water incineration) by transferring water to the vapour phase. It is typically carried out in multistage units with increasing vacuum, to reduce the energy demand. The water vapours are condensed, to be reused or discharged as waste water. |
| Filtration | Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals | The separation of solids from waste water by passing them through a porous medium, e.g. sand filtration, microfiltration and ultrafiltration. |
| Flotation | Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals | The separation of solid or liquid particles from waste water by attaching them to fine gas bubbles, usually air. The buoyant particles accumulate at the water surface and are collected with skimmers. |
| Ion exchange | Ionic dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory pollutants, e.g. metals | The retention of undesired or hazardous ionic constituents of waste water and their replacement by more acceptable ions using an ion exchange resin. The pollutants are temporarily retained and afterwards released into a regeneration or backwashing liquid. |
| Membrane bioreactor | Biodegradable organic compounds | A combination of activated sludge treatment and membrane filtration. Two variants are used: a) an external recirculation loop between the activated sludge tank and the membrane module; and b) immersion of the membrane module in the aerated activated sludge tank, where the effluent is filtered through a hollow fibre membrane, the biomass remaining in the tank. |
| Membrane filtration | Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals | Microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) are membrane filtration processes that retain and concentrate, on one side of the membrane, pollutants such as suspended particles and colloidal particles contained in waste waters. |
| Neutralisation | Acids, alkalis | The adjustment of the pH of waste water to a neutral level (approximately 7) by the addition of chemicals. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) may be used to increase the pH, whereas sulphuric acid (H2SO4), hydrochloric acid (HCl) or carbon dioxide (CO2) may be used to decrease the pH. The precipitation of some pollutants may occur during neutralisation. |
| Nitrification/denitrification | Total nitrogen, ammonia | A two-step process that is typically incorporated into biological waste water treatment plants. The first step is aerobic nitrification where microorganisms oxidise ammonium (NH4 +) to the intermediate nitrite (NO2 -), which is then further oxidised to nitrate (NO3 -). In the subsequent anoxic denitrification step, microorganisms chemically reduce nitrate to nitrogen gas. |
| Oil-water separation | Oil/grease | The separation of oil and water and subsequent oil removal by gravity separation of free oil, using separation equipment or emulsion breaking (using emulsion breaking chemicals such as metal salts, mineral acids, adsorbents and organic polymers). |
| Sedimentation | Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals | The separation of suspended particles by gravitational settling. |
| Precipitation | Precipitable dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory pollutants, e.g. metals, phosphorus | The conversion of dissolved pollutants into insoluble compounds by adding precipitants. The solid precipitates formed are subsequently separated by sedimentation, air flotation or filtration. |
| Stripping | Purgeable pollutants, e.g. hydrogen sulphide (H2S), ammonia (NH3), some adsorbable organically bound halogens (AOX), hydrocarbons | The removal of purgeable pollutants from the aqueous phase by a gaseous phase (e.g. steam, nitrogen or air) that is passed through the liquid. They are subsequently recovered (e.g. by condensation) for further use or disposal. The removal efficiency may be enhanced by increasing the temperature or reducing the pressure. |
6.4. Sorting techniques
Reading this document does not replace reading the official text published in the Official Journal of the European Union. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies arising from the conversion of the original to this format.
This text is published under EUR-Lex's own terms of reuse, not a Legalize or public-domain licence.
EUR-Lex
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
© European Union, https://eur-lex.europa.eu — Source: EUR-Lex (Publications Office of the European Union). Reused under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) licence. Only EU legislation published in the printed Official Journal of the European Union is deemed authentic; consolidated texts are reproduced here for documentation purposes and have been reformatted to Markdown.