Assessment and influence of specific parameters on a high density, aerobiclandfill

A full-scale aerobic landfill has been constructed and operated in Gordexol a (Biscay, Spain), a region with an average rainfall of 1400 l m(-2) yr(-1) . In order to establish good operating practice, and to obtain some design data, a special area has been created on the landfill and has been closely observed. In this region of heavy rainfall and mild temperatures, an aerobi c decomposition cycle lasts for an average of 29 days. It requires the prep aration of refuse layers with an initial thickness of 0.6 m, six passes wit h a compacting machine, and two additional passes one week after the initia l disposal. In order to assess the impact of rainfall on the production of leachate, a full water balance has been carried out. As a result, only 11% of collected rainfall appears as leachate, whereas other anaerobic landfill s in the area show percentages close to 50%. Applying the most disfavorable parameters obtained during the study for the design of a new landfill, the operational surface area required is equal to 300 times the daily disposal in Mg d(-1), expressed in square meters.