ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT ON REFUSE CATABOLISM OF PHENOL CODISPOSAL WITH REFUSE

Studies of refuse microcosms showed that protracted periods for microb ial adaptation to co-disposed phenol (1000 and 2000 ppm) probably resu lted from nutrient (elemental) limitation Circumstantial evidence indi cated that nitrate- and sulphate-reducing bacteria were particularly s ensitive to the added phenol. Without the effective participation of n itrate- and sulphate-reducing bacteria, the methanogenic fermentations of both the added phenol and refuse components were depressed. The co -disposal operating regime proved to be a key factor in refuse degrada tion, although with time, and especially after phenol resupplementatio n, the operating conditions played a less significant role. In general , single elution microcosms achieved increased phenol removal, which u nfortunately coincided with low pH values. In contrast, leachate recyc le facilitated increased pH values and methane production. Simulated r ain columns were characterised by rapid washout of both the added phen ol and key methanogenic precursors.