EFFECT OF PAPER MILL BLACK LIQUOR ON ENGINEERING PROPERTIES OF CLAY

Abstract

The use of clay liner as a technically and economically viable alternative for soil and ground water pollution control for on-land disposal facilities for industrial wastes has attracted researcher's attention in the recent years. Need is felt for the study of specific soil-waste systems. This study deals with the effect of paper mill black liquor on some engineering properties of a locally available clay. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of chemical contamination on the performance of the clay as a liner material. It is observed that the black liquor being rich in Na-ions causes dispersion of the clay particles and a decrease in its permeability. Addition of lime causes cementation of the soil particles, giving large increase in strength with a slight increase in permeability. However, the lime mixed soil retains its suitability as a liner material. The chances of piping failure of the dispersed Na-clay are also reduced. It is also found to be more economical to use ,a clay liner provided the right type of soil is locally available.