Paper Sludge Landfill Stability and Sludge Stabilization, 2002 Environmental Conference Proceedings

J. Hinshelwood and J. P. Moore

High water content and low shear strength of the wastewater sludge from Georgia-Pacific's linerboard paper mill in Big Island, Virginia caused stability and operational problems at the mill landfill. Displacement of the waste material 15-30 meters was observed in the landfill after placement. Shear strength of the waste material was evaluated in the field with a vane shear test device and samples of the landfilled waste material were collected in Shelby Tubes for shear strength testing in the laboratory. Particle size, moisture content, density, and moisture density relationship tests were also performed to characterize the waste and to gauge the range of variability in the waste material properties.

Using the measured shear strengths as input parameters, a waste stability analysis showed that slopes could not exceed 10:1 (H:V) unless shear strengths were increased. Bench scale sludge stabilization tests were performed on sludge mixed with a variety of manufactured materials as well as other waste materials. Significant increases in sludge shear strength were achieved and a stabilization method was selected based on material cost and availability.