Avaliação da viabilidade técnica do uso de lodo de estação de tratamento de água em camadas de cobertura de aterros sanitários

Abstract

Inadequate management of water treatment plant sludge (WTS) generates environmental impacts, requires large areas for storage and increases transportation and final disposal costs. Its application as a cover material in landfills has emerged as an alternative to promove sustainable solid waste management. The aim of this study is to verify the technical feasibility of using soil mixtures with 20% and 40% LETA in landfill cover layers. The Meia Ponte WTP, managed by SANEAGO in the state of Goiás, was used asa case study. WTS production was estimated using the method of the Association Française pour l'Étude des Eaux (AFEE). geotechnical characterization and permeability tests, in accordance with the standards of the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT). The results were analyzed according to the parameters required by technical standards and criteria established by environmental agencies. The generation of WTS was estimated at around 4,500 tons of sludge between 2021 and 2022 at the Meia Ponte WTP. This volume is enough to build around 1,000 m² of cover layer. The mixtures of soil and WTS, in proportions of 20% and 40%, have physical and hydraulic characteristics compatible with the technical requirements for application in landfill cover layers. The proposal is a sustainable alternative for the use of waste generated in water treatment plants, contributing to the reduction of environmental impacts and the promotion of the circular economy in solid waste management.