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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Environmental assessment before and after conversion of a kraft mill to elemental-chlorine-free bleaching

Conference ·
OSTI ID:214650
; ;  [1]
  1. International Paper, Mobile, AL (United States)

As part of our continuing efforts to understand the potential impact of biologically treated effluents to the aquatic ecosystem, we critically examined several environmental parameters before and after the conversion to elemental-chlorine-free (ECF) bleaching at a kraft pulp and paper mill. The study involved evaluation of filtrates, pulps, sludges, and wastewater treatment within the mill and an integrated field study of the receiving stream, which included comprehensive water and sediment toxicity testing, benthic community evaluations, fish health testing, and physicochemical and biological parameters of water quality. Following ECF conversion, no detectable levels of 2,3,7,8-dioxin or polychlorinated phenolic compounds at the bleach plant and no indications of detrimental impacts to the ecosystem from the effluent were found.

OSTI ID:
214650
Report Number(s):
CONF-950801--
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English