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Measurement of fugitive atmospheric emissions of polychlorinated biphenyls from hazardous waste landfills

Journal Article · · Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/es00140a017· OSTI ID:5714601

Four landfills known to contain large quantities of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were monitored for atmospheric emissions: three of these were uncontrolled and contained large numbers of electrical capacitors, many of which were scattered on the surface and leaking PCB askarel fluids. The other is a state-of-the-art PCB waste landfill designed to exceed the requirements of the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1978 (ToSCA) for PCB disposal. Both high-volume and low-volume air sampling equipment were utilized at each landfill to monitor air levels of PCBs on site, upwind and downwind. In addition, vent ports were monitored at the controlled site. Simultaneous, collocated sampling was performed for quality assurance purposes and to obtain information on sampling performance and comparability. High atmospheric PCB concentrations were measured at the uncontrolled sites, while air levels were at or near background at the ToSCA-designed landfill. PCBs were detected at low levels in gas vents at the latter site.

Research Organization:
Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC
OSTI ID:
5714601
Journal Information:
Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 19:10; ISSN ESTHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English