Work

Geochemical characterization of different phases of phosphate sludge waste according to their density in seawater

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Phosphate treatment at the Kpémé plant uses hydrocycloning with seawater, which produces phosphate sludge wastes discharged into the sea without any prior treatment. This waste is highly enriched in trace elements, and is the source of water and coastal sediment pollution. A study of the bulk density of the phases obtained shows that the apatite-rich phase is denser than the clay-rich phase. Clay-rich phases will be transported over longer distances than apatite-rich phases, in accordance with the sea environment conditions prevailing on the coast. The clay-rich phase has a higher degree of acidity and redox potential than the apatite-rich phase. These phosphate sludgy wastes and the various phases are enriched in Cr, Cd, Cu, Co, Zn, Ni and Hg compared with the earth's crust. On the other hand, the light phase is more enriched in trace elements than the apatite-rich phase. The light phase has a higher Kd for all elements than the apatite-rich phase, except for Cd. This makes the light phase much more toxic once each phase is resuspended and carried by tidal currents to sea.

Source: Discover Water

DOI: 10.1007/s43832-024-00172-z

Authors: Daouda Sama, Pamane Kpiagou, M’bènibé Gmakouba, Laounwi Lakmon, Agbessi Gerard Gnagamago, Kissao Gnandi

Institution: University of Lomé

Language: English

Topic: Heavy metals in environment

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation, Life below water

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,490