Analysis of soil characteristics near the solid waste landfill site

Abstract

In this project, the study of soil characteristics due to the municipal solid waste was carried out in a selected location around the recently closed Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) dumpsite located opposite to Periya Eri in Chromepet, Chennai. Soil samples were collected from the selected location, i.e. 2 sites within 1500m from the dumpsite and another 2 sites beyond 1500m from the dump yard. Total 12 soil samples from 4 sites were collected from a ground depth of 0-30cm, 30-60cm and 60-90cm below the surface. The collected soil samples have been analyzed for pH, moisture, total organic matter, ash content, total organic carbon, specific gravity, conductivity and bulk density and the result were compared with the standards. The study suggested, providing Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs) around the solid waste dump site/landfill for reducing the leachate concentration before entering to the soil and thus soil contamination can be minimized to some extent and this technology is cost-effective and eco-friendly since the materials used in the barriers are locally available and low-cost which is sustainable and protect human health, nature and the environment. This study indicated that soil properties did not reach high pollution levels, and therefore posed a low eco-risk potential in surface soil near the landfill.