An Analysis of Dissolved Organic Compounds and their Contribution to Iron Complexation in the Shallow Leachate Plume of the West KL Landfill Kalamazoo, Michigan

Author

Eric Fahle, Western Michigan University

Date of Award

4-1991

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Geological and Environmental Sciences

First Advisor

Dr. Richard N. Passero

Second Advisor

Dr. Alan Kehew

Third Advisor

Dr. James Howell

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

High concentrations of dissolved iron are present in downgradient groundwater samples adjacent to the western border of the West KL Landfill. Analysis by Rudder (1988) of groundwater samples indicates oversaturation of selected iron oxides, iron sulfides and siderite in monitoring wells TW-4 and M3.

Previous research suggests that pyrogallol, gallic acid, tannic acid and similar organic compounds may retard the oxidation of ferrous iron in the shallow leachate plume of the West KL landfill (Rudder, 1988). Present research utilizing solid phase extraction, reverse phase high performance chromatography, Fourier transform IR spectrophotometry, UV/Visible spectrophotometry, and gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy indicate that pyrogallol, gallic acid, and tannic acid are not present above detectable levels in the shallow plume of the West KL Landfill. The findings suggest that 2-Hydroxybutyric acid, a possible iron complexing agent, is present in the shallow leachate plume of the West KL Landfill.

Recommended Citation

Fahle, Eric, "An Analysis of Dissolved Organic Compounds and their Contribution to Iron Complexation in the Shallow Leachate Plume of the West KL Landfill Kalamazoo, Michigan" (1991). Masters Theses. 972.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/972