Prospects for enhancing carbon sequestration and reclamation of degraded lands with fossil-fuel combustion by-products

The role of organic amendments in soil reclamation: A review

“…However, with advanced molecular tools, a better understanding of the effects of organic amendments on microbial diversity is expected (Nicolardot et al 2007;Baumann et al 2009;Pascault et al 2010).…”

“…However, plant species responded differently to treatments, and researchers suggested botanical composition changes over time need to be considered when large-scale applications are projected. In a review on the use of coal combustion by-products (fly ash, flue gas desulfurization by-product) in sequestering carbon and reclaiming degraded lands, Palumbo et al (2004) indicated that their potential may be most fully realized when these inorganic by-products are applied in conjunction with organic amendments such as mulch from biomass, biosolids or pulp and paper sludge (Haering et al 2000). Palumbo et al (2004) suggested source, quality and amount of organic amendments should be selected for specific reclamation sites and goals.…”

“…In a review on the use of coal combustion by-products (fly ash, flue gas desulfurization by-product) in sequestering carbon and reclaiming degraded lands, Palumbo et al (2004) indicated that their potential may be most fully realized when these inorganic by-products are applied in conjunction with organic amendments such as mulch from biomass, biosolids or pulp and paper sludge (Haering et al 2000). Palumbo et al (2004) suggested source, quality and amount of organic amendments should be selected for specific reclamation sites and goals. Choosing the most appropriate amendment for soil type, climate or degradation problem may often be confined by what is available locally.…”

Carbon Capture and Water Emissions Treatment System (CCWESTRS) at Fossil-Fueled Electric Generating Plants

“…Class C and class F fly ash samples tested under column (5mM CaCl 2 ) and batch leaching scenarios indicated variability in leachate composition between fly ash sources, especially with regard to lighter elements including boron (Palumbo et al 2004). Fly ash mixed with soil from the TVA Paradise site and biosolid material or phosphate fertilizer showed a reduction in metal concentration recovered from column leachate, indicating that fly ash together with additional amendments, such as biosolids minimize leaching of metals.…”

“…A related project is being conducted by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to study the use of soil enhancers made from coal plant fly ash, paper mills, and sewage treatment facilities to improve the natural carbon uptake of lands disturbed by mining, highway construction, or poor management practices (Palumbo, 2000). Class C and class F fly ash samples tested under column (5mM CaCl 2 ) and batch leaching scenarios indicated variability in leachate composition between fly ash sources, especially with regard to lighter elements including boron (Palumbo et al 2004).…”