Abstract
Abstract The combustion of coal in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere produces a complex mixture of gaseous, liquid and solid components depending on the coal composition and the temperature of combustion. Large quantities of coke, attaining a peak production of some 30 x 10 6 t per annum in 1956, were produced, generally on large sites. Hundreds of small gas works existed throughout the British coalfields in the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth century. Liquids such as tar, amoniacal liquors and crude benzol were produced. Spent oxides, containing cyanides (‘blue billy’), produced during the final stages of gas production were frequently dumped near the gas works on available land. Local authorities have, in some cases, been given the task of identifying the location of these long-abandoned and heavily contaminated sites to bring them into productive use either as residential, industrial or recreational sites. This paper discusses the investigation and treatment or disposal of the hazardous waste products. It recommends that engineers and planners discuss redevelopment plans and remedial measures for sites at an early stage and maintain close and continuing liaison throughout the site investigation and construction phases of redevelopment programmes.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Geological Society, London, Engineering Geology Special Publications
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
