Trace metals and chlorinated hydrocarbons in sewage sludges of Kuwait

Abstract

Levels of trace metals and chlorinated hydrocarbons were determined in sludge produced at the three main wastewater treatment plants in Kuwait (Ardhiya, Jahra, and Reqqa). Over the 6 mo study period (October 1984 to March 1985) levels at the three plants showed the following ranges (μg g−1 dry weight); Cd, 0.5 to 5.0; Cu, 90 to 270; Zn, 1100 to 3000; Pb, 80 to 300; Ni, 25 to 60; Hg, 1.8 to 3.6; Ag, 1 to 35; PCBs, 0.1 to 3.6; lindane, 0.4 to 7.4; EDDT (i.e., DDT + DDD + DDE), 0.07 to 0.20; aldrin, below detection to 0.07; endrin, below detection to 0.27; dieldrin, 0.005 to 0.04). Mean levels were generally close or lower than mean concentrations reported in the United Kingdom and the United States. They were also lower than suggested concentration limits for application of sludge on agricultural land, which is one of the most cost-effective and attractive techniques for sludge disposal. For Kuwait to adopt this application, however, the characteristics of the local soil and prevailing environmental conditions, notably the frequent occurrence of severe dust storms, should be considered.