Civil and Environmental Engineering Commons^™

Biodegradation And Landfill Settlement, Shailesh Pisolkar

Theses

The most widely used method for the final disposal of solid waste is landfilling, which is also economical and simpler than most other disposal systems. Long term settlement in a landfill occurs mainly due to biodegradation of the refuse which is a very slow microbiological process. However, if the rate of biodegradation is enhanced, it may be possible to achieve early stabilization, faster settlement, consequently more capacity of the landfill to handle waste.

The objective of this research is to study the effects of enhanced biodegradation on settlement and to compare these results to other models used for predicting landfill …

Solidification/Stabilization Of Petroleum Contaminated Soils With Cold Mix Asphalt Concrete, Nazhat Aboobaker

Theses

In this research Petroleum Contaminated Soils (PCSs) are recycled in Cold Mix Asphalt (CMA), to produce a useful product that can control potential environmental threats. The stability, durability, and hydraulic conductivity are three important engineering parameters that need to be considered when using petroleum contaminated soils (PCSs) in cold mix asphalt (CMA). In this research, stability, durability, and hydraulic conductivity due to the addition of six different PCSs into CMA is investigated. The stability test were performed to determine if cold mix asphalt made with petroleum contaminated soil can withstand heavy traffic. The freeze-thaw, and wet-dry tests were performed to …

Modeling A High-Efficiency Ozone Injection Contactor, L. Bernard Garrett Jr.

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Significant research over the last several years has focused on applying modeling equations for estimating design parameters of ozone contactors. Much of this research has focused on fine bubble diffusers, which are the more widely used injection system for ozone contactors in the U.S. A recently developed design incorporates a new ozone injection system called a sidestream venturi injector (SVI) which is used with a co-current downflow column to achieve very high ozone mass transfer efficiencies. A pilot study conducted at the Harwood's Mill water treatment plant in Newport News, Virginia, from June to December 1993 demonstrated the high mass …

Characterization Of Rainfall Runoff Quality From A Shipyard Drydock, Peter Pommerenk

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Water quality and hydrological data were collected during seventeen rain events and additional data was obtained from laboratory experiments to characterize the quality of stormwater runoff from a drydock located on the Elizabeth River in Norfolk, Virginia.

The results indicated that the concentrations of dissolved constituents in drydock runoff increased with decreasing flow rate, while solids concentrations exhibited positive correlation to flow rate, suggesting that the mobilization of particulate matter is velocity driven. Approximating the runoff hydrograph due to a storm event using a simple model enabled derivation of the average time that rainwater resides on the drydock surface before …

Long-Term Effects Of Seawalls On The Adjacent Nonwalled Beaches Of A Historically Receding Shoreline, Bryan Norton Jones

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Great debate has arisen in recent years over the effects seawalls may or may not have on the erosion rate of a historically receding shoreline. A primary obstacle to the formation of definite conclusions about this subject is the lack of long-term physical data, which must be collected prior to and following seawall construction. This thesis presents the results of a study using 15 years of beach profile data to determine how seawalls influence the existing erosional trends of the beach at Sandbridge, Virginia.

Three analysis methods using three time scales (historic, seasonal, and storms) were used to answer three …

Advanced Characterization And Leaching Behavior Of Hexavalent And Trivalent Chromium From Waste Material, Erik Moerman

Theses

In this thesis we employed advanced characterization techniques such as XRF, XRD, XPS, SEM, and EDS to provide detailed information about the chromium waste _ specifically chromium valence states (Cr(VI) and Cr(III)), and their chemical association with other phases in the waste matrix.

The removal of Cr(VI) was accomplished by leaching with aqueous solutions containing inorganic anions such as Cl^-, SO₄^2-, PO₄^3- and others. Cr(VI) can be released from the waste by a combination of desorption and ion exchange processes. The efficiency and kinetics of displacing CrO₄^2- from the waste by …

Separation Of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons By Using Micellar Electrokinetic Chromatography, Patricia Simmons

Theses

In this work, the use of micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) for the separation of five polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compounds is investigated. All of the compounds studied are listed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as priority pollutants.

In micellar electrokinetic chromatography, solutes partition between the aqueous phase and the micellar phase. This partition is based on the hydrophobicity of each compound. In some cases, organic modifiers are added to the electrophoretic solution to enhance the separation efficiency. The organic modifier used in this study is y-cyclodextrin (y-CD), and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is used as the micellar phase. …

Organic Matter Characterization Of Virginia Rivers And Reservoirs, Susanne Margaret Lockhart

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Research was conducted on characterizing the DOC characteristics and to discern whether spatial and temporal variations exist in these characteristics as impacted by seasonal, hydrologic or other factors. Data was cumulative of two studies: the State-Wide Survey in which water samples were taken in March and July 1995 from surface waters in four physiographic regions of Virginia and the James River Peninsula Survey concentrating on reservoirs and rivers on the James River Peninsula.

Results illustrate that the two largest fractions of DOC were the hydrophilic and hydrophobic acid fractions. An increase in DOC was observed between the mountains and the …

A Receiving Water Quality Model For Dissolved Metal Runoff From A Floating Drydock, Thomas O. Fenn

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

A methodology for modeling the water quality mixing zone of dissolved metal bearing storm water runoff is presented with specific application to floating drydocks in a tidal estuary. The method relies upon a solution of the mass balance equation as contained in the computer program, Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program (WASPS), an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) model. Separate applications are presented for dissolved metal and solid settling to optimize the WASPS program capabilities.

WASPS provides the capability to evaluate the mass balance equation in a finite difference scheme applied over a large number of small volume segments. The program may …

Method And Apparatus For Destroying Organic Compounds In Fluid, Yin Zhang, John C. Crittenden, David W. Hand, David L. Perram

Michigan Tech Patents

An apparatus for the photocatalytic oxidation of organic contaminants in fluid includes a reactor and a photocatalyst affixed to support material. Preferably, the outer wall of the reactor is constructed of material transmissive of ultraviolet radiation. The support material preferably is transmissive of ultraviolet radiation. The support material can also be an adsorbent material. Also, a method for photocatalytic oxidation of organic contaminants in fluid. Also, a method for preparation of a supported photocatalyst. Also, a supported photocatalyst adapted for the photocatalytic oxidation of organic contaminants in fluid. Also, a method for preparing a photocatalyst adapted for the photocatalytic oxidation …

Proceedings: Seventeenth Vertebrate Pest Conference, Rohnert Park, California, March 5-7, 1996 (Complete Work), Robert M. Timm , Editor, A. Charles Crabb , Editor

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

340 registered attendees
58 papers
273 pages
52 Mb

You have come from throughout California, from across the United States, and from many corners of the world to gather here for the purpose of sharing information, expertise, and wisdom in dealing with vertebrate pest problems. Our common purpose is to find yet better methods for preventing and resolving situations in which wildlife comes into conflict with humans. The Conference's mission remains one of education. We learn from each other, and we strive to find better ways of applying our knowledge to real-world problems.

Remediation And Reuse Of Chromium Contaminated Soils Through Cold Top Ex-Site Vitrification, Wiwat Kamolpornwijit

Theses

More than 150 sites in Hudson County, New Jersey are identified as chromium contaminated sites. Hexavalent chromium, highly soluble in water, is considered as an environmental and health hazard, classified as a group A human carcinogen. In this research, the feasibility was performed to study the possibility of remediation of chromium contaminated soil by ex-situ vitrification and to evaluate reuse potential of vitrified products as highway construction aggregate. A series of physical and chemical analysis was conducted on nine soil samples collected from different chromium contaminated sites. Results were analyzed for their compatibility for vitrification. Sand and carbon were added …

Sensivity Analysis And Design Calculations With Biofiltration Models, Michael Lawrence Cohen

Theses

Biofiltration is a new technology for biological treatment of volatile organic compounds present in airstreams. It is a complex process and thus, engineering models which attempt to describe it are by necessity very involved and contain a large number of parameters.

In this study, two models describing biofiltration of airstreams carrying a single pollutant (VOC) were used in detailed parameter-sensitivity studies. One model concerned biofiltration under steady-state conditions, while the second described the transient behavior of the process. The intent of the sensitivity studies was to determine which model parameters need to be known with accuracy in order to allow …

Disaccharide Intolerance Of European Starlings, Leonard R. Askham

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

The use of disaccharides to discourage bird depredation to agricultural crops has elicited some interest during the last few years. Data developed in these trials indicate that several avian species are intolerant to sucrose because of the lack of sucrase enzymes in their digestive systems. Based on this research it is hypothesized that progressively increasing rates and volumes of solutions would elicit consistent adverse stress reactions. Furthermore, that if birds were intolerant to sucrose, because of their co-evolutionary development with plants, then they should lack the ability to digest lactose. The data developed in these trials does not support either …

Closing Remarks—Seventeenth Vertebrate Pest Conference, Rex O. Baker

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

As chair-elect of the council, I would like to thank all of those who participated in this 17th Vertebrate Pest Conference.

We had a total attendance of 340 from 27 states in the U.S., including 27 attendees from 8 countries outside the U.S. The contributions and sacrifices made by foreign speakers is genuinely appreciated and has, as always, added greatly to the diversity of the conference.

As most of you know, the council's primary goal is fostering education and advancement in the field of vertebrate pest management. We have always tried to draw noted experts to present a broad range …

Field Efficacy Of Diphacinone Grain Baits Used To Control The California Ground Squirrel, J. A. Baroch

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Diphacinone treated oat groats were effective in reducing populations of California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi) by more than 84%. Two concentrations of active ingredient (0.005% and 0.01%) were compared, as well as two application methods: spot baiting and bait stations. Squirrel activity on test plots was assessed before and after bait applications using visual counts and active burrow counts. There was good correspondence between results of the two activity indices. There was no significant improvement in efficacy provided by the higher concentration of diphacinone. Bait consumption was much lower on bait station plots. Squirrel carcasses were found on …

Overhead Wires Reduce Roof-Nesting By Ring-Billed Gulls And Herring Gulls, Jerrold L. Belant, Sheri K. Ickes

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

The authors evaluated the effectiveness of overhead wires in reducing roof-nesting by ring-billed gulls (Larus delawarensis) and herring gulls (L. argentatus) at a 7.2 ha food warehouse in Bedford Heights, Ohio during 1994-1995. In 1994, stainless steel wires (0.8 mm diameter) were attached generally in spoke-like configurations between 2.4 m upright metal poles spaced at 33.7 m intervals over the main portion of roof. The 6 to 14 wires radiating from each pole created a mean maximum spacing between wires of about 16 m. Nesting by ring-billed and herring gulls was reduced by 76% and 100% …

Towards "Best Practice" Vertebrate Pest Management In Australia, Mike Braysher, Peter O'Brien, Mary Bomford

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Australia has 26 species of introduced pest mammals that cause extensive damage to agriculture and the conservation of native wildlife. Past efforts tried to eradicate them. This focus on reducing pest numbers rather than the outcome, reduced damage, has had limited success. Under its Vertebrate Pest Program, the Bureau of Resource Sciences has developed principles and a strategic approach to managing pest damage. Close cooperation with land managers as co-researchers and co-learners is an essential element, as is a coordinated group approach to pest management. The approaches are illustrated with an example.

Effectiveness Of Vichos Non-Lethal Collars In Deterring Coyote Attacks On Sheep, J. Russell Mason, Richard J. Burns

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Vichos non-lethal collars containing 45 to 105 ml of 3 % capsicum oleo resin were evaluated as deterrents to coyote attacks on sheep. Each of five coyotes tested made neck/throat attacks on one collared lamb; four punctured collars and one pulled the collar from a lamb without puncturing it. One coyote did not resume biting the lamb for 60 min; it was retested two and four days later. At two days, the coyote punctured a second collar and briefly halted its attack. At four days, the coyote attacked a third collared lamb but made no attempt to grasp the neck/throat …

An Overview Of Animal Damage Control (Adc) Assistance To The Vertebrate Pest Management Industry, William H. Clay

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

The Animal Damage Control (ADC) program has had a long history dating back to 1885. ADC was officially established in 1931 under the United States Department of Agriculture. In 1939, the program was moved to the United States Department of Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service. In 1996, ADC was transferred back to the USDA and placed under the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The mission of the Animal Damage Control program is to provide federal leadership in managing problems caused by wildlife. Current program assistance includes: a) technical assistance in wildlife management; b) conducting research and development activities related …

Improved Sealants For M-44 Cyanide Capsules, Guy Connolly

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

The M-44 sodium cyanide ejector is one of the most important tools used by the Animal Damage Control (ADC) program to protect livestock from coyotes. Unacceptable performance of M-44 cyanide capsules due to inadequate seals stimulated research to develop a better capsule sealant. Comparative tests of crude beeswax, Scheel SC-100 wax, and other materials revealed that capsules sealed with SC-100 were most resistant to deterioration in adverse environments. Based on these results, SC-100 wax was selected as the sealant of choice. Beginning in April 1989, all M-44 capsules made for ADC program use have been sealed with SC-100 wax. Since …

Impacts Of A Daily Trap Check Law On The California Adc Program, Craig Coolahan

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Effective January 1, 1990 California law required that all steel-jawed leghold traps be inspected at least daily and all animals in such traps be removed. The inspection and removal could be performed by the individual who set the traps, the landowner, or an agent of either. Prior to the passage of this law, California Animal Damage Control (ADC) personnel were exempt from Department of Fish and Game trap checking regulations. The data suggest that a decrease in trap use occurred after the implementation of the daily trap check. Where the program could effectively substitute other control tools or methods for …

Analysis Of Vertebrate Pest Research, Jim Hone

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Research on vertebrate pest control is mostly empirical, focusing on control of species X in location Y using method Z. Such an approach is needed. The science of vertebrate pest research is developing some generalizations across species, locations, and methods. This paper further explores such generalizations by discussing six questions asked by Hone (1994), the answers to which are relevant to vertebrate pest research world-wide. Several case studies are examined, with emphasis on control of damage by small mammals and predation control. Suggestions are made for future research.

Operational Control Of The Brown Tree Snake On Guam, Thomas C. Hall

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

An operational control program for brown tree snakes (Boiga irregularis) on Guam began in April 1993. The program focused on minimizing the dispersal of brown tree snakes to other Pacific islands and the U.S. mainland. During the first year of operation, more than 3,000 snakes were caught within a kilometer of high risk port facilities using traps, detector dogs, and spotlighting. Additionally, habitat modifications and prey-base removal were used to reduce the attractiveness of these facilities to brown tree snakes. Public awareness was also an important part of the program such as the education of cargo packers, shippers, …

Rodents And Cover Crops—A Review, Gregory A. Giusti, Desley A. Whisson, W. Paul Gorenzel

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Inter-row plantings of herbaceous cover crops has become a widely accepted practice by orchard and vineyard managers. Cover crops, used as part of a production management system, are not considered a cash crop and are therefore selected by individual growers for various reasons. Little is written regarding the relationship of cover crop management and the impact on rodent populations. This paper reviews the recent literature and examines how cover crop species and cultivar selection along with management procedures may be influential in limiting rodent populations and their damage to cropping systems.

A Profile Of Depredating Mountain Lions, Steven D. Fairaizl, San Juan Stiver

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Information regarding the demographics and physical condition of mountain lions (Felis concolof) killed during damage control efforts in Nevada was gathered and compared to sport harvested mountain lions. The average age of depredating male lions was 4.92 years of age compared to 4.95 years for sport harvested males. Depredating female lions were older than sport harvested females averaging 5.09 years compared to 4.44 years. Older age class mountain lions of both sexes were more likely to commit depredations than expected. Male lions were involved in depredations 45 % more often than females. Domestic sheep comprise more than 90% …

The Persistence And Secondary Poisoning Risks Of Sodium Monofluoroacetate (1080), Brodifacoum, And Cholecalciferol In Possums, C. T. Eason, G. R. Wright, L. Meikle, P. Elder

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

To determine the risk of secondary poisoning for animals preying on sub-lethally poisoned brushtail possums, captive possums were treated with near-lethal doses of sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) or brodifacoum, and toxicant concentrations in blood and tissue were monitored over time. Sodium monofluoroacetate was rapidly eliminated from the blood (within three days). Brodifacoum was retained in the liver and, to a lesser extent, the muscle of possums for eight months after dosing. To determine the potential risk for animals scavenging on the carcasses of possums poisoned with cholecalciferol, cats were fed poisoned carcasses for six days. No changes in behavior, appetite, or …

The Texas Oral Rabies Vaccination Project And The Experimental Use Of Raboral V-Rg Rabies Vaccine In The South Texas Coyote Rabies Epizootic, M. Gayne Fearneyhough

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Beginning in October 1988, Texas experienced the onset of an expanding epizootic of canine rabies in South Texas. That epizootic now involves 21 counties, with 678 laboratory confirmed cases as of February 1996. Approximately 50% of those cases have occurred in coyotes and most of the remainder in domestic dogs. Seventy-six "spill over" cases have been reported in seven other species, both wild and domestic. Since 1991, over 2,000 people in South Texas have received post exposure rabies treatment due to potential exposure to a rabid animal and two human deaths have been attributed to this virus strain. The Texas …

Use Of The Modified Australian Crow Trap For The Control Of Depredating Birds In Sonoma County, Pierre Gadd Jr

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

The Modified Australian Crow (MAC) trap to control depredating birds can be a very humane, target species specific and effective bird control tool. Pertinent topics will include legal status, timing, and care of trapped birds. The following are also discussed: species identification, trap construction, and placement and humane euthanasia methods.

Leg Injuries To Coyotes Captured In Standard And Modified Soft Catch® Traps, Kenneth S. Gruver, Robert L. Phillips, Elizabeth S. Williams

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 17th (1996)

Leg injuries of coyotes (Canis latrans) captured in standard No. 3 Soft Catch traps were compared with those captured in the same trap type modified with two additional coil springs. One hundred thirteen coyotes were trapped in southern California in conjunction with livestock predator control operations, 53 in standard traps, and 60 in modified traps. Observed injuries were similar in both trap types. The most frequent injuries were edematous hemorrhages and small cutaneous lacerations. Injuries, such as joint luxations and bone fractures, were noted more frequently for coyotes trapped in standard Soft Catch traps.