Advanced spectroscopic speciation of hazardous metals in waste incineration ashes

Research Project, 2018 – 2019

Synchrotron based X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), being element specific and sensitive to low molar concentrations (down to 1 ppm), is a method of choice for identifying the chemical speciation of the valuable or toxic trace metals in complex matrices such as ash. The monitoring of chemical speciation of metals in ash is crucial for indications of the risk of leaching and thus for enabling a proper ash recycling (or disposal). It is also important for evaluation of the possibility of recycling metals from the ash. The purpose of the project is to investigate and demonstrate the potential of using XAS for determining the speciation of trace metals in ash from waste incineration plants. The ultimate goal of the project will be to develop precise routine analysis methods for high throughput measurements at the BALDER beamline (MAX IV) of ash-samples, and in the long run, other environmental-related samples.