Organohalogen Compounds in Sewage Sludges and Their Determination as Cumulative Parameters

Abstract

Since 1983, when the German Sewage Sludge Regulations came into force resulting in limitations of heavy metals contents in sludges and soils, vast experience has been gained. In general, there was an impetus to better soil protection because of a wider use of the Regulations' guide/limit values. In the meantime, questions of organic substances in sludge play a dominant role in discussions about advantages/disadvantages of the agricultural use of sludges. Halogenated organic compounds among other substances are of great interest. With regard to this, results of investigations in the Federal Republic of Germany are dealt with, covering determinations of cumulative parameters in about 170 samples of sludge which have been used in agriculture. These results are discussed with a view to future limitations of organic substances in sludges, as a step towards a careful soil protection in coming years.

Key Words:

• sewage sludge analysis
• organohalogen compounds
• cumulative parameters
• AOX