CEN/TC 292/WG 6 - Basic characterization tests for leaching behviour

This document is applicable for determining the leaching behaviour of monolithic wastes under dynamic conditions. The test is performed under fixed experimental conditions in this document. This test is aimed at determining the release as a function of time of inorganic constituents from a monolithic waste, when it is put into contact with an aqueous solution (leachant).
This Dynamic Monolithic Leaching Test (DMLT) is a parameter specific test as specified in EN 12920 and is therefore not aimed at simulating real situations. The application of this test method alone is not sufficient for the determination of the detailed leaching behaviour of a monolithic waste under specified conditions.
In the framework of EN 12920 and in combination with additional chemical information, the test results are used to identify the leaching mechanisms and their relative importance. The intrinsic properties can be used to predict the release of constituents at a given time frame, in order to assess the leaching behaviour of monolithic waste materials, placed in different situations or scenarios (including disposal and recycling scenarios).
The test method applies to regularly shaped test portions of monolithic wastes with minimum dimensions of
40 mm in all directions, that are assumed to maintain their integrity over a time frame relevant for the considered scenario. The test method applies to test portions for which the geometric surface area can be determined with the help of simple geometric equations. The test method applies to low permeable monolithic materials.
NOTE 1   If, in order to comply with the requirements of regular shape, the test portion is prepared by cutting or coring, then new surfaces are exposed which can lead to change(s) in leaching properties. On the other hand if the test portion is prepared by moulding, the surface will be dependent to the type of mould and the conditions of storage. If the intention is to evaluate the behaviour of the material core, the

This document specifies a test method for the determination of the influence of pH on the leachability of inorganic constituents from a waste material. Equilibrium condition as defined in the document is established by continuous adjustment of the pH by addition of acid or base to reach desired pH values. This test method produces eluates, which are subsequently characterized physically and chemically.
This document is a parameter specific test as specified in EN 12920. The application of this test method alone is not sufficient for the determination of the detailed leaching behaviour of a waste under specified conditions.
NOTE   This generally requires the application of several test methods, behavioural modelling and model validation as specified in EN 12920.

This Technical Specification is applicable to determine the influence of pH on the leachability of inorganic constituents from a waste material. Equilibrium condition as defined in the standard is established by addition of pre-determined amounts of acid or base to reach desired end pH values. This test method produces eluates, which are subsequently characterized physically and chemically.
This Technical Specification is a parameter specific test as specified in ENV 12920. The application of this test method alone is not sufficient for the determination of the detailed leaching behaviour of a waste under specified conditions.
NOTE   This generally requires the application of several test methods, behavioural modelling and model validation as specified in ENV 12920.

This standard specifies a methodology for the determination of the leaching behaviour of waste under specified conditions (i.e. for a specified scenario including a specified time frame) in order to provide a solution to a defined problem. This applies to disposal and recovery scenarios.
NOTE   Recovery is the term defined in the European waste acts [1,3]. It includes re-use and recycling.
The external conditions which have a direct influence on the release of constituents from waste are considered. Migration of constituents leached from the disposal or the recovery site into the surrounding environment is not considered. Also the assessment of toxicity to humans or ecological impacts on flora and fauna as a secondary effect after release of constituents from the waste is not considered.
NOTE   Present knowledge of highly complex scenarios and wastes may limit the ability to provide a clear solution to a defined problem. An example may be the land filling of complex mixtures of wastes.