Behaviour mechanisms and correlation between lead (Pb) and its isotope 210Pb in industrial residue as an indicator for waste characterization

ABSTRACTTotal lead and 210Pb concentrations were determined in various ash fractions (collected from two of the world’s largest oil shale-fired power plants) by inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry (ICP-MS) and gamma spectrometry. Results show a clear increase in total lead (values up to 193 ppm in filter ashes) and 210Pb (values up to 148 Bq kg−1 in filter ashes) concentrations in the ash fractions from the furnace towards the filter ashes. A strong positive linear correlation (Pearson’s bivariate correlation remained between 0.86 and 0.99) was determined between total lead concentration (ppm) and 210Pb activity concentration (Bq kg−1) within all the boilers under observation. The constant concentration ratio between total lead and 210Pb remained around one (with minor exceptions), independent of the sampling location and the used combustion technology. The determined concentration ratio can be applicable as an indicative tool in waste material characterization. It also provides multiple addition...