Bio-reactive landfill covers: An inexpensive approach to mitigate methane emissions

Methane is one of two primary gases produced from the decomposition of landfill waste. Studies have been directed to collection and mitigation of methane gas. In small landfills, collection is not an economically feasible solution. Bio-cover placement is an inexpensive approach to mitigating methane emissions. The enhancing of oxidation processes by placement of bio-covers will reduce emissions even while gas extraction is employed and improve aesthetic quality of solid waste facilities.; The overall objective of the research is to mitigate methane emissions from landfills. To reach this objective, a test site was selected to evaluate the effects of compost placement over a closed landfill. The static chamber technique was used to estimate methane emissions and the stable isotope tracing method was used to determine oxidation rates. Hot spots were identified in the grid area and emissions at these spots were analyzed more in detail. Results obtained during the first year of the study are presented in this thesis. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...