Heavy metal and volatile organic chemical removal and treatment in on-site wastewater infiltration systems. I. Catch basins and septic tanks

Samples collected between July 1991 and August 1992 from catch basins and septic tanks at 4 motor vehicle service station sites in Oneida, Portage, Columbia and Waukesha all in Wis., were analysed for cadmium, chromium and lead and were scanned for volatile organic compounds (VOC). Maximal concentrations of cadmium, chromium and lead were 0.347, 1.94 and 7.7 mg per litre, respectively. The highest concentrations were found in sludge samples from septic tanks. VOC concentrations varied between 1.0 and 15,800 ug per litre and were maximal in catch basin wastewater and septic tank sludge. Acetone, ethylbenzene, toluene and xylenes were the most common VOC and were present at all locations. Catch basins and septic tanks were inefficient treatments for the contaminants examined. (see also following abstract).