Comparison of levels of trace elements extracted from fly ash and levels found in effluent waters from a coal-fired power plant

A correlation has been sought between the extractability of trace elements from electrostatic precipitator ash at a power plant in New Mexico, and their levels in effluent waters. Nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, citric acid, redistilled water and ammonium hydroxide were used as extractants. A positive correlation existed between those elements most extractable by water and acid, and those whose level is highest in effluent waters (arsenic, boron, fluorine, molybdenum and selenium).