WK95649 - New Test Method for Determination of Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) in Soils and Sediments by Polarized Light Microscopy

Work Item

ASTM WK95649

New Test Method for Determination of Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) in Soils and Sediments by Polarized Light Microscopy

1. Scope

The objective is to develop a standard using Polarized Light Microscopy for measuring coal combustion residuals (CCR) materials is soils and sediments. CCR Materials include fly ash, coal ash, boiler slag, and flue gas desulfurization solids. There are several laboratories currently with internal procedures using this PLM approach for fly and coal ash (only) that provide quantitative measurement in soils and solids. The approach has been accepted by state regulators. The objective is to standardize this for the obvious advantages of a single approach with data (laboratory studies) to support the use.

Keywords

Coal Combustion Residuals; Polarized Light Microscopy; Soil; Sediment

Rationale

The need for a recognized standard comes from the US EPA Legacy CCR Surface Impoundments(SI) and CCR Management Units (CCMU) Final Rule found at: Final Rule - Legacy Coal Combustion Residuals Surface Impoundments and CCR Management Units | US EPA

Details

Developed by Subcommittee: D34.01.06

Committee: D34

Staff Manager: James Morgan

Work Item Status

Date Initiated: 07-08-2025

Technical Contact: David Gratson