Title

A technical assessment of topsoil production from dredged material

Authors

Colm Sheehan, Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, Munster Technological University, Bishopstown Campus, Cork, IrelandFollow
Joseph R. Harrington, School of Building & Civil Engineering, Munster Technological University, Bishopstown Campus, Cork, IrelandFollow
J. D. Murphy, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland

Document Type

Article

Disciplines

Civil and Environmental Engineering | Engineering

Publication Details

Resources, Conservation and Recycling

Volume 54, Issue 12, Pages 1377-1385

Abstract

This paper presents an investigation into the technical feasibility of producing manufactured topsoil from dredged material from the Port of Waterford, Ireland. A survey of the local topsoil market was undertaken yielding information on topsoil cost, volume of material used annually and the concerns of the users regarding dredged material. The dredged material was analysed for its physical, chemical and nutrient characteristics. Fourteen different dredge material mixes were developed with two mixes of established topsoil for testing and growth trials. Dewatering and desalination of the mixes was undertaken with continuous monitoring. pH adjustment and organic amelioration, from household organic waste, was analysed. Growth trials were undertaken to compare the growth performance of the dredged material mixes with the established sources available on the marketplace. The optimal mix identified was a 60% coarse, 40% fine mix with organic amelioration to 6% and pH adjustment to 6.75. The treatment process improved both the germination rate and the overall biomass production. The creation of manufactured topsoil from dredge material was found to be technically viable.

Recommended Citation

C. Sheehan, J. Harrington, J.D. Murphy, A technical assessment of topsoil production from dredged material, Resources, Conservation and Recycling, Volume 54, Issue 12, 2010, Pages 1377-1385, 10.1016/j.resconrec.2010.05.012.