Hazardous elements in aqueous leachates of coal fly ash around thermal power plants disposal area

Abstract

The fossils fuels are main resources of energy worldwide. Huge production of coal fly ash creates water and air pollution. Coal fly ash generally contains trace toxic metals like Ni, Hg, As, Cr, Cd, Ba, Mn, and Pb etc., so coal fly ash is considered as an environmental hazard worldwide. These toxic elements leached from coal fly ash into soil and water which contaminate soil, ground water and other water sources. In present paper is the study of water samples collected from different locations near fly ash disposal area. We found that the water samples contain hazardous trace metals in concentration higher than the permissible limits of drinking water standard. Coal fly ash and other constituents which are generated from coal can create harmful effect on environment, society, health and life. A better method is required to disposal of coal fly ash generated from thermal power plant in India to stop contamination of environment as it is a matter of great concern to human health.