TITLE: Chemical Testing of Sulphide Levels in Trade Waste Discharge
INSTITUTION: Coogee Energy, 171-173 Fitzgerald Rd. Laverton North, VIC,
3026 Australia
SUPERVISOR: Mr. Douglas Greig, Production Superintendent
RESEARCH FOCUS
Examining the impact of waste on Melbourne’s sewage and water systems
RESEARCH BACKGROUND
Coogee Energy discharges trade waste into the sewer under an agreement with City
West Water. This agreement sets allowable discharge volumes, rates, temperatures
and contaminants. Coogee’s chemical laboratory tests every discharge for pH and
methanol and ethanol content, with further testing carried out by consultant
laboratories. These laboratories carry out metals testing, BOD, and a range of
chemical compounds. The chemical compound of interest in this project is sulphide,
and a trade waste sample is sent out every six weeks for a sulphide test. The expected
range is less than 1 mg/litre expressed as S.
RESEARCH PROJECT PROPOSAL
The objective of this mini-project is to develop a method for the testing of sulphide
concentrations in Coogee’s trade waste discharge to sewer. The test method must be
able to gain NATA endorsement, and detect sulphide in the range of 0 to 3 mg/litre.
Resources:
-
NATA accreditation requirements.
City West Water, Trade Waste Agreement.
Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Waste Water,
20th Edition (1998).
Water Analysis Handbook- Hach 3rd Edition.
Betz DR2000 Photometer.
Outcome: Completion of this project will;
-
Give Coogee Energy a suitable method for the testing of trade
waste and a possible cost saving.
Give the student an insight into NATA requirements, method
development, method verification, trade waste agreements and
laboratory testing programs.
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: One.
PLACEMENT
This mini-research project is based on-site within the Coogee Energy building in
Laverton North. It can be undertaken either on a full-time or part-time basis. The
project can begin immediately after the 2013 semester two exams, if that suits a
particular student.
The ideal student will be studying chemistry and majoring in the field of analytical
chemistry. He or she should have an interest in QC laboratory and method
development. The per diem allowance for travel and other expenses associated with
undertaking the placement is $40 per 8-hour day (payable by Coogee Energy).
Successful completion of the placement confers eligibility for the Monash INV1000
Passport unit.
Applications are required by October 4th. Applications should be directed to Dr.
Theo Papakonstantinou – email theo.papakonstantinou@monash.edu on the
Monash University Clayton campus, or call (03) 9905 9482 or 0412 075 229.