Characterization of Tire-Derived Aggregate for Septic Field Applications

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Ultimate disposal of used vehicle tires continues to be a major challenge around the world. On average, Manitoba produces about 1.4 million tires per year, which are being recycled by two recycling companies including OTR Recycling Corp. Despite the various products made from recycled tire, 20% of used tires cannot be recycled due to the limited applications which they can be used. Therefore, OTR Recycling Corp. is actively looking for new applications. One potential application is use as aggregate for septic fields. However, at present time, there are no reported studies available on tire derived aggregate (TDA) performance as aggregate in septic fields in the areas with low temperature conditions such as Manitoba and other parts of Canada. The regulatory agency of Manitoba has concerns about the possible adverse effects, if any, from using tires in the leaching field systems. The two primary concerns are: 1) TDA might leach contaminant which can affect groundwater quality, and 2) whether TDA can perform as well as a conventional leaching field system. The goal is, therefore, to address those concerns by collaborating with Dr. Yuan at the University of Manitoba to conduct lab scale experiments to answer leaching questions and follow up this up with a field-scale study to evaluate TDA as a replacement for natural aggregate in the cold Canadian environment. The primary goal of this research is to characterize and quantify the leachate composition in aquatic environments that are expected to be encountered during septic field application. This study will provide primary valuable information on the suitability of TDA to act as a substitute for rock aggregate in a leach field in Canada. This information is essential for the environmental regulatory body to make a decision. It is also important for the tire recyclers who are seeking a new market for TDA. In addition to the economic benefit, TDA benefits the environment twofold by eliminating the need to excavate rock and the beneficial reuse of what was considered a waste.