COMPLETION OF BU AND SEPARATION FEASIBILITY EVALUATION

ERDC TN-DOER-C15

July 2000

method that uses information from secondary variables, which may be correlated with the primary

variable, to improve estimates. An example of this might be the use of grain size as the secondary

variable to improved estimates of contaminant concentration, the primary variable.

The assistance of a statistician will undoubtedly be helpful in designing a sampling plan that will

produce data suitable for statistical analysis and estimating procedures. This note presents only a

general discussion of the procedures and major considerations; a thorough familiarity with and

understanding of the procedures by the practitioner is warranted.

COMPLETION OF BU AND SEPARATION FEASIBILITY EVALUATION: Once a reliable

estimate of MRP has been developed, the information can be used in completing the evaluation of

BU and separation feasibility. If recovery potential matches the requirements for the BU applica-

tions under consideration, and separation is required, appropriate operational methods or equipment

for separation is selected. A cost analysis can then be performed and the final decision on separation

feasibility made. Procedures for equipment selection and cost estimating are described in Olin et

al. (1999). If separation is not required, a more straightforward cost benefit analysis can be

conducted.

CONCLUSIONS: Development of a reuse plan for a CDF or dredging project will require a

multistep approach incorporating existing data, practical and/or statistical sampling approaches, and

identification of local BU opportunities and requirements. Little field verification is presently

available regarding the efficacy of one sampling approach over another in characterizing the

distribution of materials in a CDF. As further field experience is gained, refinements can likely be

made that will result in an optimal approach and greater confidence in the results. Physical separation

is only one of several approaches that can be taken to produce material suitable for various BUs.

Separation should be evaluated together with other alternatives to determine the most suitable

approach for a given site.

POINTS OF CONTACT: For additional information, contact the author, Trudy J. Olin-Estes

(601-634-2125, olint@wes.army.mil) or the Program Manager of the Dredging Operations and

Environmental Research Program, Dr. Robert M. Engler (601-634-3624, englerr@wes.army.mil).

This technical note should be cited as follows:

Olin-Estes, T. J. (2000). "Determining recovery potential of dredged material for

beneficial use Site characterization: Statistical approach," DOER Technical Notes

Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-C15), U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development

Center, Vicksburg, MS. www.wes.army.mil/el/dots/doer