RISKS OF SUSTAINING THE CURRENT MODEL OF COAL COMBUSTION PRODUCT UTILIZATION ON RUSSIAN THERMAL POWER PLANTS

Abstract

To assess the probability and potential scale of risks associated with sustaining the current model of coal combustion product (CCP) utilization on Russian thermal power plants. This study adopts a qualitative approach. A panel comprising twenty experts was formed. Experts cores were derived using the Saaty paired comparison matrix. The results of the study indicate that environmental, social and technological risks are among the most significant. The largest scale of effects can be expected from the potential increase in the negative effects from coal ash landfill to ground waters and the distribution of small-sized ash-slag particles as a source of air pollution. Previous studies in Russia have largely dealt with technical aspects of CCP recycling or their potential application areas. However, the issues of the potential aftermath of low CCP utilization volume in Russia have not been properly assessed in prior research.