Sludge Characteristics and Behavior : Springer : 9789024728312 : 9024728312 : 30 Apr 1983 : As requirements for high quality wastewater effluent increase, quantities of sludge generated also increase. Contaminants removed from wastewater concentrate in the sludge and can represent serious environmental insult and health effects if not properly managed. The cost of sludge handling can be estimated to constitute as much as 50% of the cost of wastewater treatment. If properly managed, however, sludge may be considered a resource of value. Unfortunately, very little attention in the scientific commu­ nity has been given the sludge dilemma either in research or in practice. Sludge properties are presently characterized in various ways which do not permit rational design and operation of sludge management systems. The need for basic information regarding sludge properties and behavior was the impetus for a NATO Advanced Study Institute. The NATO Advanced Study Institute entitled "Sludge Char