Importance

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Abstract

An environmentally acceptable disposal site has at least one vapor break extending through a pile of synthetic fuel tailings, spent catalyst, spent ore, and/or other waste material. The vapor breaks can be permeable seams or columns of porous rocky overburden and/or a pneumatic pipeline. Circulation of air through the vapor breaks can be enhanced by air blowers, fans, or other force air inducers. The top and sides of the pile are covered with top soil and vegetated with trees, shrubbery, and grass to minimize erosion and blowing of the tailings as well as to provide a pleasing aesthetic appearance. The tailings preferably comprise spent oil shale which has been combusted, cooled, and moisturized. Desirably, the disposal site is built and operated in conjunction with a surface retort, combustor, heat recovery unit (cooler), and associated equipment.

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First Claim