Effects of toxic pollutants on indicator germs in large-scale solid-waste ecosystems.

A report is given on investigations with large-scale refuse lysimeters. It is demonstrated how pathogenic bacteria behave after implantation into such artificial ecosystems. The influence of toxic chemicals such as cyanides, phenols, heavy metals, and pesticides was of particular interest. The investigations described relate to the practical situation within different types of landfills to which toxic pollutants have been added by various techniques. The results obtained with the aid of suitable indicator bacteria do not agree completely with those obtained in small-scale investigations.