Physicochemical Properties, Heavy Metal Contamination, and Resource Recovery Potential of Petroleum Sludge in Indonesia

Siska Nuri Fadilah; Wahyu Setiawan; Pratama Setiawan; Aninda Putri; Fakhili Gulo

doi:10.22146/ijc.110376

Physicochemical Properties, Heavy Metal Contamination, and Resource Recovery Potential of Petroleum Sludge in Indonesia

https://doi.org/10.22146/ijc.110376

Siska Nuri Fadilah⁽¹⁾, Wahyu Setiawan⁽²⁾, Pratama Setiawan⁽³⁾, Aninda Putri⁽⁴⁾, Fakhili Gulo^(5*)

(1) Department of Environmental Science, Postgraduate Program, Universitas Sriwijaya, Jl. Padang Selasa No. 524, Palembang 30139, Indonesia
(2) Department of Environmental Science, Postgraduate Program, Universitas Sriwijaya, Jl. Padang Selasa No. 524, Palembang 30139, Indonesia
(3) Study Program of Chemistry Education, Universitas Sriwijaya, Jl. Palembang Prabumulih Km. 32, Ogan Ilir 30662, Indonesia
(4) Study Program of Chemistry Education, Universitas Sriwijaya, Jl. Palembang Prabumulih Km. 32, Ogan Ilir 30662, Indonesia
(5) Department of Environmental Science, Postgraduate Program, Universitas Sriwijaya, Jl. Padang Selasa No. 524, Palembang 30139, Indonesia
(*) Corresponding Author

Abstract

Petroleum sludge (PS) is a hazardous waste rich in hydrocarbons and heavy metals, posing significant risks to the environment. Although numerous studies have been conducted globally, a comprehensive characterization of PS originating from Indonesia remains scarce. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a thorough physicochemical characterization, environmental pollution assessment, and sustainable utilization potential evaluation of PS. The results revealed that the sludge contains a high oil content (15.56%), an extremely high COD level, and is dominated by iron as a heavy metal (4,585.67 mg/L). The TCLP analysis showed that Pb exceeded the regulatory threshold, indicating a significant leaching potential and toxicity risk. BET analysis indicated a mesoporous structure with a specific surface area of 4.73 m²/g, suggesting its potential use as an adsorbent or catalyst support. The high elemental composition of carbon (25.05%), hydrogen (3.10%), and calorific value (3,418 kcal/kg) further highlights its potential for thermochemical conversions such as pyrolysis or gasification. These findings provide a scientific foundation for PS management in Indonesia and highlight its potential conversion into value-added resources, thereby supporting circular economy strategies and sustainable development goals.

Keywords

environmental; heavy metals; petroleum sludge; recovery; hazardous waste

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22146/ijc.110376