Development of a mathematical model of Multiple Linear Regression, with Factor Analysis, to predict the settlement of a landfill in Southern Brazil

Several researches have been developed, since the 1970s, to determine the behavior of landfills. An example of these studies is the application of mathematical models to predict settlements. This work aimed to develop a mathematical model for prediction of settlements, applied to the landfill in the city of São Leopoldo - RS, Brazil, managed by the Companhia Riograndense de Valorização de Residuos (CRVR). A mathematical model was developed to predict the landfill settlements under study, by means of a Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) statistical analysis, including Factor Analysis by the Principal Components method, via Varimax Rotation. The model used the CRVR leachate monitoring parameters, dated from 2014 to 2018, and presented an adherence of 80% to the actual settlement data. It was found that the use of settlement prediction models, through MLR analysis, is adequate for estimating the lifecycle of landfills, as long as some adjustments are made in monitoring the data (frequency of monitoring and continuous monitoring of parameters). It must also be considered that each landfill has its particularities, being necessary a case-by-case analysis in order to make sure that the model meets the landfill under study.