Which of the following substances are typically excluded by Pretreatment Standards?

The correct choice highlights that corrosive and explosive substances are typically excluded by Pretreatment Standards because these materials pose significant hazards during wastewater treatment processes. Pretreatment Standards are designed to prevent the introduction of harmful wastes that can disrupt the operations of a treatment facility or pose risks to both the workers and the environment.

Corrosive substances can damage equipment and infrastructure, leading to costly repairs and safety concerns. Similarly, explosive substances present immediate dangers, such as the risk of explosions or fires during handling and processing. Because of these risks, regulations ensure that such hazardous materials are not allowed into treatment systems.

In contrast, mineral-based fertilizers, municipal solid waste, and paper and cardboard products, while they may present their own set of challenges, do not carry the same level of inherent danger associated with corrosive and explosive substances and often fall under different regulatory frameworks. These materials can typically be managed within standard treatment processes with appropriate controls in place.