The performance of extraction solvents, including organic and inorganic solvents, for organic carbon extraction from municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) bottom ash was evaluated. The total carbon (TC) extracted was used to ascertain the efficiency of extraction solvents and the reduction of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) leaching potential was used to evaluate the capacity of solvents to minimize environmental impacts of MSWI bottom ash over short- and long-term considerations in landfill sites. Extract final pH value was a prominent parameter affecting TC extraction. The higher efficiency was obtained at the lower extract final pH and acid or neutral condition was necessary to achieve approximately 30% of TC extraction from bottom ash. On the basis of the results of TC extraction, the efficiency of organic carbon reduction was evaluated using organic carbon leaching potential. Hydrochloric acid was the best solvent to extract organic carbon in controlled pH conditions. Hydrochloric acid reduced the organic carbon leaching potential of MSWI bottom ash by about 68% at neutral leaching pH. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.