In China. the generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration solid residues is expected to increase significantly in the future. Because of ever-increasing generation rates and the concentrations of potentially hazardous heavy metals, which may endanger the ambient environment. these solid residues are of particular concern. Thus, such issues have necessitated the study of the characterization of these solid residues. A detailed characterization of five samples of different type of ashes, collected from two types of MSW incinerators located in Shenzhen (southern China), was carried out in terms of chemical composition, morphology, mineralogy and leaching behavior. Results of chemical analysis and leaching tests suggest that the MSW incineration fly ash must be classified as hazardous waste and should be properly managed. Therefore. the results of this characterization would contribute to the development of adequate waste management strategies. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.