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Nutrient removal and sludge production in the coagulation-flocculation process
M I Aguilar1, J Sáez, M Lloréns
1Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Murcia, Spain.
Water Research
|July 31, 2002
Summary
This study investigated nutrient removal and sludge reduction in slaughterhouse wastewater using coagulation-flocculation. Coagulant aids significantly decreased sludge volume while achieving high phosphorus removal.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Treatment Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Slaughterhouse effluent presents significant environmental challenges due to high nutrient loads.
- Effective wastewater treatment is crucial to mitigate pollution and comply with environmental regulations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of different coagulants and coagulant aids in nutrient removal from slaughterhouse wastewater.
- To assess the impact of these agents on sludge production.
Main Methods:
- Coagulation-flocculation process optimization using ferric sulfate, aluminum sulfate, and polyaluminium chloride.
- Investigation of inorganic and synthetic polyelectrolyte coagulant aids.
- Performance measurement of nutrient removal (phosphorus, ammonia nitrogen, albuminoid nitrogen) and sludge volume reduction.
Main Results:
- Near-complete removal of orthophosphate (approx. 100%) and high total phosphorus removal (98.93-99.90%).
- Limited removal of ammonia nitrogen, but significant albuminoid nitrogen removal (73.9-88.77%).
- Coagulant aids reduced sludge volume by up to 41.6%.
Conclusions:
- Coagulation-flocculation is highly effective for phosphorus removal from slaughterhouse effluent.
- Coagulant aids are beneficial for minimizing sludge production during wastewater treatment.
- Further research may be needed to improve ammonia nitrogen removal efficiency.