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Sludge reduction and volatile fatty acid recovery using microwave advanced oxidation process
Ping H Liao1, K Victor Lo, Winnie I Chan
1Department of Civil Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Summary
This study shows that a microwave-enhanced advanced oxidation process using hydrogen peroxide and sulfuric acid can effectively reduce sewage sludge solids. Controlling chemical additions helps solubilize sludge and conserve carbon content.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Water Treatment Technologies
Background:
- Sewage sludge presents a significant disposal challenge due to its volume and organic content.
- Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) offer potential for sludge treatment and resource recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of a combined microwave-hydrogen peroxide-sulfuric acid enhanced advanced oxidation process (MW-H(2)O(2)-H(+)-AOP) for reducing suspended solids in sewage sludge.
- To analyze the impact of hydrogen peroxide and sulfuric acid concentrations on sludge solubilization and organic compound formation.
Main Methods:
- Sewage sludge was treated using a combined microwave irradiation, hydrogen peroxide, and sulfuric acid advanced oxidation process.
- Soluble Chemical Oxygen Demand (SCOD), acetic acid, and Volatile Fatty Acids (VFAs) were quantified to assess treatment effectiveness.
Main Results:
- The MW-H(2)O(2)-H(+)-AOP effectively reduced suspended solids in sewage sludge.
- Higher hydrogen peroxide volumes favored solids destruction and carbon content conservation.
- Increased inorganic acid concentrations led to higher Volatile Fatty Acid (VFA) concentrations.
- Over 96% of total COD was in soluble form, with acetic acid comprising up to 25% of SCOD.
- Inorganic acid stabilized SCOD, preventing CO2 formation and reducing overall COD.
Conclusions:
- The MW-H(2)O(2)-H(+)-AOP is a viable method for sludge mass reduction and solubilization.
- Process parameters (H(2)O(2) and acid dosage) can be optimized to control sludge treatment outcomes.
- This AOP approach offers potential for managing sewage sludge more effectively.
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