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Updated: Jun 25, 2026

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Published on: February 2, 2024
Real-life efficiency of urine source separation
L Rossi1, J Lienert, T A Larsen
1Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), ENAC ISTE ECOL, Station 2, Lausanne, Switzerland. luca.rossi@epfl.ch
Urine source separation using NoMix technology shows potential for wastewater management. Studies reveal recovery rates up to 75%, highlighting areas for improvement in toilet flushing and piping systems.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Wastewater Treatment Technologies
- Resource Recovery
Background:
- Urine source separation (NoMix technology) is an emerging approach for sustainable wastewater management.
- Implementing NoMix technology in households and research institutes is crucial for its advancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance and optimize the NoMix technology for urine source separation.
- To gather data on toilet usage patterns, flushing behavior, and urine recovery rates.
Main Methods:
- One-year monitoring of four Swiss households and the Eawag research institute.
- Measurement of toilet usage frequency, flushing behavior, and urine recovery volumes.
- Analysis of nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in recovered urine.
Main Results:
- Average urine recovery rates estimated at 70-75% in households, indicating potential for improvement.
- Significant variation in flushing behavior (30-85% small flushes) and urine recovery per flush (138-309 ml).
- Suspected nitrogen losses within the extended urine piping system.
Conclusions:
- The study provides essential data for dimensioning future urine source separation applications.
- Identified areas for technical and behavioral improvements to enhance urine recovery efficiency.
- Flushing patterns align with typical nitrogen loading in wastewater treatment plants, suggesting integration potential.
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