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Excess sludge reduction by biological way: from experimental experience to a real full scale application
C Troiani1, A L Eusebi, P Battistoni
1Department of Hydraulic, Roads, Environment and Chemistry, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche, 60100 Ancona, Italy.
Bioresource Technology
|September 28, 2011
Summary
This study explored a biological process with alternating oxic and anoxic phases to reduce waste sludge in wastewater treatment. The method successfully minimized sludge production, offering a sustainable solution for municipal facilities.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Microbiology
- Wastewater Treatment
Background:
- Municipal wastewater treatment generates significant waste sludge.
- Sludge disposal presents environmental and economic challenges.
- Optimizing biological treatment processes can mitigate sludge production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a biological process utilizing alternating oxic and anoxic phases for waste sludge minimization.
- To assess the effectiveness of this process in a full-scale municipal wastewater treatment plant.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a biological process with alternating oxic and anoxic phases in a wastewater treatment plant.
- Control of operational parameters including recycle flow rate and hydraulic retention time (HRT).
- Monitoring of oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) ranges and mass balance calculations.
Main Results:
- The biological process demonstrated a significant reduction in waste sludge production.
- An observed growth yield of 0.09 kg Total Volatile Solids (TVS) per kg Chemical Oxygen Demand removed (CODr) was determined.
- Heterotrophic yield values from batch tests correlated with sludge reduction and energy uncoupling.
Conclusions:
- The biological process effectively minimizes waste sludge production in municipal wastewater treatment.
- The observed growth yield and heterotrophic yield are key indicators for sludge reduction efficiency.
- This approach offers a promising strategy for sustainable wastewater management.
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