Textile dye biodecolourization and ammonium removal over nitrite in aerobic granular sludge sequencing batch reactors

Biodecolourization of azo dye and removal of ammonium by aerobic granular sludge (AGS) was investigated under different growth conditions. AGS not previously exposed to azo dye was able to effectively decolourize azo dye under anaerobic and microaerophilic conditions. Azo dye, total organic carbon and ammoniacal nitrogen removal efficiencies of 89-100%, 79-95% and 92-100%, respectively, were achieved in the AGS reactor operated for 80days under microaerophilic conditions. Removal of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus was not impacted by azo dye loading. Azo dye, organic carbon and ammonium were majorly removed in the anoxic period wherein bulk dissolved oxygen was ranged from 0.5 and <0.08mgL^-1. Removal of 60mgL^-1 NH₄⁺-N was associated only with smaller amounts of nitrite build-up (∼5mgL^-1 NO₂^--N) and negligible nitrate concentrations. Profiles of nitrogen compounds in individual sequencing batch reactor cycles supported the occurrence of ammonium removal over nitrite pathway. Bacterial community analysis showed enrichment of specific microorganisms capable of decolourizing azo dyes in the dye-decolourizing AGS. Dye decolourization and nutrient removal by AGS under microaerophilic conditions is a novel finding and can be further developed for treating textile wastewaters onsite or after dilution with sewage.