Simultaneous nitrification-denitrification by phosphate accumulating microorganisms
Shivani Shukla1, Ankita Rajta1, Hema Setia1
1Department of Biotechnology, University Institute of Engineering and Technology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India.
World Journal of Microbiology & Biotechnology
|September 14, 2020
Summary
Biological methods offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for removing nitrogen and phosphorous pollutants from wastewater. Utilizing microorganisms, especially immobilized ones, enhances efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Water Treatment Technologies
- Bioremediation
Background:
- Nitrogen and phosphorous are significant inorganic water pollutants, impacting environmental and health conditions.
- Conventional physical and chemical pollutant removal methods are costly and environmentally harsh.
- Biological removal offers a sustainable, side-effect-free alternative for pollutant remediation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the advantages of biological methods for removing nitrogen and phosphorous from wastewater.
- To emphasize the role of microorganisms in simultaneous nutrient removal.
- To explore the potential of immobilized organisms for enhanced pollutant sequestration.
Main Methods:
- Identification and utilization of microorganisms for simultaneous heterotrophic nitrification and aerobic denitrification.
- Employing phosphorous accumulating organisms for dual nutrient removal.
- Investigating the application of immobilized microbial systems for improved stability and efficiency.
Main Results:
- Microorganisms can effectively convert ammonium (NH4+) to dinitrogen (N2), simplifying nitrogen sequestration.
- Phosphorous accumulating organisms provide economic benefits by simultaneously removing nitrogen and phosphorous.
- Immobilized organisms show potential for enhancing system stability and pollutant removal efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Biological treatment using specialized microorganisms is a promising approach for wastewater nutrient management.
- Further research into low-cost substrates and diverse microbial consortia is needed to optimize total contaminant eradication.
- Immobilized microbial systems warrant further investigation for efficient and stable wastewater treatment.
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