Zero-liquid discharge technologies for desulfurization wastewater: A review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Water Treatment Technologies
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Growing water scarcity and pollution necessitate advanced wastewater treatment solutions.
• Desulfurization wastewater presents unique challenges due to its high salt content and contaminants.
• Zero-Liquid Discharge (ZLD) is emerging as a critical strategy for sustainable water management in industrial processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review Zero-Liquid Discharge (ZLD) technologies for desulfurization wastewater treatment in China.
• To evaluate the performance, benefits, and drawbacks of various ZLD approaches.
• To focus on the application and limitations of bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED) in treating high-salt wastewater.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive review of existing ZLD technologies, including pretreatment, concentration, and solidification methods.
• In-depth analysis of membrane-based technologies, particularly bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED).
• Case studies of ZLD implementation in China and economic viability assessments.

Main Results:

• Membrane-based technologies, especially BMED, are effective for wastewater recycling in ZLD systems.
• BMED demonstrates potential for treating desulfurization and high-salt wastewater, despite identified limitations.
• Several ZLD cases in China highlight the growing adoption and economic feasibility of these technologies.

Conclusions:

• Zero-Liquid Discharge (ZLD) is poised to become a dominant trend in desulfurization wastewater management.
• Further research into cost-effective and high-efficiency materials and technologies is essential for advancing ZLD.
• BMED offers a promising pathway for sustainable wastewater treatment, with ongoing efforts to overcome its challenges.