Using molecular weight-based fluorescent detector to characterize dissolved effluent organic matter in oxidation...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Water Treatment Engineering
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Microalgae are used to improve wastewater quality but can release organic matter.
• Understanding dissolved organic matter (DOM) characteristics is crucial for effective wastewater treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate DOM characteristics derived from algae and bacteria in oxidation ditches.
• Compare DOM profiles with and without microalgae (Spirulina platensis, Chlorella vulgaris).

Main Methods:

• Oxidation ditch experiments with different microalgae combinations.
• Fluorescence spectroscopy to analyze DOM components.
• Molecular weight cut-offs (MWCOs) fractionation of DOM.

Main Results:

• Treated effluent showed increased aromaticity and hydrophobicity.
• Fluorescence spectroscopy identified protein-like and soluble microbial product-like components.
• Algal-bacterial symbiosis produced humic and fulvic acids with higher MWCOs.

Conclusions:

• Algal-bacterial symbiosis significantly impacts DOM quality and quantity in oxidation ditches.
• Microalgae influence the formation of specific DOM fractions.
• Wastewater treatment efficiency is affected by algal-bacterial interactions.