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Coagulation and Flocculation before Primary Clarification as Efficient Solutions for Low-Density Microplastic Removal
Piotr Jachimowicz1, Agnieszka Cydzik-Kwiatkowska1
1Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Słoneczna 45G, 10-709 Olsztyn, Poland.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|October 27, 2022
Summary
Coagulants and flocculants effectively remove microplastics (MPs) from wastewater, with PAX achieving 90% removal. This process allows safe agricultural use of treated sludge.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Treatment Technologies
- Environmental Chemistry
Background:
- Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing concern in aquatic environments.
- Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are potential pathways for MPs entering the environment.
- Effective MP removal strategies are crucial for protecting water resources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of various coagulants and flocculants for microplastic removal.
- To assess the impact of different chemical treatments on MP partitioning in wastewater treatment.
- To determine optimal conditions for MP removal and sludge management.
Main Methods:
- Testing commercial coagulants (PIX, PAX) and flocculants (FPM, PEL, FCT) at various doses.
- Evaluating MP transfer to settled and floated sludge after primary clarification.
- Measuring removal efficiencies of MPs, phosphorus, COD, and ammonium.
Main Results:
- PAX achieved the highest MP removal efficiency (90%) at 2.5 mL/m³.
- FPM, PIX, and PEL predominantly transferred MPs to settled sludge.
- FCT and PAX primarily directed MPs to floated sludge.
- PIX significantly enhanced P-PO₄ and COD removal.
- FPM and FCT showed over 40% ammonium removal, potentially impacting biological treatment.
Conclusions:
- Coagulation and flocculation are effective for removing MPs in the mechanical stage of WWTPs.
- Optimized chemical treatment can lead to safe management and agricultural reuse of excess sludge.
- Careful selection of treatment chemicals is necessary to avoid negative impacts on downstream biological processes.
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