How to Test Wastewater

Our comprehensive treatability studies are designed to leave you resting easy, knowing that your wastewater treatment goals will be achieved efficiently and effectively.

Wastewater in the lab undergoing initial treatment for biological matter

At BioprocessH2O, we prioritize the optimal performance of our custom wastewater treatment systes to meet our customers' specific needs. Our comprehensive treatability studies are designed to leave you resting easy, knowing that your wastewater treatment goals will be achieved efficiently and effectively. Here, we delve into the importance and process of conducting wastewater treatability studies, illustrated by a successful project aimed at eliminating biological inhibition in a landfill leachate treatment plant.

Lab testing Waste Water

Importance of Wastewater Treatability Studies

Treatability studies are crucial for understanding the specific characteristics and challenges of wastewater from different sources. These studies help in:

  • Identifying Optimal Treatment Methods: Tailoring the treatment approach to address specific contaminants and operational conditions.
  • Enhancing System Performance: Fine-tuning treatment systems to maximize efficiency and capacity.
  • Ensuring Regulatory Compliance: Meeting stringent discharge standards by optimizing treatment processes.
  • Reducing Operational Costs: Identifying cost-effective solutions for wastewater management.

Case Study: Maximizing Nitrification Rates and Eliminating Biological Inhibition

Project Overview

Industry: Landfill Leachate
Objective: Conduct a treatability study to maximize nitrification rates and eliminate biological inhibition at a biological treatment plant in a large Midwest landfill.

Problem

Nitrification inhibition was occurring at the landfill's biological treatment plant, preventing effective treatment of the leachate. The goal of the study was to identify and eliminate the causes of toxicity and to enhance the nitrification process.

Solution

BioprocessH2O conducted a detailed treatability study in our laboratory, focusing on the following steps:

  1. Assessment of Existing System:
    • Analyzed the current treatment process and identified factors contributing to nitrification inhibition.
  2. Laboratory Setup:
    • Three biological reactors were established to simulate the treatment conditions.
    • A control reactor mirrored the existing plant’s configuration.
    • Two additional reactors were designed to test configurations aimed at higher nitrification rates and improved biological performance.
  3. Experimental Operation:
    • The reactors were operated over a period of 140 days to gather data and observe performance under various conditions.

Results

The study successfully identified the optimal configuration for eliminating biological inhibition and enhancing nitrification rates. Key outcomes included:

  • Increased Performance: The improved design allowed for higher leachate throughput and more efficient nitrification.
  • Elimination of Toxicity: The study provided a solution to eliminate the factors causing biological inhibition.
  • Full-Scale Implementation: The findings were applied to the full-scale design, resulting in enhanced performance at the existing landfill treatment plant.

Why Consider a Treatability Study?

Conducting a treatability study offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Custom Solutions: Tailored treatment plans that address specific wastewater challenges.
  • Improved Efficiency: Enhanced system performance and capacity.
  • Cost Savings: Identification of cost-effective treatment methods.
  • Peace of Mind: Assurance that the treatment system will meet performance and compliance goals.

How to Get Started

  1. Initial Consultation: Contact BioprocessH2O to discuss your wastewater treatment needs and challenges.
  2. Sample Collection: Provide samples of your wastewater for detailed analysis.
  3. Laboratory Study: Our team will design and conduct a treatability study, testing various treatment configurations.
  4. Data Analysis and Reporting: Receive a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations.
  5. Implementation: Apply the optimized treatment solution to your full-scale system.

For more information on our wastewater treatability studies and how they can benefit your operations, visit BioprocessH2O. Explore our range of treatment solutions and check out our blog for additional insights and tips on wastewater management.

Lab Tested Water

by Tim Burns, CEO, M.Sc. Environmental Science

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