Simultaneous Removal of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Organic Matter from Slaughterhouse Wastewater Using AnA2/O2 SBR and Its Economic Benefits

Abstract

In this study, 20 L anaerobic/anoxic/oxic/anoxic/oxic sequencing batch reactor (AnA2/O2 SBR) process was operated at a cycle time of 12 h and performed under an anaerobic static fill and four alternating anoxic/oxic conditions (1.5/2.5/2.5/1.5 h) to evaluate the performance of slaughterhouse wastewater treatment using a large-scale and to investigate the feasibility of upgrading the operating process up to the full-scale level. The results showed that the AnA2/O2 SBR process has been highly successful in the treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater with average COD removal efficiency of more than 90%. While the average removal efficiency of TKN and TP was up to 90-99% and 93-97%, respectively. In accordance with those of the small scale (5 L) of the AnA2/O2 SBR process in the previous studies under similar operating conditions. The results confirmed the efficiency and stability of organic matter and nutrients removals at the scale-up reactor, demonstrating the feasibility of their application in the real operating conditions. As the results of low concentrations of all pollutants in effluent and high nutrient content in excess sludge, it is quite clear that this process has revealed the high potential for environmental and economic benefits, including the energy and cost savings. AnA2/O2 SBR process could be, therefore, concluded that it is one of the most effective treatment alternatives used for biological nutrient removal of the slaughterhouse wastewater.