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Impact of Industrial Wastewater on Environment and Human Health
Abstract
The wastewater generated from different industries is discharged into adjoining environment and water body. Sometimes this wastewater discharged untreated or partially treated. Due to the industrialization in recent years, the environment deterioration is the major issues for consideration in different countries. Wastewater also contains several microorganisms such as virus, bacteria, protozoans, algae that have major public health concerns as these are cause of many waters borne diseases. The untreated wastewaters affect the quality of water in water bodies and human health to entering into trophic levels of food chain. The wastewater effluent may contain certain type of emerging contaminants that have the endocrine disruptive characteristics. Sometimes the discharged water contains certain contaminants which are not removed by the techniques used in that industry also cause harm to environment and public health. The chapter focuses on the impact of industrial wastewater on environment and human health with details.
... Appropriate adaptation of wastewater treatment for industrial processes is necessary to account for the specific properties of the effluent it includes [41]. Furthermore, as industrial technologies continue to advance, the amount of wastewater will progressively diminish [42]. The volume of wastewater is contingent upon the level of technical innovation exhibited by each industry sector. ...
... Industrial wastewaters are categorized based on their physical properties (such as Total solid, Suspended solid, Dissolved Solid, odor, color and pH), chemical properties (both organic & inorganic), and biological properties deliberated on (Table 3-1). [42], [44]. Industrial effluent contains a range of impurities, with organic pollutants being the most significant component. ...
... Treatment methods involve the elimination of pollutants by biological processes that take place throughout aerobic and anaerobic conditions [42]. The biological methods for total degradation of textile wastewater have their benefits (a) eco-friendly, (b) cost competitive, (c) lesser sludge production, (d) bio treatment giving nonhazardous metabolites or complete mineralization, and (e) water reuse (higher concentration or less dilution requirement) in comparison with the physical/oxidation method of treatment [55]. ...
Water treatment is essential in guaranteeing the accessibility of uncontaminated and secure water for diverse societal requirements. This paper examines the importance of sustainable wastewater treatment, providing a detailed analysis of various methods and strategies to tackle the urgent issues related to wastewater management. This study seeks to examine various treatment methods and technologies to gain valuable insights into their feasibility, efficiency, and environmental impact. The study also explores in depth the pressing environmental concerns presented by textile dyeing wastewater, which contains dangerous dyes and compounds that are not easily treated using conventional procedures. In addition to that, the textile industry's carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions contribute to global climate change. One proposed solution is to utilize microalgae-based systems for wastewater treatment in a sustainable manner, with a specific focus on properly treating textile dye effluent and simultaneously capturing CO 2 emissions. The integration of wastewater bioremediation and carbon sequestration offers an eco-technological solution that addresses both the issues of wastewater treatment and carbon reduction in a synergistic manner. The outcomes of this study are anticipated to aid in the advancement of an eco-friendly and sustainable method for treating wastewater and minimizing carbon emissions in the textile sector. This will promote the industry's overall sustainability and decrease its negative impact on the environment.
... To avoid pollution, industrial effluent must be treated before being released into the environment or reused [7]. The treatment techniques vary from one type of industry to another due to the quality of effluent discharge from operations, energy and chemical requirements, process flexibility, and residual disposal options [8]. Despite the fact that industrial effluent may be toxic, combustible, reactive, or carcinogenic to our environment [9]. ...
... The industrial wastewater sample was adjusted to the different pH values (3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11) using NaOH and H 2 SO 4 solution to determine its effect on COD, and color removal during the PEO and S-PEO process while significantly influenced by the initial pH. During this process constant NaCl (0.1 g/L) was also used as a supporting electrolyte. ...
Maintaining sustainable water management practices, preserving ecosystems, and safeguarding public health has depend on the treatment of wastewater. It has a significant impact on reducing water pollution and protecting the water supplies. Sono-pulsed electrochemical oxidation (S-PEO) process is a wastewater treatment method that uses ultrasound (US) waves and electrochemistry to enhance the pollutant removal efficiency. This study aim is to investigate the mineralization of industrial park wastewater by using pulsed electrochemical oxidation (PEO) and a combination of sonolysis and pulsed electrochemical oxidation (S-PEO) processes. The research focuses on the percentage elimination of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and color, as well as the assessment of power consumption. The study considers the influence of experimental parameters like initial pH, electrolysis time, and current to find the optimum conditions for maximum percentage removal efficiency with minimization of power consumption. According to the study, the optimum values of responses for the S-PEO process were obtained at pH=7, electrolysis time=40 min, and current =0.5 Amp. The optimum values for the maximum removal percentages of the responses COD and color were 97.04 %, and 99.70 %, respectively. The minimum of power consumption for S-PEO was 0.19 kWh/m3. These results demonstrate that, the superior efficiency of the S-PEO process and its feasibility in the removal of industrial wastewater pollutants. Optimizing parameters like pH, time, and current intensity is crucial for optimal performance, reducing energy consumption and operational costs. The S-PEO technique eliminates pollutants from wastewater efficiently and effectively, making it the suitable process when compared to the others.
... Another source of heavy metals is inappropriate waste management or disposal (Babayemi et al., 2017). The discharge of wastes containing toxic heavy metals into water bodies may substantially affect fish and other aquatic organisms, endangering public health (Garg et al., 2022). ...
... Heavy metals can bioaccumulate over a long time and the concentrations become apparent and measurable (Garg et al., 2022). Through food chains and trophic levels, heavy metal bioaccumulation within target organs or tissues of organisms can ultimately threaten human health. ...
Ajiwa Reservoir serves as a vital drinking water source and protein source to the nearby communities and Katsina metropolitan. Fishes are a great dependable source of protein and assessment to determine their safety or otherwise is very crucial. In this work, four vital organs (gills, gonads, liver and muscles) collected from Ajiwa reservoir in Katsina state were analyzed for some heavy metals (Cobalt, Copper, Manganese, Nickel, and Lead). This preliminary investigation was carried out between September to December (2023) to expose additional information on the concentration of heavy metals in both water and tissues of Oreochromis niloticus, four sampling stations were randomly chosen for the survey along the bank of the reservoir. Samples were collected fortnightly throughout the research. The mean physicochemical parameters of the Ajiwa reservoir were pH (7.10±0.48), Temperature (22.93±4.02), Transparency (12.61±2.46), Conductivity (113.97±10.63), DO (6.78±1.09), and BOD (3.52±0.88). Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) instrument was used to determine the heavy metal concentrations in the samples and their levels compared with the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020) specified maximum levels. The results showed the concentration of heavy metals in the water to be (mg/L) Co (0.45±0.23), Cu (0.05±0.03), Mn (0.06±0.09), Ni (0.10±0.07), and Pb (0.40±0.18). Co, Mn, Ni and Pb were higher than the set standards limits of WHO (2023). The results indicate that the concentration of heavy metals in the analyzed fish tissues are in (mg/L) Co (1.03±0.16), Cu (0.13±0.05), Mn (0.10±0.19), Ni (0.18±0.22) and Pb (0.21±0.66). The concentration of Co, Ni and Pb were above the set standards of WHO (2020). Co, Mn and Pb concentrations mostly in the liver and gills were higher than the maximum permissible limit recommended by standard bodies.
... Another source of heavy metals is inappropriate waste management or disposal (Babayemi et al., 2017). The discharge of wastes containing toxic heavy metals into water bodies may substantially affect fish and other aquatic organisms, endangering public health (Garg et al., 2022). ...
... Heavy metals can bioaccumulate over a long time and the concentrations become apparent and measurable (Garg et al., 2022). Through food chains and trophic levels, heavy metal bioaccumulation within target organs or tissues of organisms can ultimately threaten human health. ...
Ajiwa Reservoir serves as a vital drinking water source and protein source to the nearby communities and Katsina metropolitan. Fishes are a great dependable source of protein and assessment to determine their safety or otherwise is very crucial. In this work, four vital organs (gills, gonads, liver and muscles) collected from Ajiwa reservoir in Katsina state were analyzed for some heavy metals (Cobalt, Copper, Manganese, Nickel, and Lead). This preliminary investigation was carried out between September to December (2023) to expose additional information on the concentration of heavy metals in both water and tissues of Oreochromis niloticus, four sampling stations were randomly chosen for the survey along the bank of the reservoir. Samples were collected fortnightly throughout the research. The mean physicochemical parameters of the Ajiwa reservoir were pH (7.10±0.48), Temperature (22.93±4.02), Transparency (12.61±2.46), Conductivity (113.97±10.63), DO (6.78±1.09), and BOD (3.52±0.88). Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) instrument was used to determine the heavy metal concentrations in the samples and their levels compared with the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020) specified maximum levels. The results showed the concentration of heavy metals in the water to be (mg/L) Co (0.45±0.23), Cu (0.05±0.03), Mn (0.06±0.09), Ni (0.10±0.07), and Pb (0.40±0.18). Co, Mn, Ni and Pb were higher than the set standards limits of WHO (2023). The results indicate that the concentration of heavy metals in the analyzed fish tissues are in (mg/L) Co (1.03±0.16), Cu (0.13±0.05), Mn (0.10±0.19), Ni (0.18±0.22) and Pb (0.21±0.66). The concentration of Co, Ni and Pb were above the set standards of WHO (2020). Co, Mn and Pb concentrations mostly in the liver and gills were higher than the maximum permissible limit recommended by standard bodies.
... Most of the wastewater generated, estimated at more than 80% [2], is released into the environment without proper treatment, especially in developing countries, due to a lack of infrastructure, technical expertise, institutional capacity, and funding. Untreated wastewater severely threatens the environment and human health [3]. ...
... Additionally, the lower pH of the effluent is caused by a more significant concentration of organic acids, including CH 3 conversion of highly biodegradable organic matter. Using phosphoric acid and sulfur dioxide during the purification of sugar cane juice contributed to the wastewater's acidity [21]. ...
... Worldwide, ~ 7.0 × 10 7 tons of various dyes are manufactured annually, and more than 10,000 tons of synthetic dyes are employed in the textile manufacturing sector (Al-Tohamy et al. 2022;. In addition to dye pollutants, wastewater from the textile industry also includes a high load of binders, dispersants, volatile organic compounds, surfactants, chlorobenzenes, reducing agents, dioxins, UV-filters, parabens, phthalates, phenols, pharmaceutical residues, hormones, pentachlorophenol, detergents, heavy metal ions, salts, and alkalis Azzouz and Ballesteros 2014;Azzouz et al. 2010Azzouz et al. , 2023aChafi et al. 2022;Garg et al. 2022;Hejji et al. 2024Kishor et al. 2021). The release of textile industry wastewater into water sources provokes serious environmental problems and toxic effects on living organisms. ...
Water has historically been one of the most valuable and important natural resources. However, due to fast population growth and industrial developments, the freshwater resources available are diminishing at an astonishing rate. Water contamination by dye pollutants and other contaminants has driven researchers to develop new, effective, eco-friendly, and low-cost approaches for water treatment. Adsorption is one of the more effective tools for the removal of dye pollutants, sometimes at very low concentrations. In the last 10 years, new adsorbent-based biomaterials have been used in wastewater treatment research, whose effectiveness can be enhanced when exposed to several factors such as adsorbent dose, temperature, contact time, agitation speed, initial concentration, particle size, and pH owing to their outstanding physicochemical characteristics, such as chemical stability, recyclability, high adsorption capacity, high surface area, and low cost. This article review summarizes the recent biosorbent preparation and characterization approaches, as well as their adsorption properties, depollution mechanisms, adsorption kinetics, and adsorption–desorption recycling processes. Significant examples are discussed in detail, highlighting the main challenges, cost-effective treatment methods, and prospects in this field.
... This figure is expected to rise to 2.2 billion tons by 2025 [17]. Industrial organic waste, originating especially from the food processing industry and agro-industry, demands specialized handling to minimize environmental impact [18]. Approximately 380 million tons of industrial food processing waste are produced annually. ...
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a promising biowaste valorization technology for sustainable energy, circular economy, local energy community growth, and supporting local authorities’ environmental goals. This paper presents a systematic review meta-analysis methodology for biomethane estimation, using over 600 values of volatile solids (VS) content and biochemical methane potential (BMP) of six different waste streams, collected from 240 scientific studies. The waste streams include cow manure (CM), sheep/goat manure (SGM), wheat straw (WS), household waste (HW), organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW), and sewage sludge (SS). The statistical analysis showed a mean VS content of 11.9% (CM), 37.3% (SGM), 83.1% (WS), 20.8% (HW), 19.4% (OFMSW), and 10.6% (SS), with BMP values of 204.6, 184.1, 305.1, 361.7, 308.3, and 273.1 L CH4/kg VS, respectively. The case study of Kozani, Greece, demonstrated the methodology’s applicability, revealing a potential annual CH4 production of 15,429,102 m3 (corresponding to 551 TJ of energy), with SGM, WS, and CM as key substrates. Kozani, aiming for climate neutrality by 2030, currently employs conventional waste management, like composting, while many local business residual streams remain unused. The proposed model facilitates the design and implementation of AD units for a sustainable, climate-neutral future.
... Wastewater effluents of various chemical industries including petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and fertilizer contain multiple organic pollutants [1]. The organic pollutants must be removed from the effluents before disposing them to water bodies. ...
The present study introduces an activated carbon bead-supported regenerable bimetal (Fe-Ag) catalyst for the catalytic wet air oxidation (cWAO) of organics in an industrial wastewater (chemical oxygen demand/COD ~ 120000 mg/L). The catalytic oxidation reaction is performed at 27 bar and 230 °C in a trickle bed reactor. The Fe-Ag nanoparticles-modified carbon nanofibers enhance the exposure of the bimetals to the aqueous organics during oxidation. The spent cWAO catalyst is regenerated through simple solvent-washing and H2-reduction steps. The SEM, XRD, Raman, and XPS spectroscopic results indicate that the physicochemical properties of the fresh catalyst, including the materials specific surface area are retained in the regenerated catalyst. The regenerated catalyst shows approximately the same efficiency (~ 99% COD reduction) as that of the fresh catalyst in three consecutive oxidation-regeneration cycles. The bimetal catalyst developed in this study for the treatment of aqueous organics is cost-effective and scalable.
Graphical Abstract
... Clean water is a basic necessity of life but unfortunately, nowadays its availability is getting scarce due to climate change, deforestation, overpopulation, rapid consumption, wastage of water, and particularly ignorance of the methods used for water storage and wastewater treatment. Unused dyes, chemicals and microorganism are the major contaminations of industrial wastewater that leads to environmental damage [1][2][3][4]. Textile and dyeing industries waste a huge amount of polluted water that contains more than 15% unused dyes [5]. These environmental issues have currently attracted great attention to develop techniques for treating the wastewater to reuse it and avoid environmental damage. ...
Transition metal doped nanoparticles have potential for photodegradation, antibacterial activity, and water splitting. Co-doped SnO2 nanoparticles (CoxSn1−xO2−δ: x = 0–7%) with an average diameter of ≈ 32 nm are successfully synthesized using the coprecipitation method. The structural properties are investigated using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD) that shows tetragonal structure of the nanoparticles. Microstrain and average crystallite size of the nanoparticles are investigated using different XRD models. It is observed that 7% Co-doping reduces the optical bandgap down to 17% (3.04 eV). The nanoparticles show 75% photodegradation of methylene blue dye under sunlight exposure, and enhance antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. These results may provide pathways to utilize CoxSn1−xO2−δ nanoparticles as efficient photocatalysts, antibacterial agents for industrial wastewater treatment, and water-splitting applications as well.
... In 2016 and 2021, only textile industries in Bangladesh were produced about 217 million m 3 and 349 million m 3 of wastewater respectively which discharged into our aquatic environment (Sakamoto et al., 2019;Hossain et al., 2018) after use without filtration additionally it has been predicted that this volume may be crossed 400 million m 3 by 2024. This crude wastewater could easily mix with our ground and surface water sources i.e, lake, river, cannel, drainage system and contaminates as well as damage their ecological life system (Garg et al., 2022) it also hamper our human health safety, public security indeed (Iloms et al., 2020). It is well known to all that these particular toxic heavy metals also be able to harshly contaminate our consumable agro products and generally have a tendency to exceed the permissible limits which is the most concerning subject undoubtedly. ...
Every moment huge amounts of industrial wastewater are contaminating our surface/groundwater sources by discharging into the environment directly. This crude wastewater is the most problematic subject because it is the matrix of hazardous toxicants, which can drastically damage public health-safety. So, it is urgent to purify before discharging/reusing. This study focused on the recent improvement and latent implication of Activated Chitosan-Modified Coal(ACMC) bionanocomposite filter. Here, we briefly described how ACMC was produced and its potential application in the removal of Pb2+ and Crystal Violet (CV) effectively from wastewater. However, the influence of different parameters like initial concentration (20–40 ppm), volumetric flow rate (4–6 mL/min) and bed height (0.4–1.0 cm) were investigated appropriately meanwhile the adsorbent amount was (1.0–2.0 g). The adsorption efficiency and removal percent were strongly correlated with inlet concentration, flow rate, and bed height. The highest removal capacity and percentage were found nearly (243.08 and 238.51)mg/g additionally (78.48 and 82.50)% for Pb2+ and CV. Finally, three well-known column adsorption models namely Thomas, Yoon-Nelson and Adam-Bohart model were applied for the fitting of experimental data which exhibited a decent agreement with all three models that are also suitable for the description of breakthrough curve (BTC) and supports the Langmuir isotherm by following second-order reversible reaction kinetics. Thus this new class of ACMC nanoadsorbents could be beneficially used for the real-time bulk scale industrial wastewater treatment as a suitable replacement of hazardous fossil-based synthetic ones for sustainable environmental protection.
... The fifteen goods are Chemicals and products, Textiles and products, Food and products, Furniture and antiques, Motor vehicles and parts, Rubber and plastics, Beverages and tobacco, Machinery and electrical equipment, Metals and articles, Fuels and minerals, Wood and products, Leather and products, Paper and products, Pharmaceuticals, Construction, stones, and glass. These ESGs are put within the category of most polluting industries by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, GOI (Garg et al., 2022). ...
... In the case of phenol (an organic contaminant), it is a toxic aromatic compound that is used in the production of phenolic resins, nylon, and other synthetic fibers (Supreeth 2022). Like Cr, it can cause serious health hazards to humans, such as skin irritation, reproductive, and developmental damage in humans (Garg et al. 2022). Hence, the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has set a safe concentration of phenol in wastewater at 0.1 mg/L (United States Environmental Protection Agency) (EPA 2023). ...
Contamination of aquatic ecosystems with organic and inorganic contaminants is a global threat due to their hazardous effects on the environment and human health. Floating treatment wetland (FTW) technology is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to existing treatment approaches. It consists of a buoyant mat in which wetland plants can grow and develop their roots in a suspended manner and can be implemented to treat stormwater, municipal wastewater, and industrial effluents. Here we explored the potential of bacterial-augmented FTWs for the concurrent remediation of phenol and hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) contaminated water and evaluated treated water toxicity using Triticum aestivum L. (wheat) as a test plant. The FTWs carrying Phragmites australis L. (common reed) were inoculated with a consortium of four bacterial strains (Burkholderia phytofirmans PsJN, Acinetobacter lwofii ACRH76, Pseudomonas aeruginosa PJRS20, Bacillus sp. PJRS25) and evaluated for their potential to simultaneously remove phenol and chromium (Cr) from contaminated water. Results revealed that the FTWs efficiently improved water quality by removing phenol (86%) and Cr (80%), with combined use of P. australis and bacterial consortium after 50 days. The phytotoxicity assay demonstrated that the germination of wheat seed (96%) was significantly higher where bacterial-augmented FTWs treated water was used compared to untreated water. This pilot-scale study highlights that the combined application of wetland plants and bacterial consortium in FTWs is a promising approach for concomitant abatement of phenol and Cr from contaminated water, especially for developing countries like Pakistan where the application of advanced and expensive technologies is limited.
... Metallic materials-copper, iron, manganese, nickel, etc.-make water unusable for domestic use in nearby areas. They cause multiple health threats, including voice and hearing disorders, rheumatism, euphoria, high blood pressure, impotence, diabetes, high cholesterol, cancer and kidney stones (Garg et al., 2022). In addition, excessive use of water to cool down coal also causes water scarcity for agriculture and domestic use. ...
Environmental crises, precipitated by a globally dominant model of developmentalism, have changed the lives of less visible communities in geographical peripheries. This study draws on our participant observation of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in general as a massive infrastructural development project and the Qadirabad coal power plant as one of many CPEC projects where developmentalism and local lives intersect with each other. We have presented evidence of how massive development projects bring about consequential but disguised social and environmental impacts on locals. The locals' narratives show that the Qadirabad project has brought about economic, agricultural and environmental degradation in their lives. They believe that the governments in Pakistan are conscious of foreign projects with adverse effects on the everyday lived realities of the people but willfully choose to ignore them.
... Toxic textile effluent generated due to rapid industrialization has led to a lot of detrimental effects on human health and environment (Garg et al., 2022). Use of toxic chemicals like dye in industries is unavoidable and thus requires proper remedial measures before discharge into water bodies (Shah et al., 2022). ...
In this study, gold nanospheres were synthesized due to catalytic reduction of gold ions by phytochemicals of Cyclea peltata leaf extract (CPAuNPs) in 5 h and subsequently used for removal of methyl green (MG) dye. CPAuNPs were characterized by UV–Visible spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X ray spectroscopy (EDAX), Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and BET analysis. CPAuNPs were spherical, of size 25.73–41.69 nm with SPR peak at 543 nm. CPAuNPs were crystalline in nature and could adsorb 86.02 ± 0.12 % of 50 mg/L MG post one factor at a time analysis. Adsorption followed pseudo-second-order kinetics (k¹ = 4.43E⁻⁰³ g/mg.h), was observed as multilayer chemisorption as the equilibrium data best fitted Freundlich isotherm (R² = 0.856). Upon interaction of MG by CPAuNPs, hydroxylation of MG lead to formation of crystal violet by attack of N-ethyl N N-Dimethyl ammonium group by hydroxide ions, as evident from LCMS chromatograms.
... MOF membranes in comparison with other remediation processes consist of superior attributes involving a selectable pore size, high surface area, and various diversity in their structures, ultimately, giving out filtrates of non-hazardous and pollutant-free water (Gu et al., 2020). The treated water does not disrupt the ecological balance; however, the untreated water involves in the disruption of the endocrine system, sabotage natural reproductive functions, induce various toxic (genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, etc.) effects in flora and fauna of the aquatic system, and due to the phenomenon of bioaccumulation, these pose as a risk towards the public health safety (Garg et al., 2022). ...
The hazardous risk posed by industrial effluent discharge into the ecosystem has raised a plethora of environmental issues, public health, and safety concerns. The effluents from industries such as tanning, leather, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and textiles put significant stress on the aquatic ecosystem, which induces significant toxicity, participates in endocrine disruptions, and inhibits reproductive functions. Therefore, this review paper presented an overall abridgment of the effects of these effluents and their ability to synergize with modern pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetic chemicals, nanoparticles, and heavy metals. We further emphasize the metal organic framework (MOF) based membrane filtration approach for remediation of industrial effluents in comparison to the traditional remediation process. The MOF based-hybrid membrane filters provide higher reusability, better adsorption, a larger surface area, and superior removal rates through the implication of nanotechnology, while the traditional remediation process offers poorer filtration rates and stability. For example, MIL-100 (Fe)-UF and MIL-101(Cr)-UF exhibited high removal rates (94.7%) of natural organic matter NOM. It also elucidated the backstage processes involved in the remediation mechanism of MOFs based-hybrid membrane filtration of the discussed effluents.
Bacillus licheniformis can use cyanide as a nitrogen source for its growth. However, it can also carry out aerobic respiration in the presence of this compound, a classic inhibitor of mammalian cytochrome c oxidase, indicating that B. licheniformis has a branched respiratory chain with various terminal oxidases. Here, we studied the modifications in the respiratory chain of B. licheniformis when cells were cultured in Nutrient Broth, an alkaline medium with ammonium, or an alkaline medium with cyanide. Then, we measured oxygen consumption in intact cells and membranes, enzyme activities, carried out 1D and 2D-BN-PAGE, followed by mass spectrometry analysis of BN-PAGE bands associated with NADH, NADPH, and succinate dehydrogenase activities. We found that cell growth was favored in a nutrient medium than in an alkaline medium with cyanide. In parallel, respiratory activity progressively decreased in cells cultured in the rich medium, alkaline medium with ammonium, and the lowest activity was in the cells growing in the alkaline medium with cyanide. B. licheniformis membranes contain NADH, NADPH, and succinate dehydrogenases, and the proteomic analysis detected the nitrate reductase and the bc, caa3, aa3, and bd complexes. The succinate dehydrogenase migrated with a molecular mass of 375 kDa, indicating its association with the nitrate reductase (115 kDa + 241 kDa, respectively). The NADH dehydrogenase of B. licheniformis forms aggregates of different molecular mass.
Green bioremediation is an innovative and rapidly expanding technique that holds great promise for tackling the issue of toxic waste in polluted environments. Our planet is burdened with a wide array of contaminants, ranging from heavy metals and polychlorinated biphenyls to plastics and agrochemicals. These pollutants persist in the environment due to their resistance to biodegradation, posing a significant threat to ecosystems and living organisms. The primary objective of bioremediation is to break down these harmful substances into less toxic compounds. However, the continuous release of pollutants from various industries presents a daunting challenge, as they accumulate at a faster rate than they can be eliminated. Urgent attention is required to address contaminants derived from pesticide or agricultural residues, pharmaceutical industries, personal care product waste, and biomedical waste. While numerous methods have been developed to tackle this problem, the search for safe and effective solutions remains ongoing. Natural remediation methods have emerged as the most viable and environmentally friendly approaches to managing emerging pollutants. These methods encompass the use of constructed wetlands, phytoremediation, and the employment of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, cyano-bacteria, and algal-based remediation. Microorganisms play a pivotal role in the success of bioremediation, as they possess the remarkable ability to eliminate, degrade, detoxify, and immobilize hazardous wastes and pollutants. The process involves the utilization of various types of microorganisms, including aerobes and anaerobes, to treat contaminated sites effectively. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth exploration of all the natural remediation methods available for eliminating emerging pollutants. It serves as an invaluable guide for the global scientific community, offering insights and knowledge to foster an eco-friendly and sustainable environment. Together, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier future for our planet.
A facile hydrothermal technique prepared n-doped carbon dots/titanium dioxide (N-CDs/TiO2) for visible light photocatalysis of dye in wastewater. Several instruments, such as XRD, TEM, BET, UV-VIS, and PL, analyzed the produced. The results confirmed that N-CDs were successfully embedded on the TiO2 surface. The diffractogram N-CDs/TiO2 shows the formation of TiO2 and amorphous carbon. The N-CDs/TiO2 also shows an adsorption peak at 1630 cm− 1, indicating the formation of TiO2. The specific surface area and pore volume of N-CDs/TiO2 nanocomposites were 7.75 m2/g and 0.02 cm3/g. The pore size was 6.74 nm. TEM images indicate that TiO2 has been embedded on the surface of the N-CDs. The PL spectra indicate that the presence of N-CDs significantly increases the absorbance of N-CDs/TiO2 in the visible light range and emits visible light at nearly 500 nm. The optimum percentage of methylene orange (MO) degradation with nanocomposites reached 62.5% within 20 min. N-CDs/TiO2 can be used as a photocatalyst to degrade MO. N-CDs/TiO2 can be used to produce MO-polluted wastewater purification.
Billions of people globally live under conditions of water stress and water shortage, or with contaminated water sources. Anthropogenic contaminants pose an extra challenge as water purification technology must be constantly developed or upgraded to deal with newly fabricated pollutants.
One of the UN sustainable development goals is to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Therefore, it is vital to develop novel materials and technologies for producing clean drinking water in a human safe, economically reasonable and environmentally sustainable way.
Novel Materials and Water Purification introduces recent approaches to the fabrication of novel material’ for water purification and discusses several significant applications including removal of heavy metals and pharmaceuticals. This is a timely work of high interest to researchers and learners in the fields of water science, water management and materials science.
In the present work, CuS nanoparticles were biorecovered from a real acid mine drainage (AMD) and its photocatalytic and antibacterial activities were studied. CuS were formed by delivering biogenic H2S produced by a continuous sulfidogenic bioreactor to an off-line vessel containing the AMD. The main physico-chemical properties of CuS nanoparticles were analyzed by UV-vis spectroscopy, TEM, FE-SEM, XRD and XPS. Moreover, its photocatalytic activity on the photodegradation of organic dyes in water and its antibacterial activity against several bacterial strains were studied and compared with CuS nanoparticles synthetized from a CuSO4 aqueous solution based on the same synthesis method. CuS nanoparticles from the real AMD showed similar physico-chemical properties and photocatalytic and antibacterial activities in comparison to CuS nanoparticles formed with the copper solutions. These results open the way to recover valorous CuS nanoparticles from AMD with potential industrial applications using a metal bioremediation process based on sulfidogenic bioreactors.
The world’s rapid industrialisation and population expansion have led to water pollution, causing significant disruption to the activities of humans, animals, and plants. Organic contamination content in water is commonly evaluated by measuring the chemical oxygen demand (COD). However, traditional COD detection methods often require additional reagents, resulting in secondary contamination and extended detection time. In this study, we propose and implement a reflective detection system that measures the UV-Vis absorption spectra of COD in water without contact measurement. We compared the modeling results of the transmissive and reflective detection systems using three regression analysis algorithms. We also assessed the modeling results using various spectral preprocessing and different feature selection bands. The results of the standard samples confirmed the viability of the reflective detection system for detecting COD, with the impressive coefficient of determination (R ²) of 0.98892, the root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.86776, and the detection time of only 47.6 s. For the transmissive detection system, the R ² was 0.99976, the RMSE was 0.41979, and the detection time was 162.4 s. Overall, this study proposes two referenceable detection methods for measuring COD concentrations, which can be adapted to suit various job demands.
A simple and environmentally benign technology for synthesizing ultrasmall CuI nanoparticles (NPs) on the surface of the food additive hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and their application in completely organic solvent‐free tandem alkyne‐azide cycloaddition reactions were reported. The NP catalyst was thoroughly characterized by high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis for its morphology, particle size distribution, chemical composition, and oxidation state analyses. The NP catalyst was highly efficient, affording products in 10–45 min. All products were obtained in high purity by simple filtration, obviating organic solvents from the reaction set‐up to product isolation. The methodology is general and scalable as validated by a broad substrate scope.
Superhydrophobic materials have been used for the treatment
of oily wastewater due to their selective absorption properties. However,
many of the reported methods for creating superhydrophobic surfaces lack
the feasibility for large-scale production due to the use of non-environmentally
friendly chemicals or the involvement of complicated fabrication
steps. In this study, we report a simple, green, and rapid process for
fabricating superhydrophobic polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nonwoven fabric
(NWF) for the separation of oil/water mixtures via adsorption and filtration
strategies. PAN NWF was functionalized with iron hydroxide nanoparticles,
which endowed the modified fabric with increased surface roughness and
hydrophobic property. In the next step, the superhydrophobicity was attained
by creating a multiscale hierarchical surface roughness and lowering the
surface energy via an in situ deposition of the iron palmitate complex nano/
microparticles. The resulting superhydrophobic PAN NWF exhibited high
chemical stability in corrosive environments and excellent mechanical durability as revealed from the sandpaper abrasion and tape
peeling tests. The superhydrophobic NWF showed good oil absorption capacity, high permeation flux, high separation efficiency,
and stable performance for 20 separation cycles. The excellent durability, recyclability, and long-term separation performance are
expected to enable the application of the modified fabric for water−oil separation in harsh environments.
Pollution is a major concern of the modern era as it affects all the principal aspects of the environment, especially the hydrosphere. Pollution with heavy metals has unequivocally threatened aquatic bodies and organisms as these metals are persistent, non-biodegradable, and toxic. Heavy metals tend to accumulate in the environment and eventually in humans, which makes their efficient removal of paramount importance. Treatment of metal-contaminated water can be done both via chemical and biological methods. Where remediation through conventional methods is expensive and generates a large amount of sludge, biological methods are favoured over older and prevalent chemical purification processes because they are cheaper and environment friendly. The present review attempts to summarise effective methods for the remediation of water contaminated with heavy metals. We concluded that in biological techniques, bio-sorption is among the most employed and successful mechanisms because of its high efficacy and eco-friendly nature.
The management of the huge amounts of waste generated from domestic and industrial activities has continued to be a source of concern for humanity globally because of its impact on the ecosystem and human health. Millions of tons of such used materials, substances, and products are therefore discarded, rejected, and abandoned, because they have no further usefulness or application. Additionally, owing to the dearth of affordable materials for various applications, the environmental impact of waste, and the high cost of procuring virgin materials, there have been intensive efforts directed towards achieving the reduction, minimization, and eradication of waste in human activities. The current review investigates zero-waste (ZW) manufacturing and the various techniques for achieving zero waste by means of resource recycling. The benefits and challenges of applying innovative technologies and waste recycling techniques in order to achieve ZW are investigated. Techniques for the conversion of waste glass, paper, metals, textiles, plastic, tire, and wastewater into various products are highlighted, along with their applications. Although waste conversion and recycling have several drawbacks, the benefits of ZW to the economy, community, and environment are numerous and cannot be overlooked. More investigations are desirable in order to unravel more innovative manufacturing techniques and innovative technologies for attaining ZW with the aim of pollution mitigation, waste reduction, cost-effective resource recovery, energy security, and environmental sustainability.
The research evaluated the association between plastics and endocrine disruptors, as well as the viable and active ways to mitigate the challenges posed by plastic pollution. Consumption of seafood represents one major pathway for the exposure of human to microplastic. Microplastics may pass up to higher levels in food chain. Three likely toxic effects of plastic particles have been put forward: the release of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) adsorbed to the plastics, leaching of plastic additives, and plastic particles themselves. Chemical additives such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), bisphenol S (BPS), etc., used in plastic production pose several health risks to both humans and animals. Due to the use of some chemical additives during production of plastics, plastics have potentially risk and harmful effects that could be carcinogenic or encourage endocrine disruption. Some of the chemical additives are used as phthalate plasticizers (phthalates) and brominated flame retardants. By biomonitoring, chemicals in plastics, such as phthalates and BPA, have been identified in human population. Humans are exposed to the chemicals through the skin, nose, or mouth. Bisphenol A (BPA) can disrupt normal, regular physiological levels of sex hormones. Recent studies suggest that BPS also has endocrine disrupting properties, just like BPA. The presence of a hydroxy group on the benzene ring makes bisphenol S and bisphenol A endocrine disruptors. A widespread concern about phthalate exposure is the possibility that it is the cause of a drop in male fertility. Some recent studies suggest that tetrabromobisphenol A may be an endocrine disruptor and immunotoxicant. As an endocrine disruptor, tetrabromobisphenol A may interfere with both estrogens and androgens. There is also growing concern that PBDEs share the environmental long life and bioaccumulation properties of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins. It is not known if PBDEs can cause cancer in people, although liver tumors developed in rats and mice that ate extremely large amounts of decaBDE throughout their lifetime. The use of biodegradable plastics, policymaking, institutional arrangements, plastic waste collection, promotion of non-usage and lessening usage, incineration, use of the enzyme PETase, and creating awareness, in addition to banning have been the active ways for the management of plastic pollution.
Wastewater effluents from industries particularly in developing countries like Nigeria are in most cases discharged into the adjoining environment; water bodies being mostly affected. Some of these wastewater effluents are untreated or inadequately treated before being discharged, which has become a worrisome phenomenon due to its impact on environmental health and safety. This paper is aimed at reviewing the environmental and health impacts of untreated or inadequately treated industrial wastewater effluents. The quality of wastewater effluents is responsible for the degradation of the receiving water bodies. This is because untreated or inadequately treated wastewater effluents may lead to eutrophication of the receiving water bodies and also create environmental conditions that favor proliferation of water-borne pathogens or toxin-producing cyanobacteria. In extension, recreational water users coming into contact with the infected water are at risk. Although various microorganisms play many beneficial roles in wastewater systems, a great number of them are considered to be critical factors in contributing to numerous water-borne diseases outbreak. Also, wastewater effluents have been shown to contain a variety of anthropogenic compounds, many of which have endocrine-disrupting properties. Since large amounts of wastewater effluents are passed through sewage treatment systems on a daily basis, there is a need to remedy and diminish the overall impacts of these effluents in receiving water bodies. In order to comply with wastewater legislations and guidelines, there is a need for adequate treatment before discharge. This can be achieved through the application of appropriate treatment processes, which will help to minimize the risks to public health and the environment. To achieve reduced discharge of wastewater into receiving water bodies, careful planning, adequate and suitable treatment, regular monitoring and appropriate legislations are necessary.
Industries play a major role in the economic growth of developing countries.
However, these are also the major source of environmental pollution because
all types of industries discharge a huge volume of wastewater into the
environment, which causes serious soil and water pollution as well as serious
health threats in living beings. There are many types of industrial
wastewaters based on different industries such as distilleries, tanneries,
textile, pulp and paper industries, pharmaceuticals, electroplating, iron and
steel, mine and quarries, etc. Each industry produces its own particular
combination of organic and inorganic pollutants such as melanoidins,
lignin, dyes, pesticides, pigments, phenols, chlorophenol, toxic heavy metals
and a many recalcitrant pollutants. Industrial wastewater contains a variety
of organic and inorganic pollutants and if discharged into the environment
without adequate treatment, causes serious environmental problems and
health hazards in all living organisms. Therefore, proper treatment of
industrial wastewaters is essential for environmental safety. Thus, this
chapter provides the detail knowledge on the nature and characteristics of
different industrial wastewaters, major organic and inorganic pollutants
present in different industrial wastewaters, their toxicological effects in
environment and health hazards as well as various treatment approaches
using microbes for the sustainable environment. In addition, the advances,
merits, and demerits of various microbial treatment methods used for the
treatment of industrial wastewaters are also discussed.
The presence of calcium (Ca) and/or magnesium (Mg) in water results in water being considered "hard." Calcium and magnesium ions in water react with heat, metallic plumbing, and chemical agents such as detergents to decrease the effectiveness of nearly any cleaning task. Hard water can be softened using an ion exchange softening process. This 2008 guide discusses the ion exchange water softening process and related equipment used for household water treatment.
The suburbs of Chennai are expanding rapidly with a huge increase in the influx of popula-tion. Long spells of water shortages combined with rapid and haphazard urbanization has led to the overexploitation of the precious water bodies. Mindless dumping of sewage and garbage into the fresh water lakes has affected them seriously. The present study was undertaken to assess the quality of water in three important lakes of southern suburban Chennai, which recharges the ground water as well as harbours a diversity of plant and animal life. All the three lakes suffer from encroachments, dumping of wastes and un-checked inflow of domestic and industrial effluents. The parameters studied were: Colour, odour, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, alkalinity, total hardness, total solids,total dissolved solids, total suspended solids, sulphate, chloride and salinity.
Adsorption of ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen and diclofenac onto a low-cost activated carbon, prepared at the laboratory scale from olive-waste cakes, has been investigated. Single and mixture drug solutions were considered. The equilibrium adsorption data obtained at 25 °C were analyzed by Langmuir and Freundlich models. The former provides the best fit of the experimental data. The adsorption capacities of the carbon for the four drugs were quite different and were linked essentially to their pKa and their octanol/water coefficient. The adsorption kinetics of these adsorbates have been investigated and the results indicated that the adsorption process followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model for the four tested drugs. The effect of pH and temperature on the drugs uptake by the adsorbent was also investigated. Increasing pH gradually reduced the uptake of the four drugs, and this effect was more perceptible when the pH became alkaline. The increase of temperature in the range 4–40 °C does not have a perceptible effect on the adsorption process for all the studied drugs.
The foundation for lead control in drinking water distribution systems is based on Pb(II) chemistry. In recent years, however, Pb(IV) oxides have been identified in distribution systems, suggesting that they may be important relative to predicting and controlling lead concentrations at the consumer's tap. Therefore, a better understanding of the chemistry of Pb(IV) can be valuable to water utility managers as they make treatment decisions. This research shows that the two Pb(IV) dioxide polymorphs plattnerite and scrutinyite can form in chlorinated water and that these solids are less soluble in general than Pb(II) minerals historically used for lead control strategies. These findings have implications for water suppliers considering switching to a different type of disinfectant or making other treatment changes that could affect redox potential. If Pb(IV) oxides are in their distribution systems, any changes in redox potential (e.g., switching disinfectant from free chlorine to chloramines) could possibly fully reduce those solids to more soluble Pb(II) forms, potentially resulting in elevated lead concentrations.
This study focuses on the settling step (solid–liquid gravity-driven separation) in conventional drinking water treatment plants. A numerical model is presented here to simulate settler performance. The model takes into account the presence of sludge by adding a one-dimensional settling source term. Before applying the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tool on the pilot settler, the method was first tested with the well-published experimental batch settling results (the Kynch tests). An advection equation was solved by a finite difference method and validated experimentally. The comparison between batch and numerical settling curves gave a sludge parameter estimation of the Takacs settling velocity model. The coupling of this model with CFD was implemented in ESTET-ASTRID® software. Initial results on an industrial application demonstrate the model efficiency. A lab-scale pilot dedicated to the validation of the CFD model is described and hydrodynamics results on clear water are presented in this paper. Velocities measurements are obtained by PIV technique in order to obtain a complete velocity mapping in the tank.
This paper sets out the trends and challenges of wastewater use in agriculture; identifies the risks and benefits of wastewater irrigation; describes the risk-assessment and management framework adopted by the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and other international and national organizations; and proposes measures for applying the framework to reduce health risks by moving from unplanned to a planned, integrated, approach to wastewater use for irrigation.
Wastewater treatment in waste stabilization ponds (WSP) is a very efficient, low cost, low maintenance process which is well able to produce an effluent quality that meets the World Health Organization's recommendations for wastewater reuse for crop irrigation. Treatment in anaerobic and facultative ponds is required for restricted irrigation, with further treatment in maturation ponds for unrestricted irrigation. However, it is shown that the land requirements for the latter are at least twice that for the former. Unrestricted irrigation should, therefore, only be selected if it is economically viable. The use of wastewater storage and treatment reservoirs (WSTR), after pretreatment in anaerobic ponds, is advantageous in that it permits the whole year's wastewater to be used for irrigation, so allowing a much greater quantity of crops to be produced. A hybrid WSP-WSTR system can be used which produces effluents safe for both restricted and unrestricted irrigation.
The effluent of a pharmaceutical company was examined microbiologically. Its bacterial count was 2.15 105 c.f.u./ml and there was evidence of faecal contamination with MPN of > 1800. The organisms encountered included Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The resistances of the 25 bacterial strains isolated from the effluent to the commonly used antibiotics were studied. About 80% of the isolates were resistant to Amoxycillin, 76% to Nitrofurantoin, 64% to Cotrimoxazole and Augmentin, 60% were resistant to Nalidixic acid, 52% were resistant to Tetracycline and Ofloxacin, while resistance of 12% was obtained for Gentamicin. Among the eight antibiotics tested, seven patterns of drug resistance were obtained and all of them were multiple-drug resistance with the number of antibiotics ranging from 2–8. All the strains of E. coli and S. aureus had high MIC values for Cloxacillin and Amoxycillin. In all, 13 strains of the bacterial isolates had evidence for the production of -lactamases. The potential of the effluent in spreading drug resistance and the public health implications are discussed.
Following increasing interest in the use of UltraFiltration (UF) membrane processes as an alternative advanced disinfection technique, the performance of a UF pilot plant was investigated under two opposite operating conditions (“stressed operating condition” versus “conventional operating condition”). The results indicate that for both conditions, the reclaimed effluent complied with the Italian regulations for unrestricted wastewater reuse (i.e., Total Suspended Solids (TSS) < 10 mg/L; Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) < 100 mg/L and Escherichia coli < 10 CFU/100 mL). On the other hand, when compared with the Title 22 of the California Wastewater Reclamation Criteria, only the effluent produced under the “conventional operating condition” met the stipulated water quality standards (i.e., TSS and turbidity undetectable and total coliforms < 2.2 CFU/100 mL). It should be noted that, in spite of the nominal cut-off size, total coliforms breakthrough was indeed occasionally observed. A localized membrane pore micro-enlargement mechanism was hypothesized to explain the total coliforms propagation in the ultrafiltered effluent, as monitoring of the membrane permeability and transmembrane pressure highlighted that gel/cake formation had only a minor contribution to the overall membrane fouling mechanism with respect to pore plugging and pore narrowing mechanisms.
Wastewater treatment facilities have become sin quo non in ensuring the discharges of high quality wastewater effluents into receiving water bodies and consequence, a healthier environment. Due to massive worldwide increases in human population, water has been predicted to become one of the scarcest resources in the 21st century, and despite large advances in water and wastewater treatments, waterborne diseases still pose a major threat to public health worldwide. Several questions have been raised on the capacity of current wastewater treatment regimes to remove pathogens from wastewater with many waterborne diseases linked to supposedly treated water supplies. One of the major gaps in the knowledge of pathogenic microorganisms in wastewater is the lack of a thorough understanding of the survival and persistence of the different microbial types in different conditions and environments. This therefore brings to the fore the need for a thorough research into the movement and behavior of these microorganisms in wastewaters. In this review paper we give an overview of wastewater treatment practices with particular emphasis on the removal of microbial pathogens.
This paper presents the wastewater management of an industrial complex which produces different products, i.e. soap, perfume extract, macaroni, jam and juices. A continuous monitoring programme for departmental as well as final effluents was carried out for almost 3 months. Characterization of the composite wastewater from both soap and food processing plants indicated that the waste was highly contaminated with organic compounds as indicated by COD and BOD values. Moreover, effluent from the soap manufacturing plant contains significant concentrations of oil and grease amounting to 563 mg l-1. Soap manufacturing effluent and the combined wastes discharged from the whole industrial complex were subjected to different treatment processes, namely dissolved air flotation, chemical coagulation-sedimentation, and biological treatment via a completely mixed activated sludge process. Although coagulation using alum followed by sedimentation removed 52% of COD, residual values did not comply with the regulatory standards. Biological treatment of the composite combined wastewater significantly removed the organic contaminants in wastewater. Average residual BOD, COD, oil and grease values were 30, 92 and 8.3 mg l-1 respectively. Based on the laboratory results a final process design was developed.
To define interrelationships between elevated turbidities and the efficiency of chlorination in drinking water, experiments were performed to measure bacterial survival, chlorine demand, and interference with microbiological determinations. Experiments were conducted on the surface water supplies for communities which practice chlorination as the only treatment. Therefore, the conclusions of this study apply only to such systems. Results indicated that disinfection efficiency (log10 of the decrease in coliform numbers) was negatively correlated with turbidity and was influenced by season, chlorine demand of the samples, and the initial coliform level. Total organic carbon was found to be associated with turbidity and was shown to interfere with maintenance of a free chlorine residual by creating a chlorine demand. Interference with coliform detection in turbid waters could be demonstrated by the recovery of typical coliforms from apparently negative filters. The incidence of coliform masking in the membrane filter technique was found to increase as the turbidity of the chlorinated samples increased. the magnitude of coliform masking in the membrane filter technique increased from less than 1 coliform per 100 ml in water samples of less than 5 nephelometric turbidity units to greater than 1 coliform per 100 ml in water samples of greater than 5 nephelometric turbidity units. Statistical models were developed to predict the impact of turbidity on drinking water quality. The results justify maximum contaminant levels for turbidity in water entering a distribution system as stated in the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations of the Safe Drinking Water Act.
Listeria spp. were found in most treated waters (84.4%) and raw sludge (89.2%) of six French urban wastewater treatment plants and
one composting facility, examined monthly over a 1-year period. Most strains belonged to Listeria monocytogenes, serotypes 4b/4e being predominant. Sludge composting and liming reduced or prevented Listeria contamination.
Industry creates more pressure on water resources by wastewater discharge than the quantity used in production. The wastewater produced by industries may be either excessively acidic or alkaline or may contain high or low concentrations of colored matter, organic or toxic materials, and possibly pathogenic bacteria. It is necessary to pre-treat the wastes prior to release to the sewer or a full treatment is necessary when this is discharged directly to surface or ground waters and it must be within the effluent standard limits provided by the environmental protection organizations. The management and control of liquid wastes in the industry as well as the selection of the different possible treatments for the wastewater prior to its discharge to the sewer system was studied. These would protect the environment and also benefits from the waste materials can be gained. Opportunities for introducing pollution prevention measures for different types of pollutants produced by different industries are discussed in this chapter.
Membrane systems are finding increasing application worldwide in the purification of potable and industrial water, and their design and use is set to grow considerably in years to come. This comprehensive book is written in a practical style with emphasis on process description, key unit operations, plant equipment description, equipment installation, safety and maintenance, process control, plant start-up, operation and troubleshooting. It is supplemented by case studies and useful engineering rules-of-thumb. The author is a chemical engineer with many years experience in the field and his technical knowledge and practical know-how in the water purification industry are summarised succinctly in this volume. This book... * Will ensure your system design is fit for its purpose * Informs readers of which membranes to use; why, where and when * Will help readers to trouble-shoot and improve performance * Provides case studies help understanding through real-life situations This book... * Will ensure your system design is fit for its purpose * Informs readers of which membranes to use; why, where and when * Will help readers to trouble-shoot and improve performance * Provides case studies help understanding through real-life situations.
This paper deals with the problem of contradiction between energy demand and environmental protection. The conflict between measures taken to reduce pollution and the energy demands which some of these measures place on a scarce energy supply provides an example of the conflicts which occasionally arise between the need for environmental improvement and other pressing societal needs. Many of the measures proposed for solving specific environmental problems have not taken proper account of energy demand. It is possible, for example, to devise purely chemical systems for wastewater treatment which are more effective and reliable than the biological waste treatment systems now generally used. However application of such systems on a large scale would result in enormously increased energy consumption. This problem is incorporated in curricula of one of college courses where a balanced viewpoint will be a dominant factor in teaching the environmental chemistry.
The book covers the subject of membrane bioreactors (MBR) for wastewater treatment, dealing with municipal as well as industrial wastewaters. The book details the 3 types of MBR available and discusses the science behind the technology, their design features, operation, applications, advantages, limitations, performance, current research activities and cost.
As the demand for wastewater treatment, recycling and re-use technologies increases, it is envisaged that the membrane separation bioreactor will corner the market.
This title belongs to WERF Research Report Series
ISBN: 9781900222075 (Print)
ISBN: 9781780402147 (eBook)
A fungal isolate, Aspergillus niger UM2 was immobilised on calcium alginate in order to enhance the efficiency of decolorisation through the biodegradation of pigments imparting color to post-methanated distillery effluent. The investigations were carried out on reduction of color intensity of synthetic melanoidin as well as biogeffluent in batch and successive manner at pH optima 4.5 and 5.5 respectively. The decolorisation of melanoidin by immobilised culture was increased from 60%to 72% and that of biogas effluent from 68%to 80% during first five days. The immobilised biomass at 21 days lost the ability to decolorise melanoidin in the absence of nitrogen source. However, even after 27 days decolorisation yield of biogas effluent was maintained upto 15% in absence of nitrogen source.
A nationwide assessment in Pakistan showed that the direct use of untreated wastewater for agriculture, particularly vegetable production, was common in most cities. The main reasons for this use were the absence of alternative water sources, the reliability of the wastewater supply, the nutrient value and the proximity to urban markets. It was estimated that 26% of the total domestic vegetable production of Pakistan was cultivated with wastewater. The importance of the wastewater was reflected in high water and land fees. Policy makers have to take the importance for local livelihoods and food security into account when making decisions regarding direct wastewater use.
Domestic sewage is a major threat to receiving waters throughout the world. In Canada, a high proportion of the population (81%) is served by municipal wastewater treatment facilities. Nevertheless, discharges from wastewater treatment plants, stormwater sewers and combined sewers have caused some adverse impacts on lakes, rivers and coastal waters. The most publicly recognized impacts are shellfish harvesting restrictions and beach closures resulting from microbial contamination. Habitat degradation and contamination also occur and these, in turn, have altered the abundance and diversity of aquatic organisms. Our findings on the effects of municipal wastewater discharge suggest that there is a need to review sewage treatment requirements in Canada. Further research is also required on the interactive and cumulative responses to habitat degradation and to long-term exposure to persistent and bioaccumulative pollutants. Finally, an integrated approach to wastewater management is needed that addresses loadings from treatment plants, stormwater sewers, CSOs and other wastewater sources.
The following is published as the point of view of two respected members of the water profession. Its appearance in the Journal in no way implies either acceptance or rejection of these opinions by AWWA. To provide balance on the subject, the Journal requested comment from another highly respected watersupply authority, Abel Wolman, whose comments appear on page 216 of this issue.
1 ABSTRACT: This paper highlights the use of wastewater for irrigation purposes on groundwater quality and its ultimate effects on the local community in Pakistan. Field study was conducted in Chakera village, Faisalabad and quality parameters like pH, EC, SAR, RSC, TDS, heavy metals (Mn, Ni, Cr, Pb, Cu, Co, Fe, Zn) and biological parameters like Total Coliform and Faecal Coliform (E-Coli) were observed in groundwater samples. Results of the study revealed that untreated wastewater application raises the values of EC, TDS, SAR and RSC compared with the National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS). This not only degrades the soil structure but also contaminate the groundwater, causing sewer health hazards to the local community. As far as heavy metals are concerned, only the concentration Ni, Cr and Pb in the wastewater treated soils found in permissible range. Use of wastewater by mixing with fresh water to keep the environment healthy was suggested, if available.
Many farmers in developing countries use treated or untreated wastewater to irrigate crops, partly in designated irrigation schemes, but mostly on large areas of small farms located along streams passing through or near cities. Much of the wastewater use is informal and unplanned, as farmers divert water from streams that carry untreated or partially treated effluent from cities and towns. The farmers generate good revenue by selling fresh produce that, otherwise, might not be available in urban markets. However, wastewater irrigation also creates health risks for farmers, their families, and consumers. Public officials must consider those risks and the values generated through wastewater irrigation, as they implement policies to protect farmers and consumers from the negative health impacts. Given the increasing scarcity of fresh water in many urban and peri-urban areas of developing countries, the increasing demand for food, and the persistent desire to improve the livelihoods of small-scale farmers, the decisions faced by public officials will require careful analysis. To that end, we describe in this special issue the economics, finance, business opportunities, and methodological constraints that pertain to wastewater irrigation in developing countries.
Urban stormwater runoff discharged through sewer systems into streams causes flush spills of water and pollutants in the receiving water. To make the right decisions in future plannings of the very costly rehabilitation of sewer systems, a solid ecological data base on the critical parameters of sewer overflows is badly needed. Therefore, we designed a laboratory flume which was operated in circular flow mode (to ensure adaptation of the test organisms) and in flow-through mode during the simulation of sewer overflows (to allow a proper evaluation of population loss by drift). Examples on the behaviour during the adaptation phase and the population loss during the exposure to flush spills of water and/or a mixture of sewage and clean water of a benthic invertebrate (Gammarus pulex) demonstrate the potential of the flume to identify critical parameters of sewer overflows at quasireal-world-conditions. We found clear evidence for synergetic effects since the exposure to high flow and sewage caused higher population loss ofGammarus than the sum of population loss at exposure to only high flow or only sewage. Population loss considerably depended on the availability of refugial space: if the interstices of the gravel in the flume were silted, this loss was higher than at open interstices. Only ten minutes of movement of the material forming the flume bottom reduced the population ofGammarus to about 60 or 50% of its initial size. Hence, our data strongly suggest that the characteristics of the receiving stream (refugial space, bed stability) play an important role for the potential ecological impact of a sewer overflow. Changes of stream morphology and/or creation of refugial space plus an appropriate technical solution for overflow treatment may be less costly and more effective than a large-scale technical project. Thus, the stream itself should be a major element in future management decisions.
Fresh water resources are becoming scarce and polluted while their demands for agriculture, domestic, industrial, environmental
and recreational uses are on a continuous rise around the globe. Traditional ways to increase yield by extending the area
under cultivation, using high intensity of external inputs and breeding for yield potential in high input agro-ecosystems
offer limited possibilities under limiting resource availability. Improved agricultural systems should ensure high yields
via an efficient and sustainable use of natural resources such as water. This prospect has evoked calls for a “blue revolution”
based on the core idea of obtaining more crop per drop of water. This chapter presents approaches to improve water use efficiency
by better crop, soil and irrigation management, and analyses underlying physiological and hydrological mechanisms. We found
that most management measures contribute to better water use efficiency by improving water availability to the crop while
reducing unproductive water losses. The main effect of crop, soil and irrigation management is an increase of the transpiration
component in relation to runoff, soil evaporation and drainage. Also the effect of deficit irrigation methods is achieved
partially by reducing stomatal conductance that results in higher transpiration efficiency. Redistribution of water from soil
evaporation to plant transpiration is the key for better water use efficiency of residue management and most measures in crop
rotation design. Improved water use efficiency by better agronomy is achieved most effectively by an integral set of measures
that are evaluated over the whole crop rotation. Processes underlying most improvements of water use efficiency in agronomy
suggest that research should target plant water uptake capacity. We conclude that an integral system approach and an interdisciplinary
focus on possibilities for root system management are most promising for a better water use and sustainable productivity in
agriculture.
KeywordsAgronomy-Water use efficiency-Drought tolerance-Water balance-Soil and crop management-Root water uptake
Anaerobic–aerobic systems have been remarkably employed in industrial and municipal wastewater treatment for many years. While previously most treatment of wastewaters have been carried out in conventional anaerobic–aerobic treatment plants, in recent years, high rate anaerobic–aerobic bioreactors have been increasingly employed for wastewaters with high chemical oxygen demand (COD). This paper provides a review of the various types of high rate anaerobic–aerobic water treatment techniques currently available including high rate bioreactors and integrated anaerobic–aerobic bioreactors. The integrated bioreactors are classified into four types, which are (i) integrated bioreactors with physical separation of anaerobic–aerobic zone, (ii) integrated bioreactors without physical separation of anaerobic–aerobic zone, (iii) anaerobic–aerobic Sequencing Batch Reactors (SBR), and (iv) combined anaerobic–aerobic culture system. The integration of aerobic and anaerobic degradation pathways in a single bioreactor is capable of enhancing the overall degradation efficiency. The merits of different integrated anaerobic–aerobic bioreactors are highlighted and comparison made to identify possible future areas of research to fully utilize these methods of wastewater treatment. The comparison demonstrates that using an integrated bioreactor with stacked configuration in treating high strength industrial wastewaters is advantageous due to minimal space requirements, low capital cost and excellent COD removal efficiencies (in excess of 83%).
Ashkelon — the world’s largest reverse osmosis desalination plant — is providing successfully its full capacity of drinking water (330,000 m3/d) at the lowest production cost for this type of project. The project has been developed as a BOT (Build, Operate and Transfer) by a consortium made of three international companies: Veolia water, IDE Technologies Ltd. and Elran Infrastructures Ltd. This paper will highlight the main points of this project.
The removal of an analgesic drug (acetaminophen) from water was investigated using activated carbons prepared from different residues, namely urban wastes (post-consumer plastics), and agro-industrial residues (cork powder and peach stones), comparing their adsorption capacity with that of commercially available carbonaceous adsorbents. The prepared carbon samples were evaluated on the basis of their adsorption capacities and kinetic performances, which were linked with their different properties. The samples prepared from chemical activation of the biomass residues show reasonably high removal efficiencies along with fast rate of adsorption, which are in fact comparable to commercial carbons. The analysis of the carbon samples after adsorbing the analgesic showed that adsorbent–adsorbate affinity is stronger in hydrophobic carbons of basic character that contain a well-developed microporosity. These characteristics are however not sufficient for an overall performance of a carbon in acetaminophen removal. The carbon must also have a well interconnected pore network (to facilitate the accessibility of acetaminophen molecules, thus speeding up adsorption kinetics) and an adequate chemical composition, which ultimately leads to a high adsorption capacity.
The membrane bioreactor (MBR) can no longer be considered as a novel process. This reliable and efficient technology has become a legitimate alternative to conventional activated sludge processes and an option of choice for many domestic and industrial applications. However, membrane fouling and its consequences in terms of plant maintenance and operating costs limit the widespread application of MBRs. To provide a better understanding of the complex fouling mechanisms and propensities occurring in MBR processes, this review compiles and analyses more than 300 publications. This paper also proposes updated definitions of key parameters such as critical and sustainable flux, along with standard methods to determine and measure the different fractions of the biomass. Although there is no clear consensus on the exact phenomena occurring on the membrane interface during activated sludge filtration, many publications indicate that the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) play a major role during fouling
The occurrence of nineteen pharmaceutically active compounds and personal care products was followed monthly for 12 months after various stages of treatment in an advanced wastewater reclamation plant in Gwinnett County, GA, U.S.A. Twenty-four hour composite samples were collected after primary clarification, activated sludge biological treatment, membrane filtration, granular media filtration, granular activated carbon (GAC) adsorption, and ozonation in the wastewater reclamation plant. Compounds were identified and quantified using high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) after solid-phase extraction. Standard addition methods were employed to compensate for matrix effects. Sixteen of the targeted compounds were detected in the primary effluent; sulfadimethoxine, doxycycline, and iopromide were not found. Caffeine and acetaminophen were found at the highest concentrations (∼10(5) ng/L), followed by ibuprofen (∼10(4) ng/L), sulfamethoxazole and DEET (∼10(3) ng/L). Most of the other compounds were found at concentrations on the order of hundreds of ng/L. After activated sludge treatment and membrane filtration, the concentrations of caffeine, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, DEET, tetracycline, and 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2) had decreased by more than 90%. Erythromycin and carbamazepine, which were resistant to biological treatment, were eliminated by 74 and 88%, on average, by GAC. Primidone, DEET, and caffeine were not amenable to adsorption by GAC. Ozonation oxidized most of the remaining compounds by >60%, except for primidone and DEET. Of the initial 16 compounds identified in the primary effluent, only sulfamethoxazole, primidone, caffeine and DEET were frequently detected in the final effluent, but at concentrations on the order of 10-100 ng/L. Removal of the different agents by the various treatment processes was related to the physical-chemical properties of the compounds.
The size, surface area, metal complexation capacity, organic pollutant sorption potential, reactivity with disinfectants, and elevated nitrogen content of biogenic organic nanoscale material (BONM) can potentially affect aquatic environments. BONM in effluents from 11 full-scale wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which use a range of biological processes, were characterized in two ways. First, BONM was measured by hydrodynamic size-exclusion chromatography coupled with an online organic carbon and UV detector. Second, BONM was isolated from the wastewater using rotary evaporation and dialysis and then characterized by elemental analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The wastewaters contained 6-10 mg/L of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). BONM accounted for 5%-50% of the DOC in wastewater effluent organic matter, and the largest size fraction (>10 kDa) of organic carbon correlated with the organic carbon content determined after rotary evaporation and dialysis. Membrane bioreactor WWTPs had the lowest fraction of BONM (<10% of the DOC), followed by conventional activated sludge (10% to 30% of the DOC), with other processes (e.g., trickling filters, aerated lagoons) containing larger BONM percentages. BONM had a lower carbon to nitrogen ratio (6.2 ± 1.7) compared with the literature values for humic or fulvic acids, exhibited chemical bonds that were indicative of amides and polysaccharides, and contained fibril entangled networks. This work has important implications for operations efficiency of WWTPs, including controlling membrane fouling and release of organic nitrogen into sensitive environments.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been adapted at varying concentrations of pesticide - Trichlorpyr ButoxyEthyl Ester (TBEE) viz. 10,25 50, 75 and 100 mg/l in MSM using incubator shaker at 37 ºC and 150 rpm byscale up process technique. In the beginning 10 mg/l concentration of TBEE was supplied to microorganismin minimal salt medium (MSM) under controlled conditions for 14 days. The culture was subsequently scaledup to higher concentration of TBEE by transferring one milliliter MSM containing 10 mg/l to 25 mg/lconcentration in MSM and incubated for continuous 14 days. The Pseudomonas aeruginosa (NCIM 2074)was adapted in increasing concentration of TBEE at 50 mg/l, 75 mg/l and 100 mg/l; after every 14 daysusing a total period of 70 days. During adaptation period, the pseudomonas aeruginosa degraded the TBEEcompletely at concentrations of 10 mg/l and 25 mg/l; while 49% and 23% degradation in 75 mg/l and 100mg/l of TBEE was observed. Hence bioremediation studies has been carried out at concentrations 10, 25 50mg/l of TBEE using flask shake method. GCMS data showed that TBEE degraded 100% within 3 days at 10mg/l concentration and 5 days at 25 mg/l initial concentrations. While in case of 50 mg/l initial concentrationof TBEE the compound was found persisting till 8 days period. The major intermediated, during thebioremediation of TBEE, were found to be 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol and 2,4,6-trichloro benzene amine.These intermediates are less toxic than parent compounds which on long term acclimatization would convertinto environment friendly compounds.
Many wildlife species may be exposed to biologically active concentrations of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. There is strong evidence obtained from laboratory studies showing the potential of several environmental chemicals to cause endocrine disruption at environmentally realistic exposure levels. In wildlife populations, associations have been reported between reproductive and developmental effects and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. In the aquatic environment, effects have been observed in mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and mollusks from Europe, North America, and other areas. The observed abnormalities vary from subtle changes to permanent alterations, including disturbed sex differentiation with feminized or masculinized sex organs, changed sexual behavior, and altered immune function. For most reported effects in wildlife, however, the evidence for a causal link with endocrine disruption is weak or nonexisting. Crucial in establishing causal evidence for chemical-induced wildlife effects appeared semifield or laboratory studies using the wildlife species of concern. Impaired reproduction and development causally linked to endocrine-disrupting chemicals are well documented in a number of species and have resulted in local or regional population changes. These include: Masculinization (imposex) in female marine snails by tributyltin, a biocide used in antifouling paints, is probably the clearest case of endocrine disruption caused by an environmental chemical. The dogwhelk is particularly sensitive, and imposex has resulted in decline or extinction of local populations worldwide, including coastal areas all over Europe and the open North Sea. DDE-induced egg-shell thinning in birds has caused severe population declines in a number of raptor species in Europe and North America. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals have adversely affected a variety of fish species. In the vicinity of certain sources (e.g., effluents of water treatment plants) and in the most contaminated areas is this exposure causally linked with the effects on reproductive organs that could have implications for fish populations. However, there is also a more widespread occurrence of endocrine disruption in fish in the U.K., where estrogenic effects have been demonstrated in freshwater systems, in estuaries, and in coastal areas. In mammals, the best evidence comes from the-field studies on Baltic gray and ringed seals, and from the Dutch semifield studies on harbor seals, where both reproduction and immune functions have been impaired by PCBs in the food chain. Reproduction effects resulted in population declines, whereas impaired immune function has likely contributed to the mass mortalities due to morbillivirus infections. Distorted sex organ development and function in alligators has been related to a major pesticide spill into a lake in Florida, U.S.A. The observed estrogenic/antiandrogenic effects in this reptile have been causally linked in experimental studies with alligator eggs to the DDT complex. Although most observed effects currently reported concern heavily polluted areas, endocrine disruption is a potential global problem. This is exemplified by the widespread occurrence of imposex in marine snails and the recent findings of high levels of persistent potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals in several marine mammalian species inhabiting oceanic waters.
The decolourisation of synthetic melanoidins (i.e., GGA, GAA, SGA, and SAA) by three Bacillus isolates (Bacillus thuringiensis (MTCC 4714), Bacillus brevis (MTCC 4716) and Bacillus sp. (MTCC 6506)) was studied. Significant reduction in the values of physicochemical parameters was noticed alongwith the decolourisation of all four melanoidins (10% v/v). B. thuringiensis (MTCC 4714) caused maximum decolourisation followed by B. brevis (MTCC 4716) and Bacillus sp. (MTCC 6506). A mixed culture comprised of these three strains was capable of decolourising all four melanoidins. The medium that contained glucose as a sole carbon source showed 15% more decolourisation than that containing both carbon and nitrogen sources. Melanoidin SGA was maximally decolourised (50%) while melanoidin GAA was decolourised least ( approximately 06%) in the presence of glucose as a sole energy source. The addition of 1% glucose as a supplementary carbon source was essential for co-metabolism of melanoidin complex. The decolourisation of synthetic melanoidin by three Bacillus spp. significantly reduced the toxicity to the tubificid worm (Tubifex tubifex, Müller).
The aim of this study was to isolate microorganisms capable of decolourizing and degrading anaerobically treated distillery spent wash. A bacterial consortium DMC comprising of three bacterial cultures was selected on the basis of rapid effluent decolourization and degradation, which exhibited 67 +/- 2% decolourization within 24 h and 51 +/- 2% chemical oxygen demand reduction within 72 h when incubated at 37 degrees C under static condition in effluent supplemented with 0.5% glucose, 0.1% KH(2)PO(4), 0.05% KCl and 0.05% MgSO(4) x 7H(2)O. Addition of organic or inorganic nitrogen sources did not support decolourization. The cultures were identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, Stenotrophomonas maltophila and Proteus mirabilis by the 16S rDNA analysis.