Wastewater Treatment with Algae 1

[jvasa3]

I am curious if wastewater treatment with algae for lagoons is considered feesable. From what I know the Algae can be seeded and may be successful in lowering the TSS, Nitrate and Metal Ion Levels. Is this really possible? Has anyone heard of or done successful treatments of this kind?

 

[civilperson]

Happens naturally in almost all sewer lagoons receiving phosphates and nitrogen.

 

[semo]

As Civilperson stated, the algae in lagoons will occur naturally; but, they won't do what you are looking for.

Lagoons are very economic in the way of construction and operation; but, are limited to their treatment. I'd advise you to look at your discharge limits before deciding what form of treatment you will use.

Lagoons are a good form of secondary treatment for wastewater; but, when overloaded with algae, the TSS will be high (algae shows up as TSS in testing).

Lagoons in warm weather will reduce ammonia levels; but, are not good for nitrogen removal.

Lagoons are not very effective at removing heavy metals.

 

[bimr]

In addition to the comments made by SEMO, algae treatment will not work in cold weather either.

 

[ckeller]

Wastewater treatment in lagoons is more likely to increase TSS than decrease. Algal solids leaving the lagoon system will be measured as TSS and at times can exceed the inflow TSS.