In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Water Research X’, researchers have unveiled a novel approach to tackle the persistent issue of phosphorus recovery from wastewater, a major contributor to eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems. The research, led by Jianfei Chen from the Cold-Region Water Resource Recovery Laboratory at the University of Regina, demonstrates how transforming aluminum-salt water treatment residuals (Al-WTR) into a multiuse ceramsite can significantly enhance phosphate recovery rates.
Phosphorus, while essential for plant growth, can wreak havoc on water bodies when in excess, leading to algal blooms and deteriorating water quality. Traditional methods of phosphorus recovery have often fallen short, especially when faced with challenging water matrices. However, Chen and his team have developed a ceramsite, referred to as ASC, which boasts a remarkably high specific surface area of 70.53 m²/g and a phosphate adsorption capacity of 47.2 mg P/g. This is a significant improvement over existing ceramsite materials, which typically have a specific surface area of less than 40 m²/g and an adsorption capacity below 20 mg P/g.
“In our study, ASC demonstrated an impressive ability to recover over 94.9% of phosphate across a wide pH range of 3 to 11,” Chen stated. “Even in the presence of competing anions and humic acid, ASC maintained more than 90% phosphate recovery, showcasing its robustness as an adsorbent.”
The research took a practical turn when the team applied ASC to real municipal wastewater at a temperature of 10°C, achieving phosphate removal rates exceeding 97.1% along with a chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal of 71.2%. This dual-functionality not only addresses phosphorus pollution but also contributes to the overall improvement of water quality.
One of the most compelling aspects of this innovation is its potential for repurposing. Once saturated with phosphate, ASC can be transformed into landscaping material or soil amendments, effectively closing the loop in a circular economy model. This not only alleviates the burden of waste management for water treatment facilities but also opens new avenues for revenue generation through the sale of repurposed materials.
Chen’s economic analysis indicates that ASC could serve as a competitive alternative to traditional clay-based ceramsite and biochar, making it an attractive option for water treatment plants seeking sustainable solutions. “By valorizing waste materials, we can not only improve water treatment processes but also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices,” Chen added.
As the water, sanitation, and drainage sector grapples with increasing regulatory pressures and the need for sustainable practices, innovations like ASC could reshape the landscape of wastewater management. With its eco-friendly and cost-effective profile, ASC stands to make a significant impact on how phosphorus recovery is approached, paving the way for a more sustainable future in water resource management.
For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the Cold-Region Water Resource Recovery Laboratory at the University of Regina.
