From problem to solution in laundries and dyeing facilities: how activated carbon optimized effluent treatment

Advanced solution for optimizing effluent treatment: powdered activated carbon innovation in treatment with activated sludge biological plants

In the laundry and dyeing industries, effluent treatment is a crucial part of ensuring not only environmental compliance but also the overall efficiency of the plants. However, when biological treatment plants with activated sludge face difficulties in managing challenging pollutants such as non-ionic, cationic surfactants, and refractory COD, it is essential to intervene with targeted solutions. SDG has employed Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC), which has proven to be a highly effective strategy.

Why use activated carbon?

Powdered activated carbon is an adsorbent that significantly enhances the efficiency of biological treatment, removing not only organic pollutants but also emerging micro-pollutants that may escape traditional biological processes. The introduction of PAC into the treatment system works in synergy with activated sludge, bringing several benefits.

How powdered activated carbon works

PAC consists of carbon particles with a very high specific surface area, which facilitates the adsorption of organic and toxic compounds. By adding PAC to the biological oxidation section, an additional surface is provided for the adsorption of pollutants, while simultaneously protecting the biological biomass from potentially harmful substances, thus improving its metabolic activity.

Benefits of using PAC in activated sludge systems

1. Removal of Difficult-to-Degrade Pollutants: PAC is particularly effective against refractory compounds such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals, which cannot be easily treated by biological processes alone.

2. Protection of biomass: Toxic pollutants are sequestered by PAC, preventing inhibition of microorganisms and improving the overall functioning of the biological system.

3. Improved effluent quality: The integration of PAC reduces COD and BOD levels, contributing to better effluent quality and minimizing the presence of micro-pollutants.

4. Control of sludge growth: PAC helps reduce excessive biomass growth, limiting the production of excess sludge by adsorbing organic substances.

Challenges and considerations for effective use

Despite the numerous advantages, the use of PAC comes with some practical challenges to consider:

• Operating costs: The continuous purchase and dosing of activated carbon can significantly impact operational costs.

• Sludge management: Exhausted PAC mixes with the activated sludge, increasing the amount of solids to be treated and the load on the treatment line.

Therefore, determining the right dosage of PAC is essential to effectively balance treatment costs and benefits.

To sum-up

The use of powdered activated carbon is a solution that improves the performance of biological treatment plants, especially for removing difficult-to-treat pollutants. With proper management, this technology allows for superior effluent treatment results, with attention to operational sustainability and cost reduction. If you would like to learn more about how to optimize effluent treatment at your plant, we are available to offer personalized consultations.