Mechanism of rubber sludge disintegration using advanced oxidation process (Fenton process)

Abstract

The usage of activated sludge process as a biological means to reduce wastewater BOD results in high production of waste sludge. The hydroxyl radicals (•OH) released in advanced oxidation processes are believed to be able to cause disintegration of sludge and the subsequent dissolving of cellular components to induce cryptic growth, resulting in overall reduction in sludge production. This research aims to study the peformance of Fenton Process as an advanced oxidation process to cause sludge disintegration by studying the important ananlytical parameters. Optimum condition for disintegration by Fenton process is also studied by varying parameters such as amount of Fe2O3, amount of H2O2, pH and also the duration of oxidation. Finding of the research proved that Fenton Process is succesful to achieve disintegration of sludge and also reduction in pollutant in wastewater. The conditions for effective sludge disintegration are identified to be 3g of Iron Oxide (FeOH), 30 mL of 30% Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2), pH 3 and 60 minutes of oxidation duration.