1
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Rocha ME, Mangiavacchi N, Marques M, Teixeira L. Succession from acetoclastic to hydrogenotrophic microbial community during sewage sludge anaerobic digestion for bioenergy production. Biotechnol Lett 2024:10.1007/s10529-024-03528-6. [PMID: 39261355 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-024-03528-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
To assess microbial dynamics during anaerobic digestion (AD) of sewage sludge (SWS) from a municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), a Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) assay at 37 °C under mono-digestion conditions was conducted. Utilizing the Illumina MiSeq platform, 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing unveiled a core bacterial community in the solid material, showcasing notable variations in profiles. The research investigates changes in microbial communities and metabolic pathways to understand their impact on the efficiency of the digestion process. Prior to AD, the relative abundance in SWS was as follows: Proteobacteria > Bacteroidota > Actinobacteriota. Post-AD, the relative abundance shifted to Firmicutes > Synergistota > Proteobacteria, with Sporanaerobacter and Clostridium emerging as dominant genera. Notably, the methanogenic community underwent a metabolic pathway shift from acetoclastic to hydrogenotrophic in the lab-scale reactors. At the genus level, Methanosaeta, Methanolinea, and Methanofastidiosum predominated initially, while post-AD, Methanobacterium, Methanosaeta, and Methanospirillum took precedence. This metabolic transition may be linked to the increased abundance of Firmicutes, particularly Clostridia, which harbor acetate-oxidizing bacteria facilitating the conversion of acetate to hydrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Erthal Rocha
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Norberto Mangiavacchi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcia Marques
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lia Teixeira
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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2
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Biney M, Gusiatin MZ. Biochar from Co-Pyrolyzed Municipal Sewage Sludge (MSS): Part 1: Evaluating Types of Co-Substrates and Co-Pyrolysis Conditions. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:3603. [PMID: 39063895 PMCID: PMC11278580 DOI: 10.3390/ma17143603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
With the increasing production of municipal sewage sludge (MSS) worldwide, the development of efficient and sustainable strategies for its management is crucial. Pyrolysis of MSS offers several benefits, including volume reduction, pathogen elimination, and energy recovery through the production of biochar, syngas, and bio-oil. However, the process can be limited by the composition of the MSS, which can affect the quality of the biochar. Co-pyrolysis has emerged as a promising solution for the sustainable management of MSS, reducing the toxicity of biochar and improving its physical and chemical properties to expand its potential applications. This review discusses the status of MSS as a feedstock for biochar production. It describes the types and properties of various co-substrates grouped according to European biochar certification requirements, including those from forestry and wood processing, agriculture, food processing residues, recycling, anaerobic digestion, and other sources. In addition, the review addresses the optimization of co-pyrolysis conditions, including the type of furnace, mixing ratio of MSS and co-substrate, co-pyrolysis temperature, residence time, heating rate, type of inert gas, and flow rate. This overview shows the potential of different biomass types for the upgrading of MSS biochar and provides a basis for research into new co-substrates. This approach not only mitigates the environmental impact of MSS but also contributes to the wider goal of achieving a circular economy in MSS management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mariusz Z. Gusiatin
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Sloneczna Str. 45G, 10-709 Olsztyn, Poland;
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3
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Hamid H, Nicomel NR, Mohamed BA, Abida O, Li LY. Adsorption and leaching of fluorotelomer compounds and perfluoroalkyl acids in aqueous media by activated carbon prepared from municipal biosolids. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 358:120839. [PMID: 38599091 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are ubiquitous in nature and pose serious health risks to humans and animals. Limiting PFAA exposure requires novel technology for their effective removal from water. We investigated the efficacy of biosolid-based activated carbon (Bio-SBAC) in removing frequently detected PFAAs and their precursor fluorotelomer compounds at environmentally relevant concentrations (∼50 μg/L). Batch experiments were performed to investigate adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and leachability. Bio-SBAC achieved >95% removal of fluorotelomeric compounds, indicating that the need for PFAA removal from the environment could be minimised if the precursors were targeted. Kinetic data modelling suggested that chemisorption is the dominant PFAA adsorption mechanism. As evidenced by the isotherm modelling results, Freundlich adsorption intensity, n-1, values of <1 (0.707-0.938) indicate chemisorption. Bio-SBAC showed maximum capacities for the adsorption of perfluorooctanoic acid (1429 μg/g) and perfluorononanoic acid (1111 μg/g). Batch desorption tests with 100 mg/L humic acid and 10 g/L NaCl showed that Bio-SBAC effectively retained the adsorbed PFAA with little or no leaching, except perfluorobutanoic acid. Overall, this study revealed that Bio-SBAC is a value-added material with promising characteristics for PFAA adsorption and no leachability. Additionally, it can be incorporated into biofilters to remove PFAAs from stormwater, presenting a sustainable approach to minimise biosolid disposal and improve the quality of wastewater before discharge into receiving waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Hamid
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Lane, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Nina Ricci Nicomel
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Lane, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Badr A Mohamed
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Lane, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada; Department of Agricultural Engineering, Cairo University, El-Gamma Street, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Otman Abida
- African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Laâyoune 70000, Morocco
| | - Loretta Y Li
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Lane, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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4
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Shao X, Huang Y, Wood RM, Tarpeh WA. Electrochemical sulfate production from sulfide-containing wastewaters and integration with electrochemical nitrogen recovery. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133527. [PMID: 38241833 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Electrochemical methods can help manage sulfide in wastewater, which poses environmental and health concerns due to its toxicity, malodor, and corrosiveness. In addition, sulfur could be recovered as fertilizer and commodity chemicals from sulfide-containing wastewaters. Wastewater characteristics vary widely among wastewaters; however, it remains unclear how these characteristics affect electrochemical sulfate production. In this study, we evaluated how four characteristics of influent wastewaters (electrolyte pH, composition, sulfide concentration, and buffer strength) affect sulfide removal (sulfide removal rate, sulfide removal efficiency) and sulfate production metrics (sulfate production rate, sulfate production selectivity). We identified that electrolyte pH (3 × difference, i.e., 25.1 to 84.9 μM h-1 in average removal rate within the studied pH range) and sulfide concentration (16 × difference, i.e., 82.1 to 1347.2 μM h-1 in average removal rate) were the most influential factors for electrochemical sulfide removal. Sulfate production was most sensitive to buffer strength (6 × difference, i.e., 4.4 to 27.4 μM h-1 in average production rate) and insensitive to electrolyte composition. Together, these results provide recommendations for the design of wastewater treatment trains and the feasibility of applying electrochemical methods to varying sulfide-containing wastewaters. In addition, we investigated a simultaneous multi-nutrient (sulfur and nitrogen) process that leverages electrochemical stripping to further enhance the versatility and compatibility of electrochemical nutrient recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohan Shao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Yixuan Huang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Robert M Wood
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - William A Tarpeh
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States; Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States.
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5
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Lobiuc A, Stoleru V, Gheorghiţă R, Burducea M. The Effect of Municipal Biosolids on the Growth, Physiology and Synthesis of Phenolic Compounds in Ocimum basilicum L. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:448. [PMID: 38203619 PMCID: PMC10779201 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The continuous development of drinking water networks is leading to the production of increasing amounts of waste water and sewage sludge. Secondary-treated sewage sludge is called biosolids and can be used as fertilizers in agriculture due to its rich nutrient content. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of biosolids mixed with an eroded soil on the morphology, physiology and synthesis of bioactive compounds in basil. The study was performed in pots under laboratory-controlled conditions. In total, four substrates were tested: S1 biosolids 100%, S2 biosolids 15% + eroded soil 85%, S3 eroded soil 100% and S4 control (commercial growing substrate). At the morphological level, a significant increase in plant height, number of branches, fresh biomass and dry biomass was found in the S2 variant. At the physiological level, photosynthesis and chlorophyll content did not vary significantly, but the quantum yield of PSII (ΦPSII) was significantly higher at S1 and S2. The oxidative status evaluated by determining the activity of SOD, POD and CAT enzymes was better in S2 and S3 compared to S3. Regarding the synthesis of bioactive compounds (rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid and gallic acid), it was stimulated in S1 and S2. In conclusion, biosolids application stimulated the stress response mechanisms in basil plants by increasing the quantum yield chlorophyll fluorescence and catalase activity, alleviating the negative effects of eroded soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Lobiuc
- Department of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University, 720229 Suceava, Romania; (A.L.); (R.G.)
| | - Vasile Stoleru
- Department of Horticulture Technologies, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Roxana Gheorghiţă
- Department of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University, 720229 Suceava, Romania; (A.L.); (R.G.)
| | - Marian Burducea
- Research and Development Station for Aquaculture and Aquatic Ecology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University, Carol I, 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania
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Cheng W, Ma X, Chen H, Chen R, Wang D. Yttrium-modified drinking water treatment residue for efficient phosphorus removal: efficacy, mechanism, and reproducibility. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:111611-111626. [PMID: 37819473 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30159-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The excessive presence of phosphate can cause eutrophication in water bodies. Yttrium has an extremely high affinity for phosphorus and is capable of forming stable complexes at low concentrations. Moreover, limitations in the resourcefulness of drinking water treatment residues were observed. In this study, a highly efficient phosphorus removal adsorbent (RJDWTR@Y) was prepared by calcination-alkali leaching-yttrium-loaded composite modification employing domestic drinking water treatment residue as raw material. And the effects of multiple factors on phosphate adsorption by RJDWTR@Y were examined. The results illustrated that the maximum adsorption capacity of the RJDWTR@Y for phosphate was 319.76 mg/g, with the chemical reaction of the multilayer as the predominant adsorption process. The adsorption mechanism is electrostatic gravitational force and the inner sphere complexation effect. RJDWTR@Y was effective against interference even at high concentrations of the coexisting anion. After five cycles, the desorption efficiency of phosphate was 75.11%. Filling the fixed bed with the material can efficiently remove phosphorus from the flowing liquid. The synthesis of RJDWTR@Y and the results of the study indicated that it has good application prospects. In addition to efficiently removing phosphorus, it can also recycle waste and achieve sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Cheng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Xiaoying Ma
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Haoyu Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Rongsheng Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Dongtian Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Environment Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China.
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7
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Giwa AS, Maurice NJ, Luoyan A, Liu X, Yunlong Y, Hong Z. Advances in sewage sludge application and treatment: Process integration of plasma pyrolysis and anaerobic digestion with the resource recovery. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19765. [PMID: 37809742 PMCID: PMC10559074 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Sewage sludge (SS) is an environmental issue due to its high organic content and ability to release hazardous substances. Most of the treatments available are biological, thermal hydrolysis, mechanical (ultrasound, high pressure, and lysis), chemical with oxidation (mainly ozonation), and alkali pre-treatments. Other treatment methods include landfill, wet oxidation, composting, drying, stabilization, incineration, pyrolysis, carbonization, liquefaction, gasification, and torrefaction. Some of these SS disposal methods damage the ecosystem and underutilize the potential resource value of SS. These challenges must be overcome with an innovative technique for the improvement of SS's nutritional value, energy content, and usability. This review proposes plasma pyrolysis and anaerobic digestion (AD) as promising SS treatment technologies. Plasma pyrolysis pre-treats SS to make it digestible by AD bacteria and immobilizes the heavy metals. The addition of Char to the upstream AD process increases the quantity and quality of biogas produced while enhancing the nutrients in the digestate. These two processes are integrated at high temperatures, thus creating concerns about their energy demand. These challenges are offset by the generated energy that can run the treatment plant or be sold to the grid, generating additional cash. Plasma pyrolysis wastes can also be converted into biochar, organic fertilizer, or soil conditioner. These combined technologies' financial sustainability depends on the treatment facility's circumstances and location. Plasma pyrolysis and AD can treat SS sustainably and provide nutrients and resources. This paper explains the co-process treatment route's techno-economic prospects, challenges, and recommendations for the future application of SS valorization and resource recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmoseen Segun Giwa
- School of Environment and Civil Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Science and Technology, Nanchang, 330108, China
| | | | - Ai Luoyan
- School of Environment and Civil Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Science and Technology, Nanchang, 330108, China
| | - Xinxin Liu
- School of Environment and Civil Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Science and Technology, Nanchang, 330108, China
| | - Yang Yunlong
- School of Environment and Civil Engineering, Nanchang Institute of Science and Technology, Nanchang, 330108, China
| | - Zhao Hong
- Jiangxi Transportation Institute Company Limited, China
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8
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Cavali M, Benbelkacem H, Kim B, Bayard R, Libardi Junior N, Gonzaga Domingos D, Woiciechowski AL, Castilhos Junior ABD. Co-hydrothermal carbonization of pine residual sawdust and non-dewatered sewage sludge - effect of reaction conditions on hydrochar characteristics. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 340:117994. [PMID: 37119630 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Waste valorization is mandatory to develop and consolidate a circular bioeconomy. It is necessary to search for appropriate processes to add value to different wastes by utilizing them as feedstocks to provide energy, chemicals, and materials. For instance, hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is an alternative thermochemical process that has been suggested for waste valorization aiming at hydrochar production. Thus, this study proposed the Co-HTC of pine residual sawdust (PRS) with non-dewatered sewage sludge (SS) - two wastes largely produced in sawmills and wastewater treatment plants, respectively - without adding extra water. The influence of temperature (180, 215, and 250 °C), reaction time (1, 2, and 3 h), and PRS/SS mass ratio (1/30, 1/20, and 1/10) on the yield and characteristics of the hydrochar were evaluated. The hydrochars obtained at 250 °C had the best coalification degree, showing the highest fuel ratio, high heating value (HHV), surface area, and N, P, and K retention, although presenting the lowest yields. Conversely, hydrochar functional groups were generally reduced by increasing Co-HTC temperatures. Regarding the Co-HTC effluent, it presented acidic pH (3.66-4.39) and high COD values (6.2-17.3 g·L-1). In general, this new approach could be a promising alternative to conventional HTC, in which a high amount of extra water is required. Besides, the Co-HTC process can be an option for managing lignocellulosic wastes and sewage sludges while producing hydrochar. This carbonaceous material has the potential for several applications, and its production is a step towards a circular bioeconomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Cavali
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-970, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | | | - Boram Kim
- Univ Lyon, INSA Lyon, DEEP, EA 7429, 69621, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Rémy Bayard
- Univ Lyon, INSA Lyon, DEEP, EA 7429, 69621, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Nelson Libardi Junior
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-970, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Dayane Gonzaga Domingos
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-970, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Adenise Lorenci Woiciechowski
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering and Biotechnology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, 81531-908, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Armando Borges de Castilhos Junior
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-970, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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9
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Rodrigues JL, Campêlo JDM, Wisniewski A, Hantao LW, Eberlin MN, Santos JM. Chemical evaluation of pyrolysis oils from domestic and industrial effluent treatment station sludges with perspective to produce value-added products. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 168:202-210. [PMID: 37311387 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The use of renewable sources for energy has increased due to the high demand of modern society and the environmental impacts caused by the use of fossil fuels. Environmentally friendly renewable energy production may involve thermal processes, including the application of biomass. We provide a comprehensive chemical characterization of sludges from domestic and industrial effluent treatment stations, as well as the bio-oils produced by fast pyrolysis. A comparative study of the sludges and the corresponding pyrolysis oils was performed, with characterization of the raw materials using thermogravimetric analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The bio-oils were characterized using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/mass spectrometry that identified compounds classified according to their chemical class, mainly related to nitrogenous (62.2%) and ester (18.9%) for domestic sludge bio-oil, and nitrogenous (61.0%) and ester (27.6%) for industrial sludge bio-oil. The Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry revealed a broad distribution of classes with oxygen and/or sulfur (N2O2S, O2, and S2 classes). Nitrogenous compounds (N, N2, N3, and NxOxclasses) were also found to be abundant in both bio-oils, due to the origins of the sludges (with the presence of proteins), making these bio-oils unsuitable for use as renewable fuels, since NOxgases could be released during combustion processes. The presence of functionalized alkyl chains indicated the potential of the bio-oils as sources of high added-value compounds that could be obtained by recovery processes and used for the manufacture of fertilizers, surfactants, and nitrogen solvents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonatas L Rodrigues
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jacqueline de M Campêlo
- Petroleum, Energy and Mass Spectrometry Research Group (PEM), Department of Chemistry, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Alberto Wisniewski
- Petroleum and Energy from Biomass Research Group (PEB), Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Sergipe - UFS, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Leandro W Hantao
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcos N Eberlin
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil; School of Engineering, Mackenzie Presbyterian University. Rua da Consolação, 930. São Paulo - SP. 01302-907, Brazil; MackGraphe - Mackenzie Institute for Research in Graphene and Nanotechnologies, Mackenzie Presbyterian Institute. Rua da Consolação, 896. São Paulo - SP. 01302-907. Brazil
| | - Jandyson M Santos
- Petroleum, Energy and Mass Spectrometry Research Group (PEM), Department of Chemistry, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
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10
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Characteristics of Solidified Carbon Dioxide and Perspectives for Its Sustainable Application in Sewage Sludge Management. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032324. [PMID: 36768646 PMCID: PMC9916872 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Appropriate management is necessary to mitigate the environmental impacts of wastewater sludge. One lesser-known technology concerns the use of solidified CO2 for dewatering, sanitization, and digestion improvement. Solidified CO2 is a normal byproduct of natural gas treatment processes and can also be produced by dedicated biogas upgrading technologies. The way solidified CO2 is sourced is fully in line with the principles of the circular economy and carbon dioxide mitigation. The aim of this review is to summarize the current state of knowledge on the production and application of solid CO2 in the pretreatment and management of sewage sludge. Using solidified CO2 for sludge conditioning causes effective lysis of microbial cells, which destroys activated sludge flocs, promotes biomass fragmentation, facilitates efficient dispersion of molecular associations, modifies cell morphology, and denatures macromolecules. Solidified CO2 can be used as an attractive tool to sanitize and dewater sludge and as a pretreatment technology to improve methane digestion and fermentative hydrogen production. Furthermore, it can also be incorporated into a closed CO2 cycle of biogas production-biogas upgrading-solidified CO2 production-sludge disintegration-digestion-biogas production. This feature not only bolsters the technology's capacity to improve the performance and cost-effectiveness of digestion processes, but can also help reduce atmospheric CO2 emissions, a crucial advantage in terms of environment protection. This new approach to solidified CO2 generation and application largely counteracts previous limitations, which are mainly related to the low cost-effectiveness of the production process.
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11
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Kazimierowicz J, Dębowski M, Zieliński M. Effect of Pharmaceutical Sludge Pre-Treatment with Fenton/Fenton-like Reagents on Toxicity and Anaerobic Digestion Efficiency. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:ijerph20010271. [PMID: 36612592 PMCID: PMC9819895 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Sewage sludge is successfully used in anaerobic digestion (AD). Although AD is a well-known, universal and widely recognized technology, there are factors that limit its widespread use, such as the presence of substances that are resistant to biodegradation, inhibit the fermentation process or are toxic to anaerobic microorganisms. Sewage sludge generated by the pharmaceutical sector is one such substance. Pharmaceutical sewage sludge (PSS) is characterized by high concentrations of biocides, including antibiotics and other compounds that have a negative effect on the anaerobic environment. The aim of the present research was to determine the feasibility of applying Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOP) harnessing Fenton's (Fe2+/H2O2) and Fenton-like (Fe3+/H2O2) reaction to PSS pre-treatment prior to AD. The method was analyzed in terms of its impact on limiting PSS toxicity and improving methane fermentation. The use of AOP led to a significant reduction of PSS toxicity from 53.3 ± 5.1% to 35.7 ± 3.2%, which had a direct impact on the taxonomic structure of anaerobic bacteria, and thus influenced biogas production efficiency and methane content. Correlations were found between PSS toxicity and the presence of Archaea and biogas yields in the Fe2+/H2O2 group. CH4 production ranged from 363.2 ± 11.9 cm3 CH4/g VS in the control PSS to approximately 450 cm3/g VS. This was 445.7 ± 21.6 cm3 CH4/g VS (1.5 g Fe2+/dm3 and 6.0 g H2O2/dm3) and 453.6 ± 22.4 cm3 CH4/g VS (2.0 g Fe2+/dm3 and 8.0 g H2O2/dm3). The differences between these variants were not statistically significant. Therefore, due to the economical use of chemical reagents, the optimal tested dose was 1.5 g Fe2+/6.0 g H2O2. The use of a Fenton-like reagent (Fe3+/H2O2) resulted in lower AD efficiency (max. 393.7 ± 12.1 cm3 CH4/g VS), and no strong linear relationships between the analyzed variables were found. It is, therefore, a more difficult method to estimate the final effects. Research has proven that AOP can be used to improve the efficiency of AD of PSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kazimierowicz
- Department of Water Supply and Sewage Systems, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Bialystok University of Technology, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-571-443-143
| | - Marcin Dębowski
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-720 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marcin Zieliński
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-720 Olsztyn, Poland
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Ghorbani M, Konvalina P, Walkiewicz A, Neugschwandtner RW, Kopecký M, Zamanian K, Chen WH, Bucur D. Feasibility of Biochar Derived from Sewage Sludge to Promote Sustainable Agriculture and Mitigate GHG Emissions-A Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12983. [PMID: 36232283 PMCID: PMC9564516 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Sewage sludge (SS) has been connected to a variety of global environmental problems. Assessing the risk of various disposal techniques can be quite useful in recommending appropriate management. The preparation of sewage sludge biochar (SSB) and its impacts on soil characteristics, plant health, nutrient leaching, and greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) are critically reviewed in this study. Comparing the features of SSB obtained at various pyrolysis temperatures revealed changes in its elemental content. Lower hydrogen/carbon ratios in SSB generated at higher pyrolysis temperatures point to the existence of more aromatic carbon molecules. Additionally, the preparation of SSB has an increased ash content, a lower yield, and a higher surface area as a result of the rise in pyrolysis temperature. The worldwide potential of SS output and CO2-equivalent emissions in 2050 were predicted as factors of global population and common disposal management in order to create a futuristic strategy and cope with the quantity of abundant global SS. According to estimations, the worldwide SS output and associated CO2-eq emissions were around 115 million tons dry solid (Mt DS) and 14,139 teragrams (Tg), respectively, in 2020. This quantity will rise to about 138 Mt DS sewage sludge and 16985 Tg CO2-eq emissions in 2050, a 20% increase. In this regard, developing and populous countries may support economic growth by utilizing low-cost methods for producing biochar and employing it in local agriculture. To completely comprehend the benefits and drawbacks of SSB as a soil supplement, further study on long-term field applications of SSB is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ghorbani
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Konvalina
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Walkiewicz
- Department of Natural Environment Biogeochemistry, Institute of Agrophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Doświadczalna 4, 20-290 Lublin, Poland
| | - Reinhard W. Neugschwandtner
- Department of Crop Sciences, Institute of Agronomy, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Konrad-Lorenz-Straße 24, 3430 Tulln, Austria
| | - Marek Kopecký
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Kazem Zamanian
- Department of Soil Science of Temperate Ecosystems, Georg August University of Goettingen, Büsgenweg 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Wei-Hsin Chen
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University, University Road/70101, Tainan 70101, Taiwan or
- Research Center for Smart Sustainable Circular Economy, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung 411, Taiwan
| | - Daniel Bucur
- Department of Pedotechnics, Faculty of Agriculture, Iasi University of Life Sciences, 3 Mihail Sadoveanu Alley, 700490 Iasi, Romania
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