1
|
Delanka-Pedige HMK, Ahmed A, Schaub T, Trainor P, Nirmalakhandan N. Feasibility of organic micropollutant removal from municipal wastewaters by algal treatment vs. activated sludge treatment: Comparison based on non-targeted organic compound analysis. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 367:121936. [PMID: 39096723 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121936] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Sustainability and life-cycle concerns about the conventional activated sludge (CAS) process for wastewater treatment have been driving the development of energy-efficient, greener alternatives. Feasibility of an algal-based wastewater treatment (A-WWT) system has been demonstrated recently as a possible alternative, capable of simultaneous nutrient and energy recovery. This study compared capabilities of the A-WWT and CAS systems in removing organic micropollutants (OMP). Initial assessments based on surrogate organic measures and fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (FEEM) scans revealed that the A-WWT system achieved higher removals of organics than the CAS system. However, effluents of both systems contained residual organic matter, necessitating further OMP assessment for a rigorous comparison. A novel ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography- Fourier transform mass spectrometry (UPLC-FTMS)-based non-targeted screening approach was adopted here for residual OMP analysis. This approach confirmed that the A-WWT system resulted in better OMP removal, eliminating 329 compounds and partially reducing 472 compounds, compared to 206 eliminations and 410 partial reductions by the CAS system. Mass spectra signal corresponding to some OMPs increased with treatment while some transformation products were observed following treatment. Higher OMP reduction in the A-WWT system with concurrent reductions of biodegradable carbon, nutrients, and pathogens in a single-step while producing energy and nutrient rich algal biomass underscore its potential as a greener alternative for wastewater treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H M K Delanka-Pedige
- School of Civil, Environmental, and Infrastructure Engineering, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA
| | - A Ahmed
- Chemical & Analysis Instrumentation Laboratory, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA
| | - T Schaub
- Chemical & Analysis Instrumentation Laboratory, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA
| | - P Trainor
- Economics, Applied Statistics & International Business Department, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA
| | - N Nirmalakhandan
- Civil Engineering Department, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Goyat R, Singh J, Umar A, Ibrahim AA, Kumari S, Malik S, Chaudhary V, Akbar S, Baskoutas S. Enhanced removal of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) ions from contaminated water using graphene oxide-decorated polyethersulphone membranes: Synthesis and characterization. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024; 42:608-617. [PMID: 38353237 PMCID: PMC11295411 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241227379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
This study addresses the urgent issue of water pollution caused by iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) ions. It introduces an innovative approach using graphene oxide (GO) and GO-decorated polyethersulphone (PES) membranes to efficiently remove these ions from contaminated water. The process involves integrating GO into PES membranes to enhance their adsorption capacity. Characterization techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared, and contact angle measurements, were used to assess structural and surface properties. The modified membranes demonstrated significantly improved adsorption compared to pristine PES. Notably, they achieved over 94% removal of Mn2+ and 93.6% of Fe2+ in the first filtration cycle for water with an initial concentration of 100 ppm. Continuous filtration for up to five cycles maintained removal rates above 60%. This research advances water purification materials, offering a promising solution for heavy metal ion removal. GO-decorated PES membranes may find application in large-scale water treatment, addressing environmental and public health concerns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Goyat
- Department of Chemistry, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Joginder Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Ahmad Umar
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, and Promising Centre for Sensors and Electronic Devices (PCSED), Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ahmed A Ibrahim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, and Promising Centre for Sensors and Electronic Devices (PCSED), Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Savita Kumari
- Department of Chemistry, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Sumit Malik
- Department of Chemistry, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Vivek Chaudhary
- Department of Chemistry, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Sheikh Akbar
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rawindran H, Lim JW, Lam MK, Supramaniam U, Tong WY, Ng HS, Shahid MK, Lin C, Usman A, Samdani MS. Assessing Microalgal Protein's Impact on Environment and Energy Footprint via Life Cycle Analysis. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00955-0. [PMID: 37964101 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00955-0] [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: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Conventionally, increasing the yield of microalgal biomass has been the primary focus of research, while the significant protein reserve within this biomass has remained largely unexplored. This protein reserve possesses substantial value and versatility, offering a wide range of prospective applications and presenting an enticing chance for innovation and value enhancement for various sectors. Current study employed an innovative research approach that focused solely on the LCA of protein production potential from microalgal biomass, a lesser-explored aspects within this domain. Most environmental impact categories were shown to be significantly affected by cultivation phase because of the electrical obligation, followed by the harvesting and protein extraction phase. Still, the environmental aspect was seen to yield a minimal impact on global warming potential, i.e., 4 × 10-3 kg CO2, underscoring the ecologically favorable nature of the process. Conversely, the overall energy impact was seen to intensify with NEB of - 39.33 MJ and NER of 0.49, drawing attention to the importance of addressing the energy aspect to harness the full potential of microalgal protein production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hemamalini Rawindran
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Centre for Sustainable Nanomaterials, Ibnu Sina Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Jun Wei Lim
- HICoE-Centre for Biofuel and Biochemical Research, Institute of Self-Sustainable Building, Department of Fundamental and Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia.
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 602105, India.
| | - Man Kee Lam
- HICoE-Centre for Biofuel and Biochemical Research, Institute of Self-Sustainable Building, Department of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia
| | - Uganeeswary Supramaniam
- HICoE-Centre for Biofuel and Biochemical Research, Institute of Self-Sustainable Building, Department of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia
| | - Woei-Yenn Tong
- Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Institute of Medical Science Technology, A1-1, Jalan TKS 1, Taman Kajang Sentral, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Hui-Suan Ng
- Centre for Research and Graduate Studies, University of Cyberjaya, Persiaran Bestari, 63000, Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Kashif Shahid
- Research Institute of Environment & Biosystem, Chungnam National University, Yuseonggu, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Chuxia Lin
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Anwar Usman
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, BE1410, Brunei
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Beghetto V, Gatto V, Samiolo R, Scolaro C, Brahimi S, Facchin M, Visco A. Plastics today: Key challenges and EU strategies towards carbon neutrality: A review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122102. [PMID: 37414120 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Never as today the need for collaborative interactions between industry, the scientific community, NGOs, policy makers and citizens has become crucial for the development of shared political choices and protection of the environment, for the safeguard of future generations. The complex socio-economic and environmental interconnections that underlie the EU strategy of the last years, within the framework of the Agenda 2030 and the green deal, often create perplexity and confusion that make difficult to outline the definition of a common path to achieve carbon neutrality and "net zero emissions" by 2050. Scope of this work is to give a general overview of EU policies, directives, regulations, and laws concerning polymers and plastic manufacturing, aiming to reduce plastic pollution, allowing for a better understanding of the implications that environmental concern and protection may generate from a social-economical point of view.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Beghetto
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre, Italy; Crossing S.r.l., Viale della Repubblica 193/b, 31100, Treviso, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Reattività Chimiche e La Catalisi (CIRCC), Via C. Ulpiani 27, 70126, Bari, Italy.
| | - Vanessa Gatto
- Crossing S.r.l., Viale della Repubblica 193/b, 31100, Treviso, Italy
| | - Riccardo Samiolo
- Crossing S.r.l., Viale della Repubblica 193/b, 31100, Treviso, Italy
| | - Cristina Scolaro
- Department of Engineering, University of Messina, C.da Di Dio, 98166, Messina, Italy
| | - Salim Brahimi
- Department of Engineering, University of Messina, C.da Di Dio, 98166, Messina, Italy
| | - Manuela Facchin
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre, Italy
| | - Annamaria Visco
- Department of Engineering, University of Messina, C.da Di Dio, 98166, Messina, Italy; Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials - CNR IPCB, Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 9-95126, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shemer H, Wald S, Semiat R. Challenges and Solutions for Global Water Scarcity. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:612. [PMID: 37367816 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13060612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Climate change, global population growth, and rising standards of living have put immense strain on natural resources, resulting in the unsecured availability of water as an existential resource. Access to high-quality drinking water is crucial for daily life, food production, industry, and nature. However, the demand for freshwater resources exceeds the available supply, making it essential to utilize all alternative water resources such as the desalination of brackish water, seawater, and wastewater. Reverse osmosis desalination is a highly efficient method to increase water supplies and make clean, affordable water accessible to millions of people. However, to ensure universal access to water, various measures need to be implemented, including centralized governance, educational campaigns, improvements in water catchment and harvesting technologies, infrastructure development, irrigation and agricultural practices, pollution control, investments in novel water technologies, and transboundary water cooperation. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of measures for utilizing alternative water sources, with particular emphasis on seawater desalination and wastewater reclamation techniques. In particular, membrane-based technologies are critically reviewed, with a focus on their energy consumption, costs, and environmental impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hilla Shemer
- The Wolfson Department of Chemical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Shlomo Wald
- Wald Industries, Tor HaAviv 1, Rehovot 7632101, Israel
| | - Raphael Semiat
- The Wolfson Department of Chemical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rahman TU, Roy H, Islam MR, Tahmid M, Fariha A, Mazumder A, Tasnim N, Pervez MN, Cai Y, Naddeo V, Islam MS. The Advancement in Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Technology toward Sustainable Industrial Wastewater Management. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:membranes13020181. [PMID: 36837685 PMCID: PMC9965322 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13020181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The advancement in water treatment technology has revolutionized the progress of membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology in the modern era. The large space requirement, low efficiency, and high cost of the traditional activated sludge process have given the necessary space for the MBR system to come into action. The conventional activated sludge (CAS) process and tertiary filtration can be replaced by immersed and side-stream MBR. This article outlines the historical advancement of the MBR process in the treatment of industrial and municipal wastewaters. The structural features and design parameters of MBR, e.g., membrane surface properties, permeate flux, retention time, pH, alkalinity, temperature, cleaning frequency, etc., highly influence the efficiency of the MBR process. The submerged MBR can handle lower permeate flux (requires less power), whereas the side-stream MBR can handle higher permeate flux (requires more power). However, MBR has some operational issues with conventional water treatment technologies. The quality of sludge, equipment requirements, and fouling are major drawbacks of the MBR process. This review paper also deals with the approach to address these constraints. However, given the energy limitations, climatic changes, and resource depletion, conventional wastewater treatment systems face significant obstacles. When compared with CAS, MBR has better permeate quality, simpler operational management, and a reduced footprint requirement. Thus, for sustainable water treatment, MBR can be an efficient tool.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanzim Ur Rahman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Hridoy Roy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Reazul Islam
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
- Department of Civil Engineering, Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, LA 71270, USA
| | - Mohammed Tahmid
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Athkia Fariha
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Antara Mazumder
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Nishat Tasnim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Nahid Pervez
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Yingjie Cai
- Hubei Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Clean Production and High Value Utilization of Bio-Based Textile Materials, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan 430200, China
| | - Vincenzo Naddeo
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Md. Shahinoor Islam
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
- Department of Textile Engineering, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1341, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Stylianou M, Papamichael I, Voukkali I, Tsangas M, Omirou M, Ioannides IM, Zorpas AA. LCA of Barley Production: A Case Study from Cyprus. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2417. [PMID: 36767784 PMCID: PMC9916166 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Greenhouse gas emissions (i.e., carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide) produced by agriculture contribute to global warming and climate change. Various practices followed by farmers in different environmental conditions contribute to the increase in the phenomena, and there is a need for immediate measures. The current study examines the environmental impact of barley production under rain-fed conditions in Cyprus. For this, four different nutrient management scenarios were investigated in order to evaluate the environmental performance of crop production, namely: (1) Nitrogen (20%), Phosphorous (20%), Potassium (10%); (2) Nitrogen (20%), Phosphorous (20%), Potassium (10%) and manure; (3) Nitrogen (25%), Phosphorous (10%), Potassium (0%); and (4) Nitrogen (25%), Phosphorous (10%), Potassium (0%) and manure. Data were collected from two different areas of Cyprus (Nicosia and Larnaca) through on-site visits and questionnaires. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was used as a method to quantify environmental impacts which were categorized into six impact categories: (i) acidification potential (AP), (ii) eutrophication potential (EP), (iii) global warming potential (GWP), (iv) ozone depletion potential (ODP), (v) photochemical, ozone creation potential (POCP), and (vi) terrestrial ecotoxicity (TAETP). LCA was used with system boundaries from field to harvest and a functional unit (FU) of one bale of hay. Research results showed that the addition of manure increased values in all impact categories. Comparing scenarios without manure (1 and 3) and with manure (2 and 4), the main process which contributed to GWP was field preparation, which resulted in 3 t CO2-Eq∙FU-1 and 46.96 t CO2-Eq∙FU-1, respectively. Furthermore, the highest contribution of sub-processes to GWP (kg CO2-Eq∙FU-1) was machinery maintenance (scenarios 2 and 4). The potential to reduce environmental impacts from barley and moreover, to mitigate the footprint of the agriculture sector in Cyprus is proposed by changing existing practices such as decreasing fuel consumption by agricultural machinery, and monitoring fertilizing and seeding. Conclusively, the carbon footprint of barley can be decreased through the improvement of nutrient management and cropping practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marinos Stylianou
- Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Engineering Sustainability, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, Giannou Kranidioti 33, Latsia, Nicosia 2220, Cyprus
| | - Iliana Papamichael
- Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Engineering Sustainability, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, Giannou Kranidioti 33, Latsia, Nicosia 2220, Cyprus
| | - Irene Voukkali
- Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Engineering Sustainability, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, Giannou Kranidioti 33, Latsia, Nicosia 2220, Cyprus
| | - Michail Tsangas
- Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Engineering Sustainability, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, Giannou Kranidioti 33, Latsia, Nicosia 2220, Cyprus
| | - Michalis Omirou
- Department of Agrobiotechnology, Agricultural Research Institute, Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
| | - Ioannis M. Ioannides
- Department of Agrobiotechnology, Agricultural Research Institute, Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
| | - Antonis A. Zorpas
- Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Engineering Sustainability, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, Giannou Kranidioti 33, Latsia, Nicosia 2220, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Estévez S, Feijoo G, Moreira MT. Environmental synergies in decentralized wastewater treatment at a hotel resort. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 317:115392. [PMID: 35636106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Climate change and water scarcity are clearly related environmental problems, making them global environmental issues. Accordingly, the water cycle management deserves a revision in its approach, integrating the concept of circular economy within an efficient and sustainable management of water resources and the design of wastewater facilities. In this sense, newly engineered decentralized facilities have emerged as a viable option for the treatment of segregated wastewater flows. The design has not only integrated the wastewater treatment function, but also resource recovery, such as water reclamation for agricultural and irrigation activities, fertigation, fertilization and energy sustainability. Based on these premises, the concept of decentralized wastewater management deserves the same degree of attention and development that has so far been reserved for conventional centralized management systems. Therefore, this paper proposes a progressive substitution of the business-as-usual scenario or centralized system by applying a small-scale wastewater management scheme performing a more efficient resource and water recovery in a medium-sized 4-5-star resort hotel. The spotlight was a membrane technology for the anaerobic digestion of the blackwater instead of the greywater treatment. A favorable environmental profile was found for the decentralized scenario under two circumstances: a large system boundary including the beneficial environmental impacts of the products and, based on the results obtained from a sensitivity analysis, an energy demand for the operation of the AnMBR lower than 2 kWh·m-3. The global warming potential results (around 9%) were even for such high demand and much larger benefits were obtained for other impact categories (94% for SOD and 98% for LU). Nevertheless, the operation (gate-to-gate approach) of these on-site recovery facilities is far from being optimized and further research should follow to decrease the 39.8% difference in the global warming potential between decentralized and centralized systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Estévez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, CRETUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Gumersindo Feijoo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, CRETUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María Teresa Moreira
- Department of Chemical Engineering, CRETUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li Y, Gao R, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Liang S. Antifouling Conductive Composite Membrane with Reversible Wettability for Wastewater Treatment. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12060626. [PMID: 35736333 PMCID: PMC9231251 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12060626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Membrane fouling severely hinders the sustainable development of membrane separation technology. Membrane wetting property is one of the most important factors dominating the development of membrane fouling. Theoretically, a hydrophilic membrane is expected to be more resistant to fouling during filtration, while a hydrophobic membrane with low surface energy is more advantageous during membrane cleaning. However, conventional membrane materials do not possess the capability to change their wettability on demand. In this study, a stainless steel mesh–sulfosuccinate-doped polypyrrole composite membrane (SSM/PPY(AOT)) was prepared. By applying a negative or positive potential, the surface wettability of the membrane can be switched between hydrophilic and relatively hydrophobic states. Systematic characterizations and a series of filtration experiments were carried out. In the reduction state, the sulfonic acid groups of AOT were more exposed to the membrane surface, rendering the surface more hydrophilic. The fouling filtration experiments verified that the membrane is more resistant to fouling in the hydrophilic state during filtration and easier to clean in the hydrophobic state during membrane cleaning. Furthermore, Ca2+ and Mg2+ could complex with foulants, aggravating membrane fouling. Overall, this study demonstrates the importance of wettability switching in membrane filtration and suggests promising applications of the SSM/PPY(AOT) membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (Y.L.); (R.G.); (J.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control & Eco-Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ruonan Gao
- Beijing Key Lab for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (Y.L.); (R.G.); (J.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control & Eco-Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Jianwen Zhang
- Beijing Key Lab for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (Y.L.); (R.G.); (J.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control & Eco-Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Beijing Key Lab for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (Y.L.); (R.G.); (J.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control & Eco-Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shuai Liang
- Beijing Key Lab for Source Control Technology of Water Pollution, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (Y.L.); (R.G.); (J.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Engineering Research Center for Water Pollution Source Control & Eco-Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Modeling and Life Cycle Assessment of a Membrane Bioreactor–Membrane Distillation Wastewater Treatment System for Potable Reuse. SEPARATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/separations9060151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Wastewater treatment for indirect potable reuse (IPR) is a possible approach to address water scarcity. In this study, a novel membrane bioreactor–membrane distillation (MBR-MD) system was evaluated to determine the environmental impacts of treatment compared to an existing IPR facility (“Baseline”). Physical and empirical models were used to obtain operational data for both systems and inform a life cycle inventory. Life cycle assessment (LCA) was used to compare the environmental impacts of each system. Results showed an average 53.7% reduction in environmental impacts for the MBR-MD system when waste heat is used to operate MD; however, without waste heat, the environmental impacts of MBR-MD are significantly higher, with average impacts ranging from 218% to 1400% greater than the Baseline, depending on the proportion of waste heat used. The results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of the novel MBR-MD system for IPR and the reduced environmental impacts when waste heat is available to power MD.
Collapse
|
11
|
Sengar A, Vijayanandan A. Effects of pharmaceuticals on membrane bioreactor: Review on membrane fouling mechanisms and fouling control strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 808:152132. [PMID: 34863739 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals have become contaminants of emerging concern due to their toxicity towards aquatic life and pseudo persistent nature in the environment. Membrane bioreactor (MBR) is one such technology that has the potential to act as a barrier against the release of pharmaceuticals into the environment. Fouling is the deposition of the constituents of the mixed liquor on the membrane surface and it limit the world-wide applicability of MBRs. To remove foulant layer, aggressive chemicals and extra cost consideration in terms of energy are required. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and soluble microbial products (SMP) are recognized as principal foulants. Presence of pharmaceuticals has been found to increase the fouling in MBRs. Fouling aggravates in proportion to the concentration of pharmaceuticals. Pharmaceuticals exert chemical stress in microbes, hence forcing them to secrete more EPS/SMP. Pharmaceuticals alter the composition of the foulants and affect microbial metabolism, thereby inflicting direct/indirect effects on fouling. Pharmaceuticals have been found to increase or decrease the size of sludge flocs, however the exact mechanism that govern the floc size change is yet to be understood. Different techniques such as coupling advanced oxidation processes with MBR, adding activated carbon, bioaugmenting MBR with quorum quenching strains have shown to reduce fouling in MBRs treating pharmaceutical wastewater. These fouling mitigation techniques work on reducing the EPS/SMP concentration, thereby alleviating fouling. The present review provides a comprehensive understanding of the effects induced by pharmaceuticals in the activated sludge characteristics and identifying the fouling mechanism. Furthermore, significant knowledge gaps and recent advances in fouling mitigation strategies are discussed. This review has also made an effort to highlight the positive aspect of the foulant layer in retaining pharmaceuticals and antibiotic resistance genes, thereby suggesting a possible delicate trade-off between the flux decline and enhanced removal of pharmaceuticals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Sengar
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Arya Vijayanandan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Voukkali I, Zorpas AA. Evaluation of urban metabolism assessment methods through SWOT analysis and analytical hierocracy process. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 807:150700. [PMID: 34606858 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The interconnection of urbanization trends and environmental pressures, are due to the rising demand for resource consumption, waste production and greenhouses gas emissions. Taking into consideration the massive reduction of natural resources, the deprivation of the life quality and the climate change, the scientific community indicates the necessity to emphasis and understand the relationship between cities and the environment as a dynamic concept. Consequently, cities are facing the challenge to implement alternative strategies towards more sustainable management of urban resources. This research aims to shed light on the concept of urban metabolism, the methods that are been used to gauge urban metabolism (i.e Emergy Analysis, Material Flow Analysis, Ecological Footprint etc.), as well as the assessment of the proposed methodologies through SWOT analysis and Analytical Hierocracy Process, considering multi-criteria analysis and how those reflect to Circular Economy and European Green Deal Strategy. The results showed that, the existing methodologies needs refreshment to cover the needs for the cities of tomorrow and a new hybrid approach which will include new set of Key Performed Indicators is essential. Furthermore, the results could serve as a beneficial reference point for policy makers, consultants, rural developers as the new hybrid approach can be used to measure and assess the level of metabolism in one area in order to prevent future expansion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Voukkali
- Open University of Cyprus, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Engineering Sustainability, P.O.Box 12794, Giannou Kranidioti, 33, 2220 Latsia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Antonis A Zorpas
- Open University of Cyprus, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Engineering Sustainability, P.O.Box 12794, Giannou Kranidioti, 33, 2220 Latsia, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Current studies proposed that more that 2bn tons of solid waste/year are produced globally [...]
Collapse
|
14
|
Screening Life Cycle Environmental Impacts and Assessing Economic Performance of Floating Wetlands for Marine Water Pollution Control. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse9121345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The growing environmental awareness of society, the advancement of nature-based solutions (NbSs), and the need for reliable and cost-effective solutions create a favorable environment of opportunities for floating wetlands as alternative solutions for marine water pollution control. The aim of this work was to screen, through OpenLCA, the environmental impacts of floating wetlands for marine water pollution control at various life cycle stages of the system, and assess its economic performance and contribution to the welfare of society. The stage of raw materials production and acquisition was found to be responsible for the main environmental impacts of the floating wetlands, especially on global warming potential, whereas the main impact of the operational stage was related to the eutrophication potential due to N and P residuals in the effluent. The economic performance indicators of economic net present value (ENPV), economic rate of return (ERR), and benefits/costs ratio (B/C ratio) indicate, although marginally, that floating wetlands may constitute a viable investment with potential positive socioeconomic impacts. However, there are still several scientific challenges and technical issues to be considered for the operational application of such systems at full-scale in marine environments.
Collapse
|
15
|
Piotrowska K, Piasecka I. Specification of Environmental Consequences of the Life Cycle of Selected Post-Production Waste of Wind Power Plants Blades. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14174975. [PMID: 34501064 PMCID: PMC8434586 DOI: 10.3390/ma14174975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Wind power plants during generation of electricity emit almost no detrimental substances into the milieu. Nonetheless, the procedure of extraction of raw materials, production of elements and post-use management carry many negative environmental consequences. Wind power plant blades are mainly made of polymer materials, which cause a number of problems during post-use management. Controlling the system and the environment means such a transformation of their inputs in time that will ensure the achievement of the goal of this system or the state of the environment. Transformations of control of system and environment inputs, for example, blades production, are describing various models which in the research methodology, like LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), LCM (Life Cycle Management), LCI (Life Cycle Inventory), etc. require meticulous grouping and weighing of life cycle variables of polymer materials. The research hypothesis was assuming, in this paper, that the individual post-production waste of wind power plant blades is characterized by a different potential impact on the environment. For this reason, the aim of this publication is to conduct an ecological and energy life cycle analysis, evaluation, steering towards minimization and development (positive progress) of selected polymer waste produced during the manufacture of wind power plant blades. The analyzes were based on the LCA method. The subject of the research was eight types of waste (fiberglass mat, roving fabric, resin discs, distribution hoses, spiral hoses with resin, vacuum bag film, infusion materials residues and surplus mater), which are most often produced during the production of blades. Eco-indicator 99 and CED (Cumulative Energy Demand) were used as the computation procedures. The influence of the analyzed objects on human health, ecosystem quality and resources was appraised. Amidst the considered wastes, the highest level of depreciating impact on the milieu was found in the life cycle of resin discs (made of epoxy resin). The application of recycling processes would decrease the depreciating environmental influence in the context of the total life cycle of all analyzed waste. Based on the outcome of the analyzes, recommendations were proposed for the environmentally friendly post-use management of wind power plant blades, that can be used to develop new blade manufacturing techniques that better fit in with sustainable development and the closed-cycle economy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Piotrowska
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Lublin University of Technology, 20-618 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Izabela Piasecka
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Science and Technology in Bydgoszcz, 85-796 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Banti DC, Mitrakas M, Samaras P. Membrane Fouling Controlled by Adjustment of Biological Treatment Parameters in Step-Aerating MBR. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:membranes11080553. [PMID: 34436316 PMCID: PMC8399131 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11080553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A promising solution for membrane fouling reduction in membrane bioreactors (MBRs) could be the adjustment of operating parameters of the MBR, such as hydraulic retention time (HRT), food/microorganisms (F/M) loading and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration, aiming to modify the sludge morphology to the direction of improvement of the membrane filtration. In this work, these parameters were investigated in a step-aerating pilot MBR that treated municipal wastewater, in order to control the filamentous population. When F/M loading in the first aeration tank (AT1) was ≤0.65 ± 0.2 g COD/g MLSS/d at 20 ± 3 °C, DO = 2.5 ± 0.1 mg/L and HRT = 1.6 h, the filamentous bacteria were controlled effectively at a moderate filament index of 1.5-3. The moderate population of filamentous bacteria improved the membrane performance, leading to low transmembrane pressure (TMP) at values ≤ 2 kPa for a great period, while at the control MBR the TMP gradually increased reaching 14 kPa. Soluble microbial products (SMP), were also maintained at low concentrations, contributing additionally to the reduction of ΤΜP. Finally, the step-aerating MBR process and the selected imposed operating conditions of HRT, F/M and DO improved the MBR performance in terms of fouling control, facilitating its future wider application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra C. Banti
- Laboratory of Technologies of Environmental Protection and Utilization of Food By-Products, Department of Food Science and Technology, International Hellenic University, GR-57400 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Correspondence:
| | - Manassis Mitrakas
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Petros Samaras
- Laboratory of Technologies of Environmental Protection and Utilization of Food By-Products, Department of Food Science and Technology, International Hellenic University, GR-57400 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|