Effect of Algal Biofilm and Operational Conditions on Nitrogen Removal in Waste Stabilization Ponds

The possibility of optimizing treatment and reducing land requirement in WSP (Wastewater Stabilization Ponds) is paramount. WSPs are known to provide treatment for wastewater but these have several drawbacks which include short-circuiting, limited area for microbial attachment, oxygen limited to upper aerobic layer and large area for construction.This study proposes investigating ways of addressing these issues by use of vertical baffles. It is expected that vertical baffling will reduce short-circuiting, create more area for microbial attachment, and alter wastewater flow from aerobic to anaerobic zones. The overall effect of improving nitrogen removal is anticipated.

Discharge of nutrient rich wastewater causes eutrophication of surface water; therefore wastewater treatment before discharge is required. Wastewater stabilization ponds are low cost technology used by developing countries but not effective in nitrogen removal due to low nitrifier biomass in the water column. Introduction of surface area for attachment of nitrifiers has therefore been proposed.

This thesis reports the performance of pilot scale wastewater stabilization ponds fitted with baffles. The effect of baffles on nitrogen removal under tropical and two operational conditions was investigated. Under TKN/BOD ratio of 0.67, the baffled ponds performed better in nitrogen removal than the control pond. Total nitrogen mass balances showed that nitrification-denitrification, algal uptake and sedimentation were principle nitrogen removal mechanisms in biofilm waste stabilization ponds

This study shows the potential of biofilms in improving nitrogen removal in wastewater stabilization ponds. The BOD and TSS concentrations were sufficiently low to permit for reuse in irrigation. If the objective is reuse and optimization of resources, the effluents from the ponds had sufficient nitrogen content for use in agriculture.

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