The most efficient method for reducing the organic content of dilute organic wastes is by aerobic biological treatment in activated sludge systems, percolating filters, rotating biological contactors (RBCs) and natural and aerated oxidation ponds, all of which use the same basic biochemical processes to effect treatment. This entry describes the activated sludge process and reviews biological treatment with particular reference to the process.
In the basic process, wastewater is aerated in a tank with a seed of microorganisms (the activated sludge, often referred to as the mixed liquor suspended solids, MLSS), which oxidizes part of the organic matter to water and carbon dioxide, thus liberating energy. This energy is then used to synthesize more microorganisms. Hence the waste organic substances have a dual role: to serve as a source of carbon for growth and as a source of energy. The overall biochemical reactions are shown diagrammatically in Figures A35 and A36, where waste organic...
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Herschy, R.W. et al. (1998). Activated sludge process . In: Herschy, R.W., Fairbridge, R.W. (eds) Encyclopedia of Hydrology and Water Resources. Encyclopedia of Earth Science. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-4497-7_8
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