Technology transfer possibilities for phosphorus recovery from small and medium-sized wastewater treatment plants using CaFeOxide

Kostjukova, Solvita; Karasa, Jūlija; Ozola-Davidāne, Rūta

Technology transfer possibilities for phosphorus recovery from small and medium-sized wastewater treatment plants using CaFeOxide

2024

Kostjukova, Solvita | Karasa, Jūlija | Ozola-Davidāne, Rūta

The sustainable recovery of phosphorus (P) from wastewater is a key challenge for modern wastewater treatment, particularly in small and medium-sized plants. This paper explores the use of calcium-iron oxide (CaFeOxide) as an effective sorbent for phosphorus removal, offering a solution that aligns with circular economy principles. Thermally treated CaFeOxide demonstrates a high adsorption capacity, exceeding 60 mg P/g, outperforming alternative recycled materials such as Ca/Fe-rich industrial byproducts and waste materials. The saturated sorbent can be repurposed as a soil amender including fertilisation and pH regulation (e.g., struvite or calcium phosphate), contributing both environmental and economic value. By integrating phosphorus recovery into wastewater treatment systems, this approach addresses two critical issues: the growing scarcity of phosphorus resources and the environmental threat of eutrophication caused by excess phosphorus discharge. This study also examines the potential for technology transfer and scale-up to small and medium-sized wastewater treatment plants, emphasizing the economic viability of phosphorus recovery for agricultural reuse.

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