A Theoretical and Practical Evaluation of Struvite Control and Recovery. (1st August 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sharp, Robert; Vadiveloo, Enrique; Fergen, Robert; Moncholi, Manuel; Pitt, Paul; Wankmuller, David; Latimer, Ron
• Is Part Of: Water environment research. Volume 85:Number 8(2013)
• Page Start: 675
• Page End: 686
• Publication Date: 2013-08-01
• Subjects: struvite control -- ferric dosing -- process modeling -- scaling coupons -- nutrient recovery -- pilot testing -- cost–benefit analysis; Water quality management -- Periodicals; Water -- Purification -- Periodicals; Water -- Pollution -- Periodicals; Water -- Pollution; Water -- Purification; Water quality management; Sewage; Water Pollution; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 628.16
• DOI: 10.2175/106143012X13560205145253
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1061-4303

Abstract

ABSTRACT: : Struvite accumulation is a costly problem in many water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) that use anaerobic digestion, causing significant labor and equipment costs and potentially impacting facility performance and permit compliance. A comprehensive study was undertaken to evaluate possible solutions to struvite control at two similar Miami–Dade County, Florida, WRRFs. Alternatives analyzed included periodic cleaning and repair of damaged piping and equipment; optimum ferric salt dosing, use of in situ scaling coupons; and engineered struvite precipitation. The effectiveness and cost of each alternative was evaluated using a newly constructed dynamic process model and a net present worth analysis. Results indicate that nutrient recovery was a potential benefit at both facilities. This study establishes a comprehensive process and specific testing protocols for evaluating struvite control alternatives.