Evaluation of sludge-based carbon as packing material in biofiltration in comparison to classic materials

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to determine the most rellevant characteristics and physical behaviour of carbon obtained from sludge (SBC) from wastewater treatment facilities and to use it as support material in a biofilter in comparison to classic materials commonly used in this purpose. Materials for comparison were selected according to previous works in the field of biofiltration including organic and inorganic (or synthetic) materials. Results obtained demonstrate that SBC is an acceptable packing material according to the main parameters to be valued in any biofilter: nutrients supply capability, high water retentivity, high adsorption capacity, to provide low pressure drop, allow for biomass attachment or a commitment among them. The study includes the performance of SBC in an operative, lab-scale biofilter besides the characterization of the adsorption capacity and pressure drop as a function of operational parameters.