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Low-intensity ultrasound combined with inert particles to improve denitrifying flocculated sludge performance and resulting granulation mechanism
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Low-intensity ultrasound combined with microplastic inert particles most effectively stimulated denitrifying flocculated sludge granulation by enhancing extracellular polymeric substance secretion and electron transport system activity compared to either intervention alone.
To enhance the understanding of flocculated sludge granulation, this study focused on a bacterial denitrification system using low-intensity ultrasound and inert particles to stimulate cell activity and facilitate flocculated sludge granulation. After 75 days, the activated carbon, activated carbon + ultrasonication, and microplastic + ultrasonication groups showed partial pelletization. Both ultrasound and inert particles promoted extracellular polymeric substance secretion and enhanced electron transport system activity. Low-intensity ultrasound improved denitrification performance and enhanced denitrifying bacteria. The addition of inert materials facilitated denitrifying flocculated sludge granulation. Low-intensity ultrasound combined with microplastics obtained the highest activity and enrichment of denitrifying bacteria in granular sludge. This study provides new ideas for optimizing anaerobic sludge granulation.
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This study measured microplastic concentrations in Canadian drinking water, sampling from multiple water sources and treatment stages to assess the prevalence and characteristics of plastic contamination. The findings raise concerns about human exposure to microplastics through tap water consumption and highlight gaps in current water treatment efficiency.
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Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.