Learning objectives
This course is offered for the free choice and it has the aim to provide a general overview of the technology of biological treatment of wastewater, highlighting the foundations on which it is based and the main problems which may occur.
The basic knowledges in order to monitor the systems are especially highlighted. A method of inquiry is suggested in order to face and resolve problems that can occur in a system.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of chemistry, biology, microbiology.
Course unit content
This course has a theoretical-practical development and it is divided into several parts:
- Characterization of municipal and industrial wastewater, with reference to chemical and physical parameters, which were described also taking account the limit of the law.
- Description of the main important biological processes, which occur in a wastewater plants (WWP):
• degradation of carbon compounds
• nitrification
• denitrification
• biological phosphorus removal
• anaerobic digestion.
- Description of the different typologies of WWP including activated sludge plants, trickling filters, RBC, biodisc, phytodepuration
- Activated sludge’s microbiology : study of the ecosystem composed by ciliates protozoa and bacteria microorganisms floc-formers and filamentous.
- Description of the main dysfunctions which can occur in an WW plant:
• Bulking
• Roaming
• Rising
• Washout
• Pin point
• Ashing
• Turbid effluent
- Summary of the process and monitoring parameters in wastewater plants.
- Study of the main operational parameters for managing treatment plant and calculation formulas.
- Analysis of cases of studies, data physical, chemical and biological, identification of causes and solution proposed.
During the course, practical exercises of microscopic observation of sludge will be carry out and a visit to wastewater treatment plant will be organized.
Full programme
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Bibliography
Madoni P., 2006, "Biological treatment in activated sludge" Ed. Enia RE (IT)
Vismara R. ed. various "Treatment-biology theory and processes" Ed. Hoepli (IT)
Masotti L., 2011 "Water purification" Ed. Il Sole 24 ore / Hoepli.it (IT)
Metcalf & Eddy, 2011 "Wastewater Engineering - Treatment and Reuse -" ed. McGraw Hill Acea Roma (IT)
Metcalf & Eddy, "Wastewater Engineering - Treatment and Reuse -" ed. McGraw Hill
Photocopies and slide’ copies used during lessons, will be available in pursuance of the course.
Teaching methods
-Frontal lectures headed by the professor and slides projection (slides will be provided to students)
-Practical exercises with microscopic observations of activated sludge.
-Educational visit to sewage treatment plants, of possible.
Assessment methods and criteria
The preparation is evaluated through a written questionnaire, with both closed and open-ended questions, which will focus on the topics covered during the course.
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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