(279d) Development of a Compact, Rapid, and Zero Liquid Discharge Wastewater Treatment System

Wastewater production is an unavoidable consequence of human activities and industrial operations. The quantity and quality of wastewater is determined by many factors such as source and processing method. In the U.S., more than 32 billion gallons per day of wastewater is generated from domestic, commercial, and industrial facilities.

Using apt chemical engineering principles, we aim to develop a compact and novel wastewater treatment system. The design simplifies the conventional multistep sewage sludge separation process and accomplishes a high level of solid dissolution by polymer conditioning in a single coagulating/flocculating mixing tank. The solids then undergo enhanced dewatering and thermal drying, yielding a highly dehydrated solid cake. The liquids are unified and treated by chlorination, de-chlorination, and filtering. This produces clean drinking-quality water, free from dangerous pathogens and chlorinated organics.

These simple features in combination translate to a highly compact land footprint, creating the possibility for a portable treatment plant. Speed of water recovery in this design is a vital aspect as it can allow for zero-liquid discharge operation. This means that a small quantity of freshwater can be recycled in a closed-loop treatment system, dramatically mitigating water consumption. The treatment system will therefore be capable of operating in areas where fresh water supply is diminished or unreliable, further enhancing its portability and value.