Biological Wastewater Treatment

Degradation of organic matter in wastewater

Biological processes for water purification utilize the self-cleaning power of ecosystems in which organisms prevail that can most effectively break down the available organic substrates. The prerequisite is that the substrates are generally biodegradable.

Optimizing efficiency through biomass retention

Through technical processes such as biomass retention, we ensure that these natural processes take place in a very small space and at a high intensity.

Bioreactors and process concepts

We have developed various bioreactors for wastewater treatment to suit different tasks. We select suitable bioreactors and corresponding process concepts based on the specific requirements of the respective wastewater and the intended reuse, and adapt them to regional, climatic, and cultural conditions.

Anaerobic processes for wastewater with high organic loads

Anaerobic wastewater treatment processes are particularly suitable for wastewater with a high biological oxygen demand (BOD5). The use of modern anaerobic technology also offers an economical alternative to industrial wastewater treatment plants. Here, energetically usable biogas is produced and the amount of sludge is reduced by a factor of ten.

Optimization of wastewater treatment plants through system analysis

The optimization of municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants based on a process engineering system analysis is also an integral part of our range of services. Operators benefit from the cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency of our solutions. An additional benefit is compliance with newer legal requirements. In addition, depending on requirements, the disposal of sewage sludge can also be combined with a recycling process (biogas production).

Biological treatment of poorly degradable industrial wastewater

Through targeted investigations, simulations and biotechnological approaches, we optimize biological treatment processes for the elimination of pollutants from wastewater: Biodegradability is investigated according to OECD standard first on a lab scale and then on a larger scale (20 L, 200 L) in our sequencing batch reactors (SBR). We use simulations to show effects of the identified measures on biodegradability.

 

Flocculants for cleaning complex process wastewater

We are developing a bio-based and biodegradable flocculant for the treatment of complex process wastewater. It is based on a chitosan carrier structure that has been functionalized with the enzyme laccase. By varying the composition, we aim to tailor the flocculant specifically to the respective wastewater load and the subsequent infrastructure.

 

System analysis: optimizing municipal & industrial WWTP

With our experience in developing and optimizing cleaning processes for wastewater treatment plants, we examine their operation through systematic analysis and specific measurements. This allows us to improve individual processes (nitrification, denitrification, biogas production) and overall operation and avoid conversion measures.

 

Purification processes and bioreactor concepts

To optimize wastewater treatment, we select suitable bioreactors and corresponding process concepts based on the specific requirements of the respective wastewater and the intended reuse. We also use bioreactors developed in-house, such as anaerobic and aerobic loop reactors (airlift/gas lift reactors), membrane bioreactors, and fixed-bed reactors.