Effects of Fenton Pre-Treatment on Waste Activated Sludge Properties

Fenton process was investigated for the purpose of biological sludge disintegration. The Box-Wilson experimental design was employed to evaluate the effects of major process variables (Fe(II) and H2O2 concentrations) on both disintegration and dewatering performance of sludge. Results showed that 4 g Fe(II)/kg total solids (TSs) and 60 g H2O2/kg TS are efficient for floc disintegration. Fenton pre-treatment enhanced the biodegradability of sludge. For 4 g Fe(II)/kg TS and 60 g H2O2/kg TS, 19.4% higher methane production was achieved compared to raw sludge in biochemical methane potential assay. Fenton pre-treatment resulted in the release of organic sludge components into the liquid phase. For 4 g Fe(II)/kg TS and 60 g H2O2/kg TS, dissolved organic carbon and total nitrogen in sludge's supernatant increased by 75.74 and 60.60%, respectively. Fenton pre-treatment enhanced the filterability of sludge and it can be applied for conditioning purpose before mechanical dewatering units.