Diffuse pollution, caused by direct discharges from individual houses, small built-up nuclei, farms, camp-sites, etc., for which connection to central wastewater treatment systems is unfeasible, may be significantly reduced by on-site treatment.
Based on a large scale research, including intensive field-research work on 14 systems of different types and sizes in a range equal to population equivalents (p.e) of 5 - 200 persons, 8 different types of system were compared. The comparison involved technological features, such as removal efficiency, reliability, operational and maintenance aspects, environmental impacts and land claims, together with economical features showing significant differences. Advantages and disadvantages of each system are highlighted to enable a selection of suitable systems to be made. When no limiting factors are present, it was found that - in general-infiltration systems (infiltration pits; infiltration trenches) have the best features for on-site treatment up to 100 p.e. For larger capacities, or when infiltration is not possible, the rotating biological contactor will be the best solution mainly because of the lower costs.
Effect of organic and nitrogen loading rate in a rotating biological contactor for wastewater treatment
