Best Available Technology for P-Recycling from Sewage Sludge—An Overview of Sewage Sludge Composting in Austria

In order to close the phosphorus cycle in the long term, efficient recycling processes are necessary to ensure that this critical nutrient can be returned to arable land. Sewage sludge recycling is of particular importance due to the relatively high phosphorus content of sewage sludge. In this article, the current recycling paths of Austrian sewage sludge are highlighted, focusing on the advantages and limitations of sewage sludge composting. In addition to nutrient contents, pollutant loads were also analyzed in order to also discuss the limitations of this recycling pathway. Therefore, data from Austrian composting plants with focus on sewage sludge are used. The results show that the currently relevant pollutants (heavy metals) are predominantly below the limits prescribed for recycling and spreading on arable land. However, in order to decide on a recycling path at an early stage, a pollutant monitoring system must be in place. Due to pollution, mono-incineration with subsequent phosphorus recovery is also currently being discussed in Austria. Mono-incineration can represent an important component of sewage sludge disposal, because some sewage sludges are not suitable for composting due to potential environmental hazards. Therefore, it is important that evidence-based limit values and measures for the reduction in pollutants for input sources are determined.

Investigation on the Efficiency of Modified Fenton on the Treatment of Leachate Generated From Oily Sludge Composting

Background: and Aim The leachate from oil sludge compost into the environment, which is resistant to decomposition, causes several environmental problems. Therefore, it needs to be treated using efficient processes. This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of the modified Fenton process for treating these oil sludge leachates. Methods & Materials: In this experimental study, leachate samples were collected, and then modified Fenton solution was prepared by adding Fe2 (SO4) 3 to H2O2. Then the effect of time parameters (15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes), modified Fenton concentration of 20, 50, 100, and 200 mg/l with pH 3, 5, 9, and three initial concentration of COD (500, 1000 and 1500 mg/l) was examined. Ethical Considerations: This study has been registered in Arak University of Medical Sciences with codes 2645 and 2765. Results: The reduction of COD and TPH in the optimal time of 60 minutes, initial COD of 500 mg/l, pH of 3, and Fenton concentration of 200 mg/l were 9.04 and 77.42%, respectively. The experiments showed that the removal efficiency of COD and TPH with increasing residence time and the concentration of modified Fenton are directly proportional and with decreasing, the initial concentration of COD and pH is inversely proportional. Conclusion: The use of modified Fenton is an efficient method for treating leachate from petroleum sludge compo