NH3-N Removal

[chymer]

I am reponsible for 2 wastewater lagoons. During the last sampling event the ammonia nitrogen ( NH3-N ) has exceeded my permit. There is very little process control at these plants. Please advise as to what I can do to bring the level down. Thanks.

Chymer

 

[Muggle]

Subsurface aeration, or pumping over a trickly tower will convert the ammonia to nitrate - probelm will be if you exceed the nitrate level of 10ppm. Aeration is the simplest way to convert. Addition of liquid microbial solutions can be done, but not cost effective. Use of submerged biological filtration - such as Aquamats, can be used, as can water plants, etc. -but these are not fast/immediate removers- takes time to establish the nitrifying bacateria on the mats, ahve to establish the plants, etc. If conversion of ammonia to nitrate will solve the problem, aeration is the simplest and fastest solution

 

[treater]

Chymer:
Hummm, there are a variety of ways to address the problem you briefly described. The best way would be to control the discharge/emmision of ammonia.

Some valid methods of control/treatment have already been mentioned. However, in the long run only a complete understanding of the extent of the problem, its likley duration/repetition rate, your discharge requirements/relationship with permiting body will determine the best solution for you.

Potential solutions include oxidation with bleach (can come with Cl reprocussions), negotiation (for the brave), airstripping (potentially high capital cost, unless employing a treatment service), adsorption, or I have also seen success with precipitation (not the first thing you think of for ammonia) of ammonia, though this is only really economic for a certain range of concentration.

if you'd like to discuss further just ask.

All the Best