Esmil image

Introduction

Esmil Process Systems were tasked by a large landfill operator to provide a holistic process solution for the reduction/elimination of soluble COD in a leachate stream currently discharged to sewer. The process stream in question was the effluent from a nitrified SBR (Sequencing Batch Reactor), which had the following important chemical properties as per Table 1.

Table 1 - Physico-chemical properties of untreated landfill leachate

PropertyUnitsTypical valuesComment
pH8.0 – 8.5
ConductivityμScm-116000 - 18500
CODppm O21250 - 1550
Nitratesmgl-1 as NO3-11480 - 1600Typical for nitrified
SBR
Alkalinitymgl-1 as CaCO3900 - 1000
TSSmgl-1150 - 200

Another important consideration for the client was the measured UV transmittivity of the final stage treated effluent discharged to sewer. This stream was treated with UV light downstream at a separate facility to effect disinfection prior to final discharge. Process determinands of primary concern to the client were thus COD removal and UV transmittance of the final effluent stream, as well as a thorough characterisation of the final stage concentrate stream.

Process

Landfill leachate sample was collected at site for treatment at Esmil’s technical laboratory where chemical analysis, chemical pre-treatment and membrane treatment of the sample could be processed. A 150 litre sample was passed through a 50 micron bag filter to remove gross contaminants and then chemically pre-treated (coagulation & flocculation) and allowed to settle. The resultant filtrate was then processed through an Ultrafiltration (UF) membrane unit to remove residual solids and large macro-molecules prior to treatment through Nanofiltration (NF). After nanofiltration, the resultant permeate and concentrate streams were analysed. Esmil engineers were required to perform a number of pre-treatment process iterations to achieve the required client specifications.

Case History

Both sets of membranes (UF & NF) were selected on the basis of previous experience of landfill leachate effluents. Process data was accumulated during the sample runs to ascertain specific flux rates (J, lm-2h-1) which will inform the subsequent membrane plant design. Cleaning tests were performed on all membranes after each run to determine whether the membrane element flux rates could be easily regained.

Typical results and process data are tabulated below.

Table 2 - Landfill leachate treatment process data

Parameter [units]Raw SampleUltrafiltration permeateNanofiltration permeate% reduction
pH8.17.57.2nm
Conductivity [mS/cm]1614.46.162
COD [ppm O2]112077013088
Nitrates [mgl-1 as NO3-1]1780682598
TDS [ppm]84007200610038
Zinc [ppm as Zn]9.05.40100
UV Transmittance [%]nmnm65nm
Note nm ~ Not Measurable

 

It may be seen that the process designed and implemented by Esmil Process Systems produced a 88 % reduction in soluble COD and elimination of heavy metals (as measured by Zinc) and nitrates from the effluent stream. An important determinant, UV transmittivity was successfully achieved which ensures that downstream disinfection can be efficiently managed.

After processing, both membrane sets were easily cleaned, regaining initial flux values after 12 hours run and no impact on membrane integrity was discerned.

Conclusions

The treatment of landfill leachate utilising a bespoke Esmil process and membrane systems successfully delivered an effluent stream which met client specifications.

Contact ESMIL

For further information or enquiries, please complete the contact form or e-mail Esmil direct at info@esmil.co.uk

Feedback form

Esmil Group

Esmil Group stands as a premier global manufacturer, crafting cutting-edge equipment for wastewater treatment and sludge dewatering. Additionally, we specialize in delivering advanced membrane systems tailored to various industries.

EU Flag Esmil Group

Equipment for Wastewater Treatment & Sludge Dewatering.

EU Flag Esmil USA

Equipment for Sludge Dewatering in the USA.

EU Flag Esmil Process Systems

Membrane Systems.