Secondary treatment
Secondary treatment
Secondary treatment (pronunciation: /ˈsɛkəndɛri ˈtriːtmənt/) is a stage in wastewater treatment where the biological treatment of the wastewater is carried out to further remove any remaining organic matter after the primary treatment.
Etymology
The term "secondary treatment" is derived from its position in the typical wastewater treatment process. It follows the primary treatment (which removes solid materials) and precedes the tertiary treatment (which removes any remaining inorganic compounds and bacteria).
Process
Secondary treatment involves the use of microorganisms to break down dissolved and suspended organic compounds in wastewater. This is typically achieved through aeration, which encourages the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.
The process can be divided into two main types: attached growth systems and suspended growth systems. In attached growth systems, the bacteria grow on media and the wastewater is passed over it. In suspended growth systems, the bacteria are mixed with the wastewater and later separated out.
Related Terms
- Primary treatment: The first stage of wastewater treatment, which involves the removal of large pieces of waste material. This is done through the use of screens and sedimentation processes.
- Tertiary treatment: The final stage of wastewater treatment, which involves the removal of inorganic compounds and bacteria. This is achieved through processes such as filtration and disinfection.
- Aeration: A process used in secondary treatment where air is introduced into the wastewater to encourage the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.
- Microorganisms: Tiny living organisms, such as bacteria, that can only be seen with a microscope. They are used in secondary treatment to break down organic matter in wastewater.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Secondary treatment
- Wikipedia's article - Secondary treatment
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