A theoretical and practical evaluation of struvite control and recovery

Water Environ Res. 2013 Aug;85(8):675-86. doi: 10.2175/106143012x13560205145253.

Abstract

Struvite accumulation is a costly problem in many water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) that use anaerobic digestion, causing significant labor and equipment costs and potentially impacting facility performance and permit compliance. A comprehensive study was undertaken to evaluate possible solutions to struvite control at two similar Miami-Dade County, Florida, WRRFs. Alternatives analyzed included periodic cleaning and repair of damaged piping and equipment; optimum ferric salt dosing, use of in situ scaling coupons; and engineered struvite precipitation. The effectiveness and cost of each alternative was evaluated using a newly constructed dynamic process model and a net present worth analysis. Results indicate that nutrient recovery was a potential benefit at both facilities. This study establishes a comprehensive process and specific testing protocols for evaluating struvite control alternatives.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Magnesium Compounds / chemistry*
  • Models, Chemical
  • Phosphates / chemistry*
  • Struvite
  • Water Purification*

Substances

  • Magnesium Compounds
  • Phosphates
  • Struvite