Removal of micropollutants from wastewater: pilot-scale investigation

Organic micropollutants (OMPs), such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, pesticides and stimulants, appear in trace amounts (µg/l- ng/l) in wastewater and surface waters. These compounds are a source of concern for their persistent nature and impose environmental risks when introduced into the ecological environment. The main objective of this assignment is to optimize the operation of the a PILOT working with biological compartment and nanofiltration, such that the extent of OMP and nutrient removal in the wastewater treatment pilot is maximized. Obviously, the operation of the biology reactor should not be affected, and a stable membrane operation should be guaranteed. The content of the MSc assignment will be determined in more detail with the student, but most likely will involve process monitoring, analyses and experiments, along with process optimization.

Contact info:

Mostafa Elshourbagy - m.m.a.elshourbagy@utwente.nl