Minimization of excess sludge production by in-situ activated sludge treatment processes--a comprehensive review

Abstract

The widespread application of conventional activated sludge treatment process has been employed to deal with a variety of municipal and industrial sewage. While the generation of waste activated sludge (WAS) was considerably huge, the management and disposal expenses were substantially costly. A promising process aimed for WAS reduction during the operation process is urgently needed. Thus, increasing attentions emphasizing on the improved or novel sludge reduction processes should be intensively recommended in the future. This review presents the current and emerging technologies for excess sludge minimization within the process of sewage treatment. The ultimate purpose of this paper is to guide or inspire researchers who are seeking feasible and promising technologies (or processes) to tackle the severe WAS problem.

Keywords: Improved/novel sludge reduction processes; In-situ excess sludge reduction; Lysis-cryptic growth; Review; Uncoupling metabolism; Worms' predation.