Adsorption as a technology to achieve ultra-low concentrations of phosphate: Research gaps and economic analysis

Suresh Kumar, P.; Korving, Leon; van Loosdrecht, Mark C.M.; Witkamp, G.J.

doi:10.1016/j.wroa.2019.100029

Adsorption as a technology to achieve ultra-low concentrations of phosphate

Title

Adsorption as a technology to achieve ultra-low concentrations of phosphate: Research gaps and economic analysis

Author

Suresh Kumar, P. (TU Delft BT/Environmental Biotechnology; Wetsus, Centre for Sustainable Water Technology)
Korving, Leon (Wetsus, Centre for Sustainable Water Technology)
van Loosdrecht, Mark C.M. (TU Delft BT/Environmental Biotechnology)
Witkamp, G.J. (TU Delft BT/Environmental Biotechnology; King Abdullah University of Science and Technology)

Date

2019

Abstract

Eutrophication and the resulting formation of harmful algal blooms (HAB) causes huge economic and environmental damages. Phosphorus (P) from sewage effluent and agricultural run-off has been identified as a major cause for eutrophication. Phosphorous concentrations greater than 100 μg P/L are usually considered high enough to cause eutrophication. The strictest regulations however aim to restrict the concentration below 10 μg P/L. Orthophosphate (or phosphate) is the bioavailable form of phosphorus. Adsorption is often suggested as technology to reduce phosphate to concentrations less than 100 and even 10 μg P/L with the advantages of a low-footprint, minimal waste generation and the option to recover the phosphate. Although many studies report on phosphate adsorption, there is insufficient information regarding parameters that are necessary to evaluate its application on a large scale. This review discusses the main parameters that affect the economics of phosphate adsorption and highlights the research gaps. A scenario and sensitivity analysis shows the importance of adsorbent regeneration and reuse. The cost of phosphate adsorption using reusable porous metal oxide is in the range of $ 100 to 200/Kg P for reducing the phosphate to ultra-low concentrations. Future research needs to focus on adsorption capacity at low phosphate concentrations, regeneration and reuse of both the adsorbent and the regeneration liquid.

Subject

Adsorption
Economic analysis
Eutrophication
Phosphate
Regeneration
Ultra-low concentration

To reference this document use:

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:90902d61-b181-4fff-b4e3-6462bb71ecd5

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wroa.2019.100029

ISSN

0043-1354

Source

Water Research, 4

Part of collection

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