Identification and Remediation of Precipitation-related Clogging in Wastewater Effluent Filter-beds

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In this research project, we will survey clogging problems currently experienced in wastewater sub-surfacefiltration systems at a variety of project sites managed by Dillon Consulting. Dillon Consulting Ltd. approachedus to understand the causes and provide potential remedies to such clogging issues. Precipitants will becollected and analyzed for iron, calcium, sulfur, carbonate, magnesium, phosphorus, nitrogen, organic carbon,protein, potassium, and sodium to determine the composition of the clogging agents. Analysis of physical andchemical conditions occurring upstream of the precipitation problems will be conducted to determine combinedeffects of ion concentration, water flow rate, temperature and pH on precipitation. Process design alterationsand flow configurations to mitigate precipitate formation and accumulation will be determined. Of particularinterest is precipitation occurrence in conditions of low ion concentration and what changes can be made toavoid these problems. Test columns of filter media of different porosity and character (e.g. sand and inertrecycled glass as control) will be evaluated to determine optimum percolation rates to avoid clogging. Throughanother research project, a site is available to us in the Village of Dunnottar, MB for pilot scale testing ofprecipitate forming conditions as well as remediation options. Dillon Consulting will benefit from this study, asthey will better understand operational challenges associated with inorganic precipitation and consider designchanges to existing and future sites.