Name

Combating greenhouse gas emissions: using pure oxygen injection to reduce nitrous oxide emissions in wastewater treatment plants

Speakers

Izba Ali

Description

Laughing gas (N₂O) emissions from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are a significant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To achieve climate neutral operation, these emissions must be addressed. This study investigated the impact of pure oxygen injection on N₂O emissions at a WWTP treating leachate from composting green waste. The plant was equipped with surface aerators and bottom-mounted mechanical aerators for pure oxygen injection. The research combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and drone-based N₂O measurements. The CFD modeling simulates different aeration scenarios to predict N₂O emissions, while drone measurements capture real-time N₂O emissions data to measure the effects of pure oxygen injection. The modeling results indicated that autotrophic denitrification and hydroxylamine oxidation were major contributors to N₂O production. The model also showed that approximately 84% of N₂O emissions could be eliminated by combining surface aeration with pure oxygen injection at the bottom. Moreover, full-scale drone measurement campaigns confirmed that switching from surface aeration to a combination of surface aeration and bottom injection of pure oxygen led to a substantial reduction (67%) in N₂O emissions. This study offers valuable insights for WWTP operators and engineers seeking to implement sustainable practices and reduce GHG emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.

Time

2:05 PM - 2:17 PM

Location Name

Room 2

Track

14:05 - 15:45 Technology Showcase