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Project Code [2005-ET-LS-10-M3]
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Project title
A Novel Biotechnological Approach To Phosphorus Removal From Wastewaters.
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
Queen's University Belfast (QUB)
Lead Applicant
John McGrath
Project Abstract
Phosphate removal from wastewaters is important for the control of eutrophication and is enforced by strict legislation. Current technologies employed to achieve discharge consents are expensive and/or unreliable. We have discovered that certain activated sludge micro-organisms show greatly enhanced phosphate uptake accompanied by intracellular polyphosphate accumulation if exposed to a short period of acid pH. We have demonstrated the potential of this system at the pilot scale (2000 litres) and are now engaged in a full scale trial; P removal may be increased by up to 80% using our acid pH process. This previously-unreported phenomenon thus offers the prospect of a novel solution to a serious environmental problem. Prerequisite to further exploitation of our novel P removal process is a greater scientific understanding of the i'acid stimulationi phenomenon.
Grant Approved
�391,494.00
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Protecting our Water Resources
Initial Projected Completion Date
n/a