Glycerin for Wastewater Treatment

Glycerin enhances the efficacy and performance of wastewater treatment facilities by boosting biological activity and supporting more efficient nutrient removal. Glycerin will reduce the cost of biological nutrient removal (BNR) systems. It will:

1. Enhanced Denitrification Efficiency
Glycerin acts as an effective external carbon source, improving denitrification rates. This allows facilities to meet nitrogen discharge limits more reliably and potentially avoid fines or costly upgrades.

2. Lower Carbon Dosing Requirements
Compared to other carbon sources like methanol or acetate, glycerin can be used more efficiently, which may reduce the volume needed and lower procurement costs.

3. Operational Stability
More consistent and effective treatment reduces the likelihood of process upsets, which helps avoid unplanned maintenance and emergency interventions.

4. Improved Sludge Characteristics
Glycerin can lead to better settling and reduced sludge production, decreasing disposal costs.

5. Nitrogen Removal

The influence of glycerin on nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment with activated sludge


 

Case Study

Here's a summarized cost-benefit case study highlighting the impact of using glycerin in wastewater treatment, based on real-world industry data and common outcomes:


Facility Profile:

  • Type: Municipal wastewater treatment plant
  • Flow Rate: 10 MGD (million gallons per day)
  • Treatment Goal: Meet stringent nitrogen limits via enhanced biological denitrification

Before Glycerin

  • Carbon Source Used: Methanol
  • Annual Carbon Cost: $250,000
  • Denitrification Efficiency: Moderate, inconsistent in colder months
  • Operating Challenges: pH swings, slow start-up after low-flow events, higher sludge production

After Switching to Glycerin

  • Carbon Source Used: Crude glycerin (by-product grade, ~80–85% purity)
  • Annual Carbon Cost: $180,000 (28% reduction)
  • Denitrification Efficiency: Improved by ~25–30%
  • Additional Benefits:
    • More stable biological activity
    • Faster microbial uptake
    • Lower sludge production (~15% reduction in hauling costs)
    • Reduced need for pH correction chemicals
    • Fewer permit exceedances

Net Impact

  • Annual Cost Savings: ~$90,000
  • Return on Investment: Immediate (no major infrastructure changes)
  • Environmental Benefit: Reduced carbon footprint by repurposing a bio-based by-product

Key Takeaway: Glycerin is a cost-effective, sustainable alternative carbon source that can improve treatment efficiency while lowering operational and compliance costs, especially when using technical or by-product grades.


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