Analysis of aerobic and anaerobic sewage sludge disposal concepts

Abstract

The article aimed to analyze the concept of modernisation of sludge management prepared for an exemplary sewage sludge treatment plant. Four variants of solutions, based on different processes, aerobic (oxygenic), anaerobic or – aerobic – anaerobic, were discussed. The article presents the characteristics of essential elements of the proposed solutions. The technical and technological parameters of each of the variants are exposed. The expected capital expenditure and basic operating costs are presented. A cost-effectiveness analysis of the options has also been carried out. The analysed technological processes ensure obtaining hygienically and sanitary safe end products. They contribute significantly to minimising the amount of sewage sludge. The most economically efficient, with the lowest average annual costs, is the variant with the application of anaerobic thermo-philic-mesophilic sludge stabilisation. The highest average annual costs were obtained for the variant with drying and incineration of sludge.