Using the microbial Anammox community to treat wastewater in cities and settlements

Abstract

Anammox bacteria, discovered in the late 20th century, had a stimulating influence on the development of new wastewater treatment technologies. Processes, involving this type of bacteria, can occur both at urban treatment facilities and industrial enterprises, depending on the degree of contamination of incoming wastewater. In this article, the authors compare various technologies offered on the market for various purposes. The Anammox community of microorganisms is interesting because of its potential ability to purify wastewater saturated with nitrogen compounds, but poor in organic matter. Classical methods of removing biogenic elements cannot effectively treat this type of wastewater. The authors have revealed that in nature Anammox bacteria play a significant role in the nitrogen cycle as well as in the process of thorough biological wastewater treatment and removal of nitrogen compounds. Various patterns of the Anammox process are considered; they differ from one another in oxygen conditions and items of equipment. They are also recommended for the treatment of wastewater featuring different concentrations of contaminants at the inlet to the treatment plant. As a result, potentially effective development areas have been identified. The authors have proven that the quality of wastewater treatment can meet standard requirements if Anammox bacteria are used.