Biofilm-Enhanced Treatment for Arctic Wastewater Stabilization Ponds Using Geotextile Substrate

Abstract

In this thesis, a semi-permeable lining system was proposed to upgrade arctic wastewater stabilization ponds, acting as a biofilter. Although commonplace at lower latitudes, the effects of cold temperatures and short-duration summers on biofilter performance are inadequately studied. The goal of this research was to study the hydraulic and treatment performance of geotextile substrate biofilters under arctic conditions. Filtration experiments were conducted in a laboratory environment. Municipal wastewater was passed through columns containing nonwoven geotextiles over 10 cm of gravel. Three experimental trails were conducted at either 10? or 2?, each lasting 12 weeks. Weekly samples taken before and after filtration were analyzed for various water quality parameters. Hydraulic conductivity was monitored using weekly constant head permeameter tests. Results showed that biomat accumulation is possible on geotextile material over 12 week period. Significant removal of TSS and BOD5 was observed, along with a 1-log reduction in hydraulic conductivity.