Anaerobic Digesters at Wastewater Treatment Plants are Used To

Question

Anaerobic digesters at wastewater treatment plants are used to
A)reduce nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater.
B)remove toxic organic pollutants.
C)remove potential pathogens.
D)treat wastewater effluent.
E)treat sludge and particulates collected during waste treatment.

Accepted Answer

Anaerobic digesters are used to treat sludge and particulates collected during waste treatment. During the digestion process, microorganisms break down organic matter in the sludge, reducing its volume and creating a nutrient-rich fertilizer that can be used for agricultural purposes. The process also produces biogas, which can be used for energy generation. Anaerobic digestion has the added benefit of reducing odors associated with sludge storage and transport. While anaerobic digestion can help reduce nitrogen and phosphorus levels in wastewater and remove pathogens, these are not the primary functions of anaerobic digesters at wastewater treatment plants. Removing toxic pollutants is also not a primary function of anaerobic digesters, as these pollutants are typically removed through other treatment processes prior to sludge digestion.