Solar Sludge Drying for Medina Al-Munawarah Sewage Treatment Plant in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 142, Issue 12
Abstract
A study of the existing state and the challenges encountered in Medina Al-Munawarah sewage treatment plant has triggered the need for a better sludge management system. The climatic data revealed on site, with a yearly average solar radiation of , and air temperature and relative humidity of 299.2 K and 28%, respectively, in addition to the capital and operating financial factors, had favored the use of solar drying application as an appropriate mean to treat (20% dry solids) of mechanically dewatered sludge yearly. By applying the principles of exchanging heat and energy in a of covered solar drying cells, a minimum total water evaporation rate of can be reached. In this process, the sludge will be dried until an 80% solid content is achieved. The stabilized product, brought to a reduced mass and pathogen content, is now an asset to be used in various uses, allowing Medina Al-Munawarah to sustain its future green plans.
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Acknowledgments
The authors are thankful to their families, who gave them plenty of support during the preparation of this paper.
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Information & Authors
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Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 142 • Issue 12 • December 2016
Copyright
© 2016 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Feb 12, 2016
Accepted: May 2, 2016
Published online: Jul 15, 2016
Published in print: Dec 1, 2016
Discussion open until: Dec 15, 2016
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