Material Characterization and Reaction Kinetics of Green Sorption Media for Nutrients Removal

In water scarce areas throughout the world, stormwater and wastewater used as an alternative water supply have been put into practice to promote the sustainability of our water infrastructure. Also, in water rich areas, stormwater management and on-site wastewater treatment systems are highly susceptible to extremes in precipitation causing wide spread pollution problems. High nitrogen and phosphorus content in stormwater and wastewater effluents has impeded reuse potential and impacted ecosystem integrity and human health. Nitrate may be toxic and can cause human health problem such as methemoglobinemia, liver damage and even cancers. Phosphorus may trigger the eutrophication issues in fresh water bodies, which could result in toxic algae and endanger the source of drinking waters eventually. It aims to conduct the material characterization and examine the reaction kinetics of a selected recipe of green sorption media recycled from waste streams, such as sawdust and tire crumb, combined with sand/silt and limestone, for nutrient removal using packed bed column tests as a means. Pollutants of concern include ammonia, nitrate and ortho- phosphate. Application potential in stormwater management and wastewater treatment facilities was discussed in the context of sustainable systems engineering.