Research Article
Apr 1982
Pharmaceutical Waste Treatment by Anaerobic Filter
Authors: Elliot F. Sachs, AM.ASCE, J. Charles Jennett, M.ASCE, and Myrton C. RandAuthor Affiliations
Publication: Journal of the Environmental Engineering Division
Volume 108, Issue 2
Abstract
The anaerobic filter has been used on a laboratory scale to treat a variety of industrial wastewaters. The process was known to be effective at treating fermentation pharmaceutical wastes but synthesized organic chemical wastes were considered to be less amenable to treatment. Preliminary studies did indicate that the raw waste exhibited toxicity to both aerobic and anerobic organisms. This investigation dealt with analyzing the physical and chemical variations in the constituents of the pharmaceutical waste. By using laboratory scale models under conditions of controlled temperature, hydraulic loading and organic strength and using a waste feed composed of varying percentages of methanol and waste at a constant COD, it was possible to investigate the toxic effects of the waste on anaerobic digestion. The waste was found to be toxic but the filter could acclimate to it. Final results indicate that the anaerobic filter would treat the waste faster than the existing aerobic extended aeration system producing an effluent as good or better, and because of the methane generated would be an energy producer rather than a consumer.
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Information
Published In
Journal of the Environmental Engineering Division
Volume 108 • Issue 2 • April 1982
Pages: 297 - 314
Copyright
© 1982 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Published in print: Apr 1982
Published online: Feb 11, 2021
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Authors
Affiliations
Elliot F. Sachs, AM.ASCE
Project Engr., Camp Dresser & McKee, Inc., New York, N.Y. 10048
J. Charles Jennett, M.ASCE
Dean of Coli. of Engrg. and Prof. of Environmental Systems Engrg., Clemson Univ., Clemson, S.C.
Myrton C. Rand
Prof. of Civ. Engrg. and Environmental Science, Univ. of Alabama at Huntsville, Huntsville, Ala. 35899
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ASCE Library Cards let you download journal articles, proceedings papers, and available book chapters across the entire ASCE Library platform. ASCE Library Cards remain active for 24 months or until all downloads are used. Note: This content will be debited as one download at time of checkout.
Terms of Use: ASCE Library Cards are for individual, personal use only. Reselling, republishing, or forwarding the materials to libraries or reading rooms is prohibited.
Terms of Use: ASCE Library Cards are for individual, personal use only. Reselling, republishing, or forwarding the materials to libraries or reading rooms is prohibited.