Article
Engineering, Environmental
Linda Li, Wayne Parker
Summary: The study assessed the performance of anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBRs) at low temperatures commonly found in temperate climates (10-24 degrees C). It was found that as temperature decreased, COD removal and membrane fouling deteriorated. Addition of PAC reduced permeate VFA concentrations and mitigated membrane fouling at 10 degrees C.
WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Saleh Najafi Chaleshtori, Mehrdad Shamskilani, Azadeh Babaei, Masoomeh Behrang
Summary: This study investigated the performance of microalgal-activated sludge membrane bioreactor (MAS-MBR) as a self-biological treatment or post-treatment for conventional biological treatments. The results showed that cultivating mixed algae/sludge in raw wastewater achieved the best performance in terms of ammonium and phosphorus removal efficiency, as well as the highest oxygen production rate and oxygen uptake rate. However, membrane fouling was increased in this case, highlighting the need for regular membrane cleaning.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Chao Rong, Tianjie Wang, Zibin Luo, Yisong Hu, Zhe Kong, Yu Qin, Taira Hanaoka, Masami Ito, Masumi Kobayashi, Yu-You Li
Summary: The study found that at low temperatures, methane production decreased and dissolved methane increased, leading to a reduction in methanogenic performance. The membrane rejection can offset the deteriorated anaerobic digestion, ensuring stable COD removal efficiency. However, at low temperatures, the increased microbial products and residual inorganic foulants can aggravate membrane fouling.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xin Mao, Jing Shen, Yu Shen, Wenxin Shi, Bing Zhang
Summary: This study proposed and applied an innovative heat/PAC/PS pre-treatment system in an AGSMS, which effectively enhanced pollutant removal and reduced membrane fouling resistance. The excellent performance of the heat/PAC/PS system was attributed to PAC adsorption capacity and non-radical oxidation pathway. This study provides a new approach for membrane fouling mitigation in municipal wastewater treatment.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yajun Wang, Yanchao Xu, Siyong Zhang, Yanjuan Li, Wenlong Liu
Summary: This study thoroughly analyzed the effects of PAC dosage on the performance of PAC-MBRs in treating biochemical tailwater. The results showed that PAC addition enhanced the removal efficiency of MBRs, especially for total nitrogen. Furthermore, PAC application prolonged the duration of membranes by suppressing biological fouling.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Hua-Jun Feng, Long Chen, Xian-Bin Ying, Sheng-Song Yu, Yang-Cheng Ding
Summary: The effects of PAC with different redox properties on membrane fouling were investigated, and it was found that PAC with reductive properties could prolong the filtration cycle and enhance the anti-fouling performance mainly by reducing the content of extracellular polymer substances and soluble microbial products in the solution.
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
J. Qian, P. Riede, G. Abbt-Braun, J. Parniske, S. Metzger, T. Morck
Summary: In this study, the efficacy of Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC)-Activated Sludge (AS) treatment in removing organic micropollutants (OMPs) was investigated through batch and pilot plant experiments. The results showed that the treatment was capable of achieving a high removal efficiency for nine OMPs. Additionally, intermittent dosage of PAC was found to stably remove OMPs, suggesting potential cost savings in terms of investment and maintenance.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Bing Zhang, Heli Tang, Dongmei Huang, Chong Liu, Wenxin Shi, Yu Shen
Summary: The effect of superficial gas velocity (SGV) on the membrane fouling behavior and evolution of aerobic granular sludge membrane bioreactor (AGMBR) was investigated. AGMBR with various SGVs exhibited high removal rates of organics and total nitrogen in synthetic municipal wastewater. The composition and properties of foulants varied with SGV and transmembrane pressure (TMP). Micro-level analyses showed that the proportion of pore-blocking resistance and microbial community diversity increased with TMP and SGV. Decreasing polysaccharide content, increasing protein content, and enhancing relative abundance of Bacteroidia and Gammaproteobacteria mitigated membrane fouling. This study provides theoretical guidance for the large-scale application of AGMBR in wastewater reuse.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Mary Vermi Aizza Corpuz, Laura Borea, Vincenzo Senatore, Fabiano Castrogiovanni, Antonio Buonerba, Giuseppina Oliva, Florencio Ballesteros, Tiziano Zarra, Vincenzo Belgiorno, Kwang-Ho Choo, Shadi W. Hasan, Vincenzo Naddeo
Summary: The study showed that the addition of algae in membrane bioreactors can significantly improve nutrient removal and reduce membrane fouling rate.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Ronghua Xu, Wentian Zhang, Yue Fu, Fuqiang Fan, Zanmin Zhou, Jincan Chen, Wanli Liu, Fangang Meng
Summary: This study reveals the positive role of influent species immigration (ISI) in mitigating membrane fouling in membrane bioreactors (MBRs) treating municipal wastewater. The results show that ISI can reduce the fouling rate and the sludge from the MBR-C (fed with raw municipal wastewater) has higher fouling index and biofilm formation potential than the MBR-E (fed with sterilized municipal wastewater). The presence of diverse and abundant populations responsible for floc-forming, hydrolysis/fermentation, and SMP degradation in the influent supports the increased floc size and lowered SMP concentrations in the MBR-C.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Mohammad Reza Mehrnia, Fatemeh Nasiri, Fatemeh Pourasgharian Roudsari, Fatemeh Bahrami
Summary: This study investigated the utilization of powdered activated carbon (PAC) in the formation and performance of a self-forming dynamic membrane for wastewater treatment. The results showed that PAC helped in the formation of more uniform and permeable dynamic membranes, reducing biofouling. The optimal PAC concentration was found to be 4 g/L, with the highest effluent quality and the lowest biofouling. The short-term performance of the hybrid PAC-DMBR showed significant improvements in effluent quality. Thus, adopting hybrid PAC-DMBR has the potential to alleviate biofouling and reduce capital costs.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Jianbo Liu, Faqian Sun, Panyue Zhang, Yan Zhou
Summary: The study introduced a novel APQ bead technology, which effectively alleviated MBR biofouling by reducing concentrations of EPS and AHL, extending operational period. This technology showed potential for biofouling control.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Fangyue Peng, Zhaohan Zhang, Muchen Sun, Yuqiang Shao, Yujie Feng
Summary: Magnetic granular activated carbon (MGAC) was used to enhance domestic wastewater treatment efficiency and reduce membrane biofouling in an anaerobic fluidized-bed membrane bioreactor (AFMBR). The COD removal rate reached 89 +/- 2.6% with an effluent concentration of 20 +/- 3.9 mg/L in the MGAC-AFMBR, compared to 28 +/- 5.2 mg/L in the AFMBR without MGAC. TN removal was also improved by 4.0% with the addition of MGAC. The addition of MGAC resulted in decreased protein and polysaccharide content in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), as well as reduced abundance of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria in the membrane cake layer.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
David J. Kovacs, Zhong Li, Brian W. Baetz, Youngseck Hong, Sylvain Donnaz, Xiaokun Zhao, Pengxiao Zhou, Huihuang Ding, Qirong Dong
Summary: In this study, machine learning techniques were used to build models that can predict transmembrane pressure (TMP) at different stages of the membrane bioreactors (MBRs) production cycle. The models provide reliable predictions, with the random forest (RF) model showing the highest accuracy. These models can be valuable tools for decision support in wastewater treatment plants, leading to cost reduction.
JOURNAL OF MEMBRANE SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Margarida Campinas, Rui M. C. Viegas, Cristina M. M. Almeida, Antonio Martins, Catarina Silva, Elsa Mesquita, Sofia Silva, Maria Rosario Coelho, Maria Joao Benoleil, Maria Joao Rosa, Vitor Vale Cardoso
Summary: Adding powdered activated carbon to traditional activated sludge reactors is an effective method for controlling pharmaceutical compound discharge in municipal wastewater treatment. The full-scale test showed that proper doses of powdered activated carbon significantly reduced the discharge of recalcitrant pharmaceutical compounds, improving effluent quality without increasing energy consumption. Additionally, powdered activated carbon had a positive effect on sludge treatment, increasing sludge production.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Navarro Ferronato, Luca Moresco, Gabriela Edith Guisbert Lizarazu, Marcelo Antonio Gorritty Portillo, Fabio Conti, Vincenzo Torretta
Summary: Construction and demolition waste (CDW) and municipal solid waste (MSW) are the most generated waste flows globally, especially in developing countries where they are mostly disposed of in open dumps. This study compares the environmental impacts of the MSW and CDW management system in La Paz, Bolivia, and evaluates the importance of recycling in mitigating these impacts. The results highlight the significance of organized CDW management systems in integrated waste management schemes to prevent environmental degradation in developing cities.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Pietro Castellani, Navarro Ferronato, Marco Ragazzi, Vincenzo Torretta
Summary: This research evaluates the municipal solid waste management system and the environmental and economic benefits of onsite treatment plants in the Pelagian archipelago, Italy. The results show that implementing onsite treatment plants can save costs and reduce environmental impacts, making them viable options for solid waste management systems in isolated regions.
WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
A. Piemonti, A. Conforti, L. Cominoli, A. Luciano, G. Plizzari, S. Sorlini
Summary: A greater reuse of steel slags would bring considerable benefits both from an environmental and economic point of view. This study investigates and analyzes the supply chain for managing steel slags at a medium level to assess the implementation and potential of industrial symbiosis. The Mass Flow Analysis method is used to monitor recovery and reuse, and plan improvement actions.
WASTE AND BIOMASS VALORIZATION
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Navarro Ferronato, Rocio Clara Fuentes Sirpa, Edith Gabriela Guisbert Lizarazu, Fabio Conti, Vincenzo Torretta
Summary: In Bolivia, where construction and demolition waste management is lacking, a study in the city of La Paz examined future recycling scenarios by conducting a CDW flow analysis and cost assessment. The estimation showed that La Paz could potentially generate around 271,051-349,418 tonnes of CDW annually, which is double the projected amount by local authorities. The analysis also found that approximately 56.1-71.1% of inert aggregates can be recycled. The best management scenario involves the source separation of recyclable materials and the use of both stationary and mobile recycling facilities.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Silvia Fraterrigo Garofalo, Nicola Cavallini, Francesca Demichelis, Francesco Savorani, Giuseppe Mancini, Debora Fino, Tonia Tommasi
Summary: This work focuses on optimizing the production of omega-3 rich oil from tuna viscera using the Alcalase enzyme. Through the use of experimental design, life cycle analysis, and principal component analysis, the best combination of pH, enzyme/substrate ratio, and reaction time was determined. The study found that the duration of the hydrolysis and electricity consumption had the greatest impact on the environmental sustainability of the process.
FOOD AND BIOPRODUCTS PROCESSING
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Navarro Ferronato, Alberto Pietro Damiano Baltrocchi, Francesco Romagnoli, Iris Jabneel Calle Mendoza, Marcelo Antonio Gorritty Portillo, Vincenzo Torretta
Summary: Developing countries face the dual challenges of resource shortage and inadequate waste management systems, which necessitates the introduction of alternative waste valorisation options. This research conducts an environmental Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of waste-based briquettes made from non-recyclable cardboard waste and sawdust, comparing their environmental impacts with conventional fuels. The findings indicate that the briquettes contribute to several impact indicators, with global warming, non-renewable energy use, and respiratory inorganics being the most significant.
ENERGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Riccardo Boiocchi, Marco Ragazzi, Vincenzo Torretta, Elena Cristina Rada
Summary: The Universitas Indonesia GreenMetric World Ranking is widely used to assess the sustainability of worldwide universities. An in-depth analysis of this ranking system reveals that some indicators are ineffective in measuring sustainability development, while others need adjustment for context-specific factors. By taking these considerations into account, a fairer evaluation and comparison of universities' sustainability can be achieved, providing useful information for improvement.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marco Orlando, Gianluca Molla, Pietro Castellani, Valentina Pirillo, Vincenzo Torretta, Navarro Ferronato
Summary: The accumulation of synthetic plastic waste in the environment has raised global concerns. Microbial enzymes offer promising biotechnological tools for plastic recycling, but their effectiveness depends on waste management practices. This review highlights the potential of biotechnology in plastic bio-recycling within the European waste management framework. Current biotechnology tools can support polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycling, but other unrecycled plastics, such as polyurethanes and polyolefins, require further research and optimization of chemoenzymatic technologies. New bio-based technologies with lower environmental impacts should also be developed to efficiently depolymerize both existing and new plastic materials.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
A. Luciano, P. Altamura, S. Baiani, L. Cutaia
Summary: European policies are driving the redevelopment of existing assets in the construction sector to enhance resource efficiency and circularity. This article aims to evaluate the materials stocks of the built environment from an urban mining perspective and assess their potential for recovery and reuse. The methodology was applied to a relevant case study, demonstrating its effectiveness in combining design for disassembly and a life cycle approach. The proposed approach and results are valuable for defining materials stock and informing urban planning based on urban mining and circular design.
SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Alberto Pietro Damiano Baltrocchi, Navarro Ferronato, Iris Jabneel Calle Mendoza, Marcelo Antonio Gorritty Portillo, Francesco Romagnoli, Vincenzo Torretta
Summary: This study evaluates the economic and social sustainability of waste-based briquettes in Bolivia. The results show that briquettes have a lower cost compared to coal, but higher than subsidized fossil fuels in Bolivia. Briquettes also have better social impacts in six out of ten assessed subcategories. In conclusion, waste-based briquettes can have economic and social benefits, but require incentives and market analysis for diffusion in Bolivia.
SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Navarro Ferronato, Adeline Mertenat, Christian Zurbrugg, Vincenzo Torretta
Summary: Open dumping and burning of solid waste are common practices in low-income countries. On small and touristic islands, the problem is exacerbated due to the additional volume of waste amount generated by tourists. This article presents a case study of Nosy Be island in Madagascar to demonstrate how tourism can be used as a catalyst for waste recovery and recycling to address the waste challenge. The study highlights the importance of active participation and involvement of local partners supported by international experts, and proposes potential circular models for waste management in Nosy Be.
WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Giuseppe Mancini, Simone Cappello, Giuseppe De Marco, Tiziana Cappello, Maria Maisano, Rosalba Gornati, Massimiliano Scalici, Antonella Luciano, Paolo Viotti, Debora Fino
Summary: This study combines traditional chemical characterization with simultaneous biological evaluation to assess the efficiency and sustainability of soil washing on Hg-contaminated sediment. Different extracting agents were compared for their efficiency in removing Hg from contaminated sediments. Biological evaluation through histological, immunohistochemical, and enzymatic analysis showed significant differences in tissue alteration and functional integrity between organisms in contact with contaminated and restored sediments.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Riccardo Boiocchi, Paolo Viotti, Davide Lancione, Nicoletta Stracqualursi, Vincenzo Torretta, Marco Ragazzi, Gabriela Ionescu, Elena Cristina Rada
Summary: This study analyzes the carbon footprint of a large wastewater treatment plant in central Italy, finding that energy consumption, natural gas production and transport, and nitrous oxide emissions from effluent are the most significant contributors. These findings suggest that managers of wastewater treatment plants should prioritize these aspects when taking action to mitigate carbon footprint.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Luigi Gurreri, Mirko Calanni Rindina, Antonella Luciano, Serena Lima, Francesca Scargiali, Debora Fino, Giuseppe Mancini
Summary: Microalgae and cyanobacteria are valuable resources for producing biofuels/bioenergy, biomaterials, and biochemicals. Although microalgal systems can involve waste stream valorization and green chemistry, their sustainability is uncertain, hindering their large-scale application. Life cycle assessments (LCAs) based on primary data for microalgal pilot to industrial-scale plants are lacking uniformity and transparency. The review identified electricity consumption and infrastructure as major hotspots, and recommended the use of renewable energy and sunlight for biomass photosynthesis. Upstream processes and suitable reactors, locations, and harvesting methods also impact the environmental profile. Biofuels are not competitive, but multi-product biorefinery scenarios show promise. Co-product valorization, waste stream utilization, renewable energy deployment, and compound productivity need enhancement for high-value microalgal compounds. More LCA studies on large-scale plants, particularly integrated biorefinery concepts, are required for sustainable commercial systems.
SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Athanasia K. K. Tolkou, Elena Cristina Rada, Vincenzo Torretta, Maria Xanthopoulou, George Z. Z. Kyzas, Ioannis A. A. Katsoyiannis
Summary: The occurrence of arsenic in water is a global public health problem, and adsorption onto iron oxy-hydroxides is a commonly used technique for its removal. This study investigated the combined use of graphene oxide (GO) and granular ferric hydroxide (GFH) in different molar ratios for maximum As(III) removal. The presence of GFH enhanced the adsorption capacity of GO, with the optimal molar ratio of GO/GFH 2:1 achieving 90% removal at pH 7.0 +/- 0.1. The Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models effectively described the experimental data, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 22.62 μg/g.
C-JOURNAL OF CARBON RESEARCH
(2023)