Water Quality Management: Wastewater & Sludge Treatment

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to wastewater and sludge treatment in Water Quality Management.

A process where a mixture of wastewater and microbes (activated sludge) is aerated to promote biodegradation of organic matter.

Activated Sludge

The combination of wastewater and activated sludge.

Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS)

Sludge that is returned to the aeration tank to reintroduce microorganisms for further biodegradation.

Return Activated Sludge (RAS)

Sludge that is removed from the treatment process for disposal.

Waste Activated Sludge (WAS)

A measurement indicating the organic load on a treatment system, typically expressed as a ratio.

Food to Microorganism ratio (F/M)

A measure evaluating the settleability of sludge in activated sludge systems.

Sludge Volume Index (SVI)

The process where solids are allowed to settle out from the liquid in a clarifier.

Settling

Engineered systems that use wetland vegetation and soil to treat wastewater.

Constructed Wetlands

A treatment method where wastewater flows across the roots of plants in a gravel or sand media.

Sub-surface Flow

A treatment method that mimics natural wetlands with plants in water exposed to sunlight and air.

Surface Flow