AWWA ACE65401

Ion exchange (IX) is a well-established treatment technology for perchlorate and nitrate treatment in drinking water application. But this process produces a significant volume of concentrated waste that requires special handing and disposal. The disposal options for the residuals are frequently limited by local regulations or are very costly. Therefore, it is important to develop an effective, sustainable and eco-friendly strategy to deal with concentrated IX residuals. This paper demonstrates the application of biologically enhanced acetate-fed fluidized bed reactors (FBR) and hydrogen-fed membrane biofilm reactors (MBfR) for perchlorate and nitrate reduction from IX residuals. Bench-scale testing conducted with FBR and MBfR showed almost complete reduction of perchlorate and nitrate from 3-6% synthetic brine solution. Includes 24 references, tables, figures.