REDUCING COSTS BY PRODUCING METHANE INSTEAD OF WAS: THE IMANS™ APPROACH TO TREATMENT AND RECLAMATION

A novel integrated membrane treatment approach (IMANS™) concentrates soluble organic matter present in wastewater and treats it anaerobically. The anaerobic treatment results in methane gas production which can be used as an energy source. In conventional activated sludge systems, the soluble organic matter is converted to waste sludge. Production of waste sludge requires energy (in the form of oxygen) and costs a significant amount to treat and dispose of. Pilot testing has shown the IMANS™ approach to be technically feasible. Cost estimates show this approach is more cost effective than current approaches used for wastewater treatment and reclamation. In addition to the cost benefits, the IMANS™ approach has significant environmental benefits, and results in a smaller ecological footprint.