HANDLING AND DISPOSAL OF PROCESS WASTEWATERS FROM MICROFILTRATION SYSTEMS

Microfiltration systems typically produce three types of process wastewaters: 1) Air scrubreverse filtration (ASRF) flows ; 2) chemically enhanced flux maintenance (CEFM) wastewaters ; and 3) clean-in-place (CIP) solutions. Air scrub-reverse filtration flows represent approximately 98-99% of the total volume of wastewater and are produced at a relatively constant rate. The CEFM and CIP wastewaters are produced periodically. The chemical characteristics of the wastewaters vary depending the types and concentrations of contaminants in the feed water and the amount of added chemicals (chlorine, acids, or bases).The most acceptable and cost-effective method of handling and disposal of the microfiltration wastewaters depends upon a number of site-specific conditions, such as: types and location of potential receiving waters; water quality limitations on discharges; the ability to recycle wastewater; the value of water at the specific location; and the availability of other wastewater discharges for dilution. The basic alternatives for wastewater handling and disposal are:Direct discharge (with or without treatment) to local receiving waters.Discharge to sanitary sewer or, for water reuse, recycle to wastewater treatment plant.Recycle clarified and, if required, neutralized wastewater to mf feed water.Combine with other wastewater to partially neutralize both before additional treatment.Mix the wastewaters with RO brine from seawater desalination.Recycle rinse waters and treat 'concentrated' process wastewater.