AMORPHOUS SILICA OBTAINED FROM NEPHELINE RAW MATERIALS IN THE DEPHOSPHORIZATION OF MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER

Abstract

Introduction. The paper addresses the importance of extracting the labile form of phosphorus from wastewater with the possibility of its further use. The advantages of sorption methods and the prospects of using amorphous silica as an ameliorant with a prolonged fertilizing effect are considered. Methods. We performed experimental modeling of phosphates extraction from model solutions and a sludge mixture from regional sewage treatment plants. Amorphous silica obtained from local nepheline raw materials in acid treatment using a patented technology was used as sorbents. Results. A sorbent based on amorphous silica with a pore diameter of 8.41 nm was obtained. Its sorption capacity exceeds 29 mgP/g in the phosphate form, which corresponds to the average level of phosphorus removal, noted for a number of sorbents used in the international practice of wastewater dephosphorization when producing unconventional ameliorants. Conclusion. For effective phosphorus removal from municipal wastewater to obtain an unconventional ameliorant with a fertilizing effect in terms of Si and P, sorbent consumption of 1 g/l is sufficient.