SOME ASPECTS OF THE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL OF WATER LINE SLUDGE FROM LOW-TURBIDITY AND LOW-COLOR SOURCES

Introduction: The paper deals with a method of thickening water line sludge of low-turbidity and low-color natural water using high-molecular polyelectrolytes. The authors provide recommendations for its future disposal. Methods: Experiments were carried out with the use of real sludge selected from sludge tanks at water supply stations. The experiments were based on a comprehensive study of its qualitative characteristics (physical, chemical, mineral). The monitoring of indicators was carried out in accordance with standard methods and recommendations of study guides. The results were processed using methods of mathematical statistics. Results: As a result, it was found that cationic polyacrylamides are the most acceptable agents for sludge thickening. They increase the sludge thickening effect by up to 15%, reduce turbidity and color of supernatant water by 25 and 45%, respectively. The optimum time for thickening is 24 hours. Among directions of the “beneficial” disposal of dewatered sludge, it is recommended to utilize it in the production of soils and building ceramics. Conclusion: The results of the study can be translated into the development and optimization of sludge processing schemes at water supply stations performing treatment of low-turbidity and low-color natural water. Besides, the methods of sludge disposal under consideration will make it possible to reduce the need to increase the area for sludge cake storage or stop using such territories completely.