A Chemical Tab That Reduces N and P Load on STP’s
By Rami Elias Kremesti M.Sc., CSci, CEnv, CWEM
Introduction
Here we present an innovative idea for a tab that can reduce the N and P load off of sewage treatment works with every toilet flush!
Having conducted experiments on the off grid STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) of a hotel in Ireland, I have data that prove that the introduction of a formulation of magnesium and ferric/aluminium+ wrapped in soda crystals/PAC binder at the source/point of production of domestic sewage can reduce the N and P load on the STP and buffer the soft and low alkalinity potable water used for flushing. PAC will also lower Ammonia and COD. It will also bind PFAS in the sewer. Soda crystals buffer the water and prevent acidic pH drops that result from Nitrification.
The mechanism is simple: Magnesium binds with N and P to form struvite and Ferric/Aluminium salts bind inorganic phosphate. Adding PAC = Powdered Activated Carbon can bind COD and urea/ammonia/pharmaceuticals as well.
Commercial Application:
The NoP toilet tab will help users with STP’s struggling to meet N and P discharge parameters and contribute to the wider effort to achieve Nutrient Neutrality by developers. Possible Patent and widespread use to lower the N and P load on mega WWTW’s like Thames Water’s Beckton and Mogden in London.
The big idea is to decentralise waste water treatment and allow citizens to help protect the environment.
Manufacturing of the tablets:
We will try to use simple eco friendly binders like Micro crystalline cellulose or simple table sugar. Ferric chloride and magnesium chloride are inexpensive generic chemicals. I am currently conducting experiments with table sugar as a binder.
Research Project:
I am in the process of applying to the PhD program at UWE and I need funding to prove this idea. Potential collaboration with Cranfield University’s field lab. I also have other research ideas such as the electrolysis of urine.
About the Author:
Rami Elias Kremesti is a chartered water treatment specialist who holds an M.Sc. degree in chemistry from the USA and lives and works in the UK. He is the MD of Kremesti Environmental Consulting Ltd which is based out of High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.
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Rami Elias Kremesti Portrait