How to Reduce COD in Water

Discover effective strategies for reducing COD in wastewater with our in-depth guide. Learn about chemical and biological treatments, including the use of coagulants, flocculants, and MBBR technology, to enhance water quality and compliance. Perfect for industries seeking sustainable wastewater solutions.

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is the amount of the amount of oxygen that is needed to oxidize soluble and particulate organic matter in water.

What is COD?

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is the amount of the amount of oxygen that is needed to oxidize soluble and particulate organic matter in water.

COD is an extremely important element of water quality. It helps to assess the effect that wastewater will have on the environment that it’s being released into. When the COD levels are higher, there is a greater demand for oxygen. This means that there is likely more oxidizable organic material in water with high COD levels. This also means that there are reduced Dissolved Oxygen (DO) concentrations in wastewater with high COD levels. A Low concentration of Dissolved Oxygen is harmful life forms which oxygen to live. Therefore it’s best to reduce COD levels, thus increasing DO concentrations, in wastewater before releasing it.

Water treatment plant

Strategies for Reducing COD in Wastewater: Chemical and Biological Approaches

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is a critical parameter in wastewater management, indicating the amount of organic pollutants in water. High COD levels are a concern for industrial and municipal wastewater treatment facilities, as they signify high levels of pollution that can be harmful to aquatic life and pose challenges in meeting environmental compliance standards. Fortunately, there are effective strategies for reducing COD in wastewater, encompassing both chemical and biological methods.

Chemical Treatment: Coagulants and Flocculants

One traditional approach to reducing COD involves the use of coagulants and flocculants. These chemicals facilitate the agglomeration of suspended solids in wastewater into larger particles. Once these particles are bound into sufficiently large masses, they can be easily removed through filtration and deposited into sedimentation tanks. While effective, this method does come with drawbacks, including the reliance on continuous chemical supply and associated recurring costs, which can be significant over time.

Biological Treatment: Harnessing the Power of Bacteria

An increasingly popular and sustainable alternative to chemical treatment is biological reduction of COD. This method leverages specific types of bacteria capable of digesting organic pollutants, thereby lowering COD levels. The process begins with the aeration of wastewater, supplying oxygen to support the bacteria's life processes. Aeration not only facilitates the breakdown of organic matter but also eliminates the need for chemical additives, making this a more environmentally friendly approach.

Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBR)

Among biological treatment technologies, Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBR) stand out for their efficiency and effectiveness in reducing COD. MBBR systems utilize the principles of biofilm technology, where bacteria grow on small, moving plastic carriers that circulate freely in the wastewater. This process ensures optimal contact between the wastewater and the bacteria, enhancing the breakdown of organic pollutants without the extensive use of chemicals.

Is Biological Treatment Right for You?

Determining the most suitable COD reduction strategy depends on various factors, including the specific characteristics of the wastewater, regulatory compliance requirements, and cost considerations. For facilities exploring sustainable and cost-effective wastewater treatment options, biological treatments like MBBR offer a compelling solution.

Reach Out for Expert Advice

If you're considering implementing a COD reduction strategy and need guidance on the best approach for your wastewater treatment needs, we invite you to reach out to us. Our team offers complimentary consultations to help you navigate the complexities of wastewater management and identify the most suitable treatment solutions for reducing COD levels in your facility.

COD can be found in the wastewater of landfills, the food and beverage industry, the diary industry and more. Visit our Case Studies page if you are interested in industry specific solutions.

Here is a sneak peek of what you will find:

  1. Vineyard Reduced COD <90% for water reuse & vine irrigation.
  2. Centralized Industrial Treatment installed a bioFAS MBBR biological treatment process designed for COD reduction to meet compliance and continue to allow discharging to the local municipality.

by Tim Burns

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