Lesson 5 - Effluent Treatment SAQ
This lesson allows you to test yourself on the material covered in the Effluent Treatment lesson and determine the level to which you have met the learning outcomes.
Suggested Response - Q5
** a) Draw a typical UASB reactor and explain how it works.
b) What are the advantages of a UASB reactor versus a lagoon system for anaerobic effluent treatment?
Response:
Figure: UASB reactor
a) The UASB reactor works with granular sludge of 1-4 mm. This allows for the sludge to have far superior settling abilities. The wastewater flows upward through a dense bed of this sludge, and separation is then done at the top of the reactor between sludge, biogas, and wastewater in a three-phase separator.
b) The UASB has a small footprint compared to a lagoon. Biogas can be captured easily. The granular sludge allows for easy separation of the sludge, treated wastewater, and biogas, meaning shorter residence times and less potential for carryover of sludge.