Quantification of Influent Non-Readily Biodegradable Dissolved rganic Nitrogen to Explore Nutrient Management via Pretreatment

摘要

Johnston County has observed a marked increase in effluent dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) over the last twelve years. The County commissioned a study to quantify and characterize the influent and effluent DON to the Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF). This wastewater characterization study quantified the non-biodegradable (nbDON) fraction of DON from industrial inputs, combined WWTF influent, and combined WWTF effluent. A technology-based bioassay method developed by Khan et al. (2009) was used to quantify the nbDON fraction that is not susceptible to biodegradation by the WWTF and therefore contributes to the effluent nitrogen load. The technology-based bioassay was conducted by North Dakota State University (NDSU). The resulting data has allowed the County to compare the relative influent nbDON loads to the WWTF to assess the viability of nbDON load management via the County's Pretreatment Program. The County considers control of DON via pretreatment a potential option in the County's holistic approach to nutrient management.