Alternativa sustentable para el aprovechamiento de lodos activados residuales, generados en plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales (PTAR) de empresas de alimentos

Abstract

This research proposes a sustainable alternative for the use and final disposal of residual activated sludge generated in wastewater treatment plants of food companies, through the elaboration of compost. The residual sludge was stabilized through composting in piles with mechanical turning, using sawdust as support material, to improve its conditions. Six piles were made, 5 of which with different amounts of residual sludge and sawdust, and 1 pile only with residual sludge. Variables such as: temperature, humidity and pH were measured, the data was taken based on a completely randomized experimental design. To determine the best treatment, it was only based on the temperature data obtained, in this way, it was determined that the pile made up of 7000kg of residual sludge and 3000kg of sawdust was the best, since it fulfilled the entire process, with the appropriate parameters. and obtaining a quality, stable and mature compost that contained the essential nutrients for agriculture. With this research, it was shown that it is possible to take advantage of the residual activated sludge from PTAR´s of food companies, protecting the environment, with cleaner production techniques and obtaining a highly useful product in the agricultural field with great benefits.