Jäätmeveepuhastus

Jäätmeveepuhastus, also known as wastewater treatment, is the process of removing contaminants from domestic and industrial wastewater before it is discharged into the environment. This process is crucial for protecting public health and the environment from pollution. The treatment typically involves several stages, beginning with preliminary treatment to remove large solids and debris. This can include screening and grit removal.

Following preliminary treatment, the wastewater moves to primary treatment, where sedimentation tanks are used to allow solid organic matter to settle to the bottom as sludge, and lighter materials like oil and grease float to the surface to be skimmed off. The remaining liquid, known as effluent, then undergoes secondary treatment. This stage primarily uses biological processes, where microorganisms are employed to break down dissolved organic matter and nutrients. Common methods include activated sludge processes and trickling filters.

The third stage is tertiary treatment, which is more advanced and aims to remove specific pollutants not eliminated in earlier stages. This can involve nutrient removal (phosphorus and nitrogen), disinfection to kill harmful bacteria and viruses using methods like chlorination or UV radiation, and the removal of suspended solids. The final effluent is then monitored to ensure it meets strict environmental standards before being released into rivers, lakes, or oceans. Sludge produced during the treatment process is also treated and disposed of or reused, for example, in agriculture or energy production.