Work

Effect of Inorganic Coagulant and Dissolved Organic Matter on the Toxicity of Nano-Zinc Oxide to Phosphorus-Accumulating Organisms in Wastewater

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of coagulants and dissolved organic matter (DOM) on the biological toxicity of nano-zinc oxide (nZnO) to key microorganisms involved in biological phosphorus removal during sewage treatment. Polyaluminum chloride and polyferric chloride were selected as coagulants, whereas fulvic acid, glucose, and aspartic acid represented the DOM. The mechanisms through which these chemicals influence nZnO toxicity were also investigated. The results show that polyaluminum chloride and polyferric chloride effectively reduced nZnO toxicity in phosphorus-accumulating organisms, demonstrating their detoxification effects. Similarly, fulvic acid and glucose mitigated nZnO toxicity, whereas aspartic acid displayed dual effects: detoxification at low concentrations and enhanced toxicity at high concentrations. These findings highlight the dual role of sewage treatment additives in enhancing traditional pollutant removal and mitigating the nanoparticle-induced inhibition of microbial biochemical processes. This study clarified the interactions between coagulant chemicals, DOM, and nanoparticles in sewage treatment, offering insights into the regulatory mechanisms that improve treatment efficacy and reduce ecological risks.

Source: Water

DOI: 10.3390/w17111563

Authors: Sen Qu, Wen Zhao, Yushu Wang, Yuan Zhang, Jinyi Liu, Yongkui Yang

Institution: Tianjin University

Language: English

Topic: Wastewater Treatment and Nitrogen Removal

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137