Work

Combined Electrochemical Technology for Processing Organic Wastes From Local Treatment Plants Into a Component of Organic Fertilizer

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The relevance of processing organic wastes from local treatment plants (LTP) is due to growing ecological risks, high disposal costs, and insufficient implementation of their potential for reuse as a resource, particularly as a component of organic fertilizers. The aim of this research is a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of various technologies for processing a mixture of flotation sludge and excess sludge from a dairy processing plant from the perspective of practical applicability at industrial facilities. The study experimentally compared four methods: electrochemical treatment (electrolysis), addition of a high-molecular biologically active compound (HMBAC), application of ferrate oxidant, and a combined method (HMBAC + electrolysis). Effectiveness was assessed based on organoleptic (odor on a 5-point scale PND F 12.16.1-10), physical (sedimentation rate, supernatant water turbidity), and microbiological indicators (total microbial count, coliform bacteria). The combined method—introduction of HMBAC at a concentration of 0.05 ml/l followed by electrolysis (180 s, 20 A)—provided the best comprehensive result: odor reduction to 2 points, supernatant water turbidity to 3.3 NTU, and pathogenic microflora reduction to 4.1·10² CFU/ml with complete elimination of coliform bacteria. A modular technological scheme for LTP waste processing has been proposed, allowing not only to reduce their hazard class but also to transform them into a marketable product—a component of organic fertilizer. This technology opens prospects for implementing circular economy principles at food industry enterprises, reduces operating costs, and creates additional economic value. The research results have practical significance for developing and scaling modular installations for organic waste processing. Further work involves developing regulatory documentation and conducting field trials of the obtained product in the agricultural sector.

Source: Вестник Кузбасского государственного технического университета

DOI: 10.26730/1999-4125-2026-3-57-68

Authors: Vladimir N. Shtepa, Sergey Yu. Kireev, Alexey V. Kozyr, Alexey B. Shikunets

Institutions: Belarusian State Technological University, Penza State University

Language: English

Topic: Wastewater Treatment and Reuse

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7204865176