Recent advances in environmental engineering have ushered in innovative methodologies that target the optimization of wastewater treatment processes. The study by Liu, Liu, and Li, set to be published in 2026, delves into the intricacies of enhancing the partial nitrification and anammox processes. These two biological processes are crucial for nitrogen removal from wastewater, addressing one of the most pressing environmental concerns—eutrophication, which is primarily fueled by nitrogen and phosphorus runoff into water bodies.
This comprehensive research analyzes the dynamics of biosorption—a process where contaminants are accumulated onto a solid phase, in conjunction with partial nitrification and anammox. The authors propose the use of functionalized carriers, which are materials altered to possess specific properties that enable enhanced interaction with target contaminants. These carriers have the potential to improve the efficiency of nitrogen removal by fostering a conducive environment for the nitrifying and anammox bacterial communities within the treatment system.
A primary goal of the research is the quest for energy self-sufficiency in municipal wastewater treatment. Traditional methods often require substantial energy inputs, predominantly from aeration processes necessary for the sustenance of aerobic microorganisms that facilitate nitrification. By integrating biosorption with partial nitrification and anammox, the authors propose a more holistic treatment avenue that could significantly lower energy requirements. This synergy not only minimizes operational costs but also paves the way for sustainable wastewater management practices.
In the investigation, various granular and non-granular functionalized carriers were assessed for their efficacy in promoting bacterial adherence and activity. The results indicate that specific modifications to these carriers can lead to an impressive enhancement in the rates of nitrogen conversion. Provisioning of active sites within the carrier material is seen as pivotal, allowing for not only improved attachment of microbial populations but also a more stable performance of the treatment system under varying operational conditions.
Furthermore, the implications of utilizing functionalized carriers extend beyond chemical efficiencies; they also contribute to operational stability, which is critical in real-world scenarios. Many treatment facilities experience fluctuations in inflow rates and nutrient loads, often leading to suboptimal performance. The adaptability afforded by these carriers can buffer the system against such instabilities, ensuring consistent nitrogen removal at varying operational loads.
An additional noteworthy aspect of this study is the emphasis on reactor design. The integration of functionalized carriers not only affects microbial kinetics but also influences hydrodynamics within the reactor. Optimizing flow patterns can lead to enhanced mass transfer rates, promoting interactions between bacteria and substrates, thus facilitating more efficient treatment processes. This novel approach aligns with the growing trend in process engineering that emphasizes the interdependence of biological and physical aspects of treatment technologies.
The environmental benefits of achieving significant nitrogen reduction are multifaceted. Beyond minimizing eutrophication, effective nitrogen management in wastewater treatment systems can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Ammonia and nitrous oxide are both potent contributors to air pollution and climate change. By utilizing the proposed biosorption/partial nitrification/anammox triad, treatment plants can become more efficient not just in nutrient removal, but also in mitigating their environmental footprint.
As municipalities worldwide grapple with aging infrastructure and increasing regulatory pressures, transitioning to advanced treatment methods such as those outlined by Liu and colleagues becomes ever more imperative. The potential of functionalized carriers to create energy self-sufficient systems speaks not only to technological innovation but also to the evolving nature of sustainability in engineering.
The outcomes of the research will resonate into policy discussions around wastewater treatment, emphasizing the importance of adopting technologies that are not only effective but also economically viable. These insights could influence future funding and research priorities aimed at enhancing the resilience and sustainability of urban water systems.
In conclusion, the study highlights a significant leap towards integrated wastewater treatment solutions that incorporate biological, chemical, and physical processes into a cohesive framework. This innovative approach aims to redefine the landscape of municipal wastewater management, offering a template for energy self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility. As the research progresses toward its publication, it is set to ignite further investigations and discussions surrounding efficient nitrogen removal strategies.
The horizon of wastewater treatment is broadening. As we march towards a future that demands efficiency and sustainability, solutions like those proposed by Liu, Liu, and Li could very well lead the charge, transforming how cities manage one of their most crucial resources—water.
Subject of Research: Advanced wastewater treatment processes incorporating functionalized carriers for nitrogen removal.
Article Title: Augment of partial nitrification/anammox in biosorption/partial nitrification/anammox process by using functionalized carriers for energy self-sufficient mainstream municipal wastewater treatment.
Article References:
Liu, T., Liu, X., Li, Z. et al. Augment of partial nitrification/anammox in biosorption/partial nitrification/anammox process by using functionalized carriers for energy self-sufficient mainstream municipal wastewater treatment. ENG. Environ. 20, 21 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11783-026-2121-0
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI:
Keywords: Energy self-sufficiency, wastewater treatment, biosorption, partial nitrification, anammox, environmental sustainability, functionalized carriers, nitrogen removal.
