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RAJSHAHI UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING &
TECHNOLOGY
Report Topic: Emerging Technologies in Wastewater Treatment as the Sustainable
Approach for Wastewater Reuse and Recycling
Course Title: Environmental Engineering and Waste Management
Course Code: ChE 3208
Submitted By: Submitted To:
Md. Ataur Rahman Maisa Rahman
Roll – 2011014 Lecturer
Department of Chemical Engineering Department of Chemical Engineering
Rajshahi University of Engineering & Rajshahi University of Engineering &
Technology (RUET) Technology (RUET)
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Contents
1. Introduction .................................................. 3
2. Discussion .................................................. 3
o 2.1 Membrane Bioreactor (MBR)..................................................4
o 2.2 Forward Osmosis (FO)..................................................4
o 2.3 Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs)..................................................4
o 2.4 Electrocoagulation..................................................5
o 2.5 Constructed Wetlands..................................................5
3. Conclusion and Recommendations ..................................................7
4. References..................................................8
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1. Introduction
Background and Importance
Water scarcity is an escalating global concern intensified by climate change, urbanization, and
industrialization. The United Nations reports that nearly 2 billion people experience high water
stress, while industries and agriculture consume increasing amounts of freshwater. In this
context, wastewater reuse and recycling have emerged as essential components of integrated
water resource management. Wastewater, once considered a liability, is now recognized as a
valuable resource when treated and reclaimed using innovative technologies.
Conventional wastewater treatment methods—such as activated sludge processes, sedimentation,
and trickling filters—have served effectively for decades. However, they often fall short in
removing emerging pollutants like pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and endocrine-disrupting
compounds. Additionally, these systems are often energy-intensive and generate secondary
pollutants such as sludge. Therefore, emerging technologies that are more efficient, modular, and
environmentally friendly are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives.
Objectives of the Study
The primary objectives of this study are:
To explore the most promising emerging technologies in wastewater treatment.
To analyze how these technologies support sustainable water reuse and recycling.
To assess the feasibility, benefits, and limitations of adopting these technologies at
various scales.
Scope and Limitations
This report focuses on emerging physical, biological, and chemical wastewater treatment
technologies, specifically those designed for reuse and recycling. The technologies discussed are
applicable to both municipal and industrial wastewater. However, the economic and regulatory
aspects of large-scale implementation are only briefly touched upon, as this study emphasizes
technical feasibility and environmental impact.
2. Discussion
Overview of Emerging Wastewater Treatment Technologies
Several technologies have emerged as game changers in wastewater treatment for reuse and
recycling purposes. The following table summarizes the key features of some of these
technologies:
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Technology Mechanism Target Pollutants Reuse Potential
Membrane Bioreactor Combines biological BOD, COD, pathogens, High-quality water for
(MBR) treatment with solids irrigation, industry
filtration
Forward Osmosis (FO) Uses osmotic pressure Salts, micropollutants, Potable reuse,
difference organics industrial processes
Advanced Oxidation Hydroxyl radical-based Pharmaceuticals, dyes, Potable/non-potable
Processes (AOPs) oxidation microplastics reuse
Electrocoagulation Electric current induces Heavy metals, Cooling, washing, non-
floc formation suspended solids potable reuse
Constructed Wetlands Use of plants and Nutrients, pathogens, Agriculture, landscape
(CW) microbes organics irrigation
Table 1: Summary of Emerging Wastewater Treatment Technologies
Key Technology Analysis
2.1 Membrane Bioreactor (MBR)
MBRs merge conventional activated sludge processes with membrane filtration (microfiltration
or ultrafiltration). They provide compact footprint, higher biomass concentration, and excellent
pathogen removal, making the treated water suitable for irrigation or industrial reuse.
Advantages: High effluent quality, less sludge production.
Limitations: Membrane fouling, high energy demand, and cost.
2.2 Forward Osmosis (FO)
FO is a low-energy membrane process that uses a concentrated draw solution to extract water
across a semi-permeable membrane. It is particularly promising in zero liquid discharge (ZLD)
systems.
Advantages: Lower energy than reverse osmosis (RO), high contaminant rejection.
Challenges: Regeneration of draw solution and membrane fouling.
2.3 Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs)
AOPs rely on highly reactive hydroxyl radicals (•OH) to degrade recalcitrant organic compounds
and micropollutants. Techniques include ozonation, Fenton’s reagent, and photocatalysis.
Advantages: Effective for pharmaceuticals, dyes, and hormone residues.
Limitations: High operational costs and secondary pollutant formation (e.g., bromates).
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2.4 Electrocoagulation
This electrochemical process uses metal electrodes (typically iron or aluminum) to destabilize
contaminants via in situ generation of coagulants. It is effective for treating high-strength
industrial wastewater.
Advantages: No added chemicals, compact system.
Limitations: Electrode passivation, electricity cost.
2.5 Constructed Wetlands
Using natural vegetation and microbial communities, constructed wetlands mimic natural
filtration processes. They are cost-effective and environmentally friendly, especially in rural and
low-income regions.
Advantages: Low maintenance, energy-efficient, aesthetic.
Drawbacks: Large land area required, slow processing.
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Figure 1: COD Removal Efficiency (%) of Various Emerging Technologies
Figure 2: Suitability of Technologies for Various Reuse Scenarios
3. Conclusion and Recommendations
Summary of Key Findings
Emerging wastewater treatment technologies present powerful tools for advancing sustainable
water reuse and recycling. Membrane bioreactors and forward osmosis offer compact, high-
efficiency solutions suitable for urban and industrial reuse. AOPs are effective against emerging
contaminants, while constructed wetlands provide eco-friendly, decentralized treatment options.
However, the cost, maintenance, and energy requirements remain key challenges.
Recommendations
1. Technology Hybridization: Combining AOPs with MBR or FO can improve overall
treatment performance and contaminant removal.
2. Pilot-Scale Demonstration: Industries and municipalities should initiate pilot projects to
test scalability and cost-effectiveness.
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3. Policy Support: Governments must develop regulatory frameworks to promote water
reuse and subsidize sustainable technologies.
4. Decentralized Systems: Encourage constructed wetlands and modular electrocoagulation
units in peri-urban or rural areas.
5. Research and Innovation: Further development is needed to improve membrane
durability and reduce chemical use in AOPs.
The future of wastewater management lies in integration, where treatment, recovery, and reuse
are seamlessly connected through innovative, sustainable technologies.
4. References
1. Ahmed, M. B., Zhou, J. L., Ngo, H. H., Guo, W., & Thomaidis, N. S. (2017). Progress in
the biological and chemical treatment technologies for emerging contaminant removal
from wastewater. Science of The Total Environment, 578, 356–372.
[Link]
2. Gude, V. G. (2018). Desalination and water reuse to address global water scarcity.
Reviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology, 17(4), 591–609.
[Link]
3. Luo, Y., Guo, W., Ngo, H. H., Nghiem, L. D., Hai, F. I., Zhang, J., ... & Wang, X. C.
(2014). A review on the occurrence of micropollutants in the aquatic environment and
their fate and removal during wastewater treatment. Science of The Total Environment,
473, 619–641. [Link]
