Novel insights into enhanced dewaterability of waste activated sludge by Fe(II)-activated persulfate oxidation

▸ Fe(II)-S2O82− oxidation is very capable of enhancing the sludge dewaterability. ▸ 80-86% CST reduction efficiency was obtained within the first 1 min. ▸ EEM analysis was used to explore the roles of different EPS fractions in sludge dewatering. ▸ The oxidation destroyed the EPS and cells, releasing EPS-bound water and water of hydration.