Enhanced nitrogen removal in a wastewater treatment process characterized by carbon source manipulation with biological adsorption and sludge hydrolysis

► An adsorption/nitrification/denitrification/sludge-hydrolysis process (ENRS) is developed. ► The ENRS achieved stable and enhanced ammonia and total nitrogen removal. ► The ENRS effectively recovered and used the carbon source in wastewater for denitrification. ► Sludge production was greatly reduced.