Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
15851 Current Opinion in Biotechnology 2012 7 Pages PDF
Abstract

Biologically and chemically mediated adsorption and precipitation processes offer a range of approaches for removing phosphorus (P) from agricultural, domestic and industrial effluents. Technologies implemented at full-scale include filtration by adsorbent media, such as steel slag, and recovery of phosphorus as struvite, which has been successfully commercialised as a fertiliser. Other promising technologies under investigation include P removal by polymers and nanomaterials as well as struvite formation by bacteria. There is a need to focus future research on improving the efficiency of P removal by adsorption and precipitation. This can be achieved by techniques such as regenerating filters, polymers and nanomaterials for renewed P removal. Research is also needed to optimise the fertiliser potential of struvite precipitates.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (339 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Phosphorus (P) ineffluent can be removed by biological/chemical-driven adsorption and precipitation. ► Phosphorus adsorption by filters and struvite formation are promising options in this field. ► Emerging adsorption approaches include P removal by polymers/nanomaterials.

Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Chemical Engineering Bioengineering
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