Composition, a method and kits for controlling fats, oils, grease and malodors of a wastewater, and a use of said composition and kits

Abstract

A composition for controlling fats, oils and grease and malodors of a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility, said composition comprising a formulation of bacteria comprised in a medium suitable for the viability of the bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes; and at least one non-biocidal odor control agent. A method and a use of the composition for controlling fats, oils, grease and malodores of the wastewater. Kits for controlling fats, oils, grease and malodores of the wastewater, and a use thereof.

Description

A composition, a method and kits for controlling fats, oils, grease and malodors of a wastewater, and a use of said composition and kits

[0001] Field of the invention

[0002] The invention relates to a simultaneous control of fats, oils and grease (FOG) of a wastewater, and control of malodors of said wastewater, said wastewater being present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility.

[0003] More particularly, the invention relates to (I) a composition for the simultaneous control the FOG and the malodors of said wastewater; (ii) a method for the simultaneous control of the FOG and the malodors of said wastewater; (ill) a use of the composition for the simultaneous control of the FOG and the malodors of said wastewater; (iv) kits for the simultaneous control of the FOG and the malodors of said wastewater; and (v) a use of said kits for the simultaneous control of the FOG and the malodors of said wastewater.

[0004] More particularly, according to one preferred aspect, the present invention relates to a surprising discovery that a simultaneous presence in a wastewater, of:(A) an aqueous composition of at least one strain of bacteria at least secreting enzymes and / or metabolites to breakdown and liquify FOGs and optionally organic matters of the wastewater; and(B) at least one non-biocidal odor control agent, preferably of a non-biocidal electron acceptor, optionally part of an aqueous composition, to control malodors of the wastewater, preferably to control and prevent malodors of the wastewater;do not negatively affect the efficiency of items (A) and / or (B).

[0005] Much more particularly, according to another preferred aspect, the invention further relates to a surprising simultaneous and synergistic activity in a wastewater, of:(A) an aqueous composition of at least one strain of bacteria at least secreting enzymes and / or metabolites, to breakdown and liquify FOGs and optionally organic matters of the wastewater; and(B) at least one non-biocidal odor control agent, preferably of a non-biocidal electron acceptor, optionally part of a composition, to control malodors of the wastewater, preferably to control and prevent malodors of the wastewater.

[0006] Indeed, not only there it was noted there was no negative interference resulting from the simultaneous presence of items (A) and (B) in the wastewater, it was further surprisingly noted an unexpected synergistic activity resulting from the simultaneous presence of items (A) and (B) in the wastewater. According to a preferred aspect of the invention, item (A) is at least one stain of bacteria that secretes enzymes to break down organic matter, and item (B) is an electron acceptor that will not kill the bacteria but will prevent the formation of malodor.

[0007] Preferably, the wastewater may include any aqueous rejects of any combination of domestic, industrial, commercial, municipal, food-processing establishments, pulp and paper or agricultural activities. Preferably, the wastewater may comprise any water containing a chemical or a compound above an accepted range according to local regulations for each city (e.g. a too high turbidity, a too high TSS (Total suspended soilds), too high BOD and COD, etc.).

[0008] Background of the invention

[0009] Accumulation and solidification of fats, oils, and grease on walls of the sewer system leads to blockage of pipes and clogging of the system (See Hoda et al. (2014). Problems, Control, and Treatment of Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG): A Review. Journal of Oleo Science 63(8):747-752). It directly impacts the flow of wastewater, resulting in overflow issues (See Ken Wysocky. December 2020. Making a Difference on FOG. https: / / www.mswmag.com / editorial / 2020 / 12 / making-a-difference-on-fog).

[0010] A wastewater consisting of toxic substances may contaminate nearby water sources and cause environmental pollution, putting public health at risk especially with toxic gas such as hydrogen sulfide (See Dagher et al. (2016) http: / / api.dagherholding.com / content / uploads / products / Published-article-by-Aramco-for-Atomes-product-.pdf. Bio-control of H2S and Volatile Fatty Acid Malodors Using a Specific Electron Acceptors Mixture).

[0011] Therefore, efficient FOG treatment solutions are urgently required to maintain the performance of wastewater treatment plants (See Jefferson et al. (2020). Understanding why fat, oil and grease (FOG) bioremediation can be unsuccessful. Journal of Environmental Management. Volume 267.).

[0012] Moreover, a presence of sulfate in the wastewater will activate sulfatereducing bacteria to generate hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas and malodors (See Jiang et al. (2023). Hydrogen sulfide control in sewer systems: A critical review of recent progress. Water Research. Volume 240).

[0013] Also, adding a biocide and / or an oxidizer to control the malodors which will affect the viability of microorganisms and thus, biodegradation and liquification of FOG which will be reduced (Pramanik et al. (2023). Tackling fat, oil, and grease (FOG) build-up in sewers: Insights into deposit formation and sustainable in-sewer management techniques. Science of Total Environment. Volume 904).

[0014] It is to be noted that the existing art failed to simultaneously control malodors and prevent odor related complaints and toxicity while preserving or enhancing microbial activity for an accelerated biodegradation and FOG liquification.

[0015] Therefore, there is a very strong need to control malodors and prevent odor related complaints and toxicity while preserving or enhancing microbial activity for an accelerated biodegradation and FOG liquification. Also, such a very strong need becomes more important according to at least one of the following situations:Location of a LIFT station or wastewater treatment facility are at proximity of housing and human activities. Indeed, the closer they are, the more complaints they get from constituents and citizens.The geography and geology of a city. As an example, some States such as Florida, multiple LIFT stations should be constructed. Since you cannot dig deep enough to install a LIFT station, malodors will be formed, noticed and detected by constituents living around.Population boom in some States, such as Florida, where already established LIFT stations cannot accommodate ALL FOGs from new habitants.

[0016] The Applicant has surprisingly discovered that contrary to the teaching of the existing art, it is now possible to simultaneouslycontrol malodors of a wastewater and (optionally comprising to prevent odor related complaints and toxicity) whilecontrolling fats, oils and grease (FOG) of the wastewater by preserving (or preferably enhancing) activity at least one strain of bacteria at least secreting enzymes and / or metabolites to breakdown and liquify FOGs and optionally organic matters of the wastewater.

[0017] Summary of the invention

[0018] Various aspects of the invention are described hereinafter with reference to the following preferred embodiments 1 to 74.1. A composition for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility,said composition comprising:(A) a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters; and(B) at least one non-biocidal odor control agent.Preferably, the amount of (A) may vary within large ranges, and the amount of (B) may vary within with ranges. As a non limitative example, 10.000L of waste water may require 4L of (A) and 1L of (B) under the form of an aqueous solution of an electron acceptor such as calcium nitrate).The composition according to embodiment 1, wherein the amount of (A) is determined as a function of the amount of FOG present in the wastewater, and the amount of (B) is determined as a function of the amount of H2S present in the wastewater.The composition according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the ratio of (A) and (B) is around 4: 1.The composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent is part of an aqueous composition.The composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent comprises at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor.The composition according to embodiment 5, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is at least one of calcium nitrate, sodiumnitrate, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium percarbonate and sodium perborate.The composition according to embodiment 5 or 6, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor controls malodors without affecting the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria.The composition according to any one of embodiments 5 to 7, wherein the malodors result from the presence of at least one of hydrogen sulfide, sulfides and volatile fatty acids, in the wastewater.The composition according to any one of embodiments 5 to 7, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further allows to prevent a sulfate reduction and prevent a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas formation.The composition according to any one of embodiments 5 to 9, wherein said enzymes are at least one of lipase, protease, amylase, cellulase, urease and phytase.The composition according to embodiment 10, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further allows to provide oxygen and nutrients the at least one strain of bacteria, said at least one strain of bacteria comprising Bacillus bacteria and optionally any further indigenous bacteria, to accelerate the biodegradation and the liquefaction, and to provide a better management of the municipal lift-station and a reduction of the FOG disposal.The composition according to embodiment 10 or 11, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor further allows to increase the Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), favor aerobic degradation, and prevent anaerobic bacteria from generating the malodors.The composition according to any one of embodiments 9 to 11, wherein the at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus species, Paenibacillus species or any combination thereof, said at least one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.The composition according to embodiment 13, wherein said Bacillus species and Panebacillus species further allow to synergistically reduce the malodors and accelerate the biodegradation.The composition according to embodiment 13 or 14, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus, Bacilllus velezensis, Paenibacillus polymyxa or any combination thereof, said at least one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.The composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolitesThe composition according to embodiment 16, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.The composition according to any one of embodiments 13 to 15, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolitesThe composition according to embodiment 18, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.The composition according to any one of embodiments 17 or 19, wherein said lipopeptides are non-ribosomal lipopeptides (NRPs).The composition according to any one of embodiments 13, 19 and 20, wherein said lipopeptides and / or siderophores are at least one ofsurfactin, fengycin, plipastatin, iturin, bacilysin, bacillibactin, bacillomycin, locillomycin, paenilarvin, pelgipeptin, polymyxin, paenibacterin, fusaricidin, bacitracin, tridecaptin, difficidin and oxydifficidin.The composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 21, further comprising at least one of: non-toxic carriers, surfactants, solvents, preservatives, nutrients, and chelating agents.A method for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility,wherein said method at least comprises:(A) contacting the wastewater with the composition defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 22, or.(B) contacting simultaneously or separately in time the wastewater with:(b1) a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters and(b2) at least one non-biocidal odor control agent.A method for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility,wherein said method at least comprises a step of contacting the wastewater with the composition defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 22.The method according to embodiment 24, wherein the step of contacting of the wastewater with the composition is carried out using a mechanical system.The method according to embodiment 25, wherein the mechanical system at least a step of pumpingA method for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility, wherein said method at least comprise a step of contacting with the wastewater, simultaneously or separately,(b1) a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters; and(b2) at least one non-biocidal odor control agent.Preferably, the amount of (b1) may vary within large ranges, and the amount of (b2) may vary within with ranges. As a non limitative example, 10.000L of waste water may require 4L of (b1) and 1 L of (b2) under the form of an aqueous solution of an electron acceptor such as calcium nitrate).The method according to embodiment 27, wherein the amount of (b1) is determined as a function of the amount of FOG present in the wastewater, and the amount of (b2) is determined as a function of the amount of H2S present in the wastewater.The method according to embodiment 27 or 28, wherein the ratio of (b1) and (b2) is around 4:1.The method according to any one of embodiment 27 to 29, wherein the contacting of the wastewater with at least one of items (b1) and (b2) is carried out using a mechanical system.The method according to embodiment 30, wherein the mechanical system comprises at least a step of pumping.The method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 31 , wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent is part of an aqueous composition.The method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 32, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent comprises at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor.The method according to embodiment 33, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is at least one of calcium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium percarbonate andsodium perborate or hydrogen peroxide at low doses (preferably 1000 ppm or less).The method according to embodiment 33 or 34, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor controls malodors without affecting the viability of the bacteria.The method according to any one of embodiments 33 to 35, wherein the malodors result from the presence of at least one of hydrogen sulfide, sulfides and volatile fatty acids, in the wastewater.The method according to any one of embodiments 33 to 35, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further prevents a sulfate reduction and prevent a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas formation.The method according to any one of embodiments 33 to 37, wherein said enzymes are at least one of lipase, protease, amylase, cellulase, urease and phytase.The method according to embodiment 38, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further provides oxygen and nutrients to the at least one strain of bacteria, said at least one strain of bacteria comprising Bacillus bacteria and optionally any further indigenous bacteria, to accelerate the biodegradation and the liquefaction, and a reduction of the FOG disposal.The method according to embodiment 38 or 39, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor further increases an Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), favors aerobic degradation, and prevents anaerobic bacteria from generating the malodors.The method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 36, wherein the at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus species, Paenibacillus speciesor any combination thereof, said at least one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.The method according to embodiment 41, wherein said Bacillus species and Panebacillus species further allow to feed on the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor to synergistically reduce malodors from and accelerate the biodegradation.The method to embodiment 41 or 42, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus, Bacilllus velezensis, Paenibacillus polymyxa or any combination thereof, said bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.The method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 43, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolitesThe method according to embodiment 43, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 43, wherein said bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolitesThe method according to embodiment 46, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.The method to any one of embodiments 45 or 47, wherein said lipopeptides are non-ribosomal lipopeptides (NRPs).The method according to any one of embodiments 45, 47 and 48, wherein said lipopeptides and / or siderophores are at least one of surfactin, fengycin, plipastatin, iturin, bacilysin, bacillibactin, bacillomycin,locillomycin, paenilarvin, pelgipeptin, polymyxin, paenibacterin, fusaricidin, bacitracin, tridecaptin, difficidin and oxydifficidin.The method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 49, further comprising at least one of: non-toxic carriers, surfactants, solvents, preservatives, nutrients, and chelating agents.A use of the composition defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 22, for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsin a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility.A kit for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility, said kit comprising:the composition defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 22, and a notice of instructions.A use of the kit defined in embodiment 52, for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsin a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility.A kit for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility, said kit comprising:(a) a first container comprising a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters;(b) a second container comprising at least one non-biocidal odor control agent,(c) a notice of instructions.The kit according to embodiment 54, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent is part of an aqueous composition.The kit according to embodiment 54 or 55, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent comprises at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor.The kit according to embodiment 56, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is at least one of calcium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium percarbonate and sodium perborate.The kit according to embodiment 56 or 57, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor controls malodors without affecting the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria.The kit according to any one of embodiments 56 to 58, wherein the malodors result from the presence of at least one of hydrogen sulfide, sulfides and volatile fatty acids, in the wastewater.The kit according to any one of embodiments 56 to 59, wherein the at least one electron acceptor is useful to further prevent a sulfate reduction and prevent a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas formation.The kit according to any one of embodiments 54 to 60, wherein said enzymes are at least one of lipase, protease, amylase, cellulase, urease and phytase, said enzymes allowing a biodegradation of organic matters and liquification of the FOG.The kit according to embodiment 61, wherein the at least one electron acceptor is useful to further provide oxygen and nutrients for the at least one strain of bacteria, said at least one strain of bacteria comprising Bacillus bacteria and optionally any further indigenous bacteria, to accelerate the biodegradation and the liquefaction, and to provide a reduction of the FOG disposal.The kit according to embodiment 58 or 59, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is useful to further increase an Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), favor aerobic degradation, and prevent anaerobic bacteria from generating the malodors.The kit according to any one of embodiments 54 to 63, wherein the at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus species, Paenibacillus species or any combination thereof, said at least one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.The kit according to embodiment 64, wherein said Bacillus species and Panebacillus species further to synergistically reduce the malodors and accelerate the biodegradation.The kit according to embodiment 64 or 65, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus, Bacilllus velezensis, Paenibacillus polymyxa or any combination thereof, said at least one srain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.The kit according to any one of embodiments 54 to 63, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolitesThe kit according to embodiment 67, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.The kit according to any one of embodiments 64 to 67, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolitesThe kit according to embodiment 69, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.The kit according to embodiment 68 or 70, wherein said lipopeptides are non-ribosomal lipopeptides (NRPs).The kit according to any one of embodiments 68, 70 and 71, wherein said lipopeptides and / or siderophores are at least one of surfactin, fengycin, plipastatin, iturin, bacilysin, bacillibactin, bacillomycin, locillomycin, paenilarvin, pelgipeptin, polymyxin, paenibacterin, fusaricidin, bacitracin, tridecaptin, difficidin and oxydifficidin.73. The kit according to any one of embodiments 54 to 72, further comprising in at least one of the first container and the second container, at least one of: non-toxic carriers, surfactants, solvents, preservatives, nutrients, and chelating agents.74. A use of the kit defined in any one of embodiments 54 to 73, for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsin a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility.

[0019] Brief description of the drawings

[0020] Various other aspects of the invention are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings:Fig. 1 represents a schematic view of a system used to carry out the method according to one of the preferred embodiments of the invention.Fig. 2 represents a detailed view of a preferred aspect of the system of Fig. 1; andFig. 3 represents a cone spray head of the system of Fig. 2.

[0021] With reference to the preferred embodiment schematically illustrated in Fig.1 to 3, the following examples were carried out according to one of the methods of the invention using a system S comprisinga water source 1,a reservoir 3 containing a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in a medium suitable for the viability of the bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes;a reservoir 5 containing a at least one non-biocidal odor control agent;a first dilution dispenser 7;a second dilution dispenser 9;a reservoir 11 for a wastewater to be treated; anda spraying device 13 for contacting a composition of the at least one strain bacteria comprised in a medium suitable for the viability of the bacteria, at least one non-biocidal odor control agent, with the wastewater. The spraying device 13 is positioned at the top of the reservoir 11.

[0022] A first control device 15 is positioned up flow of the first dilution dispenser 7, and a second control device 17 is positioned up flow of the second dilution dispenser 9. The first control device 15 has an inlet and an outlet, and the second control device 17 has an inlet and an outlet. The first control device 15 and the second control device 17 are in fluid communication with the water source 1 by conduit 19 divided into conduits 19a and 19b. The conduit 19a is connected to the inlet of the first control device 15 and feeds said first control device with a first stream of water, and the conduit 19b is connected to the inlet of second control device 17 and feeds said second control device with a second stream of water.

[0023] The first dilution dispenser 7 is provided with a first inlet, a second inlet and an outlet. The first inlet of the first dilution dispenser is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first control device 15, by a conduit 21, and allows to feed the first dilution dispenser with the first stream of water. The second inlet of the first dilution dispenser is in fluid communication by a conduit 23 with the formulation of bacteria of the reservoir 3. The first dilution dispenser pumps (by vacuum effect) a flow of the formulation of bacteria of the reservoir 3 and admixes a flow of the water source and a flow of the formulation of bacteria of the reservoir 3 to provide at the outlet of the first dilution dispenser a flow of diluted flow of the bacteria formulation. The outlet of the first dilution dispenser is in fluid communication with a conduit 25.

[0024] The second dilution dispenser 9 is provided with a first inlet, a second inlet and an outlet. The first inlet of the second dilution dispenser is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first control device 17, by a conduit 27, and allows to feed the second dilution dispenser with the second stream of water. The second inlet of the second dilution dispenser is in fluid communication by a conduit 29 with the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent of the reservoir 5. The second dilution dispenser pumps (by vacuum effect) a flow of the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent of the reservoir 5 and admixes a flow of the water source and a flow of the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent to provide at the outlet of the second dilution dispenser a flow of diluted flow of the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent. The outlet of the first dilution dispenser is in fluid communication with a conduit 31.

[0025] The conduits 25 and 31 are merged to provide a conduit 33, in fluid communication with the spraying device 11.

[0026] The reservoir 11 is provided with an inlet in fluid communication with a conduit 35 for receiving wastewater to be treated, and an outlet in fluid communication with a conduit 37 for collecting treated wastewater.

[0027] The first dilution dispenser 7 is provided with means allowing to actuate and control a valve from an open position to a close position, or any positions between said open position and close position, to adjust the dilution. Said means may be of any type well known to person skilled in the art and either directly integrated with the first dilution dispenser and controlled by a switch, and optionally remotely controlled by a computer.

[0028] The second dilution dispenser 9 is provided with means allowing to actuate and control a valve from an open position to a close position, or any positions between said open position and close position, to adjust the dilution. Said means may be of any type well known to person skilled in the art and either directly integrated with the first dilution dispenser and controlled by a switch, and optionally remotely controlled by a computer.

[0029] The first control device 15 is provided with means allowing to actuate and control a valve from an open position to a close position, or any positions between said open position and close position, to adjust the flow of the first flow of water. Said means may be of any type well known to person skilled in the art and either directly integrated with the first control device and controlled by a switch or a knob. Additional control may be provided to control the time for opening / closing the valve. Optionally, the position of the valve and the duration and time said valve is open or close may be remotely controlled by a computer.

[0030] The first control device 17 is provided with means allowing to actuate and control a valve from an open position to a close position, or any positions between said open position and close position, to adjust the flow of the first flow of water. Said means may be of any type well known to person skilled in the art and either directly integrated with the first control device and controlled by a switch or a knob. Additional control may be provided to control the time for opening / closing the valve. Optionally, the position of the valve and the duration and time said valve is open or close may be remotely controlled by a computer.

[0031] Optionally, the system S may have at least one of the following features: (i) either battery powered, electric or solar powered;(ii) does not impede with sewer and waste treatment equipment. It is designed to complement other lift station and other sewage management equipment; and (iii) providing lift stations and sewer systems with access to cleaning liquids in an automated and timely manner.

[0032] The system S may preferably dispense a composition according to the invention that is designed to reduce sewage organic matter in municipal sewage systems, lagoons and lift stations. In addition, it dispenses odor control liquids that works in harmony with the cleaning liquids. As an example, a municipal wastewater can contain human and other organic waste, nutrients, pathogens, microorganisms, suspended solids and household and industrial chemicals. Thus it contains highorganic and inorganic content. Also, treating wastewater before it is released into lakes and rivers reduces the risks posed to human health and the environment.

[0033] Examples

[0034] In the following examples 1 to 3, a municipal wastewater was split into four samples, that is:a first sample which is an untreated sample,a second sample (i.e. a one metric ton (1000L)) for example 1, a third sample (i.e. one metric ton (WOOL)) for example 2, anda fourth sample (i.e. a one metric ton (WOOL) for example 3.

[0035] Example 1

[0036] Using the system S illustrated in Fig. 2, the above-mentioned second sample of the municipal wastewater (i.e. WOOL) was treated with 1L of a biological bacteria product containing a minimum of 54 million CFU per ml of Bacillus spores as well as natural surfactants and solvents for 48 hrs. More particularly, the biological bacteria product is composed of:1) water filtered (Balance) (75% w / w);2) 5 % (w / w) of bacterial spores containing spores of Bacillus subtilis;Bacillus amyloliquefaciens; Bacillus licheniformis; Bacillus pumilus and Paenibacillus polymyxa. In final solution: there is a guarantee of a minimum 54 million CFU per ml;3) D Limonene Solvent: 5% (w / w);4) Levenol F 200 (surfactant): 15% (w / w). GLYCERIDES, COCO MONO- AND DI-ETHOXYLATED CAS# 68201-46-7

[0037] One Liter (1L) of this biological bacterial product was added to the second sample of the municipal wastewater and mixed properly; and then:COD was measured by Hach spectrophotometer DR / 4000 (Method 8000);BOD was measured by (Hach method 8043); andLiquefication was measured in terms of TSS (Total Suspended Solids reduction) via Hach TSS portable handheld after 48 hours.

[0038] Results:

[0039] Compared to the first sample (i.e. the untreated sample) of the municipal wastewater, the treated sample showed a minimum reduction of 25% in both BOD and COD and liquefaction was improved by at least 30%.

[0040] Example 2

[0041] Using the system S illustrated in Fig. 2, the third sample of the municipal wastewater (i.e. WOOL) was treated with 1L of an electron acceptor consisting of calcium nitrate for 48 hrs. More particularly, the electron acceptor was a solution consisting of:1 ) Water 60% (w / w) and2) Calcium nitrate 40% (w / w).

[0042] The water and the calcium nitrate were mixed properly to provide the solution of calcium nitrate. One Liter (1L) of this solution of calcium nitrate was added to the third sample of the municipal wastewater and mixed properly. After, 48 hours, H2S gas was measured via H2S gas portable meter (TopTes Guard- 101 4 Gas Monitor Multi Gas Detector for H2S, CO, LEL and O2)

[0043] Results:

[0044] Compared to the first sample (i.e. the untreated sample) of the municipal wastewater which showed a minimum of 40 ppm H2S gas, the treated sample had 10 ppm of H2S gas and malodor in general was improved by a minimum of 70% in the treated sample.

[0045] Example 3

[0046] Using the system S illustrated in Fig. 2, the fourth sample of the municipal wastewater (i.e. 1000L) was treated for 48 hours with:1) 1 L of the biological bacteria product defined in Example 1 ; and2) 1 L of the solution of the calcium nitrate defined in Example 2.More particularly, the biological bacteria product defined in Example 1; and the solution of the electron acceptors defined in Example 2 were mixed properly with the fourth sample of the municipal wastewater.

[0047] Results:

[0048] Compared to the first sample (i.e. the untreated sample), the treated sample had a minimum reduction of 40% in both BOD and COD and liquefaction was improved by at least 40%. Also, compared to the untreated sample which has a minimum of 40 ppm H2S gas, the treated sample had 4 ppm of H2S gas and malodor in general was improved by a minimum of 90% in the treated samples.

[0049] It is to be noted that COD was measured by Hach spectrophotometer DR / 4000 (Method 8000); BOD was measured by (Hach method 8043); Liquefication was measured in terms of TSS (Total Suspended Solids reduction) via Hach TSS portable handheld after 48 hours; and H2S gas was measured via H2S gas portable meter (TopTes Guard-101 4 Gas Monitor Multi Gas Detector for H2S, CO, LEL and O2).

[0050] The viability of bacteria was not affected and was identical to Example 1.Thus, electron acceptors added in example 3 did not kill the Bacillus spp.

[0051] It was surprising to those skilled in the art to observe a synergy of both solutions contributing to better biodegradation and better malodor control.

[0052] The above description of the embodiments should not be interpreted in a limiting manner since other variations, modifications and refinements are possible within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another inorder to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. The scope of the invention is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A composition for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility,said composition comprising:• a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters; and• at least one non-biocidal odor control agent.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the amount of (A) is determined as a function of the amount of FOG present in the wastewater, and the amount of (B) is determined as a function of the amount of H2S present in the wastewater.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ratio of (A) and (B) is around 4:1.

4. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent is part of an aqueous composition.

5. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent comprises at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor.

6. The composition according to claim 5, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is at least one of calcium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium percarbonate and sodium perborate.

7. The composition according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor controls malodors without affecting the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria.

8. The composition according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the malodors result from the presence of at least one of hydrogen sulfide, sulfides and volatile fatty acids, in the wastewater.

9. The composition according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further allows to prevent a sulfate reduction and prevent a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas formation.

10. The composition according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein said enzymes are at least one of lipase, protease, amylase, cellulase, urease and phytase.

11. The composition according to claim 10, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further allows to provide oxygen and nutrients the at least one strain of bacteria, said at least one strain of bacteria comprising Bacillus bacteria and optionally any further indigenous bacteria, to accelerate the biodegradation and the liquefaction, and to provide a better management of the municipal lift-station and a reduction of the FOG disposal.

12. The composition according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the at least one non- biocidal electron acceptor further allows to increase the Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), favor aerobic degradation, and prevent anaerobic bacteria from generating the malodors.

13. The composition according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus species, Paenibacillus species or anycombination thereof, said at least one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.

14. The composition according to claim 13, wherein said Bacillus species and Panebacillus species further allow to synergistically reduce the malodors and accelerate the biodegradation.

15. The composition according to claim 13 or 14, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus, Bacilllus velezensis, Paenibacillus polymyxa or any combination thereof, said at lelast one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.

16. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolites17. The composition according to claim 16, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.

18. The composition according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolites19. The composition according to claim 18, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.

20. The composition according to any one of claims 17 or 19, wherein said lipopeptides are non-ribosomal lipopeptides (NRPs).

21. The composition according to any one of claims 17, 19 and 20, wherein said lipopeptides and / or siderophores are at least one of surfactin, fengycin, plipastatin, iturin, bacilysin, bacillibactin, bacillomycin, locillomycin, paenilarvin, pelgipeptin, polymyxin, paenibacterin, fusaricidin, bacitracin, tridecaptin, difficidin and oxydifficidin.

22. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 21, further comprising at least one of: non-toxic carriers, surfactants, solvents, preservatives, nutrients, and chelating agents.

23. A method for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility,wherein said method at least comprises:(A) contacting the wastewater with the composition defined in any one of claims 1 to 22, or.(B) contacting simultaneously or separately in time the wastewater with:(b1) a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters and(b2) at least one non-biocidal odor control agent.

24. A method for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility,wherein said method at least comprises a step of contacting the wastewater with the composition defined in any one of claims 1 to 22.

25. The method according to claim 242, wherein the step of contacting of the wastewater with the composition is carried out using a mechanical system.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the mechanical system at least a step of pumping27. A method for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility, wherein said method at least comprise a step of contacting with the wastewater, simultaneously or separately,(b1) a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters; and(b2) at least one non-biocidal odor control agent.

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein the amount of (b1) is determined as a function of the amount of FOG present in the wastewater, and the amount of (b2) is determined as a function of the amount of H2S present in the wastewater.29 The method according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the ratio of (b1) and (b2) is around 4:1.

30. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the contacting of the wastewater with at least one of items (b1) and (b2) is carried out using a mechanical system.

31. The method according to claim 30, wherein the mechanical system comprises at least a step of pumping.

32. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 31, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent is part of an aqueous composition.

33. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent comprises at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor.

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is at least one of calcium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium percarbonate and sodium perborate.

35. The method according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor controls malodors without affecting the viability of the bacteria.

36. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the malodors result from the presence of at least one of hydrogen sulfide, sulfides and volatile fatty acids, in the wastewater.

37. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further prevents a sulfate reduction and prevent a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas formation.

38. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein said enzymes are at least one of lipase, protease, amylase, cellulase, urease and phytase.

39. The method according to claim 38, wherein the at least one electron acceptor further provides oxygen and nutrients to the at least one strain of bacteria, said at least one strain of bacteria comprising Bacillus bacteria and optionally any further indigenous bacteria, to accelerate the biodegradation and the liquefaction, and a reduction of the FOG disposal.

40. The method according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor further increases an Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), favors aerobic degradation, and prevents anaerobic bacteria from generating the malodors.

41. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 36, wherein the at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus species, Paenibacillus species or any combination thereof, said at least one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.

42. The method according to claim 41, wherein said Bacillus species and Panebacillus species further allow to feed on the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor to synergistically reduce malodors from and accelerate the biodegradation.

43. The method to claim 41 or 42, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus, Bacilllus velezensis, Paenibacillus polymyxa or any combination thereof, said bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.

44. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 43, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolites45. The method according to claim 43, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.

46. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein said bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolites47. The method according to claim 46, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.

48. The method to any one of claims 45 or 47, wherein said lipopeptides are non- ribosomal lipopeptides (NRPs).

49. The method according to any one of claims 45, 47 and 48, wherein said lipopeptides and / or siderophores are at least one of surfactin, fengycin, plipastatin, iturin, bacilysin, bacillibactin, bacillomycin, locillomycin, paenilarvin, pelgipeptin, polymyxin, paenibacterin, fusaricidin, bacitracin, tridecaptin, difficidin and oxydifficidin.

50. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 49, further comprising at least one of: non-toxic carriers, surfactants, solvents, preservatives, nutrients, and chelating agents.

51. A use of the composition defined in any one of claims 1 to 22, for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsin a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility.

52. A kit for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility, said kit comprising:the composition defined in any one of claims 1 to 22, anda notice of instructions.

53. A use of the kit defined in claim 52, for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsin a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility.

54. A kit for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsof a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility, said kit comprising:(a) a first container comprising a composition of at least one strain of bacteria comprised in an aqueous medium suitable for the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria, for producing metabolites and enzymes allowing a liquefaction of the FOG and optionally a biodegradation of organic matters;(b) a second container comprising at least one non-biocidal odor control agent,(c) a notice of instructions.

55. The kit according to claim 54, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent is part of an aqueous composition.

56. The kit according to claim 54 or 55, wherein the at least one non-biocidal odor control agent comprises at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor.

57. The kit according to claim 56, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is at least one of calcium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium percarbonate and sodium perborate.

58. The kit according to claim 56 or 57, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor controls malodors without affecting the viability of the at least one strain of bacteria.

59. The kit according to any one of claims 56 to 58, wherein the malodors result from the presence of at least one of hydrogen sulfide, sulfides and volatile fatty acids, in the wastewater.

60. The kit according to any one of claims 56 to 59, wherein the at least one electron acceptor is useful to further prevent a sulfate reduction and prevent a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas formation.

61. The kit according to any one of claims 54 to 60, wherein said enzymes are at least one of lipase, protease, amylase, cellulase, urease and phytase, said enzymes allowing a biodegradation of organic matters and liquification of the FOG.

62. The kit according to claim 61, wherein the at least one electron acceptor is useful to further provide oxygen and nutrients for the at least one strain of bacteria, said at least one strain of bacteria comprising Bacillus bacteria and optionally any further indigenous bacteria, to accelerate the biodegradation and the liquefaction, and to provide a reduction of the FOG disposal.

63. The kit according to claim 58 or 59, wherein the at least one non-biocidal electron acceptor is useful to further increase an Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), favor aerobic degradation, and prevent anaerobic bacteria from generating the malodors.

64. The kit according to any one of claims 54 to 63, wherein the at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus species, Paenibacillus species or any combination thereof, said at least one strain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.

65. The kit according to claim 64, wherein said Bacillus species and Panebacillus species further to synergistically reduce the malodors and accelerate the biodegradation.

66. The kit according to claim 64 or 65, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria are Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus, Bacilllus velezensis, Paenibacillus polymyxa or any combination thereof, said at least one srain of bacteria being useful for producing the enzymes.

67. The kit according to any one of claims 54 to 63, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolites68. The kit according to claim 67, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.

69. The kit according to any one of claims 64 to 67, wherein said at least one strain of bacteria further allow to produce secondary metabolites70. The kit according to claim 69, wherein the secondary metabolites comprise lipopeptides and / or siderophores.

71. The kit according to claim 68 or 70, wherein said lipopeptides are non- ribosomal lipopeptides (NRPs).

72. The kit according to any one of claims 68, 70 and 71, wherein said lipopeptides and / or siderophores are at least one of surfactin, fengycin, plipastatin, iturin, bacilysin, bacillibactin, bacillomycin, locillomycin, paenilarvin, pelgipeptin, polymyxin, paenibacterin, fusaricidin, bacitracin, tridecaptin, difficidin and oxydifficidin.

73. The kit according to any one of claims 54 to 72, further comprising in at least one of the first container and the second container, at least one of: non-toxic carriers, surfactants, solvents, preservatives, nutrients, and chelating agents.

74. A use of the kit defined in any one of claims 54 to 73, for controlling:(i) fats, oils and grease (FOG) and(ii) malodorsin a wastewater present in at least one of a sanitation sewer system, a lift station and a wastewater treatment facility.

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