Septic Tank Oxygen Retention Using Air Stone and Brushes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Septic systems face failures due to the formation of a bio-mat in the absorption field, which impedes absorption and is costly to replace, and existing methods for introducing oxygen to convert the biochemical process from anaerobic to aerobic are inefficient as ozone cannot be stored and requires microbubbles for optimal bacterial growth.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus involving a positive pressure pump to deliver air, oxygen, or ozone through a tube with an air stone and oxygen-retaining brushes in the septic tank to introduce and retain oxygen, promoting aerobic bacteria growth and reducing bio-mat thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If air or oxygen is introduced into the septic tank to convert the biochemical process from anaerobic to aerobic, then aerobic bacteria growth is promoted and bio-mat thickness is reduced, but the system complexity increases and ongoing operation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a percolating filter that allows air to automatically percolate through the bio-mat layer as effluent flows through it, eliminating the need for external air pumping equipment. The natural flow of effluent drives the air percolation process, making the system self-sustaining without complex mechanical additions
Solution Approach 2:
The percolating filter acts as an intermediary component that facilitates air-bio-mat interaction. It allows air to reach the bio-mat through the filter medium, enabling aerobic treatment without requiring direct injection of air into the tank, thus simplifying the overall system
2Productivity
If ozone is used to introduce oxygen into the system, then oxidation of bio-mat is enhanced, but ozone cannot be stored and requires continuous generation equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the chemical parameter by using chlorine or other oxidants that can be stored and applied periodically, replacing ozone which requires continuous generation. This parameter change allows the same oxidation function to be achieved with different chemical characteristics that favor storage and simplified application
3Reliability
If the absorption system is replaced to address bio-mat formation, then the system reliability is restored, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary treatment by removing excess bio-mat and excess nitrogen through enhanced aerobic digestion before the effluent reaches the absorption field. This preliminary action prevents bio-mat buildup in the absorption field, avoiding the need for expensive replacement and extending the system's operational life
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the harmful effect of excess nitrogen and bio-mat into a beneficial process by using them as food for aerobic bacteria. The enhanced aerobic treatment zone utilizes these materials to drive biological oxidation, transforming a problem into a useful treatment mechanism that protects the absorption field
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces bio-mat thickness, increases oxygen availability for aerobic bacteria, and allows the septic system to revert to an anaerobic passive system, providing a cost-effective alternative to replacing the absorption system by enhancing wastewater treatment efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an air stone suspended in the effluent to allow emission of bubbles on all sides of the air stone
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of random directional brushes in the effluent tank such as a septic tank, potentially suspended over the air stone
Implementation Method 3
Aerobic bacteria are also indigenous and occur naturally within the waste stream. Aerobic bacteria, however, exist and function only where oxygen is present.
Implementation Method 4
a positive pressure pump delivering air, oxygen, ozone, or a combination thereof to a an output
Implementation Method 5
Ozone, also known as triatomic oxygen or O3, is itself a powerful oxidizing agent. In nature, ozone is created when the electrical current of lightning transforms diatomic oxygen molecules, or O2, into activated triatomic oxygen, or O3.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for remediating a failing wastewater treatment system comprising a positive air, oxygen, ozone, or combination thereof, generating pressure pump (40) directing the air, oxygen, ozone or combination through a tube (50) to an air stone (60) suspended in the effluent. Attached growth bacteria grow on a plurality or random directional brushes (116) in an effluent tank, e.g., septic tank (14).