Trace Element Dosage Device for Biofilter Nitrification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Biological filters used in water treatment struggle with incomplete nitrification due to insufficient trace element concentrations, leading to issues like microbial growth, taste and odor problems, and disinfectant residual loss in drinking water, particularly in systems where nutrient levels are not adequately controlled.
Innovation Solution
A dosage device is integrated into the water treatment system to precisely dose trace elements like Cu, Co, Cr, Mo, Ni, W, and Zn into the biological filter, using an electrolysis system with metallic and non-metallic electrodes to release ions continuously or intermittently, ensuring optimal microbial activity levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If biological filters are used for water treatment, then physical straining and biological removal processes are performed, but incomplete nitrification occurs due to insufficient trace element concentrations
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the water flow itself to dissolve and transport trace elements from the reservoir through the filter bed, eliminating the need for external dosing equipment. The flowing water naturally leaches trace elements from the reservoir and distributes them throughout the filter media where microorganisms need them for nitrification
Solution Approach 2:
A reservoir containing trace elements is introduced as an intermediary component between the water source and the filter bed. This reservoir acts as a buffer and distribution mechanism, allowing trace elements to be gradually released into the water flow and subsequently delivered to microorganisms in the filter media
2Productivity
If trace element concentration is increased to improve microbial activity, then nitrification efficiency improves, but excessive concentrations may inhibit microbial growth
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts trace element delivery based on water flow conditions. The reservoir continuously releases trace elements that are then carried by the flowing water at variable rates, allowing the system to adapt to changing flow conditions and maintain optimal concentrations without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the concentration parameter of trace elements in the water flow by using a reservoir that dissolves and releases elements at rates dependent on water flow velocity and contact time, transforming a static dosing problem into a dynamic concentration adjustment mechanism
3Reliability
If conventional filtration is used, then particle retention is achieved, but taste and odor problems and disinfectant residual loss occur due to insufficient microbial activity
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system self-regulates nutrient delivery by using the incoming water flow to dissolve and transport trace elements from the reservoir. This eliminates the need for external monitoring and adjustment systems, while ensuring microorganisms continuously receive necessary nutrients to maintain optimal activity for producing high-quality drinking water
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
This approach enhances nitrification efficiency, maintaining microbial activity within optimal ranges, thereby improving drinking water quality and preventing issues like ammonium incomplete removal and microbial growth in distribution systems.
Implementation Method 1
using an electrolysis system with metallic and non-metallic electrodes to release ions continuously or intermittently
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for treating raw water in a biofilter The present invention relates to an apparatus in which raw water is treated through microbial activity where microbial activity is controlled by nutrients and other parameters. Some of the nutrients controlling the microbial activity are trace elements such as certain metals (Cu, Co, Cr, Mo, Ni, W, Zn or a mixture thereof). The apparatus comprising - a volume provided with an inlet (2) for raw water and an outlet (3) for water having been subjected to microbial activity, a filter and a trace element dosage device (13) are placed in this volume: - the filter comprises a filter material (4) including a porous filter material and a microbial biomass, the filter material is either stationary relative to the volume or comprises a particulate material, the filter material (4) is inserted in a fluid flow path generated by water flowing in direction from the inlet (2) to the outlet (3) or in the reverse direction, - the trace element dosage device (13) is positioned upstream of the porous filter material and microbial biomass and is configured to dose trace element(s) to the water flowing through the filter. A method for treating raw water by microbial activity whereby trace elements are dosed upstream of the filter is also claimed.