Advanced Sludge and Ammonia Reduction

Project Overview:In Redwood Falls, MN, a wastewater treatment facility faced persistent issues with algal blooms and sludge buildup across three aerated ponds, each with a capacity of 10 million gallons. This buildup not only necessitated frequent and costly dredging but also led to odor problems and high levels of effluent suspended solids, affecting the overall efficacy of the treatment process.

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Innovative Treatment Approach:To address these challenges, BluePlanet Labs implemented an advanced bioremediation strategy using a 175-gallon On-Site Prep System. This system involved aerating ACF-AD for 48 hours, followed by the application of the solution enhanced with ACF-32 during the last four hours. To boost sludge removal efficacy, ACF-BacBags were also deployed in the first pond to continuously release enzymes enzymes over 30 days, targeting the reduction of sludge volumes and associated odors.

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Significant Outcomes:The application of BluePlanet Labs' solutions led to remarkable improvements: effluent suspended solids were maintained within NPDES permit limitations, and the issues of algae and odors were significantly mitigated. Notably, sludge dredging, which was previously required every few years, has been unnecessary for over a decade since the initiation of treatment. This has resulted in substantial cost savings for the city and has been highlighted as the most significant benefit of the program.

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