Towards Sustainable Laboratory Practices: Eco-Friendly Treatment of Decentralized Wastewater

Abstract

Wastewater from laboratories are less considered due to their low quantity and decentralization even though it gives detrimental impact to the human and environment. Investigate the contaminants in laboratory wastewater and find an efficient and economical treatment for small scale laboratories. Prototype model of horizontal flow constructed wetland system with bio-geo filters designed, constructed and operated with locally available utilized materials as filter media. Isotherm and kinetic studies carried out for Cinnamon and Neem biochar and clay composite. Laboratory wastewater diluted to desirable pH with pipe borne water was allowed to pass through the treatment system. Higher removal efficiencies of 80% BOD5 and 86% COD observed in the treatment system may due to the presence of biofilm in final treatment tank and clay: neem biochar composite 1:1 as filter media. Operating the treatment system of horizontal flow constructed wetland with bio- geo filters gives eco-friendly and efficient solution for small scale, decentralized highly contaminated laboratory wastewater with heavy metals.