DESIGNING AN EFFECTIVE WASTEWATER TREATMENT

SYSTEM FOR DOMESTIC HOUSEHOLDS: A COMPREHENSIVE

APPROACH

A CASE STUDY REPORT FOR UCE2603 WASTEWATER

ENGINEERING

Submitted By

1.Dhuvarakesh - 3122 21 1001 013

2.Karthikeyan J - 3122 21 1001 026
3.Pragadeeswar - 3122 21 1001 040
4.Karthikeyan M.S - 3122 21 1001 027
5.Aravindhan - 3122 21 1001 006
6.Kannan Rajapandiyan – 3122 21 1001 024

SRI SIVASUBRAMANIYA NADAR COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING,

KALVAKKAM- 603 110

MAY 2024

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Table of Contents

FRONT PAGE .......................................................................................................................... 1

ABSTRACT .............................................................................................................................. 3
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................... 3
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF WASTEWATER .................................................. 5

TESTS DONE ON WASTEWATER ..................................................................................... 6

Determination of fluoride ............................................................................................... 7
Turbidity and conductivity ...........................................................................................10
Determination of phosphate ........................................................................................ 11
Determination of Sulphate .......................................................................................... 13
Determination of residual chlorine............................................................................... 15
Determination of available chlorine ............................................................................. 17
Determination of optimum coagulant dosage ............................................................. 19
Estimation of settleable, suspended, volatile, and fixed solids in wastewater .............21
Determination of dissolved oxygen............................................................................. 24
Determination of BOD in the sample.......................................................................... 26
Determination of COD for the sample ....................................................................... 28
Determination of chromium ........................................................................................30
Determination of Ammonia in sample ........................................................................33

DESIGN OF WASTEWATER SYSTEM ......................................................................... 36

Design of sedimentation tank ................................................................................................... 36
Design of Grit Chamber .......................................................................................................... 38
Design of trickling filter ........................................................................................................... 42

CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................................... 48

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ABSTRACT:

Domestic wastewater treatment plays a vital role in safeguarding public health and protecting
the environment. This study presents a detailed methodology for designing a wastewater
treatment system tailored to the needs of domestic households, addressing the challenges of
diverse pollutant sources and limited space availability.

This study focuses on designing a comprehensive wastewater treatment system tailored to the
specific characteristics of domestic effluents, with a particular emphasis on a domestic
household as a case study. The process involves several key steps, including identifying the
wastewater source, characterizing its physical, chemical, and biological attributes, comparing
these parameters with relevant effluent standards, selecting appropriate treatment processes,
and designing an efficient treatment system layout.

INTRODUCTION:

The study commences by identifying domestic households as the source of wastewater.

Household wastewater typically contains a range of contaminants, including organic matter,
nutrients, pathogens, and suspended solids, originating from activities such as bathing,
washing, and toilet flushing.

Samples of household wastewater are collected and subjected to thorough analysis to

characterize its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Key parameters, such as
temperature, pH, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD),
nitrogen and phosphorus levels, and microbial content, are measured to assess the quality of
the wastewater.

The analysed parameters are then compared with established effluent standards, which may
vary depending on local regulations and environmental considerations. Non-compliant
parameters serve as the basis for selecting appropriate treatment processes to achieve desired
treatment outcomes.

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A variety of treatment processes may be considered for domestic wastewater treatment,
including both conventional and advanced technologies. Conventional processes such as
screening, sedimentation, and biological treatment using methods like activated sludge or
trickling filters are effective for removing solids, organic matter, and pathogens.

Even some, Advanced treatment technologies, including membrane filtration (such as

ultrafiltration or reverse osmosis), ion exchange, and disinfection methods such as UV
irradiation or chlorination, may be employed to achieve further pollutant removal and
disinfection, particularly in areas with stringent effluent standards or where water reuse is
desired (may be not suitable for domestic households due to cost).

The design of the treatment system considers factors such as space constraints, cost-
effectiveness, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance. Compact and modular treatment
units are often favoured for residential applications, with consideration given to aesthetic
integration and noise reduction to minimize the impact on the surrounding environment.

Proper sequencing and integration of treatment processes are essential to ensure efficient
pollutant removal and compliance with effluent standards. Regular monitoring and
maintenance of the treatment system are essential to optimize performance and longevity, with
provisions for user-friendly operation and periodic servicing.

This study provides a comprehensive framework for designing an effective wastewater

treatment system tailored to the specific requirements of domestic households, promoting
public health, environmental sustainability, and water resource management.

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PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC OF WASTEWATER

Understanding these physical characteristics is crucial for designing and operating effective
wastewater treatment systems for domestic households, as they influence the selection and
performance of treatment processes. For example, screening and sedimentation processes may
be employed to remove suspended solids, while grease traps can capture oils and grease before
they enter the sewer system.

• Colour: Domestic wastewater can range in colour from clear to cloudy or even dark
brown, depending on the presence of substances like dirt, food particles, or detergents.

• Turbidity: Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of the wastewater due to

suspended particles such as soil, organic matter, or microbial aggregates.

• Temperature: The temperature of domestic wastewater typically reflects ambient

conditions, but it may be slightly elevated due to activities such as bathing, cooking, or
hot water usage.

• Odor: Domestic wastewater can emit various Odors, often described as musty, earthy,
or sewage-like, depending on the presence of organic matter and microbial activity.

• Suspended Solids: Domestic wastewater may contain suspended solids such as food
particles, hair, soap scum, and debris from cleaning activities.

• Foaming: Foaming may occur in wastewater due to the presence of surfactants in

detergents and soaps, as well as microbial activity.

• pH: The pH of domestic wastewater can vary but typically falls within the neutral to
slightly acidic range, influenced by factors such as cleaning products and food waste.

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The chemical and biological properties of wastewater are essential for understanding its
composition and potential impact on the environment, public health, and wastewater treatment
processes. Here is a detailed overview of the tests which has been conducted using the
wastewater:

• Determination of fluoride

• Turbidity and conductivity

• Determination of phosphate

• Determination of Sulphate

• Determination of residual chlorine

• Determination of available chlorine

• Determination of optimum coagulant dosage

• Estimation of settleable, suspended, volatile, and fixed solids in domestic

wastewater

• Determination of dissolved oxygen

• Determination of BOD in the sample

• Determination of COD for the sample

• Determination of chromium

• Determination of Ammonia in sample

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 DETERMINATION OF FLUORIDE

AIM: To determine the amount of fluoride, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: Under acidic conditions fluoride (F-) reacts with zirconium-SPANDS- dye-lake,
dissociating a portion of it into a colourless complex anion (Zr F6) and the dye. As the amount
of fluoride increases, the colour produced becomes progressively lighter and hence it obeys
Beer's law in a reverse manner.

The chemical reaction involved in the method is given below:

(Zr-SPANDS-lake) + 6F → (SPANDS Red bleached) + Zr F6

APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT

1. Spectrophotometer for use at 570mm

2. Standard flask cap. 100mL.

3. Pipette

REAGENTS AND STANDARDS

1. SPANDS solution: dissolve 958 mg SPANDS in distilled water and dilute to 500mL. This
solution is stable for at least 1 year if protected from direct sunlight.

2. Zirconyl acid reagent: dissolve 133mg ZrOCl2.8H20 in 25mL. water. Add 350mL cone.

HCl and dilute to 500mL.

3. Acid Zirconyl-SPANDS reagent: Mix equal volume of 'c' and*d' to produce a single
reagent. Protect from direct light. This combined reagent is suitable for at least 2 years.

4. Stock fluoride solution: dissolve 221mg anhydrous NaF and dilute to 1000mL. 1mL =

100kg F.

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PROCEDURE:

• Dilute standard fluoride solution to get concentrations from 0 to 1.4 mg/L in 50 mL of

distilled water.
• Add 5 mL of SPANDS solution and 5 mL of Zirconyl-acid reagent (or 10 mL of mixed
reagent) to each standard. Mix well.
• Create a new standard curve whenever you make fresh reagent or change the standard
temperature.
• If no reference solution is available, set the photometer using a prepared fluoride
standard.
• Measure the optical density at 570 nm, using a reference solution to set zero absorbance.
• Plot fluoride concentration (mg/L) on the x-axis against absorbance on the y-axis.
• Add 0.05 mL of sodium arsenite solution per 0.1 mg of chlorine in the sample to remove
chlorine mix well.
• Add 10 mL of acid-Zirconyl-SPANDS reagent to the sample.
• Measure the absorbance of the sample at 570 nm.
• Use the standard curve to determine the fluoride concentration from the sample's
absorbance.

TABULATION:

S.NO CONCENTRATION ABSORBANCE

OF FLUORIDE @ 510 nm
(mg/l)

1 0 1.557

2 1 0.523

3 2 0.429

4 3 0.320

5 4 0.220

6 5 0.124

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GRAPH:

Result:

The Fluoride concentration in the given water sample = 0.985 mg/1

PRECAUTION-

-Ensure accurate pipetting and avoid contamination.

- Maintain consistent temperatures for reliable results.

- Prepare a new standard curve when changing reagents or temperature conditions.

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 DETERMINATION OF TURBIDITY IN WATER SAMPLE

AIM: To determine the turbidity of the given sample water by Nephelometric method.

APPARATUS REQUIRED: Nephelo Turbidity meter.

PRINCIPLE: - Turbidity is the measure of how much light is absorbed or scattered by

suspended particles in water, caused by materials like clay, silt, rock fragments, metal oxides,
vegetable fibers, and microorganisms.

- To reduce turbidity, coagulants are added to water, forming floc that traps and settles fine
suspended particles. This process is essential for making surface water safe for drinking
through coagulation and filtration.

PROCEDURE:

- Shake the sample thoroughly to remove any air bubbles.

- Pour the sample into the meter cell.

- Read the turbidity from the digital display.

- Dilute the sample with 1, 2, or 3 volumes of turbidity-free water.

- Measure the turbidity of the diluted sample.

- Convert the value to the actual turbidity using the formula:

NTU = Measured Turbidity *(Volume of Sample+ Volume of Turbidity-free Water)

Volume of Sample

RESULT:

The turbidity of the wastewater is 201 NTU.

The conductivity of the wastewater is 5.16 mS/cm.

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 DETERMINATION OF PHOSPHATE

AIM: To determine the amount of Phosphate, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: In acidic conditions, orthophosphate reacts with ammonium molybdate to form

molybdophosphoric acid, which is then reduced to molybdenum blue by a reducing agent (e.g.,
stannous chloride or ascorbic acid). The blue colour intensity, measured at 690 or 880 nm, is
developed within 10-12 minutes.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

. Spectrophotometer

2. Lab Glassware

3. Hot Plate

4. Nessler's Tube.

Reagents:

• Ammonium molybdate reagent:

• Stannous chloride reagent
• Standard phosphate solution

PROCEDURE:

• To 50ml of the filtered sample, 4ml of ammonium molybdate reagent and about 4-5
drops of stannous chloride reagent is added.
• After about 10 min but before 12 min, the colour developed is measured
photometricallyat 690m, and a calibration curve is prepared.
• A reagent blank is always run with the same treatment with distilled water as the
sample.

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TABLUALTION:

S.NO CONCENTRATION ABSORBANCE @

OF PHOSPHATE 690 nm
(mg/l)

1 0 0.014

2 5 1.121

3 10 1.810

4 15 2.289

5 20 2.620

6 25 2.893

GRAPH

RESULT: The concentration of phosphate in wastewater is 8 mg/l

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 DETERMINATION OF SULPHATE

AIM: To determine the amount of sulpahte, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: Sulphate ions in a solution react with barium chloride in acidic conditions to
form insoluble barium sulphate (BaSO₄). The formation of this white precipitate is
stoichiometrically related to the sulphate concentration in the sample.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• Barium Chloride Solution (BaCl₂)

• Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)
• Distilled Water

Reagents:

• Buffer solution A
• Barium chloride: crystals, 20-30 mesh.
• Standard sulfate solution

PROCEDURE:

• If necessary, prepare the sample solution by diluting or filtering to remove any

suspended particles.
• Acidify the sample with a few drops of dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) to prevent the
precipitation of other interfering compounds.
• Add a known excess of barium chloride (BaCl₂) solution to the acidified sample. The
excess BaCl₂ ensures complete precipitation of sulphate ions as barium sulphate
(BaSO₄).
• Heat the mixture gently to near boiling temperature to aid in the formation of the
precipitate. Allow the mixture to digest for a few minutes to ensure complete
precipitation.

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TABULATION:

S.NO CONCENTRATION ABSORBANCE

OF SULPHATE
(mg/l)

1 0 0.073

2 5 0.098

3 10 0.123

4 15 0.148

5 20 0.172

6 25 0.198

GRAPH

RESULT: The concentration of sulphate in wastewater is 4 mg/l.

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 DETERMINATION OF RESIDUAL CHLORINE

AIM: To determine the amount of Residual chlorine, present in the waste water sample
collected.

PRINCIPLE: Residual chlorine in water is determined by titration with a standard solution of

sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) using a suitable indicator. Chlorine present in the sample
oxidizes iodide ions to form iodine, which is then titrated with sodium thiosulfate solution until
the endpoint is reached.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• Conical Flask
• Burette
• Pipette
• Volumetric Flask
• Erlenmeyer Flask
• Indicator
• Burette Clamp
• Stirring Rod
• White Tile or Paper
• Titration Stand

PROCEDURE:

• Prepare the standard solution of sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) and the iodine solution.
• If necessary, prepare the water sample by removing any interfering substances.
• Measure a known volume of the water sample using a pipette and transfer it to a conical
flask.
• Add a few drops of the indicator solution to the flask.
• Titrate the water sample with the standard solution of sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3)
from the burette until the color changes, indicating the endpoint of the titration.

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 • Calculate the concentration of residual chlorine in the water sample using the volume
and concentration of the sodium thiosulfate solution, as well as any dilution factors.

• Repeat the titration procedure if necessary to ensure accuracy and reproducibility of

results.

• Dispose of the waste solutions and rinse all glassware thoroughly with water.

TABULATION

S.NO VOL OF BURETTE READING CONCURRENT VOL

WATER (ml) BURETTE OF SODIUM
SAMPLE READING (ml) THIOSULPHATE
INTIAL FINAL
(ml) (ml)
READING READING

1 25 0 0.5 0.5 0.5

2 25 0 0.5 0.5 0.5

The amount of residual chlorine = 𝑉2 × 𝑁2 ×1000 ×35.5

𝑉1
0.5 × 0.025 ×1000 ×35.5
=
25

=17.75 𝑚𝑔/𝑙

RESULT: The amount of residual chlorine in the wastewater is 17.75 mg/l.

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 DETERMINATION OF AVAILABLE CHLORINE

AIM: To determine the amount of Available chlorine, present in the waste water sample
collected.

PRINCIPLE: Available chlorine in water is determined by titration with a standard solution

of sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) using a suitable indicator. Chlorine present in the sample
oxidizes iodide ions to form iodine, which is then titrated with sodium thiosulfate solution until
the endpoint is reached. The amount of available chlorine is calculated based on the volume
and concentration of the sodium thiosulfate solution used in the titration.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• Conical Flask
• Burette
• Pipette
• Volumetric Flask
• Erlenmeyer Flask
• Indicator
• Burette Clamp
• Stirring Rod
• White Tile or Paper
• Titration Stand

PROCEDURE:

• Prepare the standard solution of sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) and the iodine solution.
• If necessary, prepare the water sample by removing any interfering substances.
• Measure a known volume of the water sample using a pipette and transfer it to a conical
flask.
• Add a few drops of the indicator solution to the flask.
• Titrate the water sample with the standard solution of sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3)
from the burette until the color changes, indicating the endpoint of the titration.

17
 • Record the volume of sodium thiosulfate solution used.

• Calculate the concentration of available chlorine in the water sample using the volume
and concentration of the sodium thiosulfate solution, as well as any dilution factors.

• Repeat the titration procedure if necessary to ensure accuracy and reproducibility of

results.

• Dispose of the waste solutions and rinse all glassware thoroughly with water.

TABULATION:

S.NO VOL OF BURETTE READING CONCURRENT VOL

WATER (ml) BURETTE OF SODIUM
SAMPLE INTIAL FINAL READING (ml) THIOSULPHATE
(ml) READING READING (ml)

1 25 0 0.3 0.3 0.3

2 25 0 0.3 0.3 0.3

The amount of residual chlorine = 𝑉2 × 𝑁2 ×1000 ×35.5

𝑉1
0.3 × 0.025 ×1000 ×35.5
=
25

=10.65 𝑚𝑔/𝑙

RESULT: Amount of residual chlorine in the wastewater is 10.65 mg/l.

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 DETERMINATION OF OPTIMUM COAGULANT DOSAGE

AIM: To determine the optimum coagulant dosage, present in the waste water sample
collected.

PRINCIPLE: The determination of the optimum coagulant dosage involves finding the
minimum dosage required to achieve effective coagulation and flocculation of suspended
particles in water. This is typically done by conducting jar tests, where varying doses of
coagulant are added to water samples under controlled conditions, and the resulting floc
formation and settling characteristics are observed.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• jar Test Apparatus

• Beakers or Graduated Cylinders
• Stirrers or Mixers
• Timer
• Turbidity Meter or Colorimeter (Optional):

PROCEDURE:

• Collect representative water samples from the source to be treated

• If necessary, adjust the pH of the samples to the desired range using acid or alkali
solutions. Prepare solutions of the coagulant to be tested at varying concentrations.
• Fill the jars with equal volumes of the water samples to be treated
• Add the coagulant solutions to each jar at varying doses, ranging from low to high
concentrations
• Mix the contents of each jar at a controlled speed for a specified duration
• Allow the contents to settle for a predetermined time period to observe floc formation
and settling characteristics.
• Observe the clarity of the supernatant in each jar after settling to assess the effectiveness
of coagulation.
• Measure turbidity or colour, if applicable, to quantitatively evaluate the treatment
performance.

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TABULATION

JAR DOSAGE OF COAGULANT RESIDUAL TURBIDITY

NO COAGULANT (ml) CONCENTRATION (NTU)
(mg/l)

1 0 0 91.2

2 5 14.2 27.7

3 10 92.31 6.31

4 20 144.5 18.5

5 30 180 47.3

6 40 189.2 64.4

GRAPH

RESULT: the optimum dosage of coagulant required to remove turbidity in the wastewater is
90 mg/l of Ferric chloride.

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ESTIMATION OF SETTLEABLE, SUSPENDED, VOLATILE, AND FIXED SOLIDS
IN DOMESTIC WASTEWATER

AIM: To determine the different solids , present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE:

Settleable Solids: These are the solids that settle out of suspension within a specified period
under the influence of gravity.

Suspended Solids: These are solids that remain in suspension in the wastewater. They can be
filtered and dried to a constant weight.

Volatile Solids: These are the organic fraction of the suspended solids that are lost upon
ignition at high temperatures (550°C).

Fixed Solids: These are the inorganic fraction of the suspended solids that remain after ignition.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• Imhoff Cone
• Whatman Filter Paper
• Filtration Apparatus
• Drying Oven
• Desiccator
• Muffle Furnace
• Analytical Balance
• Evaporating Dish

PROCEDURE:

• Collect a representative wastewater sample.

• Pour 1 litre of the wastewater sample into an Imhoff cone. Allow the sample to settle
for 1 hour. Record the volume of settled solids at the bottom of the cone in mL/L.

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Suspended Solids

• Filter a known volume of the wastewater sample (e.g., 100 mL) through a pre-weighed
glass fibre filter or Whatman filter paper
• Rinse the filter with distilled water to remove any dissolved solids.
• Dry the filter with the retained solids in a drying oven at 103-105°C for at least 1 hour
or until a constant weight is achieved
• Cool in a desiccator and weigh to the nearest 0.1 mg.
• After determining suspended solids, place the dried filter and retained solids in a pre-
weighed evaporating dish.
• Ignite the dish in a muffle furnace at 550°C for 15-20 minutes or until all organic matter
is burned off.
• Cool in a desiccator and weigh to the nearest 0.1 mg

TABULATION

S.NO DETAILS NOTATIONS WEIGHT

1 Weight of empty crucible (g) W1 62.45

2 Weight of crucible with water sample W2 62.51

after oven drying (g)

3 Weight of crucible with water sample W3 62.47

after taking it from muffle furnace (g)

4 Weight of empty crucible (g) W4 71.79

5 Weight of crucible with filter paper (g) W5 71.87

6 Weight of crucible with filter paper after W6 71.92

oven drying (g)

7 Weight of crucible with filter paper after W7 71.89

taking it from muffle furnace (g)

8 The volume of settleable solids (ml) 62

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RESULTS:

Therefore, after calculations the solids present in the wastewater are reported below:

i. Total solids (TS) = 6000 mg/l

ii. Total suspended solids (TSS) = 2000 mg/l
iii. Total dissolved solids (TDS) = 4000 mg/l
iv. Total fixed solids (TFS) = 2000 mg/l
v. Total volatile solids (TVS) = 4000 mg/l
vi. Fixed suspended solids (FSS) = 800 mg/l
vii. Fixed dissolved solids (FDS) = 1200 mg/l
viii. Volatile suspended solids (VSS) = 1200 mg/l
ix. Volatile dissolved solids (VDS) = 2800 mg/l
x. Total settleable solids = 31 mL/L

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 DETERMINATION OF DISSOLVED OXYGEN

AIM: To determine the Dissolved oxygen, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: The determination of dissolved oxygen (DO) in water is commonly carried out
using the Winkler method. In this method, dissolved oxygen in the water sample oxidizes
manganese (II) ions to manganese(IV) oxide. The manganese (IV) oxide then oxidizes iodide
ions to iodine, which is titrated with sodium thiosulfate. The amount of iodine released is
stoichiometrically equivalent to the amount of dissolved oxygen in the sample.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• BOD Bottles
• Pipettes
• Burette
• Stirring Rod or Magnetic Stirrer
• Measuring Cylinders
• Titration Stand

REANGENTS

• Manganous Sulfate Solution (MnSO₄)

• Alkaline Iodide-Azide Reagent
• Concentrated Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄)
• Sodium Thiosulfate Solution (Na₂S₂O₃)
• Starch Indicator Solution

PROCEDURE:

• Fill a BOD bottle completely with the water sample, ensuring no air bubbles are trapped
inside.
• Add 2 mL of manganous sulfate solution to the sample by inserting the pipette tip just
below the surface of the water
• Add 2 mL of alkaline iodide-azide reagent in the same manner.

24
 • Stopper the bottle immediately and mix by inverting several times.
• Allow the precipitate to settle to at least half the bottle volume. This precipitate is
manganese(IV) oxide.
• Add 2 mL of concentrated sulfuric acid to the sample. Carefully stopper and mix by
inverting several times until the precipitate dissolves completely, releasing iodine into
the solution.
• Pour the acidified sample into a titration flask
• Titrate the released iodine with the standard sodium thiosulfate solution from a burette.
• Near the endpoint, add a few drops of starch indicator solution, which will turn the
solution blue.
• Continue titration until the blue color just disappears.

TABULATION:

S.NO VOL OF BURETTE READING CONCURRENT VOL

WATER (ml) BURETTE OF SODIUM
SAMPLE INTIAL FINAL READING (ml) THIOSULPHATE
(ml) READING READING (ml)

1 101 0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5

2 101 0 1 1 1 1

3 101 0 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7

RESULT:

The dissolved oxygen level in 3ml sample is 2.8 mg/l

The dissolved oxygen level in 15ml sample is 2.0 mg/l

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 DETERMINATION OF BOD IN THE SAMPLE

AIM: To determine BOD, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: The determination of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) measures the amount
of oxygen consumed by microorganisms during the aerobic degradation of organic matter in
the water sample over a specified incubation period (usually 5 days at 20°C). The BOD is
indicative of the level of organic pollution present in the water.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• BOD Bottles
• Incubator
• Dissolved Oxygen (DO) Meter
• Reagent Bottles
• Pipettes
• BOD Stirring Device
• BOD Analysis Equipment

PROCEDURE

• Collect a representative water sample in a clean container. Preserve the sample to

minimize changes in dissolved oxygen (DO) levels during transportation.
• Measure the dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in the water sample immediately
after collection using a DO meter.
• Prepare dilution water by aerating distilled water or tap water to ensure it is saturated
with oxygen.
• Dilute the water sample with dilution water in a ratio that ensures the DO concentration
falls within the optimal range for accurate BOD determination (typically 1:1 or 1:5).
• Add a seed inoculum containing microorganisms (e.g., activated sludge) to the diluted
sample to initiate microbial activity.Fill the BOD bottles with the diluted sample,
ensuring no air bubbles are trapped inside. Fill the bottles to overflowing to remove any
trapped air.
• Stopper the BOD bottles immediately to prevent the entry of atmospheric oxygen.

26
 • Place the stoppered BOD bottles in the incubator maintained at 20°C for 5 days.

TABULATION:

S.NO VOL OF BURETTE READING CONCURRENT VOL

WATER (ml) BURETTE OF SODIUM
SAMPLE INTIAL FINAL READING (ml) THIOSULPHATE
(ml) READING READING (ml)

Day zero DO Blank

1 101 0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5

Day zero DO Sample

2 101 0 1 1 1 1

3 101 0 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7

S.NO VOL OF BURETTE READING CONCURRENT VOL

WATER (ml) BURETTE OF SODIUM
SAMPLE INTIAL FINAL READING (ml) THIOSULPHATE
(ml) READING READING (ml)

Day five DO Blank

1 101 0 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.2

Day five DO Sample

2 101 0 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8

3 101 0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5

RESULT: Therefore, the BOD five of the sample at 20°C is 60 mg/l.

27
 DETERMINATION OF COD FOR THE SAMPLE

AIM: To determine COD, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: The determination of chemical oxygen demand (COD) measures the amount of
oxygen required to chemically oxidize organic and inorganic compounds in the water sample.
This is achieved by digesting the sample in a strong oxidizing agent, usually potassium
dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇), in the presence of a strong acid (sulfuric acid, H₂SO₄). The amount of
oxygen consumed during the oxidation reaction is proportional to the COD of the sample..

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• COD Digestion Apparatus

• Heating Device
• Cooling System
• Spectrophotometer
• COD Vials
• Burette

REANGENTS

• Potassium Dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇)

• Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄)
• Mercuric Sulfate (HgSO₄)
• Ferrous Ammonium Sulfate [(NH₄)₂Fe(SO₄)₂]
• Standard COD Solution:

PROCEDURE

• Filter the water sample if necessary to remove suspended solids that may interfere with
the analysis.
• Dilute the sample if the COD concentration is expected to be high, ensuring that the
dilution factor is accounted for in the calculation

28
 • Transfer a known volume of the prepared sample (typically 10-50 mL) to a COD
digestion tube or reactor.
• Add a precise volume of potassium dichromate solution and sulfuric acid to the sample
according to the method requirements.
• Heat the digestion tubes in the digestion apparatus at the specified temperature (usually
150-170°C) for a predetermined time (usually 2 hours)
• Add a precise volume of ferrous ammonium sulphate solution to each digested sample
to reduce the excess potassium dichromate to ferrous ions.
• Titrate the remaining ferrous ions with a standard solution of cerium(IV) sulfate or
potassium dichromate until the endpoint is reached.
• Calculate the COD concentration of the sample using the volume and concentration of
the titrant, the dilution factor, and the sample volume according to the method equation.

RESULT: Based on the photometer, the COD present in sample is 21 mg/l.

29
 DETERMINATION OF CHROMIUM

AIM: To determine amount of chromium, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: The determination of chromium involves the conversion of chromium ions (Cr)
into a coloured complex, which is then measured spectrophotometrically. This is commonly
achieved by reacting chromium ions with a suitable reagent to form a colored complex, the
intensity of which is directly proportional to the concentration of chromium in the sample.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• Spectrophotometer
• Volumetric Glassware
• Glassware for Sample Preparation
• Analytical Balance
• Stirring Device

REANGENTS

• Chromium Standard Solution

• Complexing Reagent
• Acidic Buffer Solution
• Deionized Water:

PROCEDURE

• Collect a representative sample and filter it if necessary to remove any particulate

matter. Acidify the sample if required to stabilize the chromium ions.
• Prepare a series of chromium standard solutions with known concentrations covering
the expected range of chromium concentrations in the sample.
• Add a suitable volume of the complexing reagent to both the standard solutions and the
sample. Mix thoroughly. Allow the solutions to stand for a specified incubation period
to ensure complete complex formation.

30
 • Measure the absorbance of each standard solution and the sample at the appropriate
wavelength using a spectrophotometer.
• Plot a calibration curve with the absorbance values of the standard solutions against
their respective chromium concentrations.
• Use the calibration curve to determine the concentration of chromium in the sample
based on its absorbance value.

TABULATION:

S.NO CONCENTRATION ABSORBANCE

Cr (VI) (mg/l)

1 0 0.015

2 0.025 0.021

3 0.050 0.052

4 0.100 0.116

5 0.150 0.121

6 0.200 0.315

7 0.500 0.428

8 1.000 0.683

9 2.000 1.013

31
GRAPH:

RESULT: Absorbance of chromium 6 is 0.226.

Absorbance of sample is 0.98.

Absorbance of total chromium is 2.12

32
 DETERMINATION OF AMMONIA IN SAMPLE

AIM: To determine amount of Ammonia, present in the waste water sample collected.

PRINCIPLE: The determination of ammonia (NH₃) in a water sample is often carried out
using the Nesslerization method or an ion-selective electrode method. The Nesslerization
method involves the reaction of ammonia with Nessler's reagent (a solution of potassium
tetraiodomercurate(II)) to form a colored complex that can be measured
spectrophotometrically. The intensity of the color is directly proportional to the ammonia
concentration in the sample.

APPARATUS REQUIRES:

• Spectrophotometer
• Volumetric Glassware
• Sample Containers
• Analytical Balance
• Stirring Device

REANGENTS

• Nessler's Reagent
• Ammonium Sulfate Standard Solution
• Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)
• Distilled or Deionized Water
• Buffer Solution (optional)

PROCEDURE:

• Collect a representative water sample in a clean container, ensuring it is free from

contamination. Preserve the sample if necessary to prevent changes in ammonia
concentration.
• Prepare a series of ammonium sulfate standard solutions with known concentrations
that cover the expected range of ammonia in the sample.

33
 • If necessary, dilute the water sample with distilled water to ensure the ammonia
concentration falls within the range of the standard solutions.
• Add a specified volume (usually 1 mL) of Nessler's reagent to a measured volume of
the sample (typically 50 mL) in a volumetric flask or test tube. Mix thoroughly.
• Adjust the pH of the sample to the optimal range (around pH 7-10) using sodium
hydroxide if necessary. This ensures the reaction proceeds efficiently.
• Allow the mixture to react for a specified period (usually 10-15 minutes) to ensure
complete color development.
• Measure the absorbance of the resulting solution at 425 nm using a spectrophotometer.
Use distilled water as a blank for calibration.
• Plot a calibration curve using the absorbance values of the standard solutions against
their respective ammonia concentrations.

TABULATION:

S.NO CONCENTRATION ABSORBANCE

(mg/l)

1 0 0.050

2 0.05 0.080

3 0.10 0.145

4 0.25 0.270

5 0.50 0.386

6 1.00 0.506

7 5.00 0.814

8 10.00 0.990

9 15.00 1.510

34
GRAPH:

RESULT: The concentration of ammonia in the sample is 15 mg/l.

35
 DESIGN OF WASTEWATER SYSTEM

1. Design of sedimentation tank

• Designing a sedimentation tank involves considering various factors to ensure the

effective removal of suspended solids from water or wastewater. Here is a
comprehensive guide to the design process, including key principles, necessary
calculations, and design parameters.
• Sedimentation tanks, also known as clarifiers, rely on gravity to settle suspended
particles from water. The basic principle involves slowing down the flow of water to
allow particles to settle out due to gravity.

• The design of a sedimentation tank requires careful consideration of flow rates, surface
loading rates, detention times, and tank dimensions. By following these steps and using
the given example, you can effectively design a sedimentation tank suitable for treating
water or wastewater.
• We have designed the sedimentation tank with the required date that we have received
from the households.

36
Data:

Flow rate (Q) = 80,000 l/d

Detention time = 4 hrs

Assume,

Type 1 settling pattern

Peak factor = 1.7

Calculations:

Q = 80 x 10^3 x 1.7 (l/d)

= 1,36,000 (l/d)

= 136 m3/d

= 136/ (24 x3600)

= 1.57 x 10^-3 m3/s

37
 2. Design of Grit Chamber

• A grit chamber is a type of sedimentation tank used to remove heavy inorganic particles
(grit) such as sand, gravel, and silt from wastewater. The principle involves slowing
down the flow of wastewater to allow these heavier particles to settle out while the
lighter organic matter remains in suspension.

Data:

Q = 80000 l/d

Qₚₑₐₖ = (80,000×2.5)/ (1000×24×3600)

= 0.0023 m3/s

Design:

Assume,

particle size d = 0.2mm;

38
T = 27°C;

Sₛ = 2.55;

𝛾= 0.81 x 10^-6 m2/s

Applying Transition law:

Vₛ = 60.6 [(Sₛ-1) d] *[(3T + 70)/ (100)]

= 28.37mm/s

= 0.0284m/s

Vₛ = [0.707 * (Sₛ - 1) * d¹·⁶ * γ⁻⁰·⁶] ⁰·⁷¹⁴

= 0.0186 m/s

Taking smaller: Vₛ = 0.0186 m/s

Compute SOR:

Setting of smallest SOR =0.0186m/s

=0.0186 x 24 x 3600

= 1607.04 m3/m2d

Efficiency:

η = 1 - [1 + (n*Vₛ)/(Q/A)] ^(-1/n)

(Let η = 75% and n=1/8)

0.75 = 1 - [1 + {(1/8) x 1607.04/(Q/A)}] ^-8

Q/A = 1061.69 m3/m2d

39
Dimensions of Grit Chamber:

Plan area = Q/SOR

= 200/1607.04

= 0.19m2

= 2000cm2

Assume the grit chamber of 50cm x 40cm.

Scour velocity:

Vᶜ = Kᶜ √(g(Sₛ-1) *d)

= 3.5 √(9.81(2.55-1) x 0.2x10^-3)

= 0.19m/s

Assume depth of 0.5m.

Vₕ = Q/w*d

= 0.0023/ (0.40 x 0.5)

= 0.012 m/s <0.17m/s

HRT (t) = V/Q

= 0.5 x 0.4 x 0.5/0.0023

= 43.48 sec

Provide 0.25m for grit storage + 0.25m for free board.

Provide chamber of 0.5 x 0.4 x 1m.

40
Design of proportional weir:

provide separate weir for each chamber:

Q = 0.0023 m3/s

Q = c*d*b*√(2ga)

(Assume,

Cᵈ= 0.61,

a = 0.035m,

H = 1m)

0.0023 = 0.61 x b √(2 x 9.81 x 0.035) x [1 – (0.035/3)]

b = 0.46m

x = b/2 [1 - (2/x) tan^-1√(y/a)]

= 0.46 [1 - (2/x) tan^-1√(y/0.035)]

y x (10^-4)
0 2.23
0.2 0.6
0.4 0.42
0.6 0.35
0.8 0.3
1.0 0.27

41
3. Design of trickling filter

• A trickling filter is a type of biological treatment system used for the secondary
treatment of wastewater. It consists of a bed of porous media (such as rocks, gravel, or
plastic media) over which wastewater is trickled. Microorganisms attached to the
media degrade organic matter in the wastewater, converting it into simpler, less
harmful substances.

Data:

𝑙
Sewage flow = 80 × 104
𝑑

𝑚𝑔
BOD5 = 60
𝑙

Design:

Design of filter bed:

42
 𝑙
𝑄 = 7 × 104 = 70 𝑚3
𝑑
𝑚3
Assuming hydraulic loading rate as 1.5
𝑚2𝑑

70
Area = = 47m2
1.5
1 𝑘𝑔
Total BOD5 = 7 × 104 × 60 × = 4.2
106 𝑑

4.2
𝑉= = 28𝑚3
0.15

𝑉 28
𝐷𝑒𝑝𝑡ℎ = = = 0.6𝑚
𝑆𝐴 46
1
4 2
𝐷𝑖𝑎 = ( × 47) = 7.74𝑚
𝜋

Provide a freeboard of 0.2m (Total depth = 0.6 + 0.2 = .8m)

Provide a filter of dia 7.74m and depth of 0.8m

Design of rotary arms:

Assume peak factor of 2.5

1 𝑚3
𝑄𝑝 = 2 × 80 = 200 × = 0.00185
24 × 3600 𝑠

Design of central column:

𝑚
Assume v at peak flow = 2
𝑠

0.00185
𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎 = = 0.000925𝑚2
2
1
4
𝐷𝑖𝑎 = ( × 0.00093)2 = 0.035= 0.04 𝑚
𝜋

43
Vel in average flow:

0.00185 𝑚3
𝑄𝑎𝑣𝑔 = = 0.0009 = 0.001
2 𝑠
0.001 𝑚
𝑣=𝜋 = 0.79
𝑠
4 × 0.04
2

Provide central pipe of diameter 0.04 m

Assume 4 arms :

0.0009 𝑚3
𝑄𝑝 𝑎𝑟𝑚 = = 0.00024
4 𝑠

7.74 − 0.04
𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑚 = = 3.85 𝑚
2

Dividing the arm int 3 segments

𝐴1 = 𝜋(1.022 − 0.022) = 3.27 𝑚2 Percentage of area = 8.17%

𝐴2 = 𝜋(2.022 − 1.022) = 9.55 𝑚2 Percentage of area = 23.85%

𝐴1 = 𝜋(3.572 − 2.022) = 27.22 𝑚2 Percentage of area = 67.98%

44
First segment:

𝑚3
𝑄𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑔 = 0.00024 𝑠

𝑚
Assume 𝑣 = 1.2
𝑠

0.00024
𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑔 1 = = 0.00020 𝑚2
1.2
1
4 2
𝐷𝑖𝑎 = ( × 0.00048) = 0.016𝑚
𝜋

Second segment:

100 − 8.17 𝑚3
𝑄𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑒𝑔 = × 0.00024 = 0.00022
100 𝑠
𝑚
Assume 𝑣 = 1.2
𝑠

0.00053
𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑔 2 = = 0.00018 𝑚2
1.2
1
4 2
𝐷𝑖𝑎 = ( × 0.00044) = 0.015 𝑚
𝜋

Third segment:

100 − 8.17 − 23.85 𝑚3

𝑄𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑟𝑑 𝑠𝑒𝑔 = × 0.00024 = 0.00016
100 𝑠
𝑚
Assume 𝑣 = 1.2
𝑠

0.00016
𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑔 3 = = 0.00013 𝑚2
1.2
1
4 2
𝐷𝑖𝑎 = ( × 0.00033) = 0.02 𝑚
𝜋

45
Design of Orifice:

Assume the diameter of orifice as 10 mm

Assume head of 1.5 m, 𝐶𝑑 = 0.6

𝜋 𝑚3
𝑞𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑒 = 𝐶𝑑√2𝑔ℎ = 0.6 × × 0.012 × √2 × 9.81 × 1.5 = 0.00026
4 𝑠

0.00058
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎 𝑎𝑟𝑚 = =3
0.00026
8.17
𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑔 1 = ×3 = 1 Spacing = 500 mm
100

23.85
𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑔 2 = ×3=1 Spacing = 500 mm
100

67.98
𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑔 1 = ×3=1 Spacing = 775 mm
100

Design of underdrain system:

Assume rectangular central channel with radial laterals.

Design of rectangular effluent channel:

𝑚3
𝑄 = 0.0023
𝑠
𝑚
𝑣=1
𝑠

𝐴 = 0.0023 𝑚2

𝑄 0.0023 𝑚
𝑣= = =1
𝐴 0.0023 𝑠

𝐴 0.0023
𝐻𝑦𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑢𝑙𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡, 𝑅 = = = 0.0073 𝑚
𝑃 0.015 + 0.15 × 2

𝑛 = 0.0018

1 23 21 1 2 1
𝑄= 𝐴𝑅 𝑆 0.0023 = 0.0023 × 0.0073 3 × 𝑆2
0 0
𝑛 0.018

46
 1
𝑆0 =
5

Design of radial laterals:

Assume slope of 1
10

Assume half flow condition.

𝑑 𝑎
= 0.5 ; = 0.25
𝐷 𝐴
𝑚 𝑞
𝐴𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑚𝑒, 𝑣 = 0.75 =
𝑠 𝑎

1 32 21
𝑄= 𝐴𝑅 𝑆
𝑛 0

1 32 21
𝑞 = 𝑎𝑟 𝑠0
𝑛
𝑞 𝑎 𝑟 2
= ( )3
𝑄 𝐴 𝑅

𝑞 𝑄 𝑟 2
= ( )3 = 0.75
𝑎 𝑅

1 32 21
𝑄= 𝐴𝑅 𝑆
𝑛 0

2 1
1 𝐷 3 1 2
0.75 = ×( ) ×( )
0.015 𝐴 10

𝐷 = 0.007 𝑚

𝜋 𝑚3
𝑄 = 0.75 × × 0.0072 = 0.000028
4 𝑠

0.000028
𝑞= = 0.000014
2

0.0023
𝐿𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑠 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡 = = 164 𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑠
0.000014

47
 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the methodology presented in this study provides a systematic approach to

designing an effective wastewater treatment system for domestic households. By considering
the unique characteristics of domestic effluents, such as varying pollutant sources and limited
space availability, the study offers practical solutions to address these challenges.

Key steps in the methodology include:

• Identifying the wastewater source: Understanding the origin and composition of

wastewater is essential for selecting appropriate treatment processes.
• Characterizing physical, chemical, and biological attributes: Analysing the
properties of domestic effluents helps determine treatment requirements and assess
compliance with effluent standards.
• Comparing parameters with relevant effluent standards: Evaluating wastewater
quality against regulatory guidelines ensures that the treatment system meets
environmental standards and protects public health.
• Selecting appropriate treatment processes: Choosing treatment technologies based
on the specific characteristics of the wastewater ensures efficient removal of pollutants.
• Designing an efficient treatment system layout: Optimizing the layout of treatment
components maximizes treatment efficiency and minimizes space requirements.

Overall, the methodology outlined in this study offers a comprehensive approach to designing
a wastewater treatment system tailored to the needs of domestic households. By implementing
these strategies, communities can safeguard public health, protect the environment, and ensure
sustainable management of wastewater resources.

48