UVM Reference Number: C754
Summary:
Pipe descaling technology coupled with an electric-filtration membrane filtration cell, to enhance phosphorus capture and removal
Background:
Most commercial phosphorus removal nutrient solutions are only economically feasible for larger scale applications and are often not financially viable. The Pe-Phlo (pronounced P Flow) is a mobile, flexible and scalable solution for phosphorus capture and removal. Pe-Phlo applications focus on reduced installation and operational costs without the investment needed for conventional phosphorus removal “brick and mortar” approaches.
Technology Overview:
Research by UVM has confirmed the viability of applying proprietary pipe descaling technology (PDT) to aggregate dissolved phosphorus in waste streams into particulate or crystalline forms for capture and removal. Pe-Phlo uses PDT coupled with an electric-filtration membrane filtration cell, to enhance phosphorus capture and removal from the waste stream. Early data indicates an enhanced purity of the material formed by this process. Research is ongoing to optimize laboratory parameters necessary for full scale application required to prove out the innovative application of this technology.
Benefits:
- Breaks nutrient re-cycle by removing the phosphorus from digested sludge
- Reduces sludge production
- Frees P and N treatment capacity and reduces the chemicals needed for N and P treatment
- Improves the process reliably for maintaining effluent P concentrations below regulatory limits
Applications:
- Small scale municipal and farm-based wastewater resource recovery facilities.
Patents:
- US Non-Provisional Application 17/272,782, based on PCT/US2019/049863
