WASTEWATER TREATMENT EFFICIENCY IN VERTICAL FLOW CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS USING RECYCLED AGGREGATES.

The article discusses the efficiency of vertical subsurface flow filters in wastewater treatment wetlands, where the main filtration layer is composed of recycled aggregates. To determine the efficiency of the vertical filter using modified recycled aggregates, three test columns were created. The first column contained natural gravels, while the second and third columns used masonry (RMA) and concrete aggregates (RCA). The test filters were loaded with wastewater from a combined sewer system, with non-dissolved substances removed through sedimentation and filtration. The wastewater was intermittently applied to the filter bodies. During the testing period, the RMA filter column achieved an efficiency of up to 99.9% for NH4 +-N, 83.9% for COD, and 40.1% for TP. The RCA filter column had an efficiency of 99.6% for NH4 +-N, 77.2% for COD, and 42.3% for TP. These values are comparable to the efficiencies of filter columns filled with natural aggregates (NA). These results suggest there is a potential for RMA or RCA to replace NA. This would lead to the conservation of natural resources and a reduction in the initial cost of vertical filters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]