Optimizing Phosphorus Removal: A Smart Solution for Cost and Water Efficiency

Efficient wastewater treatment is crucial for protecting the environment, and optimizing chemical use is key to making the process more sustainable. At the wastewater treatment plant in Olomouc, Czech Republic, a collaboration between Kemira and the plant’s operator, Veolia Group, has led to the implementation of a smart digital solution to enhance phosphorus removal while minimizing chemical consumption.

But why does phosphorus removal matter? Phosphorus, when not properly removed from wastewater, contributes to eutrophication – a process that leads to the overgrowth of algae in water bodies. These algal blooms deplete oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic life and disrupting ecosystems. Effective phosphorus removal is, therefore, essential to maintaining the health of local waterways.

Smart Technology for Phosphorus Removal

The Olomouc plant recently adopted a smart chemical management system developed by Kemira. This advanced tool optimizes the dosing of ferric sulphate, a coagulant used to remove phosphorus from wastewater. By using real-time monitoring and data-driven algorithms, the system precisely adjusts chemical doses based on fluctuations in water quality, ensuring the most efficient use of chemicals.

The integration of Kemira’s system allows for efficient and precise dosing, helping to control phosphorus levels in the effluent discharged while lowering operational costs through optimized chemical consumption.

The plant had already made notable progress with its in-house optimization system, which reduced chemical use by 15 %. However, with the smart system, the facility has achieved an additional reduction of 6–12 % in chemical dosing. This not only cuts costs but also reduces the environmental impact by minimizing the discharge of excess chemicals into local waterways.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

The ability to fine-tune chemical dosing in real time has delivered clear benefits. Reduced ferric sulphate consumption directly translates into lower operational costs, while also lowering the environmental footprint of the plant by decreasing chemical runoff. The plant’s effluent is now treated more efficiently, helping to preserve water quality in the region.

On the recovery of phosphorus, Kemira is working on a cutting-edge recovery technology with potential to foster a more circular approach to resource management and sustainable agriculture.