Study of BOD and COD Removal in Batik Wastewater using Scirpus grossus and Iris pseudacorus with Intermittent Exposure System

Batik is one of ethnical cultures of Indonesia. The batik production has spread throughout Indonesia. One of the batik industry areas is located in Jetis, Sidoarjo, Indonesia. This industry has been operating for approximately 350 years without processing its wastewater. The batik wastewater contains several toxic compounds such as high BOD, COD and color pigment. These compounds can be harmful for the environment if discharged directly to water bodies. Phyto-treatment might be a solution to overcome this problem. The use of Scirpus grossus and Iris pseudacorus with variations of waste irrigation system using the intermittent method showed a COD removal up to 89% and BOD removal up to 97%. Mixed culture of S. grossus and I. pseudacorus showed a better removal than its single culture. The highest removal of BOD and COD was obtained in reactor with mixed culture plants under Flood/Drain ratio of 2:1.