Key factors contributing to simultaneous nitrification-denitrification in a biological aerated filter system using oyster shell medium

Factors contributing to nitrogen removal in a biological aerated filter (BAF) using oyster shell medium have been investigated. The system was operated in parallel with a bio-ball filter. Both filters were fed with a synthetic domestic wastewater containing approximately 25 mg N/dm³ of total nitrogen (TN). The COD of wastewater was 200 mg O₂/dm³. The sizes and dissolved oxygen (DO) of the voids within both filters were measured. Results indicated that the oyster shell system performed better with a nitrogen removal of 64.3%. The two systems exhibited a similar COD removal efficiency of approximated 80%. The oyster shell filter showed higher degree of variability in both sizes and DO levels of its void spaces. The condition provided a favorable environment for nitrogen removal through simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND). The release of carbonates from oyster shells were minimal, as judged from mass balance analysis of the system using calcium. It is concluded that the function of a SND reactor can be enhanced by using non-uniform filter media such as oyster shells. On the other hand, alkalinity is not a major concern when treating wastewaters with moderate ammonia concentration, such as that of domestic wastewaters.