Nitrogen loss in a nitrifying rotating contactor treating ammonium-rich wastewater without organic carbon

摘要: Extended loss (up to 70%) of nitrogen is observed in a nitrifying rotating biological contactor (RBC) treating ammonium - rich leachate hazardous waste landfill. Due pretreatment (flocculation, BOD-removal, activated carbon) DOC was less than 20 mg/l so heterotrophic denitrification can be excluded. The nitrification rate reaches 3-4 g NH4-N m−2 d−1 at pH 7-7.3 the first two three RBC compartments. An increasing partial pressure oxygen and concentration favor removal over oxidation. reduction nitrite produced aerobic biofilm layer close surface might therefore coupled with oxidation takes place deeper or temporarily anoxic biofilm.