InterPore2026

Optimization of improved sand filtration followed by UV radiation disinfection Application and optimization at the Boumerdes wastewater treatment plant in Algeria

21 May 2026, 15:35

1h 30m

Poster Presentation (MS02) Environmental Porous Media: Water, Agriculture, and Remediation Poster

Speaker

Mr Salah BENARAB (UMBB)

Description

The southern Mediterranean region is experiencing increasing water stress as a result of climate change. In this context, the present project was conducted to promote the valorization and safe reuse of treated wastewater. This project focused on the development of an integrated tertiary wastewater treatment process, combining filtration through hematite-coated sand with UV-C radiation disinfection. The filter layer designed for a hydraulic loading rate of approximately 1.6 m/h, was characterized by laser granulometric analysis (D10 = 0.158 mm; CU ≈ 2.47), confirming its suitability for fine particle retention. SEM/EDX analyses revealed a porous structure rich in iron and silica, enhancing both heavy metal adsorption (Pb, Ni, Cr, Cu, Zn) and limiting microbial biofilm colonization. XRD confirmed hematite as the predominant mineral phase, with minor traces of dolomite and calcite, while FTIR highlighted the functional groups responsible for adsorption interactions and fixation of organic compounds.
In parallel, the disinfection system was designed with a 36 W UV-C lamp operating at 80% transmittance, ensuring an optical dose above 40 mJ/cm². This configuration enabled effective bacterial inactivation, validated through microbiological tests according to ISO 6222, with near-complete reduction of indicator organisms. The combined approach demonstrated strong complementarity: the filtration stage reduced suspended solids, heavy metals, and organic matter, thereby improving UV penetration, while the UV-C irradiation ensured final disinfection and prevented recontamination.
The results achieved overall compliance with WHO and Algerian standards for key parameters (BOD5 < 30 mg/L, COD < 120 mg/L, TSS < 35 mg/L, pH 6.5–8.5), confirming the relevance of this integrated process. This technically reliable and economically adaptable solution opens new perspectives for the safe reuse of treated wastewater in agricultural and urban applications, contributing to sustainable and rational water resource management.