Comparing Different Designs and Scales of Bubble Columns for Their Effectiveness in Treating Kraft Pulp Mill Effluents

Abstract

The experimental results obtained in three different types of ozone contactors were analyzed to study the effects of the ozone contactor design, configuration, operating conditions, and scale-up on the: (1) ozonation process induced reduction efficiencies of color, AOX, COD, and TOC from biologically treated Kraft pulp mill effluents; (2) the increase in biodegradability of this type of wastewater; and (3) the dynamics of the ozone gas absorption process. The three types of ozone contactors included: (1) an extra-coarse-bubble diffuser ozone contactor; (2) an impinging-jet ozone contactor; and (3) a fine-bubble diffuser ozone contactor. Similar treatment levels were achieved in those ozone contactors although the impinging-jet bubble column was more effective in treating Kraft pulp mill effluents due to its smaller reactor volume and lower off-gas ozone concentrations. Consequently, the operating costs of an ozonation process and ozone off-gas destruction facilities will be greatly reduced when using the impinging-jet bubble column design for treating Kraft pulp mill effluents.