Improvement criteria for different advanced technologies towards bio-stabilized leachate based on molecular subcategories of DOM

Abstract

Considering dissolved organic matter (DOM) molecules, the present study is an attempt to unravel the individual removal targets of nine advanced treatment technologies for bio-stabilized landfill leachate. For the eight DOM molecular subcategories, preferable technologies and removal rates were as follows: lipids ‒ powdered activated carbon (PAC) adsorption (97%) and Fenton (97%); proteins ‒ extended electrolysis (92%) and Fenton (92%); and lignins/carboxylic rich alicyclic molecules (CRAM)-like organics ‒ Fenton (90%) and extended electrolysis (75%). As to individual technologies, Fenton, PAC adsorption, extended electrolysis, and reverse osmosis (RO) had the highest removal rates based on the intensity and abundance of DOM. As to the improved technology combinations, “Fenton with PAC adsorption” and “PAC adsorption with reverse osmosis” were then recommended according to the target complementarity in compound intensity and abundance. The study suggested that the treatment strategy of an unknown recalcitrantly biodegraded wastewater could be designed in a tailored way based on the subcategorized DOM characteristics of the refractory wastewater.