Phosphorus Removal Mechanisms in a Facultative Wastewater Stabilization Pond

Abstract

The objective of the study is to improve understanding of natural phosphorus removal processes to limit the need for chemical addition in an existing facultative wastewater stabilization pond in Manitoba, Canada. Surface samples were collected from lagoon cells and analyzed. The windward and leeward sides of the ponds were sampled and the results were averaged. Phosphorus appears to be removed by assimilation into biomass; and precipitation at alkaline pH. When the nitrogen to phosphorus (N/P) ratio and ideal theoretical N/P ratio for cellular growth are compared, there appears to be nitrogen-limiting conditions in the secondary cells of the stabilization system. There is evidence ammonia removal by free ammonia volatilizing to the atmosphere may be contributing to nitrogen-limiting conditions in the secondary lagoon cells. Additional nitrogen may need to be supplied to remove more phosphorus by assimilation into biomass.