pH/Alkalinity

Maintaining a proper pH is critical in wastewater treatment. A pH that is out of range or fluctuating creates issues with nitrification, poor sludge sedimentation, and difficulty in dewatering. Reduced nitrification can lead to elevated concentrations of total nitrogen and elevated nitrite levels, leading to “nitrite lock”, which may consume free chlorine, reducing effectiveness of disinfection. Poor sludge sedimentation in the clarifier creates bulking sludge, which may risk breaching effluent limits or loss of microorganisms. Sludge sedimentation is especially critical during times of high hydraulic load.

pH control is especially challenging in areas with soft water, or plants with high ammonia or sodium loads. Additionally, the treatment plant itself can increase acidification from the nitrification process, use of coagulants, and aeration.

Please see below or contact one of our Territory Managers to learn about USP’s products that are able to effectively and inexpensively stabilize pH.