Mechanistic insights into promoted dewaterability, drying behaviors and methane-producing potential of waste activated sludge by Fe2+-activated persulfate oxidation

Sludge management represents a critical challenge because of complex compositions and poor dewaterability. Fe2+-activated persulfate oxidation (Fe2+/S2O82- ) is an effective, and widely investigated method for enhancing sludge dewatering. However, the potential effects of Fe2+/S2O82- on sludge drying efficiency, anaerobic biodegradation behaviors and potential recycling of sludge residua are not yet well-known. In this study, a new sludge disposal route (step i: enhanced dewatering via Fe2+/S2O82-, and step ii: drying-incineration or anaerobic digestion) was proposed and appraised comprehensively. Results showed that Fe2+/S2O82- oxidation destroyed extracellular polymeric substances, lysed sludge cells and enhanced the dewaterability greatly. Capillary suction time and mechanical filtration time at 2.0/1.6 mmol-Fe2+/S2O82- /g-VS decreased by 88.0% and 79.6%, respectively. Moreover, 89.8% of micro-pollutants (e.g., methylbenzene, ethylbenzene, p-m-xylene and o-xylene) in sludge were removed. Besides, the pretreatment was able to alter sludge drying behaviors and methaneproducing potential. Pretreated sludge exhibited faster drying rate and shorter lag-time for methane production. Incineration residua of dewatered sludge could be re-coupled with S2O82- as the conditioner to enhance sludge dewaterability, thereby reducing the chemical input and disposal cost. This study provides a novel, selfsustainable strategy for sludge management, reutilization and final safe disposal.

Automated summary

Sludge management is a critical challenge due to complex compositions and poor dewaterability. Fe2+-activated persulfate oxidation has been proven effective in enhancing sludge dewatering, with potential benefits for sludge drying efficiency, anaerobic biodegradation behaviors, and sludge recycling. The study proposes a new sludge disposal route that includes enhanced dewatering using Fe2+/S2O82- and subsequent drying-incineration or anaerobic digestion, providing a novel, self-sustainable strategy for sludge management, reutilization, and safe disposal.