Industry solution

Paper and Pulp Manufacturer Wastewater Treatment

The paper industry uses very high volumes of process water for pulp preparation and bleaching among other processes. Water is needed to make paper pulp out of fibers such as cellulose, wood or recovered paper. If recycled paper is used a further stage is involved to remove the ink from the recycled paper. These processes collectively produce a significant amount of contaminated wastewater and sludge. On average for every ton of pulp produced in the production of paper approximately 17,000 gallons of industrial process water is required. This sets the paper and pulp industry at the top of the list for industrial consumers of fresh water and energy.

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Paper and pulp wastewater treatment

Paper production uses substantial water and energy, creating a need to optimize treatment processes. Its wastewater can contain sediments, effluent solids, absorbable organic halides (AOX), chlorinated organic compounds, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and biological oxygen demand (BOD).

Treating this wastewater requires onsite primary treatment and secondary treatment systems.

Water reuse and sludge handling

Correctly engineered systems can reduce plant water usage through reuse of treated water. Post-treatment sludge is another major consideration because paper and pulp operations generate large volumes.

Potential treatment solutions include clarifiers and dissolved air flotation. Sludge dewatering systems can dry sludge for handling and incineration.