Review of the technological approaches for grey water treatment and reuses

Sci Total Environ. 2009 May 15;407(11):3439-49. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.02.004. Epub 2009 Feb 28.

Abstract

Based on literature review, a non-potable urban grey water reuse standard is proposed and the treatment alternatives and reuse scheme for grey water reuses are evaluated according to grey water characteristics and the proposed standard. The literature review shows that all types of grey water have good biodegradability. The bathroom and the laundry grey water are deficient in both nitrogen and phosphors. The kitchen grey water has a balanced COD: N: P ratio. The review also reveals that physical processes alone are not sufficient to guarantee an adequate reduction of the organics, nutrients and surfactants. The chemical processes can efficiently remove the suspended solids, organic materials and surfactants in the low strength grey water. The combination of aerobic biological process with physical filtration and disinfection is considered to be the most economical and feasible solution for grey water recycling. The MBR appears to be a very attractive solution in collective urban residential buildings.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Disinfection / methods
  • Filtration
  • Waste Management / methods
  • Water / chemistry
  • Water Microbiology
  • Water Purification / methods*

Substances

  • Water