Evaluation of biosolids stabilization degree on four different wastewater treatment plants destined for agricultural utilization in Palestine

Abstract

Communities are facing challenges in treatment and safe disposal of the increase in waste sludge production, which is currently disposed of at municipal landfills. This study to identify and analyse two sewage sludge types from four WWTPs of different process and assesses the suitability of biosolids (stabilized sludge) for agricultural use in Palestine. The stability degree of biosolids was determined using physical, biochemical, microbial and agronomic determinants considering nutrients, pathogens and the potential impacts on soil environment. The results indicate that biosolids from aerobic and anaerobic sludge treatment in all four WWTPs complied with sludge reuse guidelines based on faecal coliforms (FC), volatile suspended solids (VSS %), the nitrogen and phosphorus content (TN and TP), the N/P and pH and EC values. The results provide technical assistance for policy makers and farmers in considering stabilized biosolids for land application.