Page 11 - SIMPLIFIED WASTEWATER TREATMENT FUNDAMENTALS_ Advanced Nitrification P1

Advanced Nitrification

Alkalinity Requirements

Because of Nitric Acid production from both Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter,

alkalinity is consumed, dropping the pH in the mixed liquor. If pH drops below 6.7,

nitrification is inhibited. For every pound of ammonium in the wastewater, 7.14

pounds of alkalinity is required.

Example

Influent Flow 1.78 MGD 1.78 MGD x 38 mg/L NH4 x 8.34 lbs/gallon = 564 lbs

Ammonium

Influent Ammonium 38 mg/L 564 lbs of NH4 x 7.14 lbs of Alkalinity = 4,027 pounds of

alkalinity/day

Note – Each alkalinity supplement will provide alkalinity concentration content within the

Safety Data Sheet (SDS).