Title : Ammonia gas removal in air stripping process by bio filtration compost and packing media
Abstract:
The air stripping method is one of the simplest techniques for removing ammonium—a hazardous and toxic pollutant to human health and biotic resources—from wastewater. However, due to the potential for uncontrolled release of ammonia gas produced by this process into the atmosphere, it has been less commonly adopted in Iran and globally. The present invention provides an integrated system designed to eliminate the principal deficiency of conventional air stripping by preventing the uncontrolled release of ammonia into the atmosphere. In this system, ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) in wastewater are first converted into ammonia gas (NH₃) through controlled elevation of temperature and pH. Subsequently, the NH₃ gas is assimilated as nitrogen in compost via a biofiltration system incorporating compost and packing media. The resulting compost, enriched with a high nitrogen content, can be applied in agriculture as a natural, organic alternative to synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. This fixation process not only mitigates greenhouse gas emissions but also converts ammonia into bioavailable organic nitrogen compounds suitable for agronomic applications. Ultimately, the system creates a sustainable closed-loop cycle encompassing pollutant removal, nitrogen recovery, and organic fertilizer production. Key environmental benefits of this technology include:
- Substantial reduction in nitrogen loading to aquatic ecosystems, thereby mitigating eutrophication risks
- Reduced emissions of toxic and greenhouse gases, such as NH₃
- Generation of nitrogen-enriched compost to support sustainable agriculture
- Decreased chemical inputs in wastewater treatment, coupled with improved energy efficiency
This approach exemplifies the integration of environmental engineering principles with circular economy strategies and sustainable development goals, providing scalable solutions for wastewater treatment, organic waste valorization, and environmental policy advancement.
