Treatment of high strength domestic sewage on filters filled with polyurethane foam with addition of effective microorganisms

The study discusses an experimental method for treatment of high strength domestic sewage on biofilters filled with polyurethane (PUR) waste in the form of trims of upholstery foam. We determined effectiveness of two biological preparations containing effective microorganisms in elimination of organic and biogenic compounds, indicator bacteria and total suspended solids from the sewage pretreated in a septic tank. After four months of work under a hydraulic loading of 76.4 mm∙d-1 we found the filter with 60 cm foam layer to be the most efficient in the elimination of BOD5, CODCr, NH4+-N and coliform bacteria. An average reduction in these pollutants reached 79.4%, 67.8%, 58.0% and 88.0%, respectively. Vertical filters filled with trims of upholstery foam and supplied with effective microorganisms ensured favorable conditions for development of heterotrophic and nitrifying bacteria without any need for additional aeration.