A conceptual model for polyacrylamid (PAM) degradation in nitrogen compounds

This study aimed to evaluate the impacts generated by polymer Polyacrylamide (PAM), found in wastewater treatment plant. The degradation of MAP can be associated with the presence of nitrogenous compounds in water, such as ammonium, nitrates and nitrites, and it is essential to evaluate the degradation of this polymer. The methodology involves the proposal of a Conceptual Model for the disposal of ETA sludge in technogenic landfills, with a focus on polyacrylamides and their degradation in nitrogen compounds. The model was validated from data observed in a case study of ETA sludge from Taiaçupeba, Suzano, SP. It was observed that the nitrification process, by aerobic route, the ammonium ion is oxidized to nitrites and later to nitrates; and anaerobically, an anamox reaction, in which ammonia is oxidized and nitrite reduced, releasing nitrogen gas in a reducing environment. In addition, ammonium ion, manganese oxide and iron hydroxide (abundant in the soil in situ and also in the sludge) were observed, being oxidized to gaseous nitrogen and consuming H + ions in the medium. The variation of the water level of the water table can influence the concentrations observed due to the increase in the thickness of the saturated zone, allowing the contact with superficial layers of MAP.