Efficiency of a Biological Filter System with Bioballs in the Removal of Pollutants from Municipal Wastewater

Abstract

The efficiency of a biological filter system using bioballs was evaluated for the removal of contaminants from municipal wastewater in the Punta de Doñe sector of Moyobamba, Peru, where inadequate treatment systems lead to untreated discharges into local water bodies. The study aimed to reduce physical, chemical, and microbiological contaminants through a specially designed treatment system. Hydraulic calculations established a flow rate of 8.16 m³/s and system dimensions of 3.44 m by 1.60 m, divided into three compartments for sedimentation, biological treatment with bacteria immobilized on bioballs made from corrugated hoses, and filtration using sand, charcoal, and gravel. The highest removal efficiencies were observed in the seventh sampling, reaching 93.26% for total suspended solids, 91.36% for biochemical oxygen demand, 93.09% for chemical oxygen demand, 94.73% for turbidity, and 99.9% for thermotolerant coliforms. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the system in improving wastewater quality and meeting the Maximum Permissible Limits established by Peruvian law.