CARACTERIZAÇÃO FÍSICO-QUÍMICA E POTENCIAL DE APROVEITAMENTO ENERGÉTICO DE LODO REMOVIDO DE LAGOAS DE ESTABILIZAÇÃO E DESAGUADO EM CONTÊINERES GEOTÊXTEIS

Abstract

Facultative ponds are widely used for domestic wastewater treatment due to their operational simplicity and low cost. However, sludge accumulation in these systems requires proper management because of its environmental impacts and energy recovery potential. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of sludge removed from facultative ponds at the SAPO Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), located in Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil, in order to assess its potential for biogas production. The sludge was subjected to dredging, dewatering, and storage in geotextile containers, and the following parameters were analyzed: total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), VS/TS ratio, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity, and chemical oxygen demand (COD). The results demonstrated variations associated with dewatering, storage conditions, and vertical heterogeneity of the material. The highest VS contents and VS/TS ratios were observed in samples collected from the container corresponding to the initial dredging stage, indicating a greater presence of biodegradable organic matter and higher potential for biogas production. Although no statistically significant differences were observed among the evaluated containers, descriptive results indicated a tendency toward segregation of the organic fraction. Overall, the results suggest that the analyzed sludge presents potential for energy recovery through anaerobic digestion.