Biotechnology of Solid and Wastewater Treatment

BTUS656: Biotechnology of Solid and Wastewater Treatment. This course provides a comprehensive examination of the generation and management of both solid waste and wastewater. Students will gain an understanding of the composition of these wastes, with a special focus on organic matter content. An integral part of the curriculum is the study of organic matter found in waste streams. The course delves into the processes of metabolic biodegradation, exploring how organic materials are broken down by various biological mechanisms. Attention is given to the role of microbial communities that develop during the treatment of solid and wastewater. The influence of environmental parameters on the efficiency and outcomes of biodegradation processes is considered, highlighting the importance of these factors in waste treatment operations. The course emphasizes the distinctions between aerobic and anaerobic treatment systems. Students will learn about the processes unique to each system and their specific applications in solid waste treatment. The curriculum includes a detailed look at various bioreactor technologies utilized in the treatment and conversion of solid waste. Additionally, methods for generating energy from the formation of solid, liquid, and gaseous byproducts during the biodegradation process are explored.