Nutrient removal and recovery in bioelectrochemical systems

Abstract

Nutrient removal and recovery have gained much attention to achieve pollution control and sustainable resource management. Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) have been extensively explored for the recovery of energy, metals, and intermediate chemicals, and lately, research has focused on the recovery of valuable nutrients. It can avoid the complex and energy-intensive nutrient removal process in downstream wastewater treatment facilities. Nitrogen removal and/or recovery in BES can be achieved via nitrification and cathodic denitrification, anaerobic ammonium oxidation process, and ammonia transport across the membrane. Simultaneous nitrogen and phosphorous recovery can occur via struvite precipitation, electromigration and concentration, and algal uptake. This chapter summarizes the basic principles of nutrient removal and recovery from various waste streams in BES, the influential factors, and the key issues to be addressed in further research. Future development and industrialization of the BES can establish a nexus between nutrient, energy, and water recovery. � 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.