Evaluation of nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur removal in domestic wastewater, using phragmites australis in bioreactors

In the present study, nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur removal was evaluated in domestic wastewater by phytoremediation using Phragmites australis in laboratory scale bioreactors. The hydraulic conditions in the reactor were determined by analyzing the geometric variables long:width ratio (4: 1 and 1: 4) and using a filter medium (gravel / sand). Additionally, the P. Australis growth was evaluated and removal percentages for each configuration were analyzed. The results indicated that water reactor with setting 4:1 present piston flow while configuration 1:4 present a behavior similar to mixed flow. Values of contaminant removal indicate higher phosphorus removal (60 to 90%) in all reactors and lower nitrogen removal (13%). The sulfides removal was 20%. The highest percentage of removal was presented in reactors gravel 4: 1 being the best condition to optimize the extraction of P. Australis.