Expert water treatment services: consulting and chemical optimization
The research and development laboratory offers laboratory testing for the optimization of water treatment and sludge drying, as well as for self-monitoring. The arrival of each client’s wastewater samples is of utmost importance to our laboratory team. Our laboratory analyses and optimization services help improve process efficiency and environmental friendliness. We offer laboratory services for chemical optimization, aeration, sludge drying, and pH level determination, among others.
Laboratory services
Optimizing the chemical dosage
Coagulation and flocculation is a common wastewater treatment method where the chemicals precipitate and bind together the impurities and solids in wastewater. Optimizing the chemical treatment is crucial since adding too much chemicals is wasteful and adding too little produces insufficient results. Owatec Group’s research and development laboratory does careful testing for each wastewater individually to find the best combination of chemicals and their estimate dosages.
Aeration
Aeration can be used to enhance the wastewater treatment process of a wastewater. The micro-organisms in wastewater break down the impurities and decrease the COD of the wastewater. In addition, aeration improves the results of the chemical treatment and can reduce the amount of chemicals used during the chemical treatment process.
Filtration tests (Geotube and SFP)
Laboratory scale testing for sludge dewatering can be done with a Geotube textile bag or with a Filter Press. Depending on the properties of the sludge, different dewatering techniques are more suitable. Typically, Filter Presses work better for the removal and dewatering of small particles, and a Geotube textile bag for larger flocs.
pH-adjustment laboratory tests
Each metal and metallic compound has their own theoretical and optimum pH range where they precipitate in a perfect environment. In practice, the precipitation of multiple metals simultaneously can be tricky but with careful testing at Owatec Group’s laboratory, the optimum pH range for the precipitation of the wanted metals can be found.
Redox (Reducing and oxidizing) tests
Different types of redox (reducing and oxidizing) tests can be done at Owatec Group’s laboratory. Chemical oxidation can be done with, for instance hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and chemical reduction tests can be done with, for instance, sodium sulfite (Na2SO3). Reduction and oxidation can reduce or oxidize metals into a more reactive form so that the metals can precipitate as hydroxides or with other chemicals such as coagulants and flocculants.
Electrochemical oxidizing test
Electrochemical oxidation tests use electricity to break down impurities in the wastewater. The wastewater is treated with an electric current and this produces a forced redox reaction where some particles undergo oxidation and some reduction. The aim is to break down particles, such as large organic molecules, that are hard to remove from wastewater with conventional wastewater purification methods.
Chemical optimization benefits
Optimization of chemicals in wastewater treatment is crucial, as excessive or insufficient chemical use can impair treatment results. Automation and remote control ensure correct dosages, guaranteeing cost efficiency and optimal treatment outcomes 24/7.
- Low chemical costs
- Process efficiency
- Environmentally friendly processes
Articles from experts
R&D lab at your service
Miska Veijola-Kara
Head chemist and laboratory manager
- Monitoring and control of laboratory quality and client results
- Consultation services for wastewater treatment, chemical optimization, mass calculation, and reporting
”With wastewater treatment it is easy to notice the benefits and results of wastewater purification. The satisfaction of knowing that our wastewater treatment solutions provide a sustainable way to purify wastewater, is inspiring.”
Jarmo Antikainen
Research engineer
- Valuable side streams
- Mining water treatment
”I study the utilization possibilities of waste fractions using chemical methods, with a primary focus on hydrometallurgy. My work focuses on researching and developing processes to separate valuable metals and materials from industrial waste. My goal is to improve resource efficiency and support sustainable waste management. By applying advanced chemical methods, I aim to turn waste into valuable resources, promoting a circular economy.”
Piia Veteläinen
Laboratory technician
- Chemical optimization for sample waters
- Laboratory testing for sample waters
Ask for more information about Owatec's research work
Whether your goal is to save on wastewater fees or to meet environmental permit requirements, our water treatment experts will find the comprehensive solution that fits your specific challenges. We perform necessary laboratory and pilot testing as separate services and offer consultation assistance on optimizing potential water treatment solutions.