Industrial

Industrial wastewater can have a significant impact on the environment. In this section, access information on industrial wastewater treatment and management. Discover advice on water management for Marcellus shale drilling, spray irrigation runoff, biosolids, sewage sludge, and aerobic treatment units.

Industrial Wastewater and Water Contamination

Industrial wastewaters are effluents resulting from industrial and commercial activities. Wastewater is produced by most industries including food processing operations, natural gas drilling, and pharmaceutical companies.

In the US, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established national, industry-specific effluent guidelines. These standards regulate the discharge of wastewater in municipal sewage treatment plants and surface waters. They are based on the performance of treatment and control technologies.

A large variety of chemicals used by humans – including unwanted medications and personal care products – often become part of the wastewater stream, as well. From there, they are introduced into the environment through sewer overflows, wastewater effluent irrigation, and biosolid applications.

Many of these chemicals, however, are endocrine disruptors and may negatively impact aquatic life. Estimate your footprint of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDC) and learn how to reduce it with the EDC Calculator.

Shale Gas Drilling and Wastewater Disposal

Marcellus shale is a rock layer found in parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York. In Pennsylvania alone, more than 6,000 wells have been drilled into the shale to extract natural gas for heating, making electricity, and fueling factories.

Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, plays a major role in developing a Marcellus gas well. The process involves injecting water mixed with sand and chemicals into a drilled well. Fracking opens up fractures in the rock and allows gas to flow into the well. Chemicals including oils, gels, antibacterials, and alcohols are often added to water for fracking.

Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Management

Wastewater produced by industries is treated using a variety of processes. These may include filtration, clarification, disinfection, sludge treatment, and biological processes. After treatment, wastewater can be reused or released to a sewer or surface water body.

Aerobic treatment is a biological treatment method used in industrial wastewater treatment facilities. Aerobic treatment systems are designed to break down organic contaminants and pollutants.

Penn State Extension further offers resources on operating oil and gas wastewater treatment systems, as well as ensuring a quick response to oil and chemical spills. Additionally, find useful information on treating acidified waters through passive treatment methods and vertical flow wetlands.

Biosolids

Biosolids are sewage sludges that have undergone treatment aimed at stabilizing organic material and reducing pathogens. They contain high amounts of phosphorus, nitrogen, and organic matter that can be beneficial in crop production.

In PA, biosolids that can be applied to farmland must meet quality requirements in pathogen reduction, vector attraction reduction, and concentrations of eight trace elements and an organic chemical. Overall, biosolids quality can be classified as exceptional or non-exceptional.

On this page, gain access to Penn State Extension resources, workshops, and webinars. Tips and recommendations on managing biosolids, sewage sludge, and industrial wastewater are available.