What is the pH range of secondary treatment effluent?

The pH range of secondary treatment effluent is typically between 6 and 9. This range is ideal for maintaining a balanced environment for biological processes during wastewater treatment. Secondary treatment, a crucial step in the wastewater treatment process, relies on biological agents to decompose organic matter.

A pH level that falls within the 6 to 9 range supports these microorganisms' optimal functioning, as they thrive in environments that are neither too acidic nor too basic. If the pH strays toward the extremes, it could inhibit microbial activity, negatively affecting the efficiency of the treatment process.

In contrast, a pH range of 4-6 is considered too acidic, which could be detrimental to the biological agents responsible for breaking down waste. A pH of 8-10 or 10-12 would indicate an overly alkaline environment, which could also hinder the treatment process and lead to undesired effects on the effluent quality. Therefore, the 6 to 9 range is essential for effective secondary treatment effluent.