This course focuses on the treatment and valorization of wastewater. Students will learn fundamental concepts related to the characteristics of wastewater, the main treatment methods, and the design methodology for Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs). Additionally, they will gain an understanding of the national and EU legislation

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

Identify the main sources of wastewater (urban, industrial, agricultural) and assess its qualitative and quantitative characteristics.

Understand the legal and regulatory framework governing the management and treatment of wastewater at both national and European levels.

Describe the basic principles of design and operation of pre-treatment and primary treatment systems.

Analyze the biological treatment processes of wastewater, with emphasis on suspended and attached biomass systems, as well as the kinetic reactions of microorganisms.

Apply fundamental design principles for the removal of organic load (BOD), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P), as well as for the treatment of micropollutants.

Evaluate tertiary treatment technologies and the potential for wastewater and sludge reuse.

Assess the specific treatment requirements for industrial wastewater, with case studies such as olive mill wastewater and livestock farming effluents.

Design basic wastewater treatment units, considering environmental, technical, and socioeconomic criteria.

Develop environmentally responsible wastewater management strategies, aiming at the protection of water resources and the promotion of the circular economy.

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to deal with the future challenges that WWTP operators are expected to face in the coming years.