by Erik Rumbaugh | Oct 20, 2025 | Wastewater Troubleshooting
Domestic wastewater is a complex mixture of organic and synthetic compounds. Its overall strength is typically assessed using indicators like BOD₅ (Biochemical Oxygen Demand), COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), and TOC (Total Organic Carbon). Within this mix are readily...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Oct 14, 2025 | Wastewater Troubleshooting
We are often asked about the impact of various chemicals on wastewater treatment plants. Over the years, we have compounded a list of the primary industrial chemicals that inhibit the growth and activity of microorganisms in wastewater treatment systems, leading to a...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Oct 12, 2025 | Uncategorized
As temperatures drop, wastewater treatment plants face a seasonal challenge that’s as subtle as it is critical: maintaining the delicate balance between nitrifying bacteria and filamentous organisms. Winter operations demand longer sludge ages to support...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Oct 6, 2025 | Uncategorized
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) are commonly found in disinfectants, detergents, and personal care products. Their extensive use has led to increased concentrations in wastewater. To better understand how this impacts biological wastewater treatment, let’s...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Sep 26, 2025 | Biofilms, Biomass Optimization
In wastewater treatment, invisible forces shape the performance of entire systems. One of the most powerful—and often overlooked—players in this microbial drama is the polyvalent cation. These positively charged ions, like calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), and iron...
