Modeling of Wastewater Sludge Treatment with Thermal Hydrolysis Processing: Example of Seyhan Wastewater Treatment Plant

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to a substantial increase in sewage sludge production at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). WWTP sludge poses significant challenges for municipalities, not only due to the environmental damage caused by existing disposal methods, but also due to energy consumption in storage, drying, and incineration processes, as well as transportation costs. Integrating Thermal Hydrolysis Process (THP) technology into municipal WWTPs offers a sustainable solution by enhancing waste management efficiency and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), while simultaneously yielding eco-friendly byproducts. This study evaluates the characteristics of sludge generated at the Seyhan WWTP in Adana, Turkey—which currently processes approximately 100 tons of sludge daily—with operational projections extending to 2025. The findings indicate that by 2025, THP technology is projected to emit approximately 12,957 kgCO₂eq/ton of GHG, achieving a nine-fold greater emission reduction compared to traditional incineration. Furthermore, the implementation of THP is expected to generate an additional 54 m³/h of biogas and reduce annual dewatered sludge volume by 4,886 tons, resulting in approximately $122,150 in annual operational savings.