What does "denitrification" refer to in wastewater treatment?

Denitrification is a crucial biological process in wastewater treatment that involves the reduction of nitrates and nitrites to nitrogen gas. This process is essential for mitigating nitrogen levels in wastewater, which can otherwise contribute to water pollution and eutrophication of aquatic systems. During denitrification, specific bacteria utilize nitrates as an electron acceptor in the absence of oxygen, which leads to the formation of nitrogen gas (N2) that is released into the atmosphere.

This reduction process not only helps to remove nitrogen from wastewater but also plays a significant role in the nitrogen cycle, thus maintaining environmental balance. Effective denitrification improves the quality of treated effluent before it is discharged into surface waters, ultimately supporting efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems. Understanding this process helps in managing and optimizing treatment systems for better nitrogen removal and compliance with environmental regulations.